1410-1419 (Principia Moderni IV Map Game)

1410
 The Prague Astronomical Clock is constructed.

 '''King Rupert of Germany, King of the Romans, dies. A new King is now able to be elected.'''

 The Très Riches Heures is painted.

 The artist Van Eyke begins his career making portraits

'''Attention players. Shortly after I post this, you will see a new post on the talk page for something called Concentrations. There will be more details there, but you need to go check it out. It is important. ~Edge'''


 * The Gurkani Sultanate: Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 58 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate. The Amir of the Sultanate, Shahrukh Mirza declared the opening of trade routes passing through the Sultanate in the Compact of Iskenderun, granting European nations access to the Russian Principalities, India and China. Meanwhile, Ulugh Beg, the Governor of Samarkand developed the Ulugh Beg Observatory in the city of Samarkand to persue his hobby as an astronomer and mathematician. Along the same time, he released Yongle diplomats handle captive in Samarkand since the days of Timur. This was an act of goodwill on Ulugh's part as he was keen on mending ties with the Ming Empire.
 * ​Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would begin the construction of a trade route leading from his Mediterranean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to establish a faster route to India.
 * The Crown of Aragon continues to consolidate control in its new territory in North Africa. The Council of Argelia is appointed and convened by the King. Christianisation of Argelia is well underway, and the destruction or conversion of all mosques in the country is in progress. King Ferdinand I decides to transfer the title of Count of Malta to the Crown Prince, Alfonso when he turns 16. Thereafter, Alfonso's title will be His Royal Highness Alfonso, Crown Prince of Aragon, Count of Malta.
 * Construction of the new Maltese capital of New Barcelona is progressing smoothly, and the major government buildings are complete, including the new housing for the Maltese Council. Malta will eventually serve as a sort of training ground for the heir - autonomy will be granted to the Crown Prince and Malta upon assuming leadership of the County.
 * Growth of the Aragonese Royal Armada is accelerating, thanks to the construction of more shipyards, and the implementation of a new, efficient system provided to us by Epirus, whom we thank for assistance. As per the agreement, we will render military assistance to Epirus when required. We project that by 1412 we will have 50 ships in the Armada, including 20 barques. As we intend to explore the African coast in the near future, our engineers begin clandestine research on a new class of ship, which will be manuevrable and swift.
 * On advice of the Holy See, we move the Antipope to a more comfortable holding area, and allow him to walk free about an estate leased to him, though he is not permitted to leave the property; guards are placed around the entrances to the walled area. In exchange, the Antipope is to enter negotiations with Rome to close the Western Schism.
 * Epirotan Dip: As per agreement, we call upon our Catholic brothers of Aragon for help, as the Ottoman Empire has invaded us.
 * Mamluk Sultanate (Cairo): This year Mu'tadid, Caliph and Sultan, began consolidating the military to a more centralized force to fend off against invaders, and continued the navy of Abu Sufyan. At any request Mu'tadid made to the Mamluk beys, they complied immediately, out of fear of returning to the former chaos. Conceding their militaries to the Sultan was especially granted, after seeing the destruction of Tunis by the Spanish, the Mamluks were terrified at the prospect of Christians invading Egypt, and daily kept lookouts in case of a Spanish ship ariving. Ahmed Al-Harab returned from his campaign in Syria and Arabia, now with all of Asia fully annexed, so the Caliph sent him south to unite Upper Egypt as well. The Caliph at this time established a new form of military, known as the Kilabalrub. These were a mysterious group of Ismailis, filled as guards to every noble house, but answering only directly to the Sultan. Mu'tadid explained this to the Mamluks as a new security, to prevent the violent deaths of his previous predecessors or any other noble. The Caliph also repossessed much of the Mamluk wealth, and began amending the gluttony of previous generations. It is said that around this time, the hero Al-Ankabut perished. the exact details of his death are not known, as there are many different versions of the legend. One says he was wounded in combat, then slung an arrow into the desert, asking that Allah would guide it to whoever next takes up the cause of justice. Another version says how his wife Aisha died, so he gave up his outlawing and became a monk near Mount Hermon. Either way, the legend holds that Al-Ankabut will return in Egypt's time of greatest need.
 * Gurkani Diplomacy: The Amir of the Sultanate, Shahrukh Mirza requests the Caliph to marry his granddaughter to Shahrukh's heir, Ulugh Beg. The Amir considers the change of leadership on both sides of the border as an opportunity to mend relations.
 * Sultan Mu'tadid sends his granddaughter Fatima to be married to Ulugh Beg.
 * Cyprus has watched the Ottomans bully the Byzantines (Europe did refer to Rome as the Byzantines at this time)  for too long. 1200 Cypriot soldiers are sent to Constantinople to assist in its defenses. 30 Cypriot warships are sent to defend the chain blocking off the Golden Horn. We call all of Christendom to help defend Constantinople. Orthodox is better than Islamic infidels. We begin digging trenches and filling them with spikes outside the second wall in order to make an assault on the city almost impossible. (Can this siege be special? https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=MNMoi5Af1SY )
 * Epirotan Dip: As the siege of Constantinople is once again postponed, but the Ottoman danger remains real, we call upon our Catholic brothers of Cyprus for help, as the Ottoman Empire has invaded us.
 * Cypriot Dip: We agree and send 1500 soldiers to defend your capital. We begin blockading the Aegean Sea, the Bosporus, and the southern Anatolian coast.
 * Hungary: We begin to develop Hungary more. Our infrastructure, military and economy increases. Defenses continue to be built non stop.
 * 'Cilli - the nation also begins to develop in infrastructure, military and economy. Fortifications and defenses never stop being built.
 * Croatia - the nation also begins to develop in infrastructure, military and economy. Fortifications and defenses never stop being built.
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". All men from 16 - 37 are forced to join the army and are trained across the country, and prisoners are forced to work to create new warships, raising the number to 100 ships while the rest of the army regroups in Ankara then some are sent to Serbia and Wallachia, while two castles are built in Wallachia and on the Anatolian border, while we begin to put traps into the waterway to Istanbul, and the army rises up to 700,000. Seeing Cyprus actions we begin to put traps in the water way to Istanbul. We declare war on Epirus and send 50,000 troops to invade the country, while the Sultan and Walid lead, the army uses horseback to rush and attack border cites, and begins to work on defending the north by working on deference. The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the Army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan, but the Sultan gets sick after riding around Ankara trying to meet Walid in Ankara. The Sultan's son, Mehmed I Çelebi, takes a journey to Syria, Cairo, Mecca, and Mednia under the cover of being a Turkish Merchant, he begins to make his way up to Syria and stops in Homs. He went to study more about Islam. Jizayh is made in hope of making more money for the state.
 * No standing armies. -Sky
 * OK. -Bozi
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 900 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.  Troops are trained in Serbia rising the army to 100,000, while 10,000 troops are stationed.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 700 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.  The army is rising to 9000, while 10,000 troops are stationed . The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with peasants.
 * Aragon: We are outraged by the Ottomans' arrogance and foolishness. Behold the might and glory of Christendom, for we will crush all who dare to threaten the glory of Jesus Christ. Thus, we declare war against the Ottoman Sultanate.
 * Gurkani Secret Diplomacy:  The Amir of the Sultanate, Shahrukh Mirza requests the Ottoman Sultan to marry his daughter to Shahrukh's son, Ibrahim Mirza. The Amir considers this as an opportunity to mend relations between the two Empires. With the recent destruction of the Ottoman fleet during the battle against Castile, and the war against Epirus; the Amir Shahrukh Mirza secretly pledges to support the Ottomans if the crusaders ever manage to land in Anatolia.
 * Ottoman Dip: The Sultan agrees with this and sends his daughter to Ibrahim.
 * Kingdom of Epirus: Before King Esau de' Buondelmonti can't even celebrate his victory against his rival the Albanian Principality of Valona, which he annexed, he finds out that the Ottomans have started a campaign against him. He waits in the fortified castle of Ioannina with his 1500 troops for help to arrive. The Shqip that were captured act as a mercenary force on the front lines. Their loyalty is guarantee by their previous transformation, as they are now shadows of their former selfs, broken into submission by systematic torture and castration to obey their masters. After our victory over the principality of Valona the Albanian clans there are sold to the highest bidder as slaves. We continue fortifying and improving Ioannina, its fortifications and its walls as well as fortifying and improving Igoumenitsa, Arta and Preveza and their ports in order to increase trade with the Italian states. In the countryside, without the constant threat of the Albanian clans, agriculture and stock raising have a major boost. We continue mining the Pindus mountain range for silver, copper and gold. Despot Esau de' Buondelmonti starts believing more and more with each day passing that he and his successors are destined for greatness equal to the Kings of the old. We continue to discover new ruins, with the scripts found inside being translated and sent into the four royal libraries across the realm. Mercantilism is also vastly promoted, by exemption from tariffs and free unrestricted access to our ports for our merchants. We continue converting the state to Roman Catholicism, although peacefully, with the pious Aragonese missionaries staying, being experienced from the Reconquista, lots of people continue to convert, some even believing the ousting of the Albanian clans, from Epirus, as a sign of God to convert to the Catholic faith. Population stands at 200,000.  We ask our liege Naples for help in our war against the Ottoman Empire, citing their recent loses in the naval battle near Tunis, that their whole fleet sank and most of their army drowned. (MOD RESPONSE) We also ask our allies the Byzantines and Ragusa to assist us as the Ottomans are as much of a threat to them, as they are to us. We also ask that Hungary assist us, as this could be their golden chance to dominate the area. We call upon all of Europe to send us help to fight the infidels. (MOD RESPONSE) 
 * Naples accepts and sends aid to Epirus.
 * Ferrara cannot send military or naval aid to Epirus due to the situation in Italy, but will be given resources and money to aid against the Turkish scum. Epirus will have the full backing of Ferrara.
 * Archbishop Friedrich III recognises Cologne’s duties for the protection of Christendom and offers to send 30 knights and 30 men to Epirus, armed with weapons made in Westphalen itself.
 * Epirus thanks both states for their support in this crucial time.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: We honour our agreement, declare war on the Ottomans, and deploy ten ships and 2000 soldiers to aid Epirus in its fight against the heretic Turks.
 * Austrian Dip: The Lord Regent Ernst asks for as many Greek and Roman Manuscripts as possible, hoping to continue to work of Albet IV, Defender of the Faith.
 * Epirotan Dip: King Esau de' Buondelmonti actively seeks friendlier relationships with the rest of Europe, since these ancient Greek and Roman scripts are open to the public in both our four royal libraries, sees no reason not the share this knowledge with the rest of the world, therefore he sends copies of the documents along with a translation to the German language to Lord Regent Ernst in Austria.
 * Epirus asks the Italian Catholic Despot of Achaea to become our vassal and offer him wealth and safeguard as part of the Kingdom of Epirus. (MOD RESPONSE)
 * Genoa sends support to its major trading partner Epirus.
 * The Prince of Achaea accepts being a vassal but refuses to yield all of its independence and fully join Epirus. -MP
 * Serene Republic of Ragusa: Although miniscule, the republic will try to aid the Epirote forces as well as help negotiate Hungary joining the war for a final battle against the infidels.
 * Assam: Assam apologizes for not posting as the ruler, Laxminaryan, was on vacation. Assam upgrades its military and sends troops to aid Bengal in its wars.


 * Kedah: We begin maximizing production and trade. We ask for non-aggression pacts and trade deals with bordering nations.
 * Cologne: Since the execution of the undisciplined priest, the Court of Discipline introduced in May has uncovered three more cases of corruption within the Church. The archbishop remains reluctant to execute, but the decision of the court is final, and the true word of God. Furthermore, he cannot risk frustrating the people any further. He cannot justify defending these priests. To show his merciful side, however, Friedrich III organises an offer of mercy and reformation to any priest who wishes to confess his most heinous sins. No-one has come out into the open yet, but the archbishop is hopeful that this purge will end soon, at least by 1411. It has been a hard year. Meanwhile, trade continues to prosper.
 * Essen: As Adelphina continues to give addresses, now specifically about discipline and corruption within the church, the numbers of canonesses continue to grow in Essen. She works at the infirmary quite visibly, speaking to the ill and encouraging canonesses to learn more about the specifics of medicine. She reminds them of Abbess Hildegard of Bingen, and speaks frequently about the importance of new ideas and contributions to medicine.
 * Epirotan Dip: King Esau de' Buondelmonti actively seeks friendlier relationships with the rest of Europe, since these ancient Greek and Roman scripts are open to the public in both our four royal libraries, sees no reason not the share this knowledge with the rest of the world, therefore he sends copies of the documents along with a translation to the German language.
 * Austrian Dip: With the Imperial Election upcoming, the Lord Regent of Austria, Ernst, Petitions to the Archbishop of Cologne to cast his vote for him, offering a generous bribe to the archbishop of newly minted Silver from the Mints of Tyrol. He also asks if any other service may be rendered for the vote.
 * Bohemian Dip: Wenceslaus IV, King of Bohemia, sends a letter to the Archbishop of Cologne, politely asking for his vote in the upcoming election. In exchange, we shall further our diplomatic and economic ties, as we have given loans out to Cologne in the past, and we are currently allied.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Grand Master Philibert is shocked by the Ottomans' atack on Epirus, and after consulting with the Chapter General, mobilises the Order's Navy and declares its support for Epirus [in a naval capacity]. The Grand Master calls on All Christendom, especially the Papal States, the Roman Empire, and Hungary to assist in the war against the infidel Ottomans, seeing the potential to liberate formerly Christian-held lands. Newly installed Archbishop Angelo holds a mass praying for the success of Christian forces.
 * Bradenburg-Morovia-Luxembourg: Jobst continues to promote the interests of his domains in the HRE by seeking trade agreements and by reinforcing the levy obligations of the lords in his domains. Certain privileges are granted to members of the nobility in the form of some tax exemptions to secure their commitment for military aid to the state. The works of Konrad are explored more in depth by members of the Luxembourgish and Bradenburgian academia. Morovia is reinforced. However, due to Jobst's increased focus on Bradenburg he sees it as a bargaining chip more and more in his dynastic disputes. Jobst requests a trade agreement with Sweden and the Teutonic Order as ties with Denmark are already good in trade, and from his base in Luxembourg tries to improve relations with Holland offering them a trade agreement. Ties to Burgundy are expanded as trade grows and the alliance between the House of Burgundy and the Jobstinian Luxembourg is confirmed. Construction of the University of Berlin begins in an effort to consolidate the Bradenburgish intellegencia and to foster a climate for innovation and culture. Investment in infrastructure continues. Despite the close ties with Denmark their efforts to dominate the northern German lands scare the ruling class in Berlin and a request is sent to Denmark to clarify their intentions. As military improvements continue Jobst between his three estates is able to muster an armed levy of 13,000 and the treasury is able to host a further 5000 mercenaries for a period of ten years with the current situation making Jobst happy at the success of his reforms in recent years. Jan Hus is secretly taking in after being sent out by the Swedish delegation and he is placed under house arrest in Bradenburg but allowed to continue his works as long as he keeps to himself and avoids preaching. In an act of good faith Jobst casts his vote for his cousin in Bohemia to become the next emperor but he sends an envoy requesting that the previous treaty he proposed be considered or that Bohemia scrap its signature to the treaty of Trier and that Prague and Bradenburg work a new treaty on the succession matters that are plaguing the house of Luxembourg. 
 * Bohemian Dip: Wenceslaus IV thanks his cousin for the vote, and agrees to diplomatic talks once the election has ended, as he is currently occupied.
 * Tondo: Continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island and 100 to Cebu across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and metallurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Military personnel stands at 27,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This prompts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers.
 * Korea, under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under Yi Bang-won with input from his loyal state councellors and advisors. Economic development is oriented toward the development of industrial complexes and agriculture. Korean metallurgical industries are further augmented with the erection of more blast furnaces, with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools and weaponry. Under the request of the Ming government, the expansion of mining activities within the northern Hamgyeong province continues, a province thought to hold extensive deposits of gold, iron ore, and silver. The majority of the mined metals, especially gold and silver, are sent to the Ming to supply their newly built banks and support their fixed exchange rate. Important roads are paved while canals are built in rivers to facilitate commerce. The importance of education continues to be emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean. Seeking to consolidate and legitimise claims in Manchuria and to expel the Jurchens, more funds are diverted to the development of the army, at the expense of the navy. A couple of explorer missions are sent to Manchuria to map the area and to study it to find ways to exploit its natural wealth (especially the large tracts of flat, arable land) later on. The policy on giving muskets and rifles to only men who excel in government exams is scrapped, and every levy is given either one of the two. More hwacha, cannons, hand cannons, and multiple-rocket-launcher are produced, coexisting with Chinese weaponry. Korea begins vigorous expansion north, capturing Jurchens found along the way. Jurchen children are sent to chung-in families so that they could be assimilated early on, while older Jurchens are given to options; either assimilate with the Koreans and become a sangmin, or retain their culture and become cheomin. Ten thousand Koreans are sent to newly established Korean castle-towns, intended as stopping points in the Sino–Korean trade.
 * Sakha's expansion south along the coast is halted after better-armed Nivkh and Jurchen raiding parties wipe out dozens of settlers, even destroying a military force sent to get revenge. The Council, also noting that Korea, Japan and China are expanding into those areas, halts expansion in this direction, constructing a fortified frontier of blockhouses about 50 km south of Ulya. However, the threat of these raiding parties, as well as Koryaks raiding out of Kamchatka, does incentivize Evenks to settle down under Sakha's protection, contributing to population increases in eastern areas and enabling some expansion northward along the coast. Banner-General Nyurguun is personally ashamed by the defeat, and focuses on rearming and retraining the army, with heavy cavalry tactics increasingly emphasized over traditional light cavalry ones. Most of the army remains as infantry, but all infantry are provided with camels and horses for rapid movement. In Cohuskay, the new school successfully begins training large numbers of students, mainly in the military-political branch of the school, not the scientific one. However, the monk-agronomist in charge of this latter branch, Xhunqi, does make an interesting discovery this year; crossing several varieties of pea shrub, he notes that plants tend to inherit characteristics of both the plant that pollinated their parent and that parent. Realizing this allows for much more productive plants to be bred, he begins large-scale plant crossings, hoping to introduce cold resistance to enable crops to be grown further north, notably of apples and Siberian crap-apples. Expansion up the Lena continues, incorporating many more Yakuts into Sakha. Envoys who traveled south on behalf of merchants in Ulya last year reiterate their offer to Japan and make a similar one to Korea (China, as Sakha's overlord, of course has free use of ports already if desired): free use of Sakha's port for fishing or exploration farther north, as well as a trading post and compound there for their merchants, if aid in shipbuilding will be provided in return. (Korean/Japanese response needed).
 * In Kuerik, assimilation of the Tatars progresses rapidly, fueled by immigration of Yakuts to work nearby mines, and the necessity of learning Yakut to progress socially, as well as conversions to Buddhism. Administrators look to fully integrate the vassal within two decades.
 * Korea (OOC): What is the offer?
 * Sakha: A trading post and a compound for Korean merchants in Sakha's port, plus free use of those ports, in return for help to enable Sakha's merchants to build decently-sized ships.
 * Korea: Agrees to the offer, however, only if Sakha recognises Korean ambitions within Manchuria and gives crop varieties that are resistant to cold and dry weather.
 * Sakha agrees and supplies Korea with many of the new crops coming into use in Sakha, such as Siberian pea shrub, sea berry, and Siberian crab apple. It also assures Korea that it is incapable of expanding further south due to the superiority of the Jurchens and Nivkhs, and anyway has no desire to crimp Korean or Japanese territorial goals.
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. The Royal Marines continues training in on ship fighting, ship maneuver and attack, amphibious landing and general fighting. Our five dhows arrive in Bombay to support the Bahmanis. Ahmed reaches the southern point of Africa and continues, naming it the Cape of Good Hope after the dhows survive a storm there. We order another five dhows in our shipyards. Mastering cannon making, our blacksmiths begin to outfit our dhows with cannons.
 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). Limestone Mortar becomes more and more common around the empire, being the preferred material for builders due to how much stronger it makes the buildings and roads. The Emperors wife gives birth to a son, named Chala Sen, and he is designated as the heir to the throne.
 * Majapahit Empire: With the remaining Western Court forces finally cleared, and King Wirabhumi's reforms maintaining the Kingdom stable, he begins to add veto power to the board of ministers and limits the terms of the rajya (governors) for two years, although they are allowed to reapply for governorship, unlike the board of ministers. Meanwhile, the highest priest of the Hindu faith is rumoured to have had a "revelation": that the Trimurti (Trinity) of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva are the only true gods of Hinduism and that he has been given, on behalf of Vishnu, a duty to make the Purushartas written for all. He, on behalf of Brahma, was also given the duty to create a more organised priesthood to help spread the word of the Trimurti, and build more public temples to worship them and for the High Priest, now High Speaker himself to lead this vision and to guide all Hindus. He would soon begin writing the sacred texts of Hinduism into a single loctar manuscript for all to understand and learn of the word of the Trimurti. Wirabhumi, though initially skeptical, decides to allow this and approves of this attempt to organise Hinduism. He is able to finish the large manuscript by the year's end, and he begins to slowly spread the word to other priests of the "revelation", who in turn, spread it to the common Hindu citizen. Meanwhile, Wirabhumi begins to make changes to the Armed Forces, such as clearing generals that have opposed him in the past and still are, and replacing them with more loyal generals, while the ones who have previously caused trouble, but are now loyal to Wirabhumi, and those that have always been loyal to Wirabhumi, especially during the Paregreg War, are allowed to remain. While this happens, he begins to send trade ships to other nations outside our Empire and expand our prosperity elsewhere, and several ships are built to defend our territory and its tributaries, while Wirabhumi and the board of ministers are laying out plans for future extension of the Core Empire into Sumatra.
 * In the Roman Empire, the Emperor Manuel II is put on high alert over the war in Epirus, fearing increasing Ottoman aggression. Noting that Trabazon, our Greek and Orthodox brothers, are under direct and increasing pressure from the Turkic hordes, we offer them wealth and safeguard as part of the Roman Empire. Ships with wealth, armed men, and diplomats are sent to both places. Meanwhile in Constantinople proper, fortifications are renovated, as better longswords, bows, and Genovese Crossbows are created. Military experts experiment with gunpowder and variations of "Greek Fire". Orthodox churches continue renovation, and Manuel II Palaiologos, out of greater fear of Papism, begins to slowly cut funding to Catholic ones.
 * Morea: Morean diplomats join Roman ones in the attempt to bring Achaea into the empire. Fortification and conscription continue.
 * Lemnos: A great year for food production occurs, and thus the population of Lemnos grows seemingly exponentially for the year. A third ship of the Roman navy is docked at Lemnos over fear of attack.
 * Trazbazon accepts.~Edge
 * Khmer Empire: The new king, Suryavarman III, continues to prove an apt ruler and continues to implementing reforms to restore Khmer to its former glory. The first major reform is centered around the military, which has been neglected and thus declined in recent years. In order to fix this, the new king allocates more funding to the military. With two million people to draw on, the king decides that 1/50 should be an prepared to serve is necessary. Additionally, 1/20 should be given minimal training, so they can serve as a replacement if absolutely necessary. While this theoretically gives the empire 100,000 fighting men to use, most agree that deploying any more than 40,000 would put great strain on the empire. additionally, the navy is improved with 80 ships built or refurbished for combat. The second, but if anything more important set of reforms, revolves around increasing crop yields. In recent years, crop yields have fallen far short of the traditional three harvests a year. In order to attempt to fix this, a bureaucracy dedicated to helping farmers increase their yields is established. While they have not yet expanded nation wide, there is a noticeable difference in favor of places that processed the bureaucracy, leading to plans for future expansion. After its purchase from Majapahit last year, the Malay Peninsula begins to be assimilated to the empire. The new king also begins to encourage trade expeditions to the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, hoping to grow the empire's economy. Overland trading, especially with China, also increases. Wanting to take back historic Khmer lands, Suryavarman masses 30,000 troops and 40 ships on the coastline, near the border with Ayutthaya. Before the invasion however, we ask our ally, Majapahit, to send troops and ships to assist the invasion.
 * Majapahit Diplomacy: King Wirabhumi, in honour of our alliance, hereby sends 35,000 troops (30,000 regular soldiers and 5000 for reserve) and 63 ships to assist in the subjugation of Ayutthaya, if the Empire is able to obtain access to key trade ports, and in turn, assist the Imperial economy and prosperity.
 * Khmer Agrees to give Majapahit key Ayutthayan trade ports, and commences to attack along Cambodia's coast as soon as their troops arrive.
 * Teutonic Order: More knights continue to pledge their allegiance to the Teutonic Order. This larger influx of knights has diminished the available lands and will shortly result in much smaller recruitment numbers over the coming years unless more 'pagan' land is seized. The cathedral - Saint Mary's Holy Cathedral over the Order of German Brothers is about two-thirds of the way to finished construction. Our navies continue to patrol Teutonic waters and the larger Ostsee (Baltic Sea) to protect trade from pirates and ensure the safety of the Teutonic coast. Großkomtur Luca Thalburg proposes the idea of making a university addition to the Saint Mary's Holy Cathedral in Marienburg which is accepted by the Generalkapitel. A new Generalprokurator (Teutonic representative at the Holy See) is elected and the name is Ralf Ackermann.
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus IV casts his vote for himself as Holy Roman Emperor. He sends letters to Saxony & the Palatinate, whom he has been sending diplomats to for the past decade, asking for their vote in exchange for further economic and diplomatic support of their nations. Trier and Mainz are also sent a similar letter, asking for their vote, as he has also sent diplomats as of late. Wenceslaus V continues his schooling. Delegates continue to be sent to the Palatinate, Saxony, Trier, and Mainz. Wenceslaus IV also sends out two different letters to Cologne and Brandenburg. We once again offer Wenceslaus V in betrothal to France.
 * The Crown of Castile: Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 12 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy. A large rebellion breaks out in Granada, with over 8000 Muslims rise against Castile. Castile sends 15,000 militia men to put down the rebellion. After four months, the rebels are crushed. 7000 of the men involved are either killed, executed or exiled. The remaining men are imprisoned. IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountains (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon, and offers another royal marriage to France between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy.
 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): The territory east of the Atlas mountains is established as the kingdom of Morocco, a Castilian puppet. Spanish settlers arrive and settle mostly near the Straits of Gibraltar. Muslim settlers are forced to relocate to West of the Mountains or to Tunis. Those who do not are subject to a large tax or forced conversion. Morocco remains under occupation with 6000 Spanish troops garrisoned to keep the peace. A small rebellion is put down near Fez, and those involved are executed are deported to the Sahara.
 * Scotland: Donald of Islay finally manages to gather enough support to revolt against the Crown. A battle is fought outside Inverness. Both sides lose a lot of men, but Donald lost more men, so he gives up and heads back to Islay to hopefully cause less trouble. The Gaelic language and culture continues to become divorced from the main Scots-speaking regular old feudal Scotland. In the economic realm, growing cottage industries begin to develop, such as iron working and wool trading in the burgeoning burghs, and animal husbandry/fishing continues to displace grain farming. Traders in the coastal burghs begin to reach farther and farther, and with the now-exclusive trade links to the Scandinavians in Aberdeen, traders from there are forced to use modern and advanced shipbuilding techniques to cross the wet North Sea. Military-wise, the pendulum continues to swing in favor of more quality troops rather than the mass levies popular before the Plague, with men-at-arms emerging to support the pikemen. Robert continues his interest in artillery and cannons, with the first large cannon making its way into Scottish lands at this point. As trade works its way around the North Sea, we become exposed to advanced new Dutch shipbuilding techniques. The crown commissions several ships to be built in the new Dutch style. Robert IV looks west ...
 * The Austrian Lord Regent, Ernst the Iron, sends out delegations to Saxony, the Palatinate, Mainz and Trier as Well as Cologne, offering sincere sums of money as well as discuss other favours that Ernst may give to those nations if they elect him as the Holy Roman Emperor. He even tours those nations personally as Leopold, now Lord Castellan of Vienna, de facto head of the mints and finances of the Archduchy, tends to things at home. Ernst personally visits the Count of Palatinate as well as the Archbishops of Trier, Mainz and Cologne in an effort to gain their votes, offering much money and favours, pointing to the new mints and mines of Austria as a show of his wealth. Due to the de facto rejection of the alliance from Milan and the taking of Istria by that nation, as well as the currency standardization falling through, as well as the non-recognition of the Archducal title before the Papacy, the Lord Regent joins the secret coalition against Milan.
 * Kingdom of France: The “Deux Lis” Regency continues to focus on keeping France united under the crown against foreign threats, like Kingdom of England. The regency passes another law called Lex Tuitor which officially creates a small bodyguard unit for each vassal, if they do not have one, and the Order of the Lily goes back to being the King’s personal bodyguard. This hopefully prevents future assassinations and plots against vassals in the future. The regents are glad and restore faith in the stability of the nation with the Burgundian crown searching for the assassin of Louis. France remains uneasy about the English peace and continues to bolster and reinforce French garrisons and forts near English holdings. Most of the French armies are also stationed toward the English border. Although a large navy wouldn’t be able to be sustained, the crown begins funding the construction of a port near Honfleur at the base of the Seine. The crown starts changing the French navy to be more streamlined toward small transport ships and ships for exploration after hearing about the Spanish colonization of the Canaries. The crown also tries to improve relations with the Papal States. The young couple of Isabella and Charles gives birth to a daughter, Joanna, named after her grandmother.
 * Duchy of Savoy: Amadeus VIII has ruled the great Duchy of Savoy for almost twenty years. Seeing that Milan and Genoa have grown powerful, with the former establishing a strong foothold in the peninsula, conquering Venice and attempting to unify Italy, while the latter is establishing colonies in the Aegean, Tartar lands, and in the dark lands of Africa, formerly in the hands of the followers of Mahomet. Seeking to have a safeguard against Milan's expansionist policies and ambitious, we continue the coalition against Milan. The Archduchy of Austria has joined, along with the Duchy of Modena and Ferrara, We invite any nation that feels threatened by Milan into this conglomeration. 
 * Kalmar Union
 * Norway: Growth in the Cities of Oslo and Bergen slow to a normal pace. Inside the City of Bergen the arts are on a rise with many artists and writers rising to prominence inside the city. Creande Dei is expanded in the city. Surprisingly to mark the prominence of the city as a trading outpost the nobility decides to build a cathedral within the city. In Oslo, the growth of Scientae Dei is evident with many books and Greek and Latin ideals beginning to be reborn in the city. The monks in Sweden begin to translate ancient scripts, Expansion in Kola continue with small outposts and villages popping up. We expand 15 pxs into the peninsula. The explores in the Mediterranean reach land on the Muslim coast and begin moving throughout the trade routes to get info on them. The gyldenloves gain influence within the Norwegian courts. The ports on Iceland are pretty much the same with not much development. Greenland colony continues to develop. We develop our navy by 25 galleons and tiremes, 17 exploration/colony ships and merchant ships by 39. We send 3000 soldiers to the Holstein front to help with the Danish Conquest of Pomerania.
 * Queen Magrethe of Denmark: In the midst of The Great Pomeranian War raging on I receive news that the HRE is convening to elect a Holy Roman Emperor and Denmark enters the negotiation period with Pomerania and I send an additional 1000 troops to the Holstein front to end this war once and for all. Development of Copenhagen continues. (Algo results TBD, Treaty will be determined by the results.) I make Denmark Army focused, given that we have been embroiled in the Great Pomeranian War for so long. I notice that my health is on the decline, and the end of my days is near, and I prepare to transfer the throne and the crown to Eric of Pomerania, and I hope to God that he is successful in conquering his homeland, Pomerania.
 * Holstein: An additional 1000 troops are sent to the Holstein front.
 * Empire of Japan: The Ashikaga shogun Yoshimochi is proven correct in his position about the changing sides of the Daimyo of the Shoni and Ouchi clans both of which put the establishment of the Imperial assembly at nearly 95% of the total clans of Japan, and it includes all the powerful clans. The remaining clans which are opposed or neutral while not happy with this development are unable to resist the change as immense pressure from every Daimyo to attend the Teikoku Gikai. They begrudgingly acquiesce to the demand of the various Daimyo and the shogun and the Second Imperial Assembly is conducted continuing on the previous years propositions. The Assembly addresses the major issue of the disunity of the Japanese clans and their infighting. The Lord of the Hosokawa clan proposes the establishment of a small council to handle their latent issues before internal combat is to take place. The power is to cycle between a relevant southern clan, northern clan, and central clan respectively so as to share the decision on the ruling on any sort of internal conflict. If no agreeable compromise can be made or any justice be brought out the two lords may engage in a conflict in order to handle the situation. The next case brought before the Imperial Assembly is the fight between isolationism, and the expansionism. Split roughly half and half, the 20 Daimyo, lords of their respective clans are unable to come to a clear decision. This remains in a stalemate. However, the various pro-expansion Daimyo modeling their efforts after the Ashikaga shogun begin gathering their personal funds to invest into a trade venture beyond Japans shores. Shinotashima is recognized as a successful trade colony and its population expands to 300. following successful trade with natives and being a stopping point for Japanese trade ships going from Northern China or Korea to northern Japan. Shogun Yoshimochi seeing some return investment the following year of his approval and money loan to the merchants and opportunists offers a second more long term loan promising to provide more funding for the expansion of the Shinotashima settlement if his dividends keep increasing and the new colony becomes profitable. The small trade post/colony of Keilung also grows but at a much slower rate with its small population of 30 only gaining a few people increasing the population to 100 as it remains a light trade post for the time being. Land under use and control, however, expands a bit as the merchants seize better land to port ships. The Japanese settlement of Hokkaido continues. The Ashikaga family continues to grow in wealth as it solidifies its control over its Shogunate rule in Japan and in a daring move declares that extent colonies that are to be created by any Daimyo will be subject more directly to Ashikaga rule as the Shogun has not himself granted the Daimyo the right to claim that particularly territory as his right to police. The Hosokawa clan being the only clan with sufficient assets to jump start a colony concedes and an expedition is sent establishing a settlement known as Saitama (OTL Nakhodka Russia) with 50 people formed as a trade post for furs, and other goods coming out of the Manchukuo area. It is realized right off the bat. However, a large abundance of fish could turn Saitama into a major place for fishing and food production. The same observation is made in Shinotashima. Sakhas diplomacy from last turn is accepted and the Shogun sends ships to facilitate the deal.
 * Benin: Okpara Maduka and his entourage spend many months in Latakia, working with the locals and getting to know the history of the city. Satisfied with the information they've gathered thus far, Okpara's group departs for the city of Antalya, where they discover much about the history of the Turks and the Greeks who once controlled the city. Hearing of the much grander city of Constantinople from merchants and residents, Okpara determines that they must visit the capital. Though they hear it is under siege, Okpara wishes to at least observe the city from afar if he must. In Benin, integration of the Yoruba populace of Oyo continues. Given the similarities between the Edo and Yoruba cultures and languages, many Edo authorities remark at the general ease they have had in getting the Yoruba to integrate into Benin society. As in the manner of the Warri and Nupe in the past, the fate of the Yoruba is to have their society totally absorbed into that of the Edo peoples own. The former Oyo kingdom is divided into new districts and the cities and villages linked to one another via paved stone roads to the heartland of the Benin Empire. In Eko, the construction of additional ships for the navy continues, with three oké and fifteen epeepe constructed in the city. The grand ship Prince Uwaifaikon spoke is shown to his father, the akakan or "supreme" being the largest ship ever since in the region. Though still under construction, the prince seeks to top off the navy's development with a single vessel that shall serve as the sign of Benin's newfound naval strength. However, concerned about the costs of building an even larger navy, the Oba informs his son Uwaifaikon that he may no longer expand the navy, but must focus on maintaining what he already has, for the imperial coffers can not at the current time support a larger fleet of ships. Still appreciative of the grand experiment his father allowed him to pertake in, Uwaifaikon orders shipbuilders in the empire to switch to civilian needs and maintainance of the imperial navy. Recovery of the army following the war with Oyo continues, with about 10,000 men selected to undergo training for the role of warriors. The integration of Oyo's cavalry into Benin's military forces continues, with another 3000 cavalry being raised for the training courses required for the empire to put them to good use in the northern plains of Nigeria. Ezeani and his men return from the Congo Rainforest and are greeted in Edo as heroes. Their exploration up the Congo River has expanded the knowledge of the Edo people and the extent of the continent's perceived size. Because of his work and the report he has presented to the Oba on the interior, from its lack of inhabitants, rich and fertile soils, and beauty, Oba Orobiru fashions Ezeani the empire's chief explorer. Ezeani is allowed to rest before beginning his new role, and returns to his home for now. For soon he shall set out to search for a way to reach the fabled India the Oba has long read about in Arabic texts. Elsewhere, the ships sent to Tangiers have docked, and the merchants aboard them begin to search for trading deals in the city. Having much ivory, slaves, and gold to sell to the Moroccan markets, the merchants find themselves quickly concerned with new partners in the northern kingdom. A census in the empire has found the nation's population to have increased to 11.3 million inhabitants, increasing the tax base of the empire and expanding the financial schemes of Benin's government. Infrastructure develop continues as well so as to support and increase trade in the many cities of the empire.
 * Papal States: His Holiness continues conferences with the supporters of the Avignon Papacy, hopefully a solution can be sought and agreed upon, especially the resignation of the captive Antipope and the return of a single undisputed Papal authority. In the mean time, the Pope agrees to the appointment of an Archbishop in Epirus noting the nation's increased size and power, raising the Archbishop of Thebes to fulfill this status for the time being and promising more updates as time goes on. He also calls on other Christian nations to help Epirus fight off the Ottomans. He also calls on them to send clergy to help restore the word of God in the newly conquered Africa regions and appoints a Bishop of Constantine to aid in that task. The Pope hears out the requests of Savoy and the Pope responds that "He would be greatly pleased if the peoples of Italy could live out their lives in peace and independence while still acknowledge the grace of God."
 * Mayapan's Emperor-King Iktan and the high council continue to divide up the territory of the nation into states. Governors of these states are people close to people on the council to ensure their loyalty. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation. Several small city-states are contacted along the southern border. They are invited to become part of Mayapan, or continue on as autonomous regions in association with Mayapan, with their current rulers as governors. (Mod Response, please and thanks.)  The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Bahmanids:  (We still need Ming and Mod response on our earlier espionage/diplomacy.)  An offer is made to Umar of Mogadishu: if he'll send most of his fleet across the Indian Ocean to cooperate with us in an invasion of Sri Lanka, we will give him the sole right to export the valuable spices and teas of the island by sea, through a trading post at Kolon-thota (OTL Colombo). As part of this plan, 20 additional ships are added to the Bahmanid navy.
 * Genoa: The popularity of Marco Visconti continues to expand with the elimination of Barbary pirates and his attempts to #MakeAfricaChristianAgain. Alliances with Milan and Castile continue to be maintained. The Crimean colonies experience an influx of Jewish settlers. With Corsica remaining an integral part of the Genovese economy and the Republic of Genoa the investment in Corsica continues with aspects being used to raise the standard of life. Ligurian continues to rise as the vernacular of Corsica, being spoken mainly by the nobility who continue to maintain large ties to Genoa. In order to maintain the growth of Ligurian schools are opened in Corsica that only use Ligurian. Ligurian is officially the only language spoken in Bastia. The Bank of St. George continues to expand with more Condontorri companies being formed. The Genovese arsenal continues to expand with many new shipbuilding techniques being experimented with.’’’A continued call is sent out to the pope and other Christian nations to help with #MakeAfricaChristianAgain.’’’ Posting for oct. ~Edge

1411
''' Jan Hus is condemned as a heretic by the Archbishop of Mainz. '''

''' A new dynasty comes to power in Gujarat with the center of power at Ahmedaba. '''

''' The Guildhall of London is established. '''

''' Zheng He returns to China, having estabilshed trade with Bahmanids and having sacked Sri Lanka. '''

''' The Grand Canal is completed in China. '''

Can someone make an algo for my Ottoman invasion? -Bozi

 Heyo, it's your friendly neighborhood Lictor, Cour. Mods, please be diligent about responding to MOD RESPONSES. Several have gone unanswered the past few turns, and it's hindering some players from acting. Thank you.


 * Duchy of Burgundy: Shipbuilding in Flanders and Brabant continues. Thanks to experiments with black powder over the past few years, crude cannon designs have been developed. Several prototypes explode, resulting in some deaths. But one, cast by an Antwerp blacksmith, is able to be fired successive times without apparent issue. However, considering the result from the other prototypes, Duke John orders more tests before it can be trusted to be used. Meanwhile, Johns investigation into finding the assassin of the Duke of Orleans yields no results, to which he publicly exhibits dismay, and apologizes to the King of France for the failure. Meanwhile, taking an interest in the coming HRE imperial election, he sends several secret letters to the Count Palatine of the Rhine, a Wittelsbach, of which his wife, also a Wittelsbach, is a relative, pointing out that Austria's invasion of the ancestral seat of the Wittelsbachs make them unworthy of the Palatines vote. At the same time, he sends another letter to Cologne, the elector closest to Burgundian lands, and secretly offers the Archbishop a handsome sum to divert his vote away from Austria.
 * The Gurkani Sultanate:  Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 58 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  The Amir of the Sultanate, Shahrukh Mirza signed agreements regarding the Compact of Iskenderun with multiple European nations who were keen to access the spice trade. Meanwhile, a son would be born to Ulugh Beg, who would be referred to as the Prince That Was Promised for being a descendant of Genghis Khan and Prophet Muhammad [PBUH], as such; granting him claims to the title of Khagan and Caliph. 
 * ​Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient.
 * Military researchers in the Crown of Aragon continue work on producing the first Aragonese cannon. It is hoped that we can soon equip all our ships with new cannons. We also continue development of our new exploration ship-type, which we have decided to name the Caravel. Christianisation of Argelia is accelerated, and punishments for refusing to convert are intensified. Christian settlers are brought in from Aragon proper. Many Muslim men who refuse to convert are rounded up, blinded and taken into the desert and abandoned as punishment. Women and children are treated with more mercy: women are placed in ghettos, and children are removed from their parents and placed with Christian settler families. We hope to completely eradicate the Muslim faith from Argelia within twenty years and replace it with the one true religion.
 * Defence of Epirus: We deploy another 5000 men to Epirus to strengthen our forces fighting the Ottomans, accompanied by artillery such as trebuchets and archers. Another ten ships, each with a complement of archers and crossbowmen, are sent to reinforce the ships already in the field.
 * Yongle, concerned about the conquests going on around Asia, decides to establish naval bases around the Pacific to keep China safe. A small fleet of five war junks head toward OTL northern Sakhalin to establish a naval base. Another fleet from the Fujian heads toward southern Taiwan, with the goal of establishing a naval checkpoint. Yongle sends an Emissary to Sakha, requesting them send men with the Ming fleet into Sakhalin. 
 * 'Sakha, ever respectful of China's vast power, opens its ports for use by Chinese ships and sends Nivkh-speaking troops to aid in relations with the local population, as well as several agronomists with cold-climate crops to facilitate the garrison's feeding itself.
 * Khmer Empire: The new king, Suryavarman III, sees a massive spike in popularity, after the successful and relatively short war against Ayutthaya. Between this and the acquisition of land from Majapahit, he has greatly increased the size and population. In order to assimilate the new citizens, he removes any barriers on religion, allowing his people to practice what they like in peace. He also allows them all full citizenship, and makes sure that they are treated the same legally. This leads to very little unrest in the acquired lands, and many even see their joining of Khmer as a positive. Suryavarman also continues to implement his reforms, designed to restore Khmer to its former glory. The first major reform is centered around the military, which has been neglected and thus declined in recent years. In order to fix this, the new king allocates more funding to the military. With nearly four million people to draw on, the king decides that 1/50 should be an prepared to serve is necessary. Additionally, 1/20 should be given minimal training, so they can serve as a replacement if absolutely necessary. While this theoretically gives the empire 200,000 fighting men to use, most agree that deploying any more than 80,000 would put great strain on the empire. Additionally, the navy is improved with 160 ships either ready for combat or are being built or refurbished. The second, but if anything more important set of reforms, revolves around increasing crop yields. In recent years, crop yields have fallen far short of the traditional three harvests a year. In order to attempt to fix this, a bureaucracy dedicated to helping farmers increase their yields is established. As this buerocracy has provved its worth in recent years, it has expanded across most of the nation. This alone has dramatically increased crop yields, and some areas are manege three harvests a year despite the drought. In order to help this goal further, irrigation systems are dug in many of the dryer areas.  After successful trading with the Tondo, two trading colonies are set up on the archipelago. One is set up on the Eastern edge of OTL Palawan, while the other is situated on the northern tip of OTL Mindoro. Both hold about 1000 people, and quickly prove successful. Both have plans for expansion in the near future.  Overland trading, especially with China continues. Due to the recent conquest of Ayutthaya, new trading routes are established to India. The city of Ayutthaya becomes a central trading post, and is the center point between trade with India and China.
 * Mods, what is this non-sense about setting trading colonies in Mindoro (all of it is under the Ma-i Huangdom, a Chinese tributary), and Palawan? Cambodia did not know of the archipelago until the Philippines' Spanish colonial period, and even if it did discover the archipelago earlier, Cambodia has no incentive to colonise the archipelago, nor would want to mess with China since Tondo is an important Chinese trading partner, being so important in the regional trade that it was exempted from the Haiji maritime ban.
 * Yeah, don't do those things. Most nations should not be great seafaring powers at this time and the Khmer are definitely not one of them. -MP
 * Mamluk Sultanate (Cairo): Ahmed Al-Harab completed his unification of Egypt on behalf of the Sultan Mu'tadid. By this time, the child Al-Najm had grown accostomed to the captors who had held him as servent since he was a small infant. So when he saw his guardians being arrested by the men of Ahmed Al-Harab, he bravely fought back against them, but was ultimatley unable to stop them. Al-Najm and his tutor Bahira moved into the Red Lands, where they lived out with a group of Bedoins. While this was going on, the Caliph Mu'tadid had completely assumed all power in Egypt to himself, such that no Mamluk could stand against him. The Caliph then issued a statement of jihad, stating "for too long the godless rule of Turkish slaves have terrorized the land of Egypt, subverting the true faith with their false pretense of religion through oppulance and impiety." As such, the Caliph seized all the lands and treasuries owned by the Mamluke beys, and compelled them to leave the land of Egypt forever. Those who would not comply he sent the Kilabarub to hunt them down and execute them as heretics and traitors. The Arab people, long since oppressed by the Mamlukes, cheerfully rose up and revolted against their masters, breaking spears and burning citidels. Hundreds and hundreds of Mamluks fled across the border of Syria into the lands of Tamerlane, hoping to find refuge there. While these terrors went on, Mu'tadid entertained his children and grandchildren at the expanded citidel of Cairo, enlarging the port of Alexandria and improving both the military and navy. At last, Mu'tadid abolished the Sultanate office entirely, and replaced all oficial documents to for now on refer to the Abbasid Caliphate of Cairo.
 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). The first large catapult is tested in the south against some rogue cannibal tribes, and is effective at destroying there village, word begins to travel back to the Emperor.
 * Mohawk Tribe: After careful deliberation, Chief Akaitcho and his council agree to start the construction of the first permanent settlement for the Mohawk People, called Nowadaga. Notaku returns home after spending two years living with and learning about the Oneida. He brings word to his father that the Oneida chief agreed to the alliance on the condition that Notaku marry his daughter to formally unite the two tribes (its been two turns and no mod has responded here or in chat so I'm rolling with it).


 * Venetian Rebels:We prepare for a liberation war.Secret:We ask that the Romans aid us offering them Genoan Greek Lands. We request the Ottomans aid us offering them Galatia and recognition of control of Euboeta. We request Naples aid us offering them Corsica. (We prepare for a liberation war shouldn't be bolded).
 * Cyprus    begins designing new warships based off of biremes. We intend to make them 400 feet from bow to stern and 50 feet wide. We offer Aragon the ship design in exchange for their cannon design. The cannons would  be placed on the top deck with 12 on each side . We begin construction of stone towers with scorpion ballista on top throughout the capital of Epirus. We begin training a spy organization known as the Raven's Watch. Their purpose will be to serve the king in any capacity. 50 members are secretly send to cause unrest throughout Christian Anatolia in order to cause an uprising. (Mod) 500 more soldiers are sent to Constantinople.
 * The mission fails, the fifty members are unable to inspire much unrest and most are killed by Turkish forces. -MP
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: The Order's navy assists Epirus in whatever capacity it can. Some of the novices from the European Commandries arrive in Rhodes to take the places of those off serving in the Navy, and to protect the Island in the event of an attack. On All Saints' Day, many of the novices make their full vows and are welcomed into the order as Brother-Kinghts by the Grand Master, and receive their black choir habits from the Baili of their Langue. Grand Master Philibert privately discusses with the Chapter the possibility that married men could one day enter the order as Brother-Servants, bolstering the Order's numbers and capacity. The other Chapter members dismiss the idea, pointing out that such a move would lessen the monastic/religious aspect of the Order. A new rank of membership akin to the Tertiaries of the mendicant orders is, however, deemed a possibility. All discussion is, however, put off until at least the end of the war.
 * Majapahit Empire: As the new Hindu faith spreads among the nobles, and the Empire's armies return from their joint conquest of Attaluyah with their Khmer brothers, a Brahman preacher named Guntur Eko, begins to preach the new faith, and begins traveling across many cities doing so. He begins preaching the word of the Trimurti and things such as life, harmony, love, the inner self, compassion, and brotherhood. He also condemns acts that "destroy the harmony that Brahma created and that Vishnu maintains", referring to violence, falsehood, apathy and hatred, seeing them as "damaging to one's inner self". Wirabhumi begins to become concerned of this as a result, fearing that he might "twist the revelation of the Trimurti into his own vision, rather than their true word." However, he allows him to preach, as long as the Empire remains stable. Meanwhile, a 50,000 men strong army (10,000 in reserve and the rest in the frontlines) is sent to conquer the Sunda Kingdom (Algorithm, please) who are expected to secure and annex the territory into the Empire.
 * Josh. Next time, remind me to annex the Sunda before I turn the rest of Java into part of the core Empire, not after.
 * Tondo continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island and 100 to Cebu across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. Rajah Gambang proposes the Huangdom of Ma-I a royal marriage between Ma-I's current ruler, and Rajah Gambang's daughter, Dayang Kalangitan to join together their royal domains into one ('  Mod response, please) 
 * Korea, under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under Yi Bang-won with input from his loyal state councillors and advisors. Economic development is oriented toward the development of industrial complexes and agriculture. Korean metallurgical industries are further augmented with the erection of more blast furnaces, with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools, and weaponry. Under the request of the Ming government, the expansion of mining activities within the northern Hamgyeong province continues, a province thought to hold extensive deposits of gold, iron ore, and silver. The majority of the mined metals, especially gold and silver, are sent to the Ming to supply their newly built banks and support their fixed exchange rate. Important roads are paved while canals are built in rivers to facilitate commerce. The importance of education continues to be emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean. Korea continues vigorous expansion northwest into the Manchurian plain, which is filled with large tracts of arable land, and northeast into the fertile Amur Basin. Utilising the arable land found, soy and wheat are planted as the staple grains, while also sizeable farms of Siberian pea shrubs, sea berries, and Siberian crabapples, all plant varieties resistant to cold and dry weather, are built. Meanwhile, in the Amur, honey is collected. The Jurchens and other local inhabitants captured along the way are forced to assimilate into Korean society, but if they resist assimilation they shall automatically be given the cheomin caste, the lowest caste. Korean holdings in Manchuria are split from the Hamgyeong and Pyongan provinces to form the Ryojeo province, and a thousand more settlers are sent to Ryojeo to displace the local inhabitants. To facilitate Sino–Korean trade, a road is built from Dalian to Pyeongyang. Seeking to consolidate and legitimise claims in Manchuria and to protect the Korean peninsula from potential Jurchen attacks, more funds are diverted to the development of the army, at the expense of the navy. The navy begins to focus more on the protection of the coast instead of projecting power into the East China and Eastern Seas. The arming of Korean levies with  muskets and rifles  continue, though upon the end of their service their arms are seized and given to new levies. More hwacha, cannons, hand cannons, and multiple-rocket-launcher are produced, coexisting with Chinese weaponry such as firecrackers and fireworks. The construction of an additional arsenal in Incheon and Kaeseong begins, while the arsenal in Seoul is upgraded so that it holds more capacity.
 * Learning of their existence from Chinese textbooks and from Tagalog merchants, Korea attempts to establish trading relations with the Huangdom of Ma-i, a fellow Chinese tributary ( MOD RESPONSE )
 * Learning of their existence from Chinese textbooks and from Tagalog merchants, Korea attempts to establish trading relations with the Huangdom of Pangasinan, a fellow Chinese tributary ( MOD RESPONSE )
 * Granted. Stop talking about Muskets and Rifles. -MP
 * China granted me muskets and rifles turns ago? (the player for China also did it for Mongolia and Japan.)
 * Grand Boyardom of Russia: This is the fifth year of Ivan I's rule and the fifth year of the Grand Boyardom's rule. As Russia works on rebuilding Moscow, the population in Novgorod, Tver and Moscow increases. As of 1410, Russia has a population of roughly 4.5 million people. At the current rate of expansion, it is expected to reach five million by 1440. The eastern border is expanded into Siberia as Russia works on its navy. Old ships are bought and repaired from other nations, while small-to-mid-size-ships are created to patrol the many rivers of Russia. In the meantime, forts along major roads are renovated. The military of Russia also sees large-scale reforms. (Going to write more. Too lazy right now.)
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. The Royal Marines continues training in on ship fighting, ship maneuver and attack, amphibious landing and general fighting. Ahmed continues up the African Coast, meeting Kongo, before continuing North. We order another five dhows in our shipyards. Mastering cannon making, our blacksmiths begin to outfit our dhows with cannons.
 * Mogadishu Diplomacy: We send 60 Dhows, including 15 Cannon armed Dhows to aid the Bahmanids, which is nearly our entire fleet.
 * Kingdom of Congo: Economy, infrastructure and military improves. While Mogadishu begin to become more civilized, Congo started to be civilized. Under the current king Lukeni lua Nimi, he begins to #MakeCongoCivilized. (This tag appears all time until 1850s and it contains that Congo must do: - Building/upgrading roads and cities, and cities are grown in skyrocket. Even more residential, commercial, cultural and public, defensive and other production building are built in cities. Factories are all expended to hire more people and make more money. - in order to not violate rule number Four.) Meanwhile, Congo's population begins to grow so fast by setting birth rate at high. Near the Congolese coast, the King welcomes Ahmed coming from Mogadishu and they offers suppliers before sailing away north.
 * Empire of Japan: The Shogun Yoshomochi is able to pass by a wide margin the system in place for arbitration which with the added claim of being an established court system for the aristocracy of Japan. With the various particulars worked out the new system is established immediately and it handles a territorial issue between the Hosokawa and Shiba which is handled amiable with the Hosokawa being paid a reparation for the lost territory. The Shogun continues to fund colonial ventures and allows the Shinotashima and Saitama settlements to see a significant influx of population. Shinotashima expands to roughly 600 settlers and Saitama to 350 as the relatively short sailing distance and easy supply to the colony make its establishment and expansion a rather dull and easy affair. The further development of Japanese mining of gold and silver from its silver mines continues to reach its 1415 date of expansion. For the first time in decades all across Japan there is no internal conflict between the Daimyo as the new council begins to address the multitude of issues and in some cases the Shogun himself paying some of the reparations to prevent further conflict. The development of the Keilung Colony continues with the population reaching about 100 as the port is expanded. Hokkaido is also expanded. The Japanese navy continues expansion with the shogun himself maintaining nearly 80 ships personally with many of these ships being used to supply or facilitate trade with its colonies in Manchukuo.
 * Naples: We request to become an elector in the HRE and join the HRE (Mod Response).
 * No. -MP
 * Bohemia: We send 10,000 soldiers to the defense of our friends in Epirus against the Ottoman threat. We continue to petition the other electors for their votes, as we have been improving relations with them for over a decade. We offer them various reward if they decide to vote for us. Wenceslaus V continues schooling. We focus on our army. The University of Breslau opens. We once again ask France for a betrothal.
 * In the Roman Empire, fortifications and defenses around Constantinople continue to be built. Ships for the Imperial Roman navy continue to be built and fitted with cheirosiphōn, or greek fire. Experimentation with gunpowder continues as well, with creations of an early prototype of what in the future would become a cannon are made and tested. Orthodox churches are funded and renovated at the expence of papist ones.
 * In Morea, towns continue to grow in population as more children are born and orthodox greeks from the increasingly catholic surrounding area flock here. Troop number in Morea rises to 1500.
 * Trabzon continues to influence the muslim and catholic populations toward Orthodoxy in order to create a more homogeneous and Greek society Trabzon's ports are worked on with hopes it can become an even more important trade hub in the future.
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die".  All men from 16 - 37 are forced to join the army and are trained across the country, and prisoners are forced to work to create new warships, raising the number to 100 ships while the rest of the army regroups in Ankara then some are sent to Serbia and Wallachia, while two castles are built in Wallachia and on the Anatolian border, while we begin to put traps into the waterway to Istanbul, and the army rises up to 700,000.  Seeing Cyprus actions we begin to put traps in the water way to Istanbul. We declare war on Epirus and send 50,00 troops to invade the country, while the Sultan and Walid lead, the army uses horse back to rush and attack border cites, and begins to work on defending the north by working on deference, The sultan is shocked by the loss before finding out he forgot to add an extra zero, so the Invasion happen again with 50,000 troops swarming into Epirus. The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the Army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan, but the Sultan gets sick after riding around Ankara trying to meet Walid in Ankara. The Sultan's son, Mehmed I Çelebi, takes a journey to Syria, Cairo, Mecca, and Mednia under the cover of being a Turkish Merchant, he begins to make his way up to Syria and stops in Homs, makes his way into Ankara after finding out his father fell ill. He went to study more about Islam. Jizayh is made in hope of making more money for the state.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 900 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 700 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Kingdom of Epirus: King Esau de' Buondelmonti might have won by a miracle, so he celebrates his victory against the Ottoman Empire, as he survived to live another day. Expecting renewed Ottoman attacks, he waits in the fortified castle of Ioannina with his 1500 troops for help to arrive. The Shqip that were captured act as a mercenary force on the front lines. Their loyalty is guarantee by their previous transformation, as they are now shadows of their former selves, broken into submission by systematic torture and castration to obey their masters. After our victory over the principality of Valona the Albanian clans there are sold to the highest bidder as slaves. We continue fortifying and improving Ioannina, its fortifications and its walls as well as fortifying and improving Igoumenitsa, Arta and Preveza and their ports in order to increase trade with the Italian states. In the countryside, without the constant threat of the Albanian clans, agriculture and stockraising have a major boost. We continue mining the Pindus mountain range for silver, copper and gold. Despot Esau de' Buondelmonti starts believing more and more with each day passing that he and his successors are destined for greatness equal to the Kings of the old. We continue to discover new ruins, with the scripts found inside being translated and sent into the four royal libraries across the realm. Mercantilism is also vastly promoted, by exemption from tariffs and free unrestricted access to our ports for our merchants. We continue converting the state to Roman Catholicism, although peacefully, with the pious Aragonese missionaries staying, being experienced from the Reconquista, lots of people continue to convert, some even believing the ousting of the Albanian clans from Epirus and the victory against the Ottomans, as a sign of God to convert to the Catholic faith. Population stands at 200,000.  We ask our liege Naples for help in our war against the Ottoman Empire. We also ask our allies Aragon, the Byzantines, the Knight Hospitallers and Ragusa to assist us as the Ottomans by invading them. We call upon all of Europe to send us help to fight the infidels. (MOD RESPONSE) 
 * Duchy of Achaea: We began improving Patra's walls and its fortifications and shall Epirus fall to the advancing Ottoman armies, King Esau de' Buondelmonti plans to retreat to Achaea to continue his war. We send 750 troops to aid King Esau de' Buondelmonti against the Ottomans.
 * Ethiopia: With the rebuilding of Aksum now finally complete, the populations closer to the borders move to the city and surrounding areas. A ship building area is set up on the closest coast to Aksum for more availability. Some of the builders of Aksum are sent to the surrounding areas and the ship yard to help construct, while the road workers build more roads around aksum to support the populace. A town guard of 1000 is also set up.
 * In Austria, Leopold, the Lord Castellan, continues to run the internal afffairs as his Brother, Lord Regent Ernst, continues his tour of the Holy Roman Empire in Order to obtain votes for the Imperial Position. He visits, Mainz, Cologne, Trier and Pfalz in his tour deciding to stop by saxony. He offers to bribe the electors both with silver from the mines of Austria and with favours that they may require after he becomes Emperor. Another offer of Vassalization is given to the Count of Gorizia  (MOD RESPONSE).   rOtherwise, the prospectors in Bavaria strike silver and gold in the lands, prompting Leopold to order the opening of new mines. The Old loans that the Habsburgs took from merchants all those years ago are finally paying off. Meanwhile, the new manuscripts received from Epirus are put to good use either being translated or used to further the Education of young Archduke Albert V & II. Albert Hears of the news from Epirus, and does not wish to sit by idly as christians fight Muslim Hordes. Despite the better judgment of his pers, and Leopold, the Lord Castellan, Albert orders the levies to be raised and for the Austrian Army to prepare for war with the infidels. Already fourteen years of age, he decides that even though the regency will not end for another two years, he is old enough to visit Prague on a state visit to discuss possible action agains the muslim infidels invading Christian land. Leopold, however, just as discussed with his brother, begins to plan for the possible secularization of Aquileia under Austrian Rule, an act that would be possible if Ernst gains the Emperorship. Meanwhile, the Archducal Guard does a good job of keeping the peace in the lands. This new de facto police force gains the right to build garrissons outside of major cities, including Landshut and Munich, to ensure Bavarian co-operation. Meanwhile, as the Austrian Armies are assembling at Vienna, Ernst, the Lord Regent, returns from his travels. He had heard of the attacks on Epirus and Heathen aggression, as well as rumours of his cousin raising armies, returned to the capital posthaste. After receiving an answer from his Austrian Ambassadors, the Armies of Austro-Bavaria, 20,000 man strong, including one thousand guardsmen, march across the Hungarian Border to Invade the Ottoman Empire. Ernst Aims to have young Albert learn the Art of Warfare on this journey.
 * Mayapan's Emperor-King Iktan and the high council call a meeting of the governors of all the states, new and old. Each state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation.  Several small city-states are contacted along the southern border. They are invited to become part of Mayapan, or continue on as autonomous regions in association with Mayapan, with their current rulers as governors. (Mod Response, please and thanks.)   The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Do it. -MP
 * Mayapan Dip: Emperor-King Iktan and the High Council agree to let the southern nations become states, with their current HoS as a governor, retaining some of their autonomy
 * Benin: TBD
 * Kingdom of France: The “Deux Lis” Regency continues to focus on keeping France united under the crown against foreign threats, like Kingdom of England. The regents are glad and restore faith in the stability of the nation with the Burgundian crown searching for the assassin of Louis. France remains uneasy about the English peace and continues to bolster and reinforce French garrisons and forts near English holdings. Most of the French armies are also stationed toward the English border. Although a large navy wouldn’t be able to be sustained, the crown begins funding the construction of a port near Honfleur at the base of the Seine. The crown starts changing the French navy to be more streamlined toward small transport ships and ships for exploration after hearing about the Castilian colonization of the Canaries. The crown also tries to improve relations with the Papal States. The young couple of Isabella and Charles gives birth to a daughter, Valentine. Michelle de Valois and Richard Monfort get married in Nantes.
 * Kalmar Union
 * Norway: After the massive lose of a large amount of Norwegian troops the nobility becomes increasingly unhappy with the Danish regime and begins to believe that the Danes shouldn't rule. Secretly the Gyldenloves as descendants from the past norwegian kings say they should be king not eric.Arming of the nobility continues. We secretly encourage the swedish noblity to rebel (Mod Response for AM since he is gone). The nobility begins to sow seeds of dissident among the Peasantry. We ask the Hanseatic League to support in case of a rebellion against Denmark Mod Response. We begin to arm peasants secretly. We continue to build our navy up. Scientae Dei continues growing.
 * Queen Magrethe of Denmark: My health is slipping away from me, everyday I get sicker and sicker, with disease overcoming me, I realize this is the end of my days and I repent to God for any sins I have committed. I reflect on the events of my life, the actions I have done, and I write down my thoughts so I will not be forgotten, but be known as the uniter of the Kalmar Union. Copenhagen is now a flourshing city and I await Eric of Pomerania, my heir, to claim the crown as he is fighting and negotiating in Pomerania. I hope that he will be a great ruler, neigh, a greater ruler, than I. Long live the Kalmar Union! (The results of the Pomeranian War and the Treaty TBD, I have to go through the algos)
 * Both decline. -skyboi
 * Piombino: The Lord requests to become a loose vassal of Florence recognizing that they are minor. (Mod Response;a player can still play as Piombino just it is Florentine and I no longer want to play as Piombino because it controls nothing ;No reason for Florence to decline)
 * continues to expand northward along the Lena, incorporating more Yakuts into its borders. New agricultural techniques and iron tools are widely dispensed. Exploitation of mineral resources continues as well. Efforts to cross Siberian crabapples and normal apples have borne some fruit, creating higher-yield, cold-resistant varieties which are rapidly widely adopted. New crops such as beans, turnips and rutabagas are widely adopted and rusher increase agricultural production, although the focus remains on adapting pre-existing forest ecosystems to preserve fur yields. Ship-building techniques continue to improve following the agreements with Japan and Korea, enabling fishermen to explore the Kamchatka Peninsula and begin trading in ivory with northerly tribes, although these ships are still incapable of sailing to southern trading partners. However, fish yields increase and further reduce starvation, contributing to urbanization and a population boom. The Tatar vassal of Kuerik, assimilation of the tiny population having progressed rapidly, is annexed this year and placed under normal administration. Following up on missions by Buddhist monks to northerly Koryak tribes, an official delegation visits the Koryaks and offers to provide them with metal tools and luxury goods like tea and silks in return for being able to use an excellent harbour in southern Kamchatka (OTL Petrapovlovsk-Kamchatsky) as a base for Sakha's fishermen and the ivory trade, without fear of being attacked. ' (Mod Response Needed)
 * Benin: Okpara Maduka finally makes it to Constantinople, and is shocked by a tens of thousands of Ottoman soldiers arrayed beyond the city's frontier. However, he is equally stunned by the sheer vastness of the city itself. Estimating it to be home to several hundred thousand inhabitants, the city is far greater in size to anything either in Benin or anywhere else in the world Okpara has already been. Okpara and his entourage timidly enter the city to see the teaming crowds of merchants, subjects, and soldiers, and the many foreigners selling their goods and items to the people. Okpara gathers that he will be in Constantinople for a while, and begins work on gathering as much information for the future. In Benin the development of the infrastructure in the empire continues, with the road network in Benin's core districts completed, and those in the Oyo districts currently under construction. The rebuilding of the city of Edo continues, with housing blocks and places of worship coming into form. The Oba wishes the city to serve as the icon of Benin's growth and development as a modern power, and has ordered the older buildings and houses removed, as well as the creation of a sewage system implemented. Much of the sewage system has been built, with the modern stone districts equipped with plumbing leading to the outside of the city, while most of the older wood and straw districts remaining outside of the system. The royal palace itself has an entire section for itself within the city, with trees and gardens, so as to serve as the Oba's personal space within the city. It is walled off from the rest of Edo, and has the Royal Regiment stationed within its grounds as protection. Those subjects who view the city from afar or on the hills remark about the city's square shape and broad, straight roads. The walls and trenches of the city have been rebuilt so as to compensate for the city's rebuilding, allowing the capital to remain defensible in spite of its new design. The Oba decrees that all future cities shall also be required to follow this form of building, to maintain sanitary conditions and ease of movement for the inhabitants. The borders of the empire shall have forts and garrisons to protect the cities not far beyond it, but the lack of enemies in the region has ensured that the Edo people may now begin looking toward new ways of building their cities. Elsewhere, seabound trade with Morocco so as to bypass Mali has begun in full. The trade of gold, slaves, ivory, and fruits not found in either Europe or North Africa takes place in the city of Tangiers. Edo merchants begin to become more and more common in the city, and Benin vessels enter port sporting African designs and features, making the "exotic" ships and the merchants they carry particularly popular with buyers. Back home in Benin, Ezeani and his men begin their journey south to look for new lands and other potential trading partners. Using the lands of Kongo as a base of operations with the permission of the King of Kongo, the Edo explorers sail south making contact with many native peoples in their quests. As per Ezeani's request, Oba Orobiru has allocated to his mission three oké and seven epeepe for the exploration of the southern regions of Kongo. In Eko, work on the akakan vessels continue as additional information on the building of such a large vessel is acquired from both Prince Ogun and Prince Uwaifaikon, as well as merchants providing firsthand accounts of Europeans and Arab vessels to the far north of Benin. Integration of the Yoruba continues as planned, with few incidences, and most of the new subjects have accepted the changes in their lives as the defeated side of the war. Most are elated by the fact that Benin did not enslave their people as was traditional of West African kingdoms, and believe that their lot may be better off with Benin, for they know what Benin could do if the inhabitants attempt to rebel.
 * Cologne: As the knights and men of Cologne head off to fight against the evil Ottomans, the Archbishop holds a special mass at which all the hopes and prayers of the Catholic people of Cologne are sent along with them. Meanwhile, Archbishop Friedrich III is flooded with letters and envoys from Austria, Bohemia and Burgundian lands regarding the election for the Holy Roman Emperor. Given that he himself is growing old, and that Wenceslaus IV of Bohemia has been his ally for nine years now, he casts his vote for Bohemia in the election for Emperor. Friedrich III apologies publicly for his tardiness: the previous year sapped most of his strength. On that note, at least five sinful canons and priests have confessed and not executed as a result of the mercy deal, but they have been stripped of their titles and sent to work in the silver mines in Essen. In other news, with the money Cologne receives from the Duchy of Burgundy for voting against Austria, the Archbishop hopes to expand the weaponry industry in Westphalen. He writes a letter detailing this proposal. The archbishop also writes a letter to Austria, thanking the government for its offer but politely declining, citing its alliance with Bohemia and the fact that it already has a booming silver mine in Essen. Finally, the archbishop writes to Bohemia, expressing Cologne’s support for Wenceslaus IV and V, and asks to send another diplomatic mission of canons in the coming year to discuss further improvements upon their alliance.
 * Essen: The Abbess of Essen welcomes the sinful men to her mines and speaks about them to the public, making it clear that the Catholic Church is changing in its ways. In June 1411, the people hold a festival in the name of Adelphina I that involves crude re-enactment of the executions in Cologne and the exiles in Essen. Adelphina herself is not entirely pleased at the crudeness of the festival, but nevertheless sees it as a step forward.
 * Papal States:  The Holy See observes the growing tension in Italy and Greece with considerable concern and hopes to find a plausible solution to ensure the cessation of hostilities in a manner that benefits the Church. The Papal navy is readied to fight the Ottomans if need be, but Papal commanders note that their deployment is not likely at this time, as most attention remains in Italy and the rest of Europe. Pressure is put upon Ancona to allow Papal forces to stay and protect against the potential Turkish threat but this request is declined at this current time.  Additional pressure is put on those who support the Antipope, asking that they attend a final conference next year to discuss ending the Schism as well as discuss heresy in Europe and potential union with Orthodox Christians. In that regard, the Pope demands that Manuel II of the Roman Empire to cease using Catholic materials for Orthodox churches without their consent. New Cardinals are also selected.
 * Bahmanids: Firuz Shah thanks Umar of Mogadishu for his generous cooperation. A combined Mogadishan-Bahmanid fleet, carrying 170,000 troops and the Shah's grand elephant corps, sets sail from Venad to conquer Sri Lanka, already weakened by the actions of Zheng He.
 * Teutonic Order: More knights continue to pledge their alligence to the Teutonic Order. This larger influx of knights has diminished the available lands and will shortly result in much smaller recruitment numbers over the coming years unless more 'pagan' land is seized. The cathedrial - Saint Mary's Holy Cathedral over the Order of German Brothers is about two-thirds of the way to finished construction. Our navies continue to patrol Teutonic waters and the larger Ostsee (Baltic Sea) to protect trade from pirates and ensure the safety of the Teutonic coast. Großkomtur Luca Thalburg proposes the idea of making a university addition to the Saint Mary's Holy Cathedral in Marienburg which is accepted by the Generalkapitel. A new Generalprokurator (Teutonic representative at the Holy See) is elected and the name is Ralf Ackermann.


 * The Crown of Castile:  Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 12 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy. A large rebellion breaks out in Granada, with over 8000 Muslims rise against Castile. Castile sends 15,000 militia men to put down the rebellion. After four months, the rebels are crushed. 7000 of the men involved are either killed, executed, or exiled. The remaining men are imprisoned. IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountins (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon,  and offers another royal marriage to France  between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy.


 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): The territory east of the Atlas mountains is established as the kingdom of Morocco, a Castilian puppet. Spanish settlers arrive and settle mostly near the Straits of Gibraltar. Muslim settlers are forced to relocate to West of the Mountains or to Tunis. Those who do not are subject to a large tax or forced conversion. Morocco remains under occupation with 6000 Spanish troops garrisoned to keep the peace. A small rebellion is put down near Fez, and those involved are executed are deported to the Sahara.

1412
''' Wenceslas IV of Bohemia is chosen as King of the Romans. He must be crowned by the Pope before he becomes Emperor. '''

 '''A bout of Black Plague sweeps through England, killing many. '''

 Jiao Yu publishes the first book on gunpowder warfare in China.

 The Kingdom of Kotte is established in Sri Lanka in revolt of the Bahmanids


 * The Bahmanids conquered Sri Lanka last turn. I presume that would make this development not occur. The Guardian of Forever (talk) 02:34, July 29, 2016 (UTC)
 * Clarified -Natemod

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Gian Visconti, the Duke of Milan, dies.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Queen Margaret of Demark dies, leaving Eric of Pomerenia as the next claim to the Kalmar Union 

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' With four out of the seven electors already voted, it appears that the King of Bohemia has been elected King of the Romans. It now waits for a Pope (any one will do) to crown him Holy Roman Emperor '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Sultan Beyazid of the Ottoman Emperor catches illness while on campaign in Epirus, and dies early this year 

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' In July of this year, a Smallpox outbreak occurs in Athens, Greece, and from there spreads to Genoa and the rest of Italy and Iberia. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">'''I apologize on behalf of the mods of not getting around to all of your mod responses last turn. As the weekend comes up, we will be much more free and at least I will ensure that every one of them is addressed this year -Natemod'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Heyo, it's your friendly neighborhood Lictor, Cour. Players, if you're being struck by a plague, I would recommend acknowledging this in your turns so the mods don't have to do it later. Thank you.


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:  Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 58 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  The son of Ulugh Beg was given the name Nader Shah Mirza, and kept under constant protection and security. Meanwhile, the Mamluks that had fled from the Abbasid Caliphate were allowed to slowly integrate into Gurkani cities after the 'innocent' ones were allowed to be let through. Any major political figures were taken to Isfanan to be kept under the watchful eye of the Sultan whilst all criminals were executed. About around the same time, the leader of a major Tatar tribe, Karimov Ishakih was appointed as the Nawab of Circassia and Crimea. 
 * ​Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient.
 * Norway: After the Disatrous Pomeranian War and the unhappiness with Danish Rule the Norwegian nobility in an act of rebellion against the Danish rule we proclaim Jonathan of house Gyldenløve as Jonathan I of Norway. After the spurring of peasants and arming of them we create a temporary force of 8000 men. In order to secure nessecary funds as we cannot rely on the bank of visby we have no choice but to go to genoa to ask for funds providing them with 50 ships in exchange for fund and mercenaries. We send a navy of 150 ships built over the past to blockade Denmark and prevent their exit. We post troops on the border of scania. We begin to fortify oslo and bergen. We ask for help from Russia and France. We also begin to use our merchants to get the hanseatic league to help us Mod Response. We also begin trainign peasants to help us fight the Danes.
 * The Bank of St. George offers a loan to Norway with ships used as collatreral.
 * The league agrees to limited support, mainly in terms of diplomacy and some financial backing. -MP
 * Norwegian Diplomacy: We thank both the league and The Bank Of St. George for their support.
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: The Treaty of Pomerania is signed by me and peace is finally obtained with Pomerania but I do not celebrate. Yes, my conquest of Pomerania has failed at a heavy price in the lives of my men, with 60% of the attacking army dying both times in both the First and Second Siege of Boguslaw, the Second siege personally led by me. The horror of war consumes my being my spirit and my soul. I still see the blood of men being poured out upon the ground, the wailing and cries of agonizing pain. All of these soldiers died in my name, so I could reconquer my homeland, and I have failed. All those men, my own soldiers, died for nothing and guilt wrecks my heart. After signing the Treaty of Boguslaw I led the remaining army back to Teutonic lands to go back home to Copenhagen and along the way in the Teutonic capital I receive the news "Queen Magrethe is dead." Upon hearing this horrid news I fall upon my knees and weep for Queen Magrethe's death and the death of the Kalmar soldiers. (After my period of mourning I also receive news thst Norway had rebelled against me and this infuriates me and I GO TO Copenhagen to officially gain the crown of Denmark, Sweden, and Norway and all of the Kalmar Union. Before departing to go battle Norway I embrace my beloved wife, Queen Phillupa of Englan, oh how many yearsbit has been aeay from her and how comforting she is! After embracing each other Phillips and I make love and we try to conceive a child for this may be my final battle, in case I die I shall have an heir to the Kalmar throne. I say goodbye to Philoipa, my wife snd my love and I usterbup a force of ten thousand soldiers. "15 years ago Queen Magrethe of Denmark unified the nations of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden inro one nation, The Kalmar Uniok securing a new age of greatness, glory and prosperity for all members of the Kalmar Union. But now upon Queen Magrethe's death Norway has dishonered the fallen Queen Magrethe's vision of a glorious and united Scandinavia by breaking away from the Kalmar Union. We must not let Norway be independent, we must fight to keep the Kalmar unified to honor Queen Magrethe so her life death was not in vain! (<》}• thait It is the will of the Lord that Kalmar remains united, for I am a De fender of the faith and Queen Magrethe was a die hard Catholic thus I call upon all loyal Catholics to oin me against the Norgewian nobility! All those who flee from Norway to join Denmark shall find sancuatsry andsafety from all the chaos in Norway! For the good of the Kalmar people, for Queen Magrethe, and for thee Lord, we must unite and fight to keep the Kalmar Union united!" 10k troops are sent to Snake to battle the Norwegian and Swedish rebels and I call upon Henry IV and the Kingdom of England to help me, for our families are bound in holy matrimony, I call upon Russia for we celebrated their unification. I call upon The Teutonic Order, for I have fought alongside them in the Hessian Crusade and have resided in their lands while I was away from Copenhagen. I call upon Brandenburg, our closest friend in the HRE. The Second Treaty of Boguslaw is signed and Holstein is surrendered as a vassal in return for Pomerania helping me keep the Kalmar unified and I call upon them to honor the treaty. I also call upon Bohemia, the HRE Emperor, to help Pomerania help me keep the Kalmar Union united to help me.
 * King Jonathan I: And in response to the False King Eric, we state that you would have your homeland if god was on your said and if you were a true defender of the faith.
 * King Eric of Pomerania: Victory and defeat in Pomerania has nothing to do if God was on my side or not, for humanity is flawed. I am the true Defender of the Faith for I have actually fought and led in the Hessian Crusade unlike you who remain in Norway. I call upon Pope Innocent VII to have the Papal blessing in reuniting the Kalmar Union.


 * The King of Aragon immediately orders the withdrawal of all troops and ships from Epirus. We live to fight another day. Ferdinand I vows that Aragon will one day return, liberate Epirus, and crush the Muslim infidels.  (Also the size of the Ottoman army was total BS, IMHO. #MODBIAS #ABSOLUTELYRIDICULOUS)  As a result of this, Christianisation accelerates yet again and Muslim men who refuse to convert are now simply put to death. The population of Aragon and all her territories now stands at around 1.8 million. Development of the first Aragonese cannon is well underway, and plans are nearly finalised. Construction of the first Caravel has also begun. We plan to launch the completed vessel by 1415. The sudden outbreak of smallpox results in panic within our realms. The government attempts to control the outbreak, announcing that areas majorly afflicted by smallpox will be temporarily sealed and declared out of bounds for the rest of the population, in an effort to prevent the ill from spreading the disease to other Aragonese citizens.
 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). Military designers in Chan Chan begin to refine and test the catapult in warfare, although still shaky, it seems promising.
 * Abbasid Caliphate (Cairo): In the beginning of this year, Caliph Al-M'utadid, Commander of the Faithful, Successor to the Prophet, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Sultan of Egypt and Syria, continued his purge of the land to rid it of the scurge known as the Mamluks. After all but a small pocket of resistence from the Mamluk beys was removed, the Caliph then ordered that all Turks in the land of Egypt be purged from the nation. And so thousands of Turkish families were forced from their homes by the Kilabarub, and deported east to the lands of Tamerlane. Many men resisted this removal, and so were executed on the spot as traitors and heretics. While this vaccination of the kingdom was going on, Caliph M'utadid continued to expand intellectual inquiry and philosophical thought by greatly expanding the City of Alexandria, as well as re-establishing the Library of Alexandria. Academies of scholars were founded at this time to study the history and legacy of Egypt, and understand where its oldest traditions originated from. Groups of sciviners gathered to copy commentaries on the Quran as well as classical philosophers and mathmaticians. Many Pharaonic tombs were looted for the potential gold and history they could contain. A model army as in the days of the Rashidun was established once more, composed of several divisions and separate training for cavalry, infantry and archery.
 * Ottoman Dip: the Sultan Mehmed cries after hearing the news and makes a speech and asks the Caliph to end the killing saying "Oh ... Oh sir, if you want to have the best Caliphate I beg of you to end the bloodshed of Muslims Turkish or not, as Muhammad would disapprove of this."
 * Mohawk Tribe: The first settlement of the Mohawk people, Nowadaga is complete. The main longhouse being 60 feet long. A rudimentary pallisade is also constructed. Now allied with the Oneida nation, trade begins to occur. Chief Akaitcho sends word to the Mahican nation, asking to open up trade. Notaku, along with 20 braves, made up of Mohawk and Oneida, are sent to the Onondaga, with an invitation to join their new alliance. It is the philosphy of Chief Akaitcho that all Iroqouis peoples should live as one. Looking to extand their hunting land even farther, raiding parties are sent into the Delaware Nation's lands. Fish farming slowing begins by channeling streams into catch pools, dug out adjacent to the stream/river, using rock dams and trenches. It's a far from perfect system but the beginnings of civilization are seen in OTL New England.
 * Ottoman Empire: The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the Army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan, but the Sultan gets sick after riding around Ankara trying to meet Walid in Ankara. The Sultan's son, Mehmed I Çelebi, takes a journey to Syria, Cairo, Mecca, and Mednia under the cover of being a Turkish Merchant, he begins to make his way up to Syria and stops in Homs, makes his way into Ankara after finding out his father fell ill. He went to study more about Islam. Jizayh is made in hope of making more money for the state. With the loss of the Sultan the brothers plot of kill each other and two days after the death of the Sultan, Isa is found dead, and a day later Musa was found dead along with the body of three assassins, with the fear of death and not knowing where Mehed is Suleyman begins to walk around his home yelling he is the Sultan but the day before he hold his speech his brother Mehed kills him, and to shock everyone Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottmans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 900 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 700 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 500 and the goal is to kepp Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Tondo continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island and 100 to Cebu across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. Rajah Gambang proposes the Huangdom of Ma-I a royal marriage between Ma-I's current ruler, and Rajah Gambang's daughter, Dayang Kalangitan to join together their royal domains into one <span style="color:rgb(255,0,0);font-weight:normal;">(MOD RESPONSE)


 * Accepted. -Nate
 * Cyprus mourns the loss of Epirus and invites Esau de' Buondelmonti and his family to Nicosia where they would live as guests on an estate until Epirus can be restored (MOD) All warships are blockading Ottoman Anatolia and Balkans, any ship attempting to leave mainland is sunk. A force of 2000 is sent to Constantinople. We ask Aragon and Castile to come defend Constantinople from the Ottoman devils. We demand the Papacy call a crusade, not of conquest, but of restoring the Byzantines and our Orthodox brothers to their former glory. 
 * Esau accepts. -Nate
 * Cologne: When the weary Westphalen soldiers return to the archbishopric, Friedrich III welcomes them personally and holds a vigil for the four men and one noble knight who perished in the war against the Ottomans. In this moment, Cologne is more unified than ever before, as the people mourn the brave souls who fought for the Christendom that is asserting itself so well now as a force for good. Over the past twelve years, those with religious authority have returned to living a meagre life for the benefit of the people, and the majority of corruption has been cast out. Much still remains to be done, in order to maintain the trust of the people and keep them satisfied, but the end of the Ottoman War marks a single moment of unity in Cologne. Meanwhile, Cologne sends an envoy of canons to Bohemia as promised last year, and Vicar General Wikbold, who goes with them, brings a small gift to honour the new Roman Emperor: a silver goblet made from the mines in Essen and manufactured in Westphalen. Trade continues to prosper and the weapons industry continues to expand in Westphalen, with the help of the funds from the Duchy of Burgundy.
 * Essen: Abbess Adelphina I notices this unity in Cologne and addresses the people in Essen about the importance of solidarity and mourning. Further, she invites the archbishop of Cologne to join in the address, to further express their companionship under God. The sight of both Adelphina and the aging Friedrich, side by side outside the Cosmas and Damian Infirmary, is enough to cause jubilation and hope amongst a people whose faith may otherwise have wavered at this crushing defeat by the Ottomans.
 * Bohemian Dip: We accept the envoys and their gifts with open arms. We give them our gratitude and thanks, and the silver goblet is given to the Emperor. The Emperor uses it as his personal cup, and declares that upon his death, the goblet shall be passed down his descendants. This is done as the ruler of Bohemia is ranked as the Arch-Cupbearer as the High Office of the Empire.

<p style="font-weight:normal;">Yes, but I went to China in the previous turns. Also, when can I cross the Cape?-Fallacy
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our manufactories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction.  The Royal Marines  continue training in on-ship fighting, ship maneuver and attack, amphibious landing and general fighting.  Ahmed continues north meeting Benin, before heading back to Mogadishu.  We order another five dhows  with cannons  in our shipyards.
 * Mogadishu Diplomacy: We wish the Bahmanids to aid us with 20 warships and 8000 men for our planned conquest of Zanzibar in return for most favourable trade status and a trade post in Zanzibar.
 * Bahmanid Dip: We send the requested troops.
 * Sorry to be late tot his but,
 * ​Cannons haven't reached the west
 * Marines aren't a thing
 * No trade around the Cape -Nate


 * Pomerania-Stettin: Duke Swantibor III retires and leaves the governance of the duchy to his son Otto. Otto II later that year marries Catherine of Wolgast. Later that year Catherine is announced to be pregnant. She gives birth to healthy twins. The boy is named Adolf and the girl is named Ariane. With Otto overseeing the reconstruction of the walls and the city of Stettin after the long war with Denmark, as well as restoring the army to its former strength. Later that year his father Duke Swantibor III dies and Otto II succedes as Duke of Pomerania-Stettin. Otto II declares war to Denmark in support of Jonathan I of Norway and begins a campaign to aid his Norwegian friends and avenge his family and his subjects for the crimes of Eric of Pomerania and Denmark against them. Archduke Otto II leads 4.500 troops against Denmark, marches toward the county of Holstein, trying to occupy it and seize it. He proposes an alliance with Bohemia, but asks the Emperor to bestow upon him the title of Archduke of Pomerania, thus make all of Pomerania his vassals (Duchies of Pomerania-Wolgast, Pomerania-Barth, Pomerania-Stolp, Pomerania-Stargard) as a united Archduchy, in return for his support in any future wars.
 * Bohemian Dip: We accept the alliance and grant the title.
 * Archduke Otto II demands that the Duchies of Pomerania-Wolgast, Pomerania-Barth, Pomerania-Stolp, Pomerania-Stargard respect the decision of the Holy Roman Emperor to become his vassals, thus he offers them wealth to respect the authority that the Holy Roman Emperor bestowed upon him and join Pomerania-Stettin as a part of a Greater Archduchy of Pomerania. He threatens them with war otherwise. (MOD RESPONSE)
 * All the Pomeranians accept -Nate
 * Kingdom of Congo: Economy, infrastructure and military improves. Under the current king Lukeni lua Nimi, he continues to #MakeCongoCivilized, which builds the high-development  westernized Congo in European form. Seeing that Mogadishu expended, Congo begin to expend, colonizing the southern Gabonese coast.


 * ​ No colonization at this time
 * You have no incentive to westernize as you have no contact with the west -Nate
 * Bahmanids: With Sri Lanka conquered, we grant Mogadishu the trading post that was promised, as well as sending troops and ships to support their conquest of Zanzibar. Noting the Mogadishan use of gunpowder, the University at Gulbarga is ordered to investigate this new substance. The University is also granted an observatory and more scientific equipment. The sons of the leading noblemen are required to attend. (The school also works to introduce the nobles' sons of the Hindu conquered areas to Islam.)
 * Korea, under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under Yi Bang-won with input from his loyal state councillors and advisors. Economic development is oriented toward the development of industrial complexes and agriculture. Korean metallurgical industries are further augmented with the erection of more blast furnaces, with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools, and weaponry. Expansion of mining activities within the Hamgyeong province continues, providing a source of revenue and funds. Important roads are paved while canals are built in rivers to ease the flow of commerce. The importance of education continues to be emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean. Korea continues vigorous expansion northward into the great Manchurian plain; an area filled with large tracts of arable land, and northeast into the fertile Amur basin. Expansion of soy and wheat farms, the Ryojeo province's two staple grains, begin, while more farms cultivating local Siberian pea shrubs, sea berries, and Siberian crabapples are built. The Koreans continue to impose assimilation to the Jurchens and other local inhabitants, those who resist or lead resistance are automatically granted the cheomin caste and are to live a life of shame. Two thousand more settlers from the Pyongan province is sent to Ryojeo province to settle within its castle-towns and as part of a campaign to displace local inhabitants. To facilitate Sino–Korean and Japanese–Korean trade, a road is built connecting Dalian to Pyeongyang, and Hamheung to the Japanese trading post of Shintoashima. Seeking to consolidate and legitimise claims in the Ryojeo province and to protect the Korean peninsula from potential Jurchen attacks, more funds are diverted to the development of the army, at the expense of the navy. The navy continues to focus on the protection of maritime borders and protecting merchant vessels instead of projecting power. More hwacha, cannons, hand-cannons, multiple-rocket-launchers alongside Chinese weaponry such as firecrackers and fireworks are made, while Chinese-style weaponry are adopted in place of Korean-style weaponry. Construction on the Incheon and Kaeseong arsenals continue, while the arsenal in Hanseong is further upgraded to hold a higher capacity. Korea invites the Ashikaga Shogunate, known more commonly as Japan, to participate in the Hamheung Conference to sort claims in Manchuria to avoid potential border conflicts. Yi Bang-won decides to split Manchuria at the Amur river.
 * ​Empire of Japan Dip: Japan will attend and also requests that a joint expedition of Japanese and Korean explorers in a show of solidarity map out the area over the next 10-15 years to allow more accurate plotting of our plans and paths.
 * Empire of the Great Ming: Yongle initiates an invasion of the Mongolia with 30,000 troops. The naval bases in Northern Sakhalin and Southern Taiwan begin construction. A small fleet of five war junks sets off for the South Taiwanese base. The cities are improved and the five-step military improvement plans continue. A small expedition force of 500 horsemen are sent down to Bhutan, to exam the area and hopefully be able to have a military base in the region in the future. 
 * Because of being a Chinese protectorate, Korea sends 10,000 troops to aid Chinese forces in Mongolia. Korea wishes to receive the Eastern chunk of Mongolia in return for aid.
 * Order of Knights Hopsitaller: The Order is shocked by the defeat of the Christian coalition and the occupation of Epirus, but it is pleased at the large losses suffered by the Ottoman forces. Lots of effort this year goes into recovering from the damage caused by the war, including repairing damaged ships and starting work on replacing those lost, recruiting more Knights and Sergeants from Europe, and redistributing commands to account for men lost in battle. News of the Plague outbreak leads to the Grand Master placing the whole island of Rhodes under quarantine, and further quarantining the city of Rhodes from the rest of the island. Grand Master Philibert writes to Wenceslas, new King of the Romans congratulating him in his election, and stating his hope that the soon-to-be Emperor will reinvigorate the Holy Roman Empire's support for the vital work of the Order in attempting to stem the tide of the infidel advance into Christendom.
 * Hungary: Our borders continue to be fortified and we continue to develop Hungary. We ask for a response from all nations at war with the Ottoman Empire and how they are doing in the war. Military advancements continue. We began the construction of many Churches.
 * Croatia: We begin to develop Croatia along with more fortifications. Military advancements continue and more drafting occurs.
 * Cilli: We continue to develop and build fortifications in the nations. More infrastructure is built.
 * Teutonic Order: The cathedral in Marienburg has finished construction and it holds its first mass this year. The university is being constructed on its outskirts. News reaches Hochmeister Ulrich of the Norway-Danish War and he is unsure of who to support given his fair lack of diplomatic wit as opposed to his martial prowess. He does, however, lean toward the Danes given previous diplomatic efforts of his brother. The flow of newly-recruited knight-brothers begins to slow as expected. Many Teutonic Komtur's in plague-stricken lands offer their commandries as safe-havens and hospitals for the sick and afflicted, inadvertantly opening them up to infection.
 * Pomeranian Dip: Archduke Otto II sends help (medical supplies, food) to the plague-stricken lands of the Teutonic Order, wanting to leave the past behind, offering to improve relationships, as well as a trade deal. In return Archduke Otto II pleads the Teutonic Order assist us or at least remain neutral in the conflict, in exchnage he promises to come to their aid of the Teutonic Order shall they require it or an alliance preferably. (Russia for example)
 * Bohemian Dip: We offer the Teutons greater expansion of their order into the Empire if they assist Imperial forces.
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus IV is crowned Emperor. He immediately takes steps to maintain his power, and calls for an Imperial Diet in the city of Prague in the year 1413, next year. We request an alliance with Milan. Soldiers arrive home from battles with the Ottomans. We accept the diplomatic envoys from Cologne. Wenceslaus V continues his schooling. Emissaries are sent to the remaining electors that voted for the King, and are given gifts from our silver mines, and monetary compensation. All princes of the Holy Roman Empire are expected to attend the Diet or lose their vote.
 * Empire of Japan: The Shogun Yoshimochi begins to teach his son Yoshikazu at a young age to rule going over many the traditions of the Samurai even bringing in his best friend and mentor, the Leader of the Hosokawa clan to teach some of the niceties of the Samurai culture. While dualy teaching his son Yoshimochi looks on to make sure no undue influence is put on his son. In the meanwhile the Teikoku Gikai is convened once again where many Daimyo specifically the more naval-based ones attempt to challenge Yoshimochi's declaration that all colonial and trade expeditions must go through his approval and personal auditing. This is met with open hostility by Yoshimochi who claims he has been "dishonored" by these upstart samurai lords and they must learn their place. This outburst is uncharacteristic of the Shogun and rightfully makes the Yamana and Amago clan leaders fearful as it even brings Yoshimochi to challenge them to a personal duel over the matter, claiming that these lands which are beyond Japan are outside their jurisdiction and no Daimyo will be able to claim it as part of his personally controlled lands due to it not being granted by the Shogun himself. The Yamana clan leader with trepidation challenges Yoshimochi and loses but is spared. This shows Yoshimochi's dedication to that particular policy and it is reinforced by his allies in Shiba and Hosokawa. With that matter Settled Yoshimochi in an attempt to showcase the power of the Shogun and his allies to the kingdom of Tondo marshalls a fleet of nearly 150 ships including 20 of the Chinese junks which have been reverse engineered into the Japanese Junk and is decorated and armed impressively. This fleet of 150 sails into Tondo's largest port making its point known to the king of Tondo. Tondo is once again asked to become a tributary state to Japan. The colonies in Japan continue to expand along the coast with Saitama and Shinotashima establishing a road between them. Saitama sees its population grow significantly as does Shinotashima with both towns boasting nearly 1500 as many Japanese commoners flee to the colonies hoping to gain a better life. The Colony of Keilung also expand boasting a population of 400 as the town expands to incorporate the natural port and its major trade route.  The population of Japan is brought together in a Census as it is numbered to be around 10.4 million. The Hokkaido settlement continues to expand.
 * Ethiopia: Dawit hires the best builders in Ethiopia to build him a royal palace in Aksum in which he and his family members can spend their free time. Three provinces are set up, those being the North of Aksum, South of Aksum, and Aksum itself, For the most part provinces are somewhat autonomous only having to pay taxes set by the government, and contribute troops when they are needed. The nation is searched for more records of Aksum, as Dawit hopes the his family could restore the glory that once made this region affluent in not only wealth, but the arts also. The North province capital will be the ancient port city of Adulis which will be the next great city build for the kingdom. The Southern capital instead of being refurbished will have to be built and its name will be Shoba. Dawit learns of the Aksum empire minting of coins, he finds the best metal workers in the empire to design the new coins which will consist of Gold, Iron, and copper. He also begins to visit the populace and pray with them in his free time, wanting to be known as a peoples emperor.
 * Kingdom of France: With the rebellion occurring in the Kalmar Union, the truce ending, and hearing about the bouts of Black Plague in England, the regency seizes the opportunity to strike their rival at somewhat of a weak point, and declare war on the Kingdom of England. Constables and Generals are immediately summoned to the crown. Through the beginning of the year, 80,000 men are summoned by the crown and all of its vassals. Gilbert Motier de La Fayette leads a force of 30,000 men to Southern France to siege and fight in English Guyenne (Bordeaux and Bayonne). Jean Le Maingre is given a force of 35,000 to form a Northern Front against the two English holdings. The rest of the 15,000 are used to buff and replenish coastal garrisons and strategic interests. The regency still focuses internally on keeping France united under the crown. The regents are glad and restore faith in the stability of the nation with the Burgundian crown searching for the assassin of Louis. The Kingdom of Scotland is sent an envoy stating they may join the fight if they wish, but the crown asks for some military supplies. An envoy is also sent to Castile asking for some military supplies if available. The crown keeps its navy at the base of the Seine, near Honfleur, knowing that the English navy is superior. The crown also tries to improve relations with the Papal States. Michelle and Richard Montfort have a son named Francis.
 * <span style="color:rgb(255,0,0);font-weight:normal;">OOC:  I am not going to be able to access my normal PC for a few days, I will still probably edit, but can mods please finish/remake the algo I posted on the Talk Page by the end of the day. Thank you.
 * Sweden: Kristjen Vasa, the Castellan of Tre Kronor in Stockholm, is declared King of Sweden by the Swedish nobility. The Bank of St. Birgitta stops all funds to Denmark and begins an embargo of goods. We ally with Norway in the current war and recruit 10,000 troops. We start invading Scania and attack Eric of Pomerania, the false king.
 * Benin: Okpara Maduka wraps up his time in Constantinople, having thoroughly investigated all aspects of Byzantine life and culture, learned from the feet of its scholars and clerics, read up on and purchased many books and documented as much information on the lives of those in the city as he and his ever-growing entourage could carry. Rather than carry on with his journey, Okpara feels that he has been away from home long enough, and wishes to return to Benin with his knowledge and share it with his people. Upon hearing of the developments in his homeland and the vessels they have built in his absence, Okpara requests a ship to take him to Tangiers, where he shall return home aboard on of the Edo vessels in person. Elsewhere, Ezeani and his men slowly explore further south of Kongo, discovering the vast deserts of Namibia. Finding nothing of worth here, Ezeani's men are originally dishearted and wish to return home, however, being of strong foresight, Ezeani states his wishes to sail on southward believing there to be more just beyond the seemingly endless stretches of desert and rocks. True to his beliefs, the dusty lands of the Northwest Cape have been discovered by Ezeani, and his men rejoice over the potential riches that may exist beyond the parched yet living lands. Back home, Oba Orobiru summons both his sons and the uzama for an urgent discussion on the future of the empire. Showing them a map of Benin, the Oba draws their attention to the lands of the Europeans and Arabs, and gestures toward the lands of the Edo. He remarks on how small they are compared to the lands of say, Russia or Poland, and weak their navy appears when compared to that Genoa and Castile. He states further that while he may not have shown much interest in foreign affairs during his reign, he has been keeping up with current events, ordering merchants sailing from the port of Eko to Tangiers to bring him any news of European and Arab developments they gleem from the city. So far, what he has heard disturbs him. The size of the armies of the northerners, their endless wars and pointless bloodlust concern and frighten him. So far, the ancestors of the Edo people and their neighbors were content with their lot in life, never seeking to expand beyond the Niger Delta nor look beyond their slice of the world. For centuries they traded with Mali and its predecessors, and thought nothing of the trinkets they got in return, a few bits of gold and silver in exchange for glass and slaves. For the Oba, it was nothing more than petty kingdoms fighting over petty affairs. The wars of the north were over the very fate of the known world. But this would be no longer the case for Benin. For the Oba, he believes it was time for Benin to look beyond the delta region, and into the lands beyond; the lands of the Akan, the unsettled lands of the Congo, and the petty kingdoms of the Niger River to the north. With idle warriors and the constant need to solidify in the minds of the people the Oba's temporal and spiritual sovereignty, it was of the essence that war or expansion must continue whatever the cost. The need for more farmlands for Benin's more than eleven and a half million subjects were an urgent need, as well as the need to remove reliance on trade through Mali and establish a more secure economy at home. So as to memorialize his aims of a greater empire, Oba Orobiru goes to the western border of the Benin Empire and throws a spear across the  and into the soil, and saying that he accepts the land of Africa as a gift from the gods of the Edo people, reckoning the footsteps of Alexander the Great of antiquity.
 * Genoa: The popularity of Marco Visconti continues to expand with the elimination of Barbary pirates and his attempts to #MakeAfricaChristianAgain. Alliances with Milan and Castile continue to be maintained. The Crimean colonies experience an influx of Jewish settlers. With Corsica remaining an integral part of the Genovese economy and the Republic of Genoa the investment in Corsica continues with aspects being used to raise the standard of life. Ligurian continues to rise as the vernacular of Corsica, being spoken mainly by the nobility who continue to maintain large ties to Genoa. In order to maintain the growth of Ligurian schools are opened in Corsica that only use Ligurian. Ligurian is officially the only language spoken in Bastia. The Bank of St. George continues to expand with more Condontorri companies being formed. The Genovese arsenal continues to expand with many new shipbuilding techniques being experimented with. Many Corsicans begin immigrating to the Genovese Greek Isles. The Venetian method is adopted from the Venetian immigrants to deal with smallpox. A continued call is sent out to the pope and other Christian nations to help with #MakeAfricaChristianAgain.
 * Republic of Ragusa: The nation continues to recover from its involvement in the attack on Valona and its government sets it sight on new goals. With the Compact signed and numerous trade partners gained the Ragusans enjoy a boost in trade and a new governing system that is quite efficient. Little do the non-patricians know, but a small yet growing interest group among the patricians has big plans.
 * Majapahit Empire: Guntur Eko, continues to preach the new faith, and begins traveling across many cities doing so. He continues preaching the word of the Trimurti and things such as life, harmony, love, the inner self, compassion, and brotherhood. He also continues to condemn acts that "destroy the harmony that Brahma created and that Vishnu maintains", referring to violence, falsehood, apathy and hatred, seeing them as "damaging to one's inner self". Wirabhumi starts to become even more concerned of this as a result, with some reports of local governors claiming that the growing "Gunturist" movement as they have begun to call it, is beginning to spread the word, but with some minor violent clashes begin reported. However, he still allows him to preach, as long as the Empire remains stable. Despite this, he decides to meet with the other priests, some of which have grown to despite Guntur for his popularity in secret to discuss the possibility that Guntur's followers may fuel instability. However, the notion is rejected by many, including the High Speaker himself, who some suspect to be affiliated with Guntur, and the meeting ends with no conclusion. Meanwhile, our 50,000 men strong army (10,000 in reserve and the rest in the frontlines) continue to fight the Sunda Kingdom, who are expected to be secured and annexed into the the Empire's core territory.
 * Mongolia: The king has started to make farms and more places for animals to be many and more food for anyone farmers will be payed with better way as more  democracy  come in Mongolia. The king of Mongolia also has guards and a big wall to protect his castle. Inside the palace there are rooms made for people to have save food as ice is used to save food from diseases. The king has started a new place to train soldiers as miners are having full cover from the king and gives them monies if they injured. Mongolian trade expands to Europe and expands on Siberia they trade with places to mine as they give us the freedom to have a place in Pacific Ocean and build ships. The army is based on cavalry. Miners keep finding silver under Mongolia caves as many tribes discovered inside the kingdom who got full help from the king.
 * ​Democracy? -Nate
 * Brittany: The Breton regency ends and Duke Arthur III begins his own rule of Brittany. Now that he is an adult, Arthur once again asks the hand of Blanche of England in marriage. (mod response, please). Meanwhile, with conflict on the horizon, Arthur decides that the Breton people must have a navy to defend them and their autonomy. Arthur orders the constructions of new ships at Brest, intending to make Brest into an important military harbor.
 * IN Austria, Archduke Albert V & II reels back from all of his efforts and continues his education. More translated books are added to the Archducal Library and the mints run at full operation. The Archducal guard continues to roam bavaria in search of dissidents to Habsburg rule, cementing the new house responsible. Leopold. the Lord Castellan of Vienna, tragically dies this year childless, overburdened by work, leaving everything in the hands of Ernst. Upon the Advice of the Lord Regent, young Archduke Albert Names Fredrich, Ernst's eldest son, Herrkastellan von Tirol und Wien; in other words the Lord Castellan of Tyrol and Vienna, the de facto finance minister of the Archduchy. His education in economics and stewardship are put to the test in this, his first year of service as Austria's Lord Castellan. Meanwhile, Lord Regent Ernst decides the court is due for a major bout of reforms. He brings reforms to the council of the Archduke, making positions more permanent and with more defined responsabilities. After this reform, in addition to being the Lord Regent, Ernst is appointed to the position of Herrkanzler, the Lord Chancellor of Austria, the Head of the Government, the most influential position on the council, just a few months before Albert's Sixteenth Birthday, the official end of the Regency.
 * Papal States: The Papal States acknowledges the tensions ongoing in the Balkans, and requests again to Ancona that Papal ships can dock there to help protect the region from possible Turkish attack. Mod response please. In other news, his Holiness Innocent VII holds council with his cardinals, archbishops, and other prominent men of god alongside his Antipope opposites in the Papal palace of Avignon to try to hammer out a deal resolving the Western Schism, which shall be elaborated upon below.
 * Conference of Avignon: Several things of importance are concluded by the conference in conjunction by both sides of the schism. First, several points are agreed upon to end the schism. Innocent VII is acknowledged as the one true Pope, while in return Benedict XIII will cease his claim. In return, he will be freed from prison and appointed to the vacant archbishopric of Avignon. Upon Innocent VII's death a neutral candidate approved by both sides will become Pope. No one shall be persecuted on past alleigances provided they now follow the one true Pope. In addition, heretic threats like Hus and the Lollards are excommunicated and ordered to repent or suffer persecution. Thoughts on previous proposals for unification and aid regarding the Orthodox churches are also considered, in particular the thought of making the Patriarch an addition to the College of Cardinals. Finally, noting the threat of the Turks, the united Papacy decides to take steps to reinforce its security. Papal guard units composed of Hospitaller and Teutonic Knights are established and headquarters for those orders are refurbished within Rome. Additionally, the Order of the Golden Spur are given the same charge, as well as the Knights of Christ, both of whom are equipped with former assets of the Templar order to help with the task of protecting the Pope and his holy territory.
 * Duchy of Savoy: Amadeus VIII has ruled the great Duchy of Savoy for over twenty years. Seeing that Milan and Genoa have grown powerful, with the former establishing a strong foothold in the peninsula, conquering Venice and attempting to unify Italy, while the latter is establishing colonies in the Aegean, Tartar lands, and in the dark lands of Africa, formerly in the hands of the followers of Mahomet. Seeing that the Duke of Milan is dead, we prepare for war against the overpowered nation, threatening to unite Italy and destroy the Great Duchy of Savoy. Although, we are severely delayed by a minor outbreak of plague. 
 * The Crown of Castile:  Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 12 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy.  IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountains (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon,  and offers another royal marriage to France  between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy.


 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): The territory east of the Atlas mountains is established as the kingdom of Morocco, a Castilian puppet. Spanish settlers arrive and settle mostly near the Straits of Gibraltar. Muslim settlers are forced to relocate to West of the Mountains or to Tunis. Those who do not are subject to a large tax or forced conversion. Morocco remains under occupation with 6000 Spanish troops garrisoned to keep the peace. A small rebellion is put down near Fez, and those involved are executed are deported to the Sahara.

1413
<p style="font-weight:normal;">'''It has come to our attention that some players are expanding faster than they should be at this time, particularly with exploration. You know who you are, and are advised to stop. You will regret it if you don't. ~ The Mods'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Henry IV of England dies.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Jobst of Brandenburg dies.

<p style="font-weight:normal;">'''wrong dynasty and ruler man. With Blood and Iron (talk) 09:00, July 30, 2016 (UTC)'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">Fixed

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The Annals of Joseon begin in Korea.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> '''Through the connected world, the current strain of Smallpox spreads far throughout the known world. It reaches the northeast reaches of Europe and all the way down to the jungles of sub-Saharan Africa. While not unknown to these parts, it does start to kill more people than on average. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> ATTENTION HRE Players: There's an Imperial Diet this year, visit the page for the Holy Roman Empire -Skyboi on behalf of Blocky


 * Duchy of Burgundy: the fleet, both Naval and merchant, continues expansion. Early in the year, a young boy of 13 joins the crew of one Burgundian naval ship. He is the illegitimate child of a French noble, with a distant relation to both the Burgundian allies in Brandenburg-Moravia and the Holy Roman Emperor, he is shunned at home due to his status, but looks to make a name for himself at sea. His name is John de Luxembourg. Meanwhile, Duke John, acting in his capacity as Duke of Brabant and Limburg, and Count Palatine of Burgundy, attends the Imperial Diet. An alliance with Milan is requested (Mod response please).
 * First, Milan is player-controlled now that I've returned. Second, Milan graciously accepts.


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:  Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 58 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  Ulugh Begs son, Nader Mirza Shah would be entrusted to Timurs wife; growing up under her protection at Samarkand. Along the same time, Ulugh Beg would note errors in the computations of Ptolemy, and replaced them with his new, more accurate ones. Meanwhile, Karimov Ishakiv was arranged in a marriage to Shahrukhs daughter, with the marriage taking place in Astrakhan.
 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient.
 * Abbasid Caliphate (Cairo): As the Caliph Al-M'utadid continued his purge of the Turks from Egypt, the last remaining Mamluke beys of Syria banded together as one last attempt to revolt against the Caliph and regain power themselves. So the five Mamluk Emirs pooled their armies together at the city of Mari, then pressed on in a two sided-attack to capture the city of Aleppo. There they murdered the beloved Arab commander, Ahmed Al-Harab. From Aleppo, the Mamluks began recruiting popular support from among the Turkish people remaining in the land to expand their control over the region. Al-Mu'tadid was greatly enraged by this news, and immediately rounded up a military to invade Syria and take on the rebels personally. This was the first time the Caliph led an army himself since the days of Harun Al-Rashid. The two armies met at a hill near the city of Tizrah, the shambled mercenaries of the Mamluks verses the new model army of Egypt. After a pitched battle the Mamluks were scourged to defeat. For the leaders of the revolt, Al-Mu'tadid had their tonges cut out and fed back into their throats, before cutting off their heads. The rest were permitted to leave Egypt forever, fit to be residing in the lands of Tamerlane. After returning to Cairo, Al-Mu'tadid was content to continue expanding works of literature and philosophy, with the new scholars of Alexandria carefully copying the works of Greek and Muslim thinkers. Many new artists and architects were hired as well to constuct new Mosques and road systems in Egypt. Al-Mu'tadid himself appointed a council of the wisest men of the Caliphate to advise him on matters of religion and state, known as the Council of Senior Scholars or the Ulema.
 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). Military designers in Chan Chan put forth their final version of the catapult, it is able to launch rocks approximately 100 pounds in weight a distance of about 100 meters, and while not perfect, it has helped with breaking up enemy formations.
 * Cyprus: King Janus see the Smallpox outbreak as a sign from God showing his disappointment with Europe for allowing the bulwark of the east fall so low. He urges Europe to defend against the Ottoman Menace and calls for a crusade. Ports are closed in order to slow the spread of disease. More spiked trenches are dug outside Constantinople.
 * In the Crown of Aragon, the quarantining continues in the effort to control the smallpox epidemic. The King confines himself and his family to the Palace in Barcelona to avoid contracting the disease. Meanwhile, withdrawal of forces from Greece is complete, and recovery from years of war begins. To prevent smallpox from intensifying, ports are partially closed, and ships carrying imports must keep their distance while port workers unload the cargo. We begin building hospitals to help treat the sick. In other news, Christianisation of Argelia is almost complete, and Islam has been nearly eradicated from the country.
 * Bradenburg-Morovia-Luxembourg: Jobst continues to promote the interests of his domains in the HRE by seeking trade agreements and by reinforcing the levy obligations of the lords in his domains. Certain privledges are granted to members of the nobility in the form of some tax excemptions to secure their commitment for military aid to the state. The works of Konrad are explored more in depth by members of the Luxembourgish and Bradenburgian academia. Morovia is reinforced, however, due to Jobst increased focus on Bradenburg he sees it as a bargaining chip more and more in his dynastic disputes. Jobst requests a trade agreement with Sweden and the Teutonic Order as ties with Denmark are already good in trade, and from his base in Luxembourg tries to improve relations with Holland offering them a trade agreement. Ties to Burgundy are expanded as trade grews and the alliance between the house of Burgundy and the Jobstinian Luxembourg is confirmed.  Construction of the University of Berlin begins in an effort to consolidate the Bradenburgish intellegencia and to foster a climate for innovation and culture. Investment in infrastructure continues. Despite the close ties with Denmark their efforts to dominate the northern German lands scare the ruling class in Berlin and a request I sent to Denmark to clarify their intentions. As military improvements continue Jobst between his three estates is able to muster an armed levy of 13,000 and the treasury is able to host a further 5000 mercenaries for a period of ten years with the current situation making Jobst happy at the success of his reforms in recent years.Jan Hus is secretly taking in after being sent out by the swedish delegation and he is placed under house arrest in Bradenburg but allowed to continue his works aslong as he keeps to himself and avoids preaching. Jobst begins formally looking for a bride for his son Johann who is now seven years old. With the passing of Jobst a regency controlled by Frederick von Hohenzollern si established in the name of the young prince elctor Johann. The regency say they will discuss with the emperor the transfer of Morovia but the attempts to outright strip the young one of his inheritance is a theft and an abrasive abuse of imperial power for self empowerment. 
 * Tondo: Continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island and 100 to Cebu across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and around Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. After seeing the Japanese fleet, Tondo realizes that her sizeable, yet ultimately defenseless fleet is no match for those of Japan, the Ming, and other significant powers in the region. Tondo accepts Japan's offer and becomes a tributary state. This is met with split reactions, with the Rajah and his councils in Maynila and Tondo, along with other urban areas, seeing the action as generally favorable in terms of trade and defense for Tondo; while the Rajah's daughter, Dayang Kalangitan, Princess of Tondo and Ma-I, her supporters, and the rural population and also the Chinese settlers are skeptical of Tondo's current status. Gambang has assured them that Tondo will not be a Japanese puppet, and tries to talk the opposing side to see reason.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Although the Order's territories remain under quarantine what with the smallpox outbreak and all, work on building up the navy after the loss of Epirus continues where possible. The hulls for more ships are laid down, and Rhodes' blacksmiths are put to work making armour and weapons. The Grand Master is honoured at the Pope's decision to include a contingent of Hospitallers in the Pontifical guard, and a number of the most promising and chivalrous young knights in the Priory of Italy are chosen for the role. Archbishop Angelo who unfortunately could not be present at the Conference of Avignon, is nonetheless greatly pleased with its result. Being a Latin archbishop in a predominately Orthodox island, he is particularly keen with the Conference's openness to reunification with the Easterners, as it would make his job a lot easier if he were not so resented by the non-Catholic populace. The Grand master plans to make a tour of the Candia Province (Crete) next year, his first since the island came under Hospitaller possession in 1405. Philibert plans to use the trip to look at and improve upon the new island's defences and sort out a permanent governmental structure.
 * The Archduke of Austria, Albert V & II, finally reaching adulthood at age 16, has a grand coronation ceremony, and officially seeks a bride. Despite losing the status of Lord Regent, Ernst the Iron, Sword of Austria, retains the ranks of Both Herrkanzler and Herroberkomandant of Austria, putting him in direct command of both the Military, by extension the Archducal Guard, and in command of the adminstrative side of the Archduchy. In such a role, he retains a great deal of both prestige, power, and influence in the Archduchy, In other words, the power behind the throne. Crowds rejoice in Vienna as Ernst has his first son, whom he names Frederick after his brother and Ruler of the Habsburg homeland. Albert, however, remains childless.  Meanwhile, Albert attends the Imperial Diet/ However, he makes sure to take quick advice from his uncle before he parts, leaving him in command of Austria. Fredrck, Ernst's brother, is named Herrgeneralfriedensrichter von Bayern (Lord Magistrate-General of Bavaria) in an attempt to bring all Habsburg lands together, to centralize them futher. Meanwhile, a taxation reform is conducted by Ernst in his role as Lord Chancellor. After having conducted much reaserch, the Lord Chancellor decides to create an annual head tax, with the local Magistrates, appointed by the Archduke (on the "advice" of the Lord Chancellor, of course), tasked with collecting the taxes from his subordinates through the use of registered Jewish tax collectors. In order to streamline tax collection, the Lord Chancellor decides to "privatize" the collection of taxes to chartered corporations, giving out the first charters to Jews across the country. This is meant to act as "quality control" in tax collection and prevent abuses of power (at least in theory), giving out the first charters to known fair tax collectors. In order to facilitate the currency circulation in Austria, Ernst manages to negotiate with the local Jewry, giving them a charter to begin the Austrian Archducal Bank of Commerce, appointing David Wertheimer, a local Jewish leader, as the Herrkastellan, in other words the finance minster/head of the treasury responsible for the finances of the Archduchy, as well as the running of the chartered Mints and the newly formed Austrian Archducal Bank of Commerce. The Lord Chancellor gives a charter to his brother Frederick, allowing him to establish a Mint in Bavaria. Meanwhile, preparations for the war with milan are underway as well as negotiations with savoy. Precautions are also taken to fight the plague, including a quarantine for those goods coming from Italy, as well as the establishment of "sick villages" walled cities where the sick can be quarantined as not to infect others. On border roads, both "Sick Villages" and "Merchant Villages" are temporarily constructed to enforce the quarantine.  Austria threatens the Count of Goriza with war if they do not submit as Vassals of the Archduke and accept him as their Overlord (Mod Response please, I asked this a few times already)/


 * As the Magistrate-General of Bavaria, Frederick, begins by establishing mines in the territories where the prospectors had struck silver and gold, as well as begin a large-scale currency exchange. The Only currency deemed legal are those specified by the weights of Austria. In order to facilitate the change of currency, Frederick establishes a Mint in Munich, the city which he decides to make his seat. The same quarantine measures as in Austria are enacted in Bavaria. The Duke of Further Austria takes his place in Munich, and begins his plans ...
 * The Count of Goriza refuses, twice over! -Nate
 * Then war it is. Ernst Habsburg, Sword of Austria and Herroberkommandant of the Austrian army, using some Guardsmen and raising the rest, leads an army of 15,000 strong to Lienz, intending to assault the city. They arrive late in the year, and await the result... The result could have been predicted in advance. Ernst, his tactical mind racing, demolishes the Opposing Army, killing the Count of Gorz in the Process. His son, in a grand ceremony, lays the count's coronet at the Lord Chancellor of Austria's feet, to signify his submission. Before the armies go to Aquileia to restore order, the young lordling is named first Magistrate of Lienz, although this precludes the command of armies. Gorizia is absorbed into Austria.
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction.  continues training in on ship fighting, ship maneuver and attack, amphibious landing and general fighting. We order another five dhows  in our shipyards. We declare war on Zanzibar, a fleet of 90 ships and 18,000 men, including Bahmanid support, blockades the island of Zanzibar and fights enemy ships and men. Ali sets off again, this time North and meeting Ethiopia, which he seeks to build great relations with.
 * Korea, under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under Yi Bang-won with input from his loyal state councillors and advisors. Economic development is oriented toward the development of industrial complexes and agriculture. Korean metallurgical industries are further augmented with the erection of more blast furnaces, with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools, and weaponry. Expansion of mining activities within the Hamgyeong province continues, providing a source of revenue and funds. The importance of education continues to be emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean. Korea continues vigorous expansion northward into the flatlands of Manchuria, a region known to contain large tracts of arable land, and northeast into the fertile Amur basin. Expansion of soy and wheat farms continue, as they are now the staple grains of the Ryojeo province. Local cold-resistant varieties of Siberian pea shrubs, sea berries, and Siberian crabapples, introduced from Sakha, are further cultivated in farms and incorporated into local cuisine. Honey, collected from the Amur basin, is used as a sweetener in Korean deserts. The Koreans continue to impose assimilation to the Jurchens and other local inhabitants, those who resist or lead resistance are automatically granted the cheomin caste and are to become social outcasts, living a life of shame. Three thousand more settlers from the Pyongan and Hamgyeong provinces are sent to Ryojeo province to settle within its castle-towns and as part of a campaign to displace local inhabitants. The road is connecting Dalian to Pyeongyang, and Hamheung to the Japanese trading post of Shintoashima, is paved to ease trade between Japan and China. Seeking to consolidate and legitimise claims in the Ryojeo province and to protect the Korean peninsula from potential Jurchen attacks, more funds are diverted to the development of the army, at the expense of the navy, which now focuses on the protection of maritime borders and protecting merchant vessels instead of projecting power. More hwacha, cannons, hand-cannons, multiple-rocket-launchers alongside Chinese weaponry such as firecrackers and fireworks are made, while Chinese-style weaponry are adopted in place of Korean-style weaponry. Construction on the Incheon and Kaeseong arsenals continue, while the arsenal in Hanseong is further upgraded to hold a higher capacity.
 * Kingdom of Congo: Economy, infrastructure and military improves. The country continues to #MakeCongoCivilized.
 * Majapahit Empire: With the end of the Sacred War, ironically called as such, due to the old "Sacred Alliance", over, the Sunda Kingdom and its citizens are formally annexed into the Empire, with ten new provinces being established, along with the twelve already existing ones, with Rajya being appointed to control the new provinces. With news of this in mind, followers of the Gunturist movement within New Hindusim begin to convert some of the newly conquered Sundanese people, though a series of violent clashes break out in the damaged city Kawali between Gunturists and Muslims, which kill 41 and injure 179. The news reaches Wirabhumi, who demands to Gunter in a fist of rage to "keep your [Gunter's] radicals in check". Gunter, afterward, decides to condemn the violent clashes, citing the instigators, Muslim or Gunterist, as "an example of what happens when the inner self is damaged" and "when Adharma gets the better of you". Some see this as a call for calm, while others see it as an attempt to instigate unrest. The former view is supported by a now calmer Wirabhumi, who decides to "take matters personally" to control unrest in the former Sunda Kingdom, and across the Empire, if necessary, while the priests in opposition to Gunter, take the latter view and a conspiracy begins to take hold to remove both Wirabhumi and the High Speaker. The conspirators begin planning the removal of the two, though ideological divides begin to plague the group.
 * Benin: Okpara Maduka arrives in Tangiers, and is surprised by the presence of an Edo-built vessel in the port trading with the Arabs of Morocco. Okpara charters a ship to take him home, and finds himself instantly at home with the environment of the epeepe he boards, with its construction and design all invoking the culture of Benin. Upon returning home, Okpara is hailed as a hero to his people by the Oba, who in light of Okpara's historical actions, declares a week of feasting throughout the capital city of Edo in Okpar's honor. Festivals are had and the people celebrate the man's achievements. In the royal palace, Okpara tells stories of his travels to the Oba and his sons, and showcases many of the trinkets he acquired during his travels.hands over to the Oba and Prince Ogun all of the information he collected from his time abroad, from his time trading in Tangiers, working with Egyptian cotton farmers in Cairo, to his visit to Constantinople and studying with Byzantine scholars. He presents as a gift to the royal family all of the books and maps he collected from his travels, along with wares, weapons, clothing, luxury goods, and plants of exceptional beauty and quality picked up along the way, to be placed in Prince Ogun's imperial academy and the library of the royal palace, as well as goods for Prince Uwaifaikon's navigation school in Eko. Okpara expresses his desire to go on another expedition in the future, but wishes to rest at home for the time being. His travels are documents and compiled into a book for the record-keepers of the government for the time being and for all posterity. At home, a smallpox epidemic ravishes the countryside in the Yoruba districts of the former Oyo kingdom. The spread of smallpox is contained in the western districts by the Royal Regiment of the Oba, with thousands of warriors deployed to lock down the roads into the rest of the empire, and turn away traders and travelers heading east. Warriors are raised from the Edo population in the affected regions, and are given orders to keep afflicted individuals and their unaffected family members barred away within their homes on pain of death. Cross-border travel between districts is also prohibited by the Oba. Thanks to the new roads built throughout the empire, travel has effectively been focused along narrow corridors, allowing the warriors to keep travelers from entering and leaving districts and spreading the disease. Elsewhere, looking for ways to limit the number of deaths, the Oba visits Okpara Maduka at his residence in Mahin south of Edo for solutions. Okpara gives the account of his visit to the Jewish quarters of Cairo, Damascus, Antalya, and Baghdad, as well as visiting Jerusalem itself, and took notice to the highly sanitary conditions their religion enforced and encouraged in its adherents. Routine washing of the hands and feet, cleaning hands before eating or after using the privy or any intimate human contact, bathing every week for their Sabbath, and swift washing and burial of the dead were all traditions observed by the Jews by Okpara. Taking these routines to heart, the Oba thanks Okpara and returns to Edo, where he passes a decree with the full backing of the uzama, declaring that all subjects of the Benin Empire are from this point onward required to adopt similar behavior. All subjects of Benin are required to wash once a week at the local baths being constructed in their cities and towns as part of the Oba's infrastructure plans throughout the empire. They are also required to clean their hands before the consume any food, as well as to clean themselves after sexual intercourse and working with animals. Upon death, evoking his role as the spiritual leader of his people, the Oba decrees that bodies are to be cleansed and buried on the day of death, also declaring that those not related to the decease or not members of the priesthood who touch the body are unclean in the eyes of the gods. Finally, the Oba decrees that all waste is to be disposed of outside of the city walls and buried deep within the ground on pain of public flogging to keep the cities clean. Immediate changes are seen by members of the growing middle-classes of Edo as well as the major cities of Benin. Change in the rural regions is much slower but noticeable with regard to the disposal of dead bodies. Though the epidemic is dying down, the number of those who have died has exceeded 130,000 people, more than 80% having died in the lands formerly belonging to the Oyo empire. The Yoruba population is devastated by the losses, where huge numbers of Yoruba men and boys have died in the wake smallpox epidemic. Authorities surmise that the deaths may have been linked to the consumption of pork by the Yoruba people, unlike the largely rice and fish diet consumed in the Edo population. Relief efforts are still in the planning phases to support the survivors and widows of the dead.
 * Why do you send diplomats to other nations without informing those players? -Nate
 * Because Okpara Maduka was one man and not a diplomat. He was an explorer I sent out years ago with an entourage to explore the world. All he did was pass through their lands as a traveler. ~Viva
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. Mehmed begins to work on amass an army of 60,000 troops on Karaman and the Sultan Mehmed send a letter to Karaman to surrender or to face war with the Ottomans (MOD Response). The Sultan also demands Cyprus to stop sending troops to Istanbul as they are causing tension in the region. With the spread of smallpox the Empire halts trade with Smallpox areas and areas bordering areas.
 * Karaman declines and readies himself for a war. -Sky
 * Ottoman Dip: With war with Karaman the army of 60,000 begins to march into Karaman and begin to march toward the capital Eregil.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and recruiting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 400 and the goal is to kepp Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Grand Boyardom of Russia: This is the seventh year of Ivan I's rule and the seventh year of the Grand Boyardom's existance. This year, Russia works on creating trade routes through the Baltics, especially through the sea. Settlements along the coast are founded, primarily as trading villages. Along the Volga, fishing villages prosper. The diseases rampant in Europe affect the settlements along the Baltic, along with a few outbreaks in Novgorod. However, the population density of Russia is such that a plague is not as disastrous or virulent as it would be in southern Europe. In the meantime, several ships are constructed this year along with many more being purchased. The military is expanded as well this year, with a massive increase in equipment. Pro-Russian unity propaganda is spread throughout the Boyardom, especially in places of higher education such as colleges and monasteries. With the clergy happy with Russia, the Boyardom hopes that their messages will convince the everyman to believe in Russian unity, not that it isn't a problem in Russia itself. Russia responds to both Norway and Denmark, saying that due to the non-aggression pact signed with each state, it is unable to intervene in the conflict in the Kalmar Union. "Grand Prince Ivan, along with the First Krug of Russia and the southern princes send their best wishes to the Kalmar Union, and may God the Savior grant favor and peace to the victor, whomever he may be," the Grand Boyardom of Russia said in a letter this June.
 * Teutonic Order: On the advise of several Großgebietiger, Grandmaster Ulrich issues an official declaration of neutrality in the Pomeranian-Danish War. To circumvent this decision, he issues a letter to the Emperor Wenceslaus IV asking for nominal entry into the Holy Roman Empire stating that allowing the Ordernsstaat would give reason for Teutonic knights to enter on their side. The nominal status with retaining governance would be due to the structure of the Order having elected Grand Masters as opposed to any Prince or King. Greatly helped by the aid given by the Pomeranians, Grandmaster Ulrich issues a personal 'thank you' to the Archduke Eric of Pomerania. Work continues on the university on the outskirts of the newest cathedral. Construction slows as Ulrich is not too concerned with setting aside Order funds for the project as his brother was. A few commandries in the more severe plague-struck countries are closed to new patients and peasants due to the severity of the outbreaks.
 * Bohemian Dip: The Teutonic Order is granted membership into the Holy Roman Empire.
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus V continues studies. Emissaries continue to be sent to the electors, improving relations. We request an alliance with Austria, and offer the betrothal of our daughter Anna to the Austrian crown. We enforce the Treaty of Trier, and now control the region of Moravia.
 * Austria: Acceptance
 * you  cant quite enforce the treaty since I did not accept it yet, Blocky. You still need to negotiate which you have refused to do so far. I still have fortified strongholds there and have not vacated. so sit down and talk for crying out loud. With Blood and Iron (talk) 02:13, July 31, 2016 (UTC)
 * Empire of Japan: The Shogun Yoshimochi begins to teach his son Yoshikazu at a young age to rule going over many the traditions of the Samurai even bringing in his best friend and mentor, the Leader of the Hosokawa clan to teach some of the niceties of the Samurai culture. While dually teaching his son Yoshimochi looks on to make sure no undue influence is put on his son. The empire halts its expansion of its coastal manchurian colonies in order to consolidate them and grow the towns. The Colony of Keilung suffers a major raid which kills nearly 70 people and forces the Fort to consolidate and build walls and hire more mercenaries. With Tondo now a tributary regular trade ships arrive in the kingdom to take up the trade. Expansion into Hokkaido continues as normal.
 * In the Roman Empire, strict measures are preformed to prevent the spread of smallpox, including long docking times for ships and the temporary banning of any passengers from known infected cities. Manuel II Palaiologos manually oversees this, as well as the continued fortification of Constantinople. The Orthodox Church continues to get more powerful as money is funded into it. Experimentation with Gunpowder in weaponry continues.
 * Papal States: The Papal States celebrates the apparent success of the Council of Avignon and make strides to accomplish its agreements. Funds are diverted to help manage the Smallpox epidemic, but most of the country's doctors acknowledge little can be done other than avoid public places and wait it out. As such, the Pope returns to his summer palaces on the outskirts of Rome. To further counter the threat of the Turks, the Papal authorities request that Ancona permit them to construct a fort overlooking the harbor to protect against potential attack. Mod Response, Please. 
 * Kebab overlook fort is approved. -Skyboi
 * Mayapan continues the integration of the southern city-states into the League. Each new state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation. The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Pomerania: Archduke Otto II continues the war against Denmark to in support of Jonathan I of Norway. With Otto overseeing the reconstruction of the walls and the city of Stettin after the long war with Denmark, as well as restoring the army to its former strength. As smallpox breaks out in Pomerania, the hospitals in Stettin, Wolgast, Boguslaw, Barth, Stolp, Stargard, Stralsund, Greifswald become very busy with new patients that have some symptom of the plague and the vast majority of doctors are called to assist. Archduke Otto II leads 6000 troops against Denmark, marches toward the county of Schleswig, trying to occupy it and seize it. Duke Casimir V, Archduke Otto II brother, leads the fleet of Pomerania against the Danish fleet.  Archduke Otto II demands that the Duchy of Mecklenburg becomes a Pomeranian fief/vassal, thus he offers them wealth to join as a part of the Archduchy of Pomerania. He threatens them with war otherwise. (MOD RESPONSE)


 * Mecklenburg capitulates -Nate
 * Norway: With the gyldenlove rebellion raging on more and more nobles join them under the banner of House Gyldenlove. With the small pox plague striking us it doesn't severely harm the army with the new recruits being brough in from rebelling houses and nobles. After hearing of the Pomeranian Betrayal Jonathan I is angered but sees the folly in the Danish nobility we secretly promise the Pomeranian Duke the Duchy of Schleswig as this lies within the HRE and is a german state and as such should be in the hands of a german duke and in exchange if they go to war with Denmark on our side. A diplomat is sent to the Holy Roman Emperor asking him for his support stating that suporting Denmark would cause the wars to start up again. We begin to invade Scania with our army of 8000 Men and offer an alliance to Sweden and the House of Vasa who has rebelled alongside us. We begin to Launch raids on Denmark lowering their morale
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: I receive news that Pomerania too is invading and I split up the Danish Army into two forces, 6000 to Holstein and 6000 to Skane to defend against the Norwegian Rebels and I enter negotiations with the Norwegian forces.
 * Kingdom of France: The Regency and the Royal Family celebrate the victory in pushing their rivals out of mainland Europe. Gilbert Motier de La Fayette's forces easily liberate Southern France, while taking heavy losses in the assaults leaving one third of his forces dead. Le Maingre's army has a similar story but also successfully took their objectives based on sheer size of the army. The armies assume the forts they recently have taken. At the same time a small force had also taken Guernsey and Jersey less than twenty miles off of the French coast. Charles VI declares that all of France previously under England has been liberated. He also states that God is on their side with the death of the English King. The regency still focuses internally on keeping France united under the crown. The regents are glad and restore faith in the stability of the nation with the Burgundian crown searching for the assassin of Louis. The crown keeps its navy at the base of the Seine, near Honfleur, knowing that the English navy is superior. The crown also tries to improve relations with the Papal States. Nicolas du Bosc invites the English to negotiations at Cherbourg.
 * Mohawk Tribe: Chief Akaitcho, with his new allies the Oneida and Onondaga, call all of the remaining Iroquois chiefs to Nowadaga. The topic of the meeting is forming a new tribe, a singular Iroquois tribe. After months of debate, the Erie, Seneca, Cyagua, and Wenro all agree to join the Iroquois Nation, with the Shenandoah being the only tribe to exclude themselves. Akaitcho shows the Iroquois chiefs how Nowadaga was built and asks them to begin development of towns in their respective lands. Before the summit ends, a vote is taken amongst all chiefs and elders to decide who will lead the Iroquois. In an almost unanimous decision, Chief Akaitcho is bestowed the honor and given the name Hiawatha. As his first order of business, Hayawatha sends men to each respective Iroquois village to teach them about fish farming. Trade continues with the Mahican and raids, reinforced now by Iroquois tomahawks, are continued in the Delaware lands.
 * Cologne: As smallpox breaks out in Cologne, the hospitals in both central Cologne and Westphalen become very busy with new cases and the vast majority of canons are called to assist. It is another very trying year in Cologne, with the aging archbishop being invited to the Imperial Diet and being forced to remain at home because of his declining health. However, he recognises that Abbess Adelphina of Essen, who is indeed a Princess-Abbess, will be attending, and sends her a letter detailing his opinions and bids her to also bring his concerns to the table at the Diet. Meanwhile, Vicar General Wikbold in Bohemia is delighted that Bohemia values the goblet so much. As the envoy speaks with Bohemia, it offers a place as either a canon or a canoness for any young members of the royal family who wish to further their education or become closer to God. Further, it enquires as to Bohemia’s opinion on the reforms in Cologne and Essen: would it be willing to receive canonesses from Essen, in the coming years, to make the Church in Bohemia more disciplined, charitable and devout, in order to secure the confidence of its people?
 * Essen: In addition to the concerns she receives from Friedrich III in Cologne – which she assures him she will address – Adelphina has concerns of her own, especially regarding reform of the Catholic Church, which she hopes to bring to the Imperial Diet. She sets off in the early stages of the year, leaving her best canoness, Adelheid, in charge of Essen’s affairs. As the year progresses, smallpox becomes more and more of a concern, but Sofia, the canoness who attended the physicians’ conference in Cologne in 1406, proposes forms of prevention, which she gives a public lecture about, and this slows the spread somewhat.
 * Brunswick-Lüneburg: We amp up military and attend the Imperial Diet. We request that Brunswick-Gottingen to join us while keeping their land as a vassal  (Mod Response)We change our name to Brunswick.
 * ​Isn't it already your vassal? -Nate
 * Actually, yes. disregard that (I crossed it out as it is my post) - The Epic Dragon
 * Gottingen: Nothing of note happens.
 * Duchy of Savoy: Amadeus VIII has ruled the great Duchy of Savoy for over twenty years. Seeing that Milan and Genoa have grown powerful, with the former establishing a strong foothold in the peninsula, conquering Venice and attempting to unify Italy, while the latter is establishing colonies in the Aegean, Tartar lands, and in the dark lands of Africa, formerly in the hands of the followers of Mahomet. Seeing that the Duke of Milan is dead, we prepare for war against the overpowered nation, threatening to unite Italy and destroy the Great Duchy of Savoy. Although, we are severely delayed by a minor outbreak of plague and the need for more allies.
 * Ethiopia: The Death of Dawit sends the nation into mourning, but his son Walda Ambasa continues his father's vision. The Royal guard is permitted to return to its family for the day, as the coronation takes place the next at at the Church of our Lady Mary. Walda sends trade ships around Arabia and a far south as the Northern tip of Madagascar. He works on centralizing the nation, formalizing all writing in Amharic. All people believed to have the plague are put into a camp set up so that way it can not reach the rest of the populace.
 * Where is your port? (Ethiopia is a mountainous region.) -Nate
 * According to the map, Ethiopia is connected to the sea, so my guess is that the port is the old city of  (or  if he rebuilt it). ~Viva
 * It is Massawa until Adulis is rebuilt. - Tharpe
 * Bahmanids: Firuz Shah orders many large public works, especially mosques, to be made in the unique Bahmanid architectural style. He hopes that this investment will improve his empire economically as well as increasing his standing among the people of the newly-conquered areas.
 * Crown of Castile: Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 18 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy.  IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountains (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon, and offers another royal marriage to France between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy.
 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): Christian settlements in Northern Morocco continue to grow, with several new settlements established by Christians alone. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.

1414
<p style="font-weight:normal;margin-top:1em;margin-bottom:1em;"> ''' The smallpox plague breaks out of the Oyo region and reaches Edo faster than it can be contained, spreading quickly along the road system as people flee from infected cities, not realizing they are carriers. The disease ravishes the cities which are densely populated, spreading quicker across public meetings encouraged by the public baths. The worst the disease became, the more people gathered in accordance to the Oba's order. The plague is further introduced by carriers among the servants of Orkana. By the end of the year, upward to two million people are dead. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;margin-left:24px;"> '''I'm calling BS on this. Two million? Not even in densely-populated regions such as the Low Countries and northern Italy did smallpox kill that many people. Smallpox never had a death toll that high outside of the Native American population. Major disease epidemics in places such as West Africa were rare, and never killed more than half a million people, and even then it had to be across entire regions. Africans are simply more robust than Europeans when it comes to disease, and you aren't going to killing anywhere near that number with any sort of disease, not with smallpox, not malaria, and not yellow fever. I suggest that before you try wiping out hundreds of thousands of people, you find out what is actually plausible. They survived in the disease-ridden lands of Africa for a reason. ~Viva'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;margin-left:24px;">'''I shall fix this! - Josh '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;margin-left:24px;">'''I will talk to Josh, but having deadly Malaria in your region doesn't make you immune to Smallpox. Central America has some of the worst diseases in the world, yet the Mayans were wiped out by disease. Smallpox is virtually unknown to Sub-Sahara Africa, but hit Europe several times. Also, you have one of the highest population density in recorded history at this point, even more than Italy. -Nate'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;margin-left:24px;">Talked to Josh, I accept the revision -Nate

<p style="font-weight:normal;"><u style="font-style:inherit;font-weight:inherit;">'''The plague reaches France and kills nearly a million in the Ile de France region, setting back their war against England. Northern trade cities of Italy and Germany suffer to a slightly lesser degree but struggle to prevent more outbreaks compared to other cities as people constantly move in and out.'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Mohammad Benkan, a prominent nobleman in Songhai rises to power. After the current ruler of the city attempts to assassinate him, he garners support and overthrows the king of the city, and becomes king himself. Hoping to prove himself as a compotent ruler, he rallies an army and marches on the bordering states of Mossi and Mema. He bribes the rulers of the nomadic Tuareg people to side help with him in his wars of conquest. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Charles VI of France wakes up one morning, and starts to prance around the streets of Paris in the nude, shortly before being dragged back into privacy by his personal guard. He denies that his wife and son are his, and exiles them from Paris, publically calling them "whore and bastards". In addition to this, he starts to think he is made of glass, and  iron rods sewn in his clothes, so that he would not shatter if he came into contact with another person. Charles the Sixth has become mad. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Ivan I gets a bout of horrible diarrhea and gout at the same time. Attempting to relieve the pain, he drinks his way through the gout, eventually becoming an alcoholic, giving him the nickname "Ivan the Drunk". '''


 * I'm calling BS on this. Gout-related alcoholism? Not even in densely-populated regions such as the Low Countries and northern Italy did gout cause alcoholism. Gout never had a correlation with alcoholism outside of the Native American population. Major gout flare-ups in places such as the big toe were very rare, and never caused any drinking beyond a few shots of vodka, and even then it had to be across the entire foot. Russians are simply more robust than Western Europeans when it comes to gout, and you aren't going to be drinking anywhere near that number with any sort of joint pain, not gout, not arthritis, and not osteoperosis. I suggest that before you try wiping out hundreds of thousands of liver cells in Ivan I, you find out what is actually plausible. They survived the gout-ridden lands of Russia for a reason. -Crim


 * Well, alcoholism is a very dangerous habit that can lead to death (as my grandfather found out first hand). Normally vodka brings a number of health-related benefits, though too much of anything can kill you. Also, there is no scientific evidence showing that Russians are anymore robust than your common Caucasoid of Western Europa. What happened to our dead Tzar Ivan the Drunk was indeed sad, but totally avoidable if he had mastered the chi within himself and put down the freakin' bottle. (⌐□_□) ~Vivaporius, Esq. "The more you know!"


 * Let us do the modding -Nate

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' A Great Fire in Copenhagen burns the entire city to the ground and kills at least a hundred. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> ''' In Majapahit, somebody claims to be a lost son of Wikramawardhana, the former ruler of the Empire, starts a rebellion. The rebels capture the capital city and force the current rulers out of the city. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> In Majapahit and Khmer, Islam continues to grow around northern Sumatra and Maylasia, causing many citizens to grow apart from the Hindu empire 

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Japan's newly-established outposts across Asia are both found destroyed and raided when Japanese ships return to resupply them. Outposts on Ryukyu begin to starve and break following the passage of a typhoon in the region. The outpost in Taiwan is found completely vanished without a trace '''
 * Well, this is rubbish. If you want to pull this off, you need to build up to it first. - Ace009
 * Fixed -Nate

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' The Oba of Benin catches a bad case of malaria and dies. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' An enormous group of Hindu rebels revolt in Vijayanager against the  Bahmanis, as the last truly Hindu state in India is extinguished by the sword of Islam. They gain support from other former Hindi states in the south as far as the Kotte Kingdom in Lanka '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' The Duke of Brittany gets smited by the plague, but survives, albeit scarred. '''


 * The Kingdom of England:  King Henry V furrows his brow, he paces back and forth in London, the capital of the English peoples, his people. As he begins to brainstorm in his chambers, he begins to argue over the decision of France with himself. King Henry V reminds himself  that England has claim of the French crown. King Henry V frowns, peering into his mind he tells him that temporary peace, and playing defensively will be the tactic which will lead England to a more profitable outcome. King Henry V calls upon his allied nation:  The Kingdom of Denmark, to lend help of ships. King Henry V, sends emmissaries to  Brittany , and offers them to become a vassal of England, separating from any French claims. King Henry V offers good extensions to the  Duchy of Burgundy , offering them assistance in case France becomes hostile. King Henry V calls upon the  Kingdom of Aragon  for increased trade, and a small fleet of War Galleys to defend English shores of trade between the two of them. England increased its military and navy.


 * Wales: Wales continues to centralize and recorrelate good relations with England, increases military and navy.
 * Bordeaux: The fortress state of Bordeaux is reinforced with troops, and sends ambassadors to the Kingdom of Aragon, asking for help in the southern border of France, in case they invade. Military and economy are increased.
 * Caen: Caen reinforces its defenses, and offers positive relations to Brittany and Burgundy, in splitting France, if it is captured, and increased their military and economy.
 * Henry IV has been dead for four years. -MP
 * Fixed, love you MP -Swanky
 * Duchy of Burgundy: the report of King Charles' incident reaches Dijon, and the immediate reaction is confusion. Many nobles silently question the Kings competence, but Duke John decides it must be a one-time thing. Meanwhile, impressed with the latest performance of cannons, John approves their limited use in the military until they prove themselves. A few small swivel guns are mounted on a ship for experiments, incidentally the same ship John de Luxembourg is on, to which the young man immediately takes an interest in. Burgundy is also pleased its allies in Brandenburg found peace with their Bohemian cousins.
 * The Gurkani Sultanate:   Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 58 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  Shahrukh Mirza completely satisfied with the restoration of order and peace in Circassia and Crimea grants it independence as the Astrakhan Khanate, entrusting it to the leader of a major Tatar tribe, Karimov Ishakiv. The territory of Kerch, however, is retained by the Gurkani Sultanate, and the fleet is moved from Kashgarh to Kerch. Keen on opening itself once again to the Black Sea, the Sultan orders his nephew, Khalil Sultan to invade Georgia with 90,000 men. About around the same time, Ulugh Beg marries into Persian nobility.
 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient. The Sultan Alaud Daula is married to Shahrukhs daughter, with their marriage ceremony taking place at Baghdad. 
 * Iroquois Confederacy: The new year is brought in with celebration. The Chief has been gifted a grandson from the Creator. He is given the name Degotoga. In the early Spring, Chief Akaitcho gathers his war council to prepare for war with the Deleware, with a declaration of war in the summer (mod response). We start developing better canoes to hold more goods and men, and that travel on open water more efficiently. Nowadaga is now the capital of the Iroquois Confederacy, because of this, a new section is built. This new part of the town is set to become a trade-nexus for all tribes, even those outside of the Confederacy.
 * The Delawares prepare the war path -Nate
 * While the King of Aragon is personally amused by Charles VI's insane shenanigans, he manages to keep a straight face on the matter in public and muses that the King of France may have been possessed by a demon. The King decides to follow the French royal crisis closely, as an opportunity to gain more influence in the north may present itself in the wake of Charles' mad incompetence. In the meantime, he extends a helping hand to French authorities, offering to dispatch a corps of priests and doctors to Paris. Meanwhile, at home the smallpox outbreak seems to be coming under control thanks to the strict quarantine restrictions enacted by the government, though they will not be lifted until signs of the disease have completely faded. Christianisation of Argelia is declared completed, and Islam has been eradicated from the country. Destruction or conversion of mosques have also been completed, and so have been replacement by churches and cathedrals.
 * Chimu Empire:  The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). Contact with Chancay is made in the south, at least officially (the Chimu Empire had been surrounding them for about a year at this point), and we offer them protection and security if they agree to become our vassal state. (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED) 


 * ​Chancay accepts -Nate
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Grand Master Philibert makes his first trip to Candia to survey this new(ish) addition to the territories of the Order. He tours the island with a group of advisors and meets with the ad hoc administration of the island in Candia city. Following a decision from the Order's Chapter earlier in the year, Philibert establishes the post of Grand Prior of Candia, and places the administration of the island (now a Grand Priory) under the Knight raised to the position. Of course, the Grand Master is sovereign over the island. The former palace of the Venetian governor is converted into the priory building and will house the Brother-Knights, Sergeants, and Chaplains of the Order's administration of the island. Noting the size of the island compared to Rhodes and the metropolitan nature of its population, the Grand Master also establishes a Council for the island, composed of prominent townsfolk, landowners, and the Latin Archbishop of Crete. Before returning to Rhodes, Philibert leaves the Grand Prior with orders to improve the already good Venetian defences, and to put Crete's natural resources to work by building some ships for the Order's navy. Back in Rhodes, work continues on rebuilding the navy.
 * Majapahit Empire: With the spread of Islam in northern Sumatra and to our neighbours in Khmer, Wirabhumi begins to become concerned, while Guntur begins to adopt a few ideas from Buddhist beliefs, claiming that Buddha, in his day, was "a messenger of Brahma" and that some of his teachings should be an "example to all of the faithful and an extension to the Dharma". Initially, Wirabhumi is skeptical when he receives the news from Southern Sumatra while assisting the governor of the Greater Sunda province surrounding Pakuan Papajaran, the former capital of the old Sunda kingdom in restoring order to the capital, but after speaking with some Buddhists, and a few Gunturists he notices the connection between the two, and agrees to allow Guntur's integration of Buddhist thoughts with New Hindu beliefs. Meanwhile, the conspirators begin to rally around the traditional Hinduists, who begin to recruit a disgruntled traditional Hindu soldier known as Kursuma Susila into duping the public. He is the lost son of the old King Wikramawardhana, and use the claim to justify a revolt against Wirabhumi and the High Speaker. When this happens, he begins to spread the word to traditional Hindus in Trowulan, and by year's end, he begins to watch the seed grow ...
 * Abbasid Caliphate: After the last Mamluk resistance was brutually executed, the Caliph Al-M'utadid decided to turn his attention to political, religious and economic reforms. Under the Ulema, he established two offices to govern the state: Alm akteb  Alqudds (The Holy Office) to administrate over religious matters, and Nass Alshay (the People's Thing) to administrate over secular matters. Under Alqudds he established a small council of Ayatollahs, each of which aministrating over a specific region in Egypt. Under the Ayatollahs, each city district is administrated by a Kazir, who appoint local Imams. The Caliph reaches out to all Muslim nations to participate in the new systematic organization, particularly Tunis (MOD), Yemen (MOD), Mogadishu, Persia, and Turkey. The Nass Alshay appoints local Emirs to govern local populations in various parts of the Caliphate. The Caliph also began enforcing the Jizya tax and imposed laws against Jews and Christians. Now they will be more freely tolerated, but as long as they do not preach to Muslims or ring Church bells. All cults of Shia Islam, including Druze and Alawites, are forbidden as heretics, and forcefully deported from Egypt. They are sent south and west further into Africa, although many Druze fled to the mountains in Syria. The Caliph then opened up Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem for the Hajj pilgrimage, encouraging Muslims as far as Benin and Chagatai to come. The Kilabarub are now comissioned to ensure the roads in Africa and Asia are safe from bandits and brigands. Black slaves are rounded up from the Red lands and sold to the Gurkani Sultanate, where trade continues farther east.  The Caliph asks Tunis (MOD), Yemen (MOD),  and the Jaylarids  if they would like to accept being local Emirs under the greater political authority of the Caliphate. 
 * ​Gurkani Diplomacy: I, the Amir of the Gurkani Sultanate, the Shahenshah of Iran, the Sovereign of Sarai, the Sultan of all Turks and the Conqueror of Sarai, Shahrukh Mirza son of Timur Beg Mirza reject your invitation. I thought of you as a pious and holy man, and sort you out to unite our Houses because I wished to mend ties and heal the divisions that existed between our nations.. However, you've shown your true colours by trying to snatch away Iraq from under my nose. You're no more than a greedy and vile man.. You're no Caliph, but a Murderer who has slaughtered innocent Turks left and right. You're no different than the Christians who have killed Muslims in Al-Andalus.. You're no Caliph of mine and I shall have nothing to do with you. Alongside this letter will you find the head of your beloved granddaughter, which you can keep beside yourself or cast into the sea.
 * Jalayirid Diplomacy: Alaud Daula rejects the offer by the Abbasids.
 * Nevermind
 * Tondo  continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island and 100 to Cebu across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. Dayang Kalangitan, furious with her father's decision to allow the kingdom to subjugate itself to Japan, retreats to her home in the Huangdom of Ma-I, only to find news that her husband, the Huang of Ma-I, Ma Li Jin, has died in a hunting. With no brothers, Ma Li Jin's successor is declared to be his 6-month child Ma Niman, and that makes Kalangitan queen dowager for Li Jin, and Queen Regent for Niman. Kalangitan, under stress from the recent events as well as the death of her husband, takes he frustrations out and rules Ma-I along with the regency council for Niman. 
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. With victory over Zanzibar, Ahmed is appointed as Governor, and begins construction of the Bahmanid Trade Posts. We send 40 dhows to the Bahmanids to help them quell the rebellion.
 * France: Though the peasants are extremely surprised about Charles VI's madness, it was already known amongst the royal house and the nobles from years before. The regents see this as cementing their need in the public eye, with them also references their successes in the Two Lilies War. Having already prepared for this, the regents reference Lex Insanus (passed years before in the Estates-General) as the root of their power. Charles VI is officially moved to [Palace] with his mistress, only cited out of it for ceremonial and public appearances. Meanwhile, Paris and Northern Cities are hit hard by an outbreak of smallpox. Some cities are ordered to be quarantined for limited amounts of time, lowering French profits from trade, but lowering the death toll throughout French cities. The sparse farms and agricultural powerhouse outside the cities went largely untouched, as the cities were significantly more densely populated, but it still negatively effects the nation and lowers morale during the war. At the same time small parts of the French navy and French traders are authorized by the crown to raid English shipping routes that go past France to mainland Europe. La Fayette's and Le Maingre's armies continue to garrison coastal forts and strategic interests. Some of it getting hit by the plague. The English don't attempt any major landings so no major land battles occur while the army's morale is lowered by the plague. Positive and healthy attitudes are maintained with our notable vassals and lords. The crown also tries to improve relations with the Papal States. Nicolas du Bosc invites the English to negotiations at Cherbourg, and also asks the Pope to urge peace between our two nations.
 * Posted for Nic, per his request on chat. -Rexmod
 * Pomerania: After winning the war against Denmark, Archduke Otto II annexes Holstein, Bornholm and Schleswig as fiefs of Pomerania, while Schleswig is also integrated into the HRE, but it is allowed to keep its Danish way of governance. Alas revenge as been taken for the invasion of Pomerania by the Kalmar Union and Eric of Pomerania has paid for his crimes against the Archduchy of Pomerania. Otto II oversees the reconstruction and restoration of Holstein and Schleswig, its cities of Schleswig, Flensburg, Kiel, as well as its countryside to their former pre-war glory. As smallpox breaks out in Pomerania, the hospitals in Stettin, Wolgast, Boguslaw, Barth, Stolp, Stargard, Schleswig, Flensburg, Kiel, Stralsund, Greifswald become very busy with new patients that have some symptom of the plague and the vast majority of doctors are called to assist.  Archduke Otto II demands that the Bishopric of Cammin becomes a Pomeranian fief/vassal, thus he offers them wealth to join as a part of the Archduchy of Pomerania. He threatens them with war otherwise. (MOD RESPONSE)


 * ​Cammin accepts, Lubeck refuses -Nate
 * Brittany: After recovering from his sickness, Duke Arthur orders the roads into Brittany through France to be closed off and guarded by soldiers. Meanwhile, now that he is recovered, Arthur marries Blanche of England (mod approval required). Later in the year she gives birth to a son named Richard for his uncle. Meanwhile, the rumors of King Charles's madness makes the Breton people doubt him even more. Many are grumbling about the status of Brittany as a French vassal. In Brest, the Duke's selected people oversee the buildings of ships and shipyards as well as an expansion of the harbor.
 * The Golden Horde: Jalal al-Din, son of Tokhtamysh, Khan of the Golden Horde, calls for unity and an end to internal strife in order to restore the once proud empire of the Golden Ones. With 10,000 men at his back he rides throughout the Khanate, forcing all, his brother Kepek included, to swear fealty to him and his line. Those who refuse are dragged naked behind the warhorses of his men until their collapse and death in the hard dirt of the Khan's territory. He builds an inner circle of trusted advisors, strategists and tacticians, dreaming of restoring the Horde to its former glory.
 * There is no Golden Horde. Its the Astrakhan Khanate now and your leader is Karimov Ishakiv, not Jalal al Din. You were given independence this very turn by the Gurkani Sultanate
 * Bradenburg-Luxembourg-Morovia: As tensions continue to grow given the instability of the HRE with recent actions taken by the emperor and the war in the Kamlar Union. the regency begins looking for other countries in the hre who wish to align with it in maintaining the autonomy of the princes at all costs. Military expansion begins particularly in Bradenburg and Morovia. The levies are called in in full force bringing the Elector's army to a 13,000 and hiring of mercenaries begin to raise another 4000. the formal training of the young Johann begins his formal training for the day he becomes ruler. Frederick the regent has a child who he names Frederick after himself. Development of hand cannons similar to those used in France starts as the benefits of gunpowder is realized for shock effect, increased numbers of cannons are also seen in the forces of the Elector. the number of crossbowers and pikemen also see an increase within the formations for better tactical decision making. Investment into infrastracture and the economy continues. As all academic circles grow due to the investments of the previous ruler the University of Berlin starts to grow. Frederick formerly moves the capital to the small city from Bradenburg due to an easier defensive position. A royal marriage is offered to the Pomeranian crown for the hand of their daughter to the young Johann. With the vassalization of the Archduchy of Pomerania, the regency requests that Denmark and Norway allies to Bradenburg agree to recognize Bradenburgian Lordship over Pomerania and agree to not attack it. With Peace fully established with Bohemia Bradenburg officially de-mobilizes and disbands its mercenary corps. The Silesian Lords are granted the same entiltlements and responsibilities of the Brandenburgian court and efforts to connect the economies of the two areas start.
 * Pomeranian Dip: Archduke Otto II agrees to the betrothal, giving his two-year-old daughter Ariane to betroth young Johann. The Pomeranian Crown also offers vassalage to Brandenburg, with recent tensions against the former Kalmar Union members, as Archduke Otto II fears for his safety, in return for pretection against the nations of Denmark, Norway and Sweden.
 * Bradenburgian Dip: The regency agrees to Pomerania's request to become a vassal of the Elector and promises to protect Pomerania at all costs.
 * Danish Diplomacy: We are touched by the Brandenburgian alliance request offer and we shall accept it on the condition that Schleswig is returned to us and Holstein becomes a Danish vassal once again.
 * Bradenburg Dip: Frederick on behalf of the young Johann promises to negotiate the subject once the crisis with Bohemia is resolved but requests that Denmark honor the long standing alliance between both countries and come to the call of arms should the situation require it.
 * Danish Dip: We agree that the Holstein issue can be resolved later but we continue to request that Schleswig is returned to us as that is an integral part of our population. We shall honor the Brandenburgian call to arms should the situation require it.
 * The Archduchy of Austria continues its introduction of new taxation methods to the realm, as well as reforming the Bavarian Currency. For all the good it did, at least Albert got ahold of a betrothal. Tensions with Milan are back, greater than ever before as the border guard with Istria is doubled. Meanwhile, the Lord Castellan, David Wertheimer, does well as master of the realm's finances, finally paying off the debts the Coronet had incurred during the previous wars and so on. More prospectors are sent to the lands near Lienz, and come back with promise. More Silver mines are constructed, but on the advice of the Lord Castellan, produiction is slowed as Silver begins to be stored in the bank vaults as Silver Pfunds, in order not to devalue the currency, and at the same time keep a reserve for a rainy day. Last year's quarantine procedures seem to have stopped the spread of smallpox, and are relaxed, allowing for more trade. The first "Hand Bombards" arrive this year into Austria and are presented to the Archduke. the Lord Chancellor Ernst (who also happens to the the "Sword of Austria" and Herroberkommandant of the Austrian forces) is ecstatic when he sees them in demonstrations, especially against opponents in full plate armour. Wishing to test this new weapon, he orders fifty built by Austrian smiths and given to the most experiences guardsmen of Austria to test on practice dummies and walls, as well as a supersized "Giant's Bombard". New Loans are taken out to pay for a large supply, about fifty Austrian Stones of the black powder. Austrian Alchemists, and students from the university, are given the substance to experiment with, especially for the purposes of reproduction. They are promised monetary compensation upon death as not to discourage "risky" procedures. The Students and Alchemists are given twenty Stones of the Stuff, almost half of the supply. The Archduke, knowing how standardized arms can benefit an army, orders five hundred crossbows built for the Army, each sharing the same design, as well as many Pavia shields to be given to potential men-at-arms. To combat Full plate armour, Guardsmen are increasingly trained in the use of the halberd and other polearms, as well as new handcannons. Next to the capital of Vienna and the city of Munich, unofficial "Smith's cities" arise from the influx of craftsmen and weaponsmiths.
 * Serene Republic of Ragusa: The Republic works on its military forces realizing its neighbouring non-believers and wishes to discuss with the Papacy about what to do with this information. The Knez position now lasts two years rather than 1 following recent legislative changes.
 * Empire of Japan: The Shogun Yoshimochi begins to teach his son Yoshikazu at a young age to rule going over many the traditions of the Samurai even bringing in his best friend and mentor, the Leader of the Hosokawa clan to teach some of the niceties of the Samurai culture. While dually teaching his son Yoshimochi looks on to make sure no undue influence is put on his son. The empire halts its expansion of its coastal manchurian colonies in order to consolidate them and grow the towns. While the raids have set back all the outpost/cities significantly the survivors of Shinotashima and Saitama are regrouped and reinforced with a private force from the Shogun himself of nearly 300 soldiers per settlement reorganizing the trade posts into Trade forts with 300 in Shinatashima and 200 in Saitama respectively. Keilung is also re-established with 20 traders who consequently rebuild the core buildings and develop a schedule for the trade ships for guard so that there is constantly as least one large well armed ship in the area. The Ryukyu Islands are given a large shipment of foodstuffs taken directly from the Ashikaga clans stores in an attempt to bring the Okinawan territory back into stable territory. As a result of the typhoon, however, the Ryukyu Islands deviate to the direct control of the Shogun as the Tanegashima clan is just as affected by the issue. The first tribute ship from Tondo arrives with various goods and a reciprocal fleet is sent in order to establish a major trade post in the capital of Tondo.
 * Benin: Oba Orobiru's death by malaria is announced to the people of Benin after deliberations in the uzama over when to release the information. His son Prince Ogun is appointed Oba of Benin by the collective will of the uzama. Before the people of his nation, the new leader takes on the throne name Ewuare, and declares a month of mourning for his father. In an address to the people in the capital city, Oba Ewuare announced that he shall maintain the wish his father had to conquer the lands of Africa as a gift from the gods, and that he shall finally begin to move in a new direction his father was long prevented from doing in his lifetime. Leveraging his popularity throughout the empire with the commoners and the warriors as the young and charitable prince, Ewuare immediately begins to implement a number of reforms in the government and the military, beginning with the interaction between the uzama and the Oba. Though the absolute monarch of Benin, the Oba had traditionally been subject to the whims of the uzama, the council that he reported too. In an act of defiance, Oba Ewuare with the full support of the military, removes many of the powers the uzama held as checks on the power of the Oba. He also introduces a formal bureaucracy made up of freedmen who gain their positions via merit and achievement as subjects of the realm, removing the myriad of hereditary tribal heads throughout his nation, and solidifying the realm under his rule. Though the tribal leaders are not entirely striped of their powers, they are vastly limited in their ability to act against the Oba. The realm is further divided into districts not bound to lords and nobles, but under governors handpicked and appointed by the Oba himself from a list of well-trained and effective leaders. In honor of his coronation and in memory of his father, Ewuare introduces a custom of producing bronze heads for each of the Obas of Benin, immortalizing them for posterity. Another series of reforms in the introduction of facial scarification to identify subjects of Benin by their social status and ethnicity, allowing the people of Benin to set themselves apart from the rest of the nations around them. Warriors of the Royal Regiment are instructed to wear arrow-shaped tattoos to identify them as bodyguards of the Oba and imperial household. Unlike his father who was largely uninterested in foreign affairs, the new Oba having fully immersed himself in foreign arts, sciences, and ideologies, has stated that his goal shall be to learn from the world and to trade with them as much as possible so as to make Benin a site of trade and science. Putting to use his own education in modern sciences, the Oba opens schools for astronomy, mathematics, theology, engineering, law, and medicine throughout Benin to teach his people according to the knowledge of the Arabs and Europeans. Okpara Maduka is brought to Edo on the Oba's orders to serve as a minister of foreign affairs in the uzama for the Benin, providing his firsthand knowledge of the outside world. Reforms in the military are also enacted, with each district being instructed to maintain a garrison of men in their cities and villages that can be drawn upon during times of war, as well as producing armor and weapons according to the standard set by the royal forges of Edo. The benefit of this being that the warriors of the nation shall have more or less identical equipment, as well as plentiful stocks of arms and armor during times of war, allowing for increased mobilization when needed. The army is reorganized as well into an age-based tier system known as the otu: Iroghae (youths) 15- 30 years; Ighele (adults) 30-50 years; and Edion (elders) above 50 years. The bulk of the warriors shall come from the ighele, while reserves are drawn from the iroghae when needed. Members of the edion shall serve as war chiefs and ship masters when needed as well. All aspects of authority structure, weapons, logistics, strategic thinking and war plans, matters of surveillance and collaboration are reorganized to revamp the entire military structure of Benin so as to advance the future aims of the state. Prince Uwaifiokun is named the Oba's Minister of Ships, while Okpara Maduka is named the Oba's Minister of Foreign Affairs. Prince Uwaifiokun informs the Oba that Benin has the capacity to support a fleet of up to 470 ships, while Okpara states that he is prepared to begin heading foreign delegations to other nations beyond West Africa. The system of the Eghaevbo n’Ore (the civil authorities) and the Eghaevbo n’Ogbe (palace bureaucrats) as political officials are introduced as formal bodies, and the system of city planning used for the capital Edo is introduced as the official method of city-building for the high population density needs of the state. The Oba is no longer bound to take the advice of the uzama, and may now act in his own accord as the temporal and spiritual leader of the Benin Empire. Aware that the lands beyond Benin largely follow one of two major religions, Oba Ewuare summons an Islamic cleric and Catholic monk from his old entourage, and order them to prepare for a grand debate to convince the Oba as to which religion his people shall follow as they verge on the start of a new era. (Before you all get snippy about the changes, Oba Ewuare was known as "Ewuare the Great" in OTL for his vast and sweeping reforms in Benin, and status as the first of Benin's "warrior kings".)
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus V continues schooling. Anna is sent to Austria to get to meet the Habsburgs. Wenceslaus IV visits Brandenburg to discuss the Treaty of Berlin. Germanization continues.  King Wenceslaus IV demands the vassalage of the nearby Saxony. He threatens war with them if they do not accept. (MOD RESPONSE)  The Imperial Diet voting begins, and other issues are either denied or passed.
 * Saxony reluctantly agrees to stronger vassalage to the Holy Roman Emperor.
 * Bradenburg Dip: Frederick signs the treaty of Berlin finally ending all disputes between Bradenburg and Bohemia. 
 * Cologne: As a trade city, Cologne begins to struggle to prevent smallpox. A number of cases break out suddenly, such that Archbishop Friedrich III, against the wishes of his Chapter and other advisors, feels the need to go personally to both hospitals in Cologne and Westphalen. Whilst there, he provides intimate religious comfort for the sick and dying. A few months later, the Archbishop himself is taken into God’s arms by the plague, and he is remembered with great reverence by the people. The Chapter gather to elect a new archbishop, Dietrich II von Moers, who values unity and discipline and who is particularly interested in Cologne’s relationships with other nearby Germanic countries. Dietrich II writes to the Pope to ask for his appointment to be ratified. Furthermore, although Dietrich II initially questions Abbess Adelphina and Friedrich III’s trust in her, he meets with her two canonesses in residence in Cologne and is subsequently inspired by their passion for reform. Accordingly, he writes to Bohemia, informing them of Friedrich III’s passing and bidding them to consider the diplomatic offers of 1413 given by his predecessor. Meanwhile, Archbishop Dietrich II considers that if trading has brought this plague upon Cologne, trading should facilitate the plague’s removal. He pours significant amounts of money saved up from trade into the health of the people of Cologne and Essen: more physicians are employed, more prevention is established, and those with smaller cases of the plague begin to recover.
 * Essen: Abbess Adelphina of Essen holds a vigil in memory of Friedrich III as both nations mourn their great ruler. She also writes to the new archbishop to bid him to continue Friedrich III’s great work, for that gentle, kind soul who has been taken to Heaven too soon. Adelphina continues to visit the infirmary very frequently, although in the wake of Friedrich III’s illness she is more careful. For every person who dies in the infirmary, she has one of her canonesses (who is less skilled in nursing) sew a small blue cornflower on a large tapestry.
 * Mayapan continues the integration of the southern city-states into the League. Each new state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation. The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Papal States:  Papal agents do what they can to isolate incidents of Smallpox and have mixed success, as some people are quarantines yet other agents avoid striken areas altogether, leading to shoddy enforcement. The fortress construction in Ancona begins with a sense of urgency, and most of the fortress' basic structure is done by the end of the year. Other issues within the Church, namely heretics, are now the main issue as the Western Schism is resolved.  Knowing that Jan Hus is a dangerous heretic and is not found, all good Catholics of Northern Europe are advised to search for him and turn him over to the church for proper judgment and sentencing. 
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: I am victorious! I have defended Denmark and Holstein from the simultaneous Pomeranian invasion of Holstein and Norwegian-Swedish invasion of Skane! I have made peace with Pomerania, which is now a Brandenburgian vassal and peace with Norway and Sweden has also been obtained with the Treaty of Malmö. The Kalmar Union remains unified with great autonomy to Norway and Sweden! I remain the King of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden and all of the Kalmar Union but now the King of just Norway is Johnathan I and the King of just Sweden is King Kristjen Vasa. With peace being obtained, I return to in triumph but I find Copenhagen burning, the great fire roars and consumes all in the blinding light as pains and wailings of those trapped in its wake and Copenhagen is burned to the ground with the exception of Copenhagen castle. This reminds me of the burning down of the Kalmar Union. Oh yes, the Kalmar Union and Copenhagen, the two things my Great Aunt Queen Magrethe of Denmark worked so hard on is destroyed. Or so I thought it was destroyed, the Kalmar Union was on the brink of collapse but despite my doubts it remains unified and is reborn. Thus Copenhagen shall be reborn as well Thus I begin Copenhagen's reconstruction of its ports, its markets, its shipyards, and the University of Copenhagen and I make them greater buildings than they were before and they are built upon the old foundations. Now the Kingdom of Denmark and Copenhagen shall rebuild and rise from the ashes into a glorious new era. Meanwhile I create a sanitation program in Denmark to combat the numerous outbreaks of the plague and smallpox and other such diseases and sewage systems begin to be built and I call upon the top doctors from all of Europe and I welcome back the scholars into Copenhagen after the Great Fire. My 12,000 soldiers return home and are celebrated as heroes in Copenhagen. We honor England's call to arms and we send 13 ships to the English channel. Upon return to Copenhagen I embrace my love and my wife, Phillipa of England and I find my two year old daughter and meet her for the first time and embrace her as well. Her name is Princess Emma of Denmark. Upon seeing Phillipa of England once again I make love to her so she can birth me another child.
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. Mehmed begins to work on amass an army of 60,000 troops on Karaman and the Sultan Mehmed send a letter to Karaman to surrender or to face war with the Ottomans (MOD Response). The Sultan also demands Cyprus to stop sending troops to Istanbul as they are causing tension in the region. With the spread of smallpox the Empire halts trade with smallpox areas and areas bordering areas. A SMALL ENVOY OF 20 SHIPS GO TO Mogadishu. With the victory against Karman we annex all of Karman.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Epirus: (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 400 and the goal is to keep Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christian, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Norway: After the signing of the Treaty of Malmö the people of Norway begin to celebrate their newfound independence in Oslo and Bergen many people storm the street cheering for their country and king. Jonathan I is officially crowned at the Cathedral of Niadros and takes up residence at the Akershus Castle the official residence of norwegian king. After our exit from Kalmar we begin to experience economic decline. However, thanks to trade agreements stipulated by the Danes we manage to steep it away. Trade with the Hanseatic League and Novogorod starts up again bringing money to our empty treasuries. Control is once again established over the Faroes, Shetland and Orkney. Using these islands greater navigation is established with Iceland. The control and settlement of Faroes Shetland and Orkney begins. The colonization of Kola continues with more small towns and trading outposts being established. Oslo and Bergen continue to flourish of centers of art and lietature. Hereing the pleas of bradenburg to stop the war Norway agrees to stop attacking pomerania on the condition it gives up schleswig to Denmark. We send a marriage request to Sweden to cement our alliance. Scientae Dei Continues growing with more books coming in and pieces of art.
 * Pomeranian Dip: We agree to give up Schleswig to Denmark.
 * In the Duchy of Milan, Duke Gian Maria Visconti continues to react to the ongoing plague in northern Italy. He invests heavily in sanitation efforts, which he has garnered from his scholars who are regularly translating and copying ancient Roman works into vernacular. Work on the Duomo di Milano and Certosa di Pavia continue, as Gian Maria serves as a patron of the arts, employing hundreds of notable artists, architects, poets, and writers. Gian Maria also receives imperial assent to bring Venice and Istria into the Holy Roman Empire, and does so while maintaining the confederal system laid out by his father. Finally, Gian Maria agrees to the Compact of Iskenderun, greatly increasing trade revenues from the republics within the Duchy.
 * Crown of Castile: Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 18 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy.  IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountins (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon, and offers another royal marriage to France between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.
 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): Christian settlements in Northern Morocco continue to grow, with several new settlements established by Christians alone. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.
 * Teutonic Order: With our entry into the Holy Roman Empire secure, the Order grants the Grand Master a dual title of Römerkomtur (Representitive to the Holy Roman Empire) effectively making the Grand Master the voice of the Order within the Empire. Most all Order institutions remain intact. Special priviledges of safety and protection are offered to Imperial citizens within the vicinity of an Order commandry in Imperial territory. Grand Master Ulrich begins to set aside Order funds to purchase a great deal of mercenaries for reasons unstated. Construction of the University on the outskirts of the Cathedral is halted as the funds orginially for it are diverted for reasons stated. Debate has begun within lower Order commanders and Knight-Brothers about the implications of the Order in the Holy Roman Empire. Some see no cause for alarm, others are worried about the potential of the Grand Master proclaiming himself Prince/King and taking the Order away from the interests of God and the Pope.
 * Brandenburgan Dip: Berlin offers the teutons an allaince to build on the already established trade agreement.
 * Though some of his advisors quake in terror at the massive Hindu revolts, Firuz Shah, Sultan of the Bahmanids, is made of sterner stuff. After executing his cowardly grand vizier who dared to suggest surrender, Firuz appoints a Hindu to the position (though under close surveillance by the Imperial Guard, of course). He also takes a daughter of the last Vijayanagar Emperor as his third wife. He uses the empire's trade revenue to bribe the Hindu princes north of the Deccan into neutrality. An army of 170,000 men is raised, in addition to the Sultan's fleet and war elephant corps. 20,000 men and 200 elephants, along with the Bahmanid fleet, are sent to distract the rebels in Kozhikode and Venad, and 10,000 men and 70 elephants to keep Andhra busy, while the 40 dhows Umar sent (as well as the troops we sent to Zanzibar) are dispatched to Kolon-thota, the only Sri Lankan city still under Bahmanid control. The main Bahmanid army marches under Firuz toward the city of Vijayanagayara, hoping to defeat the rebellion at its source. The elite Imperial Guard is equipped with a small number of guns copied from Mogadishan models. Despite, his decisive response, Firuz offers clemency to those who surrender without a fight and orders his soldiers to minimize destruction and looting.  Could the mods elaborate on whether the rebellion is driven by nobles attempting to restore their former power within Vijayanagar, or by peasants driven by religion?


 * Its nobles supported by peasants -Nate

1415
<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' His Holiness Pope Innocent VII dies. As per the agreement established prior, a new Pope representing both Churches is to be elected from a College of both sides. Please go to the College page to see if you have a cardinal and to begin voting. Furthermore, more Cardinal suggestions are needed for future use. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' The Smallpox epidemic begins to die down almost as fast as it had appeared, at least back down to average levels. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The Orhodox Patriarch at Novgorod breaks from Constantinople as the Orthodox Church of Moscow 

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> King Henry V uncovers a plot against him led by Edmund Mortimer, Thomas Grey, and Richard le Scrope 

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The Grand Canal is completed in China 

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The Astrakhan Khanate breaks most communication from the Gurkani Sultanate due to vast cultural disparity, and considers itself the new Golden Horde 

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The Sultanate of Malacca is established in Northern Sumatra, allowing Islam to begin spreading across the strait 

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The traditional Hindu priests see the new state religion as a threat against their former gods, and organize the former supporters of the Western Court into a coup against the Emperor 


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:   Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 58 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  With the conquest of the Kingdom of Georgia, the Georgian Royal Family is killed off with their only surviving daughter married off to the Amir of Azerbiajan, Ilham Aliyev. The Sultan remains merciful to the people of Georgia and only slaughters all of the administrative officials as well as military commanders present in the Kingdom, replacing them with Gurkani officials. Meanwhile, Ulugh Beg has a son with his second wife, naming the son Zeeshan Beg Mirza
 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient. Alaud Daula has a daughter with his new wife. 
 * With France in chaos due to simultaneous royal crisis and war with England, the Crown of Aragon decides that it is time to strike, and 30,000 troops pour across the Navarran border. We intend to reunify traditionally Aragonese lands with the motherland. Following the beginning of the invasion, we issue a formal declaration of war on Navarre, a land which belongs rightfully to the glorious Crown Union. We begin planning for Ferdinand I's coronation as King of Navarre. Meanwhile, smallpox has been brought under control, and we have completed construction of the first caravel, which is named the Corona. The King immediately orders the construction of another twenty such vessels. We have also finished building our first cannons, which we immediately deploy to the battlefront in Navarre as we lay siege upon the capital of Pamplona. Our new cannons, while somewhat inaccurate, greatly strengthen our assault.
 * England Diplomacy: King Henry V requests an alliance with the Kingdom of Aragon, in a joint invasion force of: England, Aragon, Denmark, Brittany, and Burgundy.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: We wholeheartedly agree, for we believe that France's time is up. We ask for England's support in invading Navarre and by extension southern France.
 * Pomerania:  Archduke Otto II dies while in a hunting trip, his heir is announced dead immediately as soon as the news of his death get out. Duke Casimir V, Archduke Otto II brother proclaims himself Archduke of Pomerania, only to get assassinated. Rumors of Duke Casimir V plotting to kill his brother, the former Archduke spread throughout the nation, while some rumors claim that it was in fact the Brandenburgish regency that helped Duke Casimir V to kill his brother and they disposed of him once he had served his purpose. As the only surviving heir, Ariane of Pomerania is crowned Archduchess of Pomerania, supported by Brandenburg due to her betrothal with Johann von Bradenburg. A regency "appointed" by Brandenburg now rules the nation, members of the Brandenburgish regency are also placed in the Pomeranian regency too.  We finish the reconstruction and restoration of Holstein and Schleswig, its cities of Schleswig, Flensburg, Kiel, as well as its countryside to their former pre-war glory.
 * You cannot collapse your nation and hand it over to another player. Plausiblity strike. -Rexmod.
 * Bradenburg-Luxembourg:  With an end to the crisis with Bohemia Frederick is hailed as a hero by the young Johann and starts to adore his regent as something of a father, after months of debate and with the  final end to the potential succession crisis with Bohemia the regency and the young Elector Johann adopt the family name of Brandenburg as the ruling house of Brandenburg, Silesia, and Luxembourg to distance the family name from the ruling house of Bohemia and Morovia as there is no longer as Johann's family is no longer a cadet branch of Bohemia. With this  Johann is rebaptised as Johann von Brandenburg of the house of Brandenburg.  The young Johann, now nine years old continues his education to eventually become the Prince Elector and Imperial Protector, his education now includes strict military training as Brandenburg takes on a more military role in the defence of imperial authority. Linking of the economies of Silesia and Brandenburg begins as the rights and lands of the landed nobility are respected. A road to connect Breslau to Berlin is started. investment into the expansion of Silesia's mining and metal crafting sector begins as grants and funds are given to mining towns and black smithies. The Breslau intellectual circles are also exposed to the now blossoming artistic and intelectual centres of Luembourg and Brandenburg.  Jan Hus who is still under strict house arrest is handed over to the papal authorities as the regency does not wish to antagonize the catholic world specially since they have secured a prestigious position within the Holy Roman Empire.  All his works are spirited away prior to this though by one of the young priests who attended to the aging Jan Hus. This priest goes by the name of Gasper who hides the fact that he collected the papers and continues to write based on the ideas of his mentor while putting on a face of devotedness the church. Military expansion and modernization begins as more cannons are adopted along with pike and crossbow formations, small amounts of early firearms are introduced to the Brandenburgian arsenal and that of Luxembourg. The population of Berlin starts to grow but Luxembourg and Breslau are the largest at the present in terms of population within the domains of the elector. Efforts to increase trade in the Rhineland and in germany begin with stabilty growing in the domains.  With Johann's arranged marraige to Arriane of Pomerania the future of Brandenburgian fortunes looks good Berlin requests that the young one be sent to grow up in Berlin to fully introduce her to her future husband and to strengthen the ties of the two states.
 * ​Bradenburgian Diplomacy: Berlin offers to protect Pomerania from the Scandinavians and to promote pomeranian reconstruction if it agrees to become a vassal of Bradenburg, it is implied that great levels of autonomy will be retained given the royal marraige that is to occur and given the friendly relations between the states and Brandenburg's position within the HRE. (mod Response Please) 
 * Pomerania accepts protection (protectorate) but not vassalization -Nate
 * Cologne Diplomacy: Archbishop Dietrich II thanks Brandenburg for releasing the infidel Jan Hus to Papal authorities and offers it a trade deal in gratitude.
 * Bradenburg Dip: Berlin Agrees and proposes making a trade route between Cologne and Luxembourg. 
 * Abbasid Caliphate: Caliph Al-M'utadid continued his reforms of religion and economy. The Caliph continues to ask the Gurkani Sultanate to integrate his administrative reforms, and continues to ask Mogadishu, Tunis, and Yemen to be annexed into the House of Islam under the Caliph (MOD RESPONSE). In economic reforms, the Caliph instituded a standard currency as the gold Dinar, minted with the seal of Muhammad, as well as the silver Fils. Both of these were backed by the mines in Upper Egypt. International trade began to grow, as the trade agreement with Persia allowed the Caliphate to trade with the far east beyond the Zagros Mountains. The caravan trade was opened up to connect Egypt with the African Sultanates of Mali, Benin, and Songhai. As a decent navy was now completed in the Red Sea, naval trade began through Mogdanishu through the Indian Ocean including India and Zanzibar. On day, as the Caliph was touring Syria, he happened to overhear some men speaking Turkish. Spinning around with great anger, the Caliph demanded to know who was speaking this language. When he found out these men were slaves imported by an Arab merchant, Al-M'utadid relented his anger, and declared that from now on all White Slaves will be forbidden in the land of Egypt, either to be bought or sold. Still, for the sake of Persia Al-M'utadid permitted the capture of black slaves from the Red Lands still. However, as soon as Al-Najm was 12 years old he began organizing a group of teenagers and free slaves in the desert to start raiding and looting carvans away from the cities. Learnning from the mistakes of his younger years, and internalizing the wisdom of his former masters, Al-Najm began formulating his own strategies for combat and wisdom about the world he lvied in.
 * Caliphate Diplomacy: We send the finest theological scholars from the Holy Mosque of Mecca in an attempt to convert the Oba of Benin to the House of Islam, bearing copies of the Qu'ran, the works of Al-Kindi and Aristotle. They are led by the statesman Khalid As-Sagheer
 * Iroquois Confederacy: Defeating the Delaware, Chief Akaitcho returns to Nowadaga. He sends his son to educate the Delaware and ensure that the Iroquois ideals are being met. There are no slaves or prisoners of war amongst the defeated, just new Iroquois. With access to the ocean and the expanding fish farming now, the Iroquois diet begins to shit primarily to fish with most hunting being done for trading purposes. Having the majority of tribes united under the Iroquois banner, Chief Akaitcho begins rapidly expanding his villages, growing into towns. Nowadaga is joined by other large trade ports that dot the Great Lakes. Large canoes with outriggers, loaded with goods from across the Iroquois nation, are seen across all of the lakes. The wall around Nowadaga is reinforced with great oak trees and clay. A brave can run in any direction from Nowadaga and, in less than an hour, find himself at a small settlement. Chief Akaitcho extends his offer one last time to the Shenandoah tribe, which they ultimately decide to do. To celebrate the victory over the Delaware and the uniting of all Iroquois people, Chief Akaitcho asks that the largest totem pole ever be made. It extends far above the walls of Nowadaga and can be seen from the other side of Lake Champlain. The Iroquois population and urban centers expand.
 * Please post an algo of your conquest of Delaware (I know you're a tribe, but this is still important) -Nate mod
 * Ethiopia: The death of Walda Ambasa sends the nation into mourning once more, the King Gabra Masqal II continues the centralization and construction of cities. He commissions another 100 royal guards, with his face mask being produced. The capital is becoming the bustling center of commerce with the minting of coins going 100%. More fringe tribes are absorbed.
 * Cyprus scoffs at Ottoman demands and sends 500 more soldiers to Constantinople. If Byzantium falls, then Cyprus falls as well. And if Cyprus falls, then Europe will rain hell down upon the infidels for harming a Catholic nation. We offer Aragon a royal marriage and an Alliance.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: We welcome a friendship between Aragon and Cyprus. We agree to arrange a marriage between Prince John of Aragon and Princess Anne of Cyprus.
 * Empire of Japan: Shogun Yoshimochi convenes the first Flower court in nearly a decade alongside the Teikoku Gikai go address the problem of natives of the lands that trade forts are being established in. Multiple Daimyo slight the Shogun saying that if he wishes to embark on these foolish expeditions he may, but he will be the grand total loser. However, when the vote is convened a 70% majority is attained and the Assembly passes a law on the defense of the colonies on the condition that the share of the Shoguns profit on any new colonies and the current ones are cut back quite a bit. Yoshomochi sees this as necessary and it saves him money in the long run as he doesn't have to pay for the full defense of the colonies out of pocket. Another proposition by the Shiba clan is presented. With the gold and silver being pulled out of the mines in and around Shizuoka and the other areas, the Shiba clan proposes that a certain amount be devoted into developing all the clans and their lands across Japan in exchange allowing the Shogun to levy a tax, which will be the incentive for the Shogun to do this. This creates a cycle of profit as the higher the development of the provinces the higher the amount of money the Shogun can gain from the taxes. This passes narrowly with a 66% vote of the Gikai but is not to be implemented until the next year. Japanese resettlement of Shinotashima and Saitama continued with the Former boasting nearly 600 people again and the latter boasting 500. Keilung is recolonized further as well gaining more now with 50 people again. The two colonies in the now named Manchukuo province outside of its new population is given two small guard forces of 300 per colony with a rotation of six months with clans currently under the new law switching out every six months with a guard force. Japanese trade fleets continue to run across multiple seas to trade. Japanese trade fleets now dart across to Korea, China, and Tondo making major pit stops regularly at Keilung, Shinotashima, and Saitama. The ships arrive quite regularly and with the new forts in place on all three colonies they are expected to be able to hold for at least three months a piece on their supplies while they wait for reinforcements. The average lag time for a voyage is two weeks. The Daimyo of Japan having to handle the Flower Courts and the Teikoku Gikai are rumored to be relatively poor being unable to raise their military forces for anything but a call by the Shogun to war. This is somewhat resented but the high life and intrigue of the capital keeps many happy as they all look to curry favor and showcase something special about their lands to the shogun to try to gain the investment of capital from the Shogun himself. With all the Daimyo in Kyoto for the Gikai and Flower Courts, the Emperor is revealed to have died, peacefully in his sleep. The Shogun personally pays for the ceremony to coronate and crown Emperor Shōkō.
 * Benin: After a series of reforms in the political and military systems of the empire, Benin enters into a period of solidified national stability. The political stability of the empire is secured and the military restored to its former strength and expanded to 200,000 potential warriors with the Oba's new military organization, as well as added forces to the navy. On Prince Uwaifiokun's recommendation, twenty additional epeepe are built in Eko, Bioko, and Mahin, as well as four more oke, to fill out the naval forces of the empire. Though reaching the upper limits of the empire's naval capacity will be difficult, the Oba believes that it will be well worth the cost. Merchants have prospered in their trading missions to Europe and North Africa, selling spices, exotic fruits, gold, ivory, slaves, and palm oil to the Europeans and Arabs in Morocco and Castile. The benefit of the trade has been the emergence of a growing middle-class in the empire, subjects who have the freedom to spend their extra wages on leisurely pursuits and entertainment. Relaxing in the baths of the cities and towns throughout the empire has become a regular passtime since their introduction under Oba Orobiru, and the development of the arts and sciences under the direction of Ewuare since his time as a prince has finally born fruit. Imperial subjects expressing a desire to learn about the world and its mysteries has taken the empire by storm, with many sons belonging to the tribal heads required to stay at the royal palace taking up an education in medicine, law, theology, and mathematics. Study of chemistry and botany has also become a regular pursuit of the young men under the Oba's watch and care, and interest in the religions of Islam and Christianity have resulted in the debate the Oba has called upon for the year. The Oba has already decreed to the subjects of Benin that his role as their spiritual leader shall undergo a major transformation, with the introduction of new teachings and doctrines befitting a nation of Benin's status. Catholic priests brought to Benin from Europe, as well as Islamic clerics from Egypt (with Nate's permission), have been assembled in the royal palace to make their case to the Oba on the merits of adopting their religion. Beginning early in the morning in spring, the two groups have begun to present their beliefs to the Oba of Benin. Behind closed doors and in the presence of the Oba, uzama, and sons of the tribal heads, the religious debate begins in full. Lasting for hours and through several rounds, the two sides attempt to rationalize their arguments to the Oba. To the Oba, many of the Christian and Muslim beliefs come off as similar, and based on his own studies of the two religions during his youth, he found himself rather confused by many of the teachings from either. While enticed by the ideals of the Christians, the ruthlessness of Islam appeals to the young ruler. However, he finds the rewards of Christianity beyond death pleasing, while those of Islam rather vague. In the end, the Oba finds himself at an impasse. He dismisses himself to ponder on the two religions in private, leaving the audience to discuss the debate among themselves. Returning hours later after deep meditation on the subject, Oba Ewuare announces that from this day onward, Benin shall be independent of both religions. He dismisses the Christian and Islamic theologians, and appears before his people to present them with his ruling on the future of religion in his empire. After much thought and contemplation, the Oba announces that for too long have his people been ignorant to the nature of the world and the universe around them. Having delved deep into the sciences and the fundamental understanding of the world and its nature, Ewuare has found himself given a weighty responsibility as the religious leader of his people. Decreeing that his people shall strive to attain a complete understanding of the universe, the Oba declares that his people shall follow his ideology known as Kuzirism. The Oba believes that God is to be found in nature, with the sciences serving as a path toward gaining a fuller understanding the mankind's creator. Regarding their ruler as their spiritual leader on the earth, the people bow to his will and begin the process of conversion. Within the government, the Oba demands that his court also convert to the religion of his making, as is his will as their lord, to which they obey and accept the ruling of the Oba. A series of reforms within the nation are planned to begin immediately the next year, for the Oba wishes to guide his people into a bright future, where God hides within the very fabric of nature and the universe, waiting to be unraveled. Elsewhere, as it traditional, Oba Ewuare decrees that the season for war has begun, and assembles the warriors of the land for a grand campaign against the empire's traditional enemies. Feeling particularly adventurous and seeking to adhere to his father's goals, the Oba declares war on the three small tribal nations of Nupe, Igala, and Borgu. The uzama immediately prepares the logistical needs for the army, and the warriors are mobilized for war. The fleet is also assembled to begin transferring the warriors up the Niger River to conduct their campaign swiftly. The war drums are sounded and wives celebrate what may be their final night with their husbands before they are sent off to war.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Work continues on both Rhodes and Crete on building and improving upon the navy, as well as the islands' forts and defences. The guardians of Europe cannot afford to be slack. In an effort to raise more funds for this miltary buildup, in addition to the solid income stream from the commandries in Europe, the Chapter General votes to encourage trade, especially in Candia, so as to increase tax revenues. Archbishop Angelo d'Accosstella of Rhodes sails to Rome in a galley of the Order to take part in the Papal Conclave. His aims-and those of the Order-while in Rome are threefold: firstly, he wishes for the creation of a position of "Primate of the Greek Islands" so that the Catholic Church in Rhodes and Crete can come under one ecclesiastical umbrella. Secondly, he wants to impress upon he new Pope the necessity of bringing the Eastern Churches back into full communion with Rome. And thirdly, he wants to make sure Christendom remains vigilant to the Ottoman threat and is ever ready and willing to combat it should the situation arise.
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. The Bahmanid Trade Posts are finished in Zanzibar. We send 40 dhows to the Bahmanids to help them quell the rebellion.
 * Mogadishu Diplomacy: We welcome the Ottoman Envoy and ask of their mission
 * Mogadishu Diplomacy to the Abbasids: We decline the Abbasid Request and refuse to be annexed.
 * Ottoman dip: The Turks tell the traders of of the coastline they came to trade with the Coastal cites
 * Ethiopian Dip: We accept your Envoy and also hope for good relations.
 * Bahmanid Dip: Firuz Shah sends a firm message to the Abbasids: the Bahmanid Sultanate will protect its ally if Mogadishan sovereignty is threatened.
 * Korea, under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under Yi Bang-won with input from his advisors, ministries, and the Joseon state-council. Korean metallurgy and its related industries are further developed with the erection of more blast furnaces (mainly in the Han and Nakdeong river areas), with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools, and weaponry. Expansion of mining activities within the Hamgyeong province continues, providing a source of revenue and funds for government projects and a source of raw material (such as iron ore and coal) to fuel the blast furnaces. Yi Bang-won, noticing how different the Chinese and Korean languages, begins to doubt on the ability of Hanja, borrowed Chinese characters assigned Korean sounds, to convey Korean correctly. He begins to ask neo–Confucian scholars to research on the creation of a branch new script, a simple one optimised for Korean. The new script will be a featural alphabet, and will be written in syllabic blocks so that these blocks may be used alongside logograms. Many nobility refuse to adopt this alphabet, now called Hangul, viewing it as too simple. However, it has proved to be popular among the peasants and lower classes who have little time for education. With the creation of the easy script, Korean literature enters a golden age, also further facilitated by the construction of movable prints. The importance of education continues to be heavily emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program, and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean. Korea continues vigorous expansion northward into the Great Manchu plain, a region known to contain large tracts of arable land, and northeast into the fertile Amur basin. The Japonica rice cultivar, adopted from Japanese merchants, is grown in the more wetter regions of Manchuria, however, it is used simply as a secondary grain. Expansion of soy and wheat farms continue, as they are now the staple grains of Manchuria. Local cold-resistant varieties of Siberian pea shrubs, sea berries, and Siberian crabapples are further cultivated in farms and incorporated into the local provincial cuisine. Honey, collected from the Amur basin, is becoming extensively used as a sweetener in Korean deserts. The army is further developed, though at the expense of the navy. The navy becomes increasingly focused on the protection of maritime borders and protecting merchant vessels instead of projecting power. More hwacha, cannons, hand-cannons, multiple-rocket-launchers alongside Chinese weaponry such as firecrackers and fireworks are manufactured and armed to Korean troops. Construction on the Incheon and Kaeseong arsenals continue, while the arsenal in Hanseong is further upgraded to hold a higher capacity. Two thousand more settlers from the Pyongan and Hamgyeong provinces are sent to Ryojeo province to settle within its castle-towns and as part of a campaign to displace local inhabitants. Resistance among displaced groups are crushed, and those who participate in these rebellions become of the cheomin caste, being social outcasts for the rest of their life.
 * Korea gives an offer to Japan to provide rice, foodstuffs, and construction material, (and perhaps Korean settlers?) to Shintoashima to facilitate the reconstruction process, in exchange for lower tariffs for Korean merchants. Korea also sends Prince Yi Do, the third child of King Yi Bang-won, to Japan to attend the coronation of Emperor Shōkō.
 * Hungary and Vassals: We slow down on the fortifications to build more infrastructure and military supplies. Our population grows around 1000. We also build churches and spread more culture into our nation. We send a few Catholic missions to the Holy lands with the goal of converting people.
 * Majapahit Empire: As the priests execute their plan, and Guntur is stoned to death in Northern Sumatra by Muslims (who later on move on to form the Malacca Sultanate) while preaching his beliefs, Wirabhumi decides to fight the self-proclaimed lost son of Wikramawardhana and his band of traitors, unaware of the true perpetrators until the last minute, just before killing Kursuma Susila, when the soldier begs for Wirabhumi's mercy and reveals the true perpetrators of the coup, who are currently after the High Speaker. However, Wirabhumi kills the soldier anyway, upon his revelation, and proceeds to save the High Speaker and the Royal family. However, although he is able to save the High Speaker, the last remaining priest who plotted the coup is able to "send him to Swarga" (in simpler terms words, he dies), only to be slain by Wirabhumi's top general in vengeance. With the leadership of the plotters slain and the coup foiled, the remaining traitors are arrested and executed. However, it cost Wirabhumi his life, and the High Speaker, upon receiving news of the death of Gunter at the hands of the Muslims of Northern Sumatra, he remembers something he told him in private before he departed for Sumatra: "Brahma has returned. As his reincarnation, I will be shedding this human form, and you wil become a temporary vessel. And when the next King rules, you will know who I am." Months following the coup and the High Speaker in control until Wirabhumi's son, the 14-year old Bhre Kuwat (birth name Kuwat Wira), is of appropriate age to rule, the Malacca Sultanate is born, and the High Speaker, on behalf of Kuwat, declares war against the new Sultanate, calling its existence as a "heresy", and deploys an army of 40,000 and at least 67 ships (55 to engage the Malaccan Fleet and 12 to deploy troops) to take the Sultanate. The High Speaker also calls upon the Khmer Empire to fight the Sultanate, in spite of religious differences, and as a favour for Wirabhumi, proclaiming that "he would have wanted this more than anything."
 * Tondo  continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island and 100 to Cebu across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. With Tondo under full control, and Ma-I under nominal control of the Tondo Dynasty, the Kingdom continues to consolidate its power. A second principal port in the south (Cavite) is ordered to be constructed by Rajah Gambang. He invites the remaining nobility and bureaucracy of Ma-I to pledge allegiance to him and his daughter, Dayang Kalangitan, on the promise that Ma Niman will be the ruler of both kingdoms should he come of age  <u style="color:rgb(255,0,0);font-size:16px;line-height:26px;">(Mod Response)


 * The Ma-I accept this agreement. -Nate
 * Serene Republic of Ragusa: The Republic contacts the Papal State in order to request aid in conquering the Orthodox Zetans who have been endangering the faithful Ragusan Catholics for too long. (MP response)
 * Sweden: After the failure at Skane, we agree to a treaty with Denmark. We continue expanding our military and look warily at the Russian state misusing their power. We start giving Gotland more autonomy and ask for a restoration of full Hansa rights to Visby.
 * Eric of Pomerania, Defender and King of Denmark: My victory over the Norwegian-Swedish rebels continues to be celebrated and the Swedish delegation officially signs the Treaty of Malmö, reforming the Kalmar Union into an electorate similar to the HRE. I remain the Emperor of the Kalmar Union but upon my death my heir and my daughter, Princess Emma of Denmark shall become Queen of Denmark and shall select the Swedish or Norwegian King to succeed me. I learn that my beautiful wife, Phillipa of England is infertile, and it is a Divine miracle that my daughter Emma was born, thus I cherish her and protect her from harm for she shall be my only child. Yes, the Lord has blessed me all my life. He granted me favor for Catherine and I, we were orphaned but the Lord touched Queen Magrethe's heart, my great aunt and she adopted us, nurtured us, and took care of us, and she bestowed me as heir of Denmark and later of all of the Kalmar Union. The Lord granted me victory in Scotland against the Scottish rebels while I was fighting for my new family and my sister, Catherine of Pomerania, and England and Scotland made peace, with Aberdeen being an exclusive trading ground for the Kalmar Union. The Lord's blessing was further upon me as I lead the Kalmar Army with the Teutonic Knights to Defend the Christian faith against the Pagans and I was also blessed with the company of the Teutonic Knights. The Lord continued to bless me in his infinite mercy by protecting my life during the Pomeranian invasions which I led personally. I lived while so many soldiers died. When peace was made with Pomerania I returned home not only to defeat but also to the death of my dear Queen Magrethe and to rebellion, as the Norwegian and Swedish nobles invaded Skane with a force of 18,000 strong and simultaneously Pomerania broke their treaty and invaded Holstein, thus I had to split the Danish Army into groups of 6000 and I personally led the defense of 6000 soldiers against an army of 18,000 Norwegians and Swedes, an army three times our size. I thought for sure that I was going to be defeated but only by the infinite blessing, the mercy and the grace of God, I miraculously successfully defended Skane against the Rebel invasion and at the same time the Holstein-Danish forces defended against the Pomeranian invasion, and now the Lord has not only granted me with the reunification of the Kalmar Union with me still reigning as both the Emperor of the Kalmar Union and King of Denmark, but he has also blessed me with a beautiful wife, Phillipa of England and the miraculous birth of my precious daughter, Emma of Denmark. Not a day goes by where I thank the Lord for my numerous blessings. I repent of all my sins, primarily of leading so many men to their deaths and causing so untold and unending misery to their loved ones. I learn of the death of Pope Innocent of VII and I mourn his loss, and I nominate the Archbishop Peder (Mickelsen) Kruse of Lund. Everyday I strive to be more virtuous and I go in depth in my study of the Bible, particularly of Jesus. I also read the works of St. Augustus of Hippo and St. Thomas Aquinas. In particular, I become fascinated with the Summa Theologica by Aquinas which teaches that the truth can be determined mñby reality, how things ate and we can get closer to God by nature and natural philosophy thus I begin to study natural philosophy and begin to reinvite. Scholars from all over Europe to s5udy natures as I rebuild the homes of Copenhagrn and the Uncice4sity of Fopenyagen and I educate Emma under the Summa Theologuca, thr Bible and the works of various theologians and philosophers. I continue to rebuild Copenhagen to become even greater then it once was. According to Aquinas virtue is xpressee by power and I rebuild Denmark's power by rebuilding its army extendiv3ly.
 * Bohemia: Wenceslaus V continues his studies. We watch the developments in the north closely. King Wenceslaus IV returns home. Germanization of the Kingdom continues. Wenceslaus V has almost come of age, and begins to look for a wife. Wenceslaus IV falls ill as he arrives back from Brandenburg. <u style="color:rgb(255,0,0);font-size:16px;line-height:26px;">An ultimatum is sent to the nearby Margraviate of Meissen, demanding vassalage, or else threatening the state with war. (Mod Response) 
 * Meissen accepts -Nate
 * Essen Diplomacy: Given that the plague is finally subsiding, Abbess Adelphina sends two canonesses to Bohemia to begin work on Adelphinian reforms with their ally’s people. They inform the head of the Church in Bohemia that a Court of Discipline must first be created, in order to bring discipline to misbehaving priests, and that there must be more emphasis on assisting the poor. They begin to give public lectures on this reform.
 * Bohemian Dip: We accept the establishment of a Court of Discipline.
 * Brandenburgian Dip: with the Bohemian crown once more showing duplicity and aggression toward the neighboring states Berlin demands that the Emperor either end their treachery and efforts to expand imperial domains at the expense of the innocent princes or face resistance from Bradenburg and it's allies. Mobilization begins. Brandenburg alo offers military support to Saxony and Messien should they decide to rebel against the crown do to being forced into vassalage by an aggressive and treacherous emperor. All other HRE states that feel threatened by imperial authority are invited to join the revolt should the emperor refuse terms. 
 * Scotland: King Robert IV sleeps comfortably in his castle until he is shaken by a large blast. He then looks out the window. Below him is a large cannon commissioned several years back and a group of knights and men-at-arms rushing inside a hole in the castle walls. The bloodthirsty King attempts to rally support within the castle and hold them off, but it is to no avail. James I, having gathered enough support, has returned from Ireland and killed his uncle, leaving him as King of Scotland. However, he is currently little more than a puppet of the powerful Douglas family and is unable to do much. He does, however, covertly finance privateers against the English, with some using adapted hulks to raid remote stretches of shoreline and gather treasure before they can be countered. The Gaelic language and culture continues to become divorced from the main Scots-speaking regular old feudal Scotland. In the economic realm, growing cottage industries begin to develop, such as iron working and wool trading in the burgeoning burghs, and animal husbandry/fishing continues to displace grain farming. Traders in the coastal burghs begin to reach farther and farther, and with the now-exclusive trade links to the Scandinavians in Aberdeen, traders from there are forced to use modern and advanced shipbuilding techniques to cross the wet North Sea. Military-wise, the pendulum continues to swing in favor of more quality troops rather than the mass levies popular before the Plague, with men-at-arms emerging to support the pikemen. James recognizes the importance of artillery and continues Robert's construction program. As trade works its way around the North Sea, we become exposed to advanced new Dutch shipbuilding techniques. We petition the Pope to make the Diocese of St. Andrews, the primary diocese in Scotland, into an Archdiocese, in order to facilitate closer relations with the rest of the Catholic world.
 * Norway: With the signing of the Treaty of Malmö our troops return home. While not achieving independence the result isn't undeserable either. King Jonathan I is officialy crowned. Inside the country expansion of the navy continues, after the disaster at Scania we begin to expand and upgrade our army, Some interests in blockade ships are developed. The development of scientae dei continues with many books and works of art moving into it. It starts to adopt aquitane ideas in its universities and monastries. The trade brought causes Bergen and Oslo to flourish as centers of art and science. Population in Oslo and Bergen continue to grow. Norway begins to gain interest in farming ideas to increase crop yield. We request a marriage from Sweden to bring us closer together.
 * Grand Boyardom of Russia:  War is declared upon the Astrakhans. The Russian navy takes the Volga and Dneiper to effectively fragment the nation, a fleet also spilling out into the Black Sea and attacking the holdings there. In the meantime, the Russian military uses this broad corridor of land to invade the vast wilderness of the once-Golden Horde. They slowly close on the isolated urban areas, seiging Khorsan by the end of this year. Ivan I himself fights on the battlefield, hoping to draw a close to the Russian-Mongolian wars once and for all. Russia merely intends on taking areas west of the Volga.
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. An army of 2000 is sent to Çanakkale and Eceabat and begin to work on two anti-sea castle, while traps are thrown into the sea leading in to Istanbul.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and recruiting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 400 and the goal is to kepp Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Papal States: Not much occurs in the Papacy this year because of Pope Innocent VII's death. The Ring of the Fisherman is destroyed and his rooms sealed. The Cardinals travel to Rome to elect a new Pope and much of the Vatican is sealed off by the Papal Orders. The only things that are carried out are the final orders of Innocent VII before his death, namely the support of Ragusa and the construction of the Papal fort in Ancona, which nears completion.
 * Kingdom of France: After hearing from the Vassal-King of Navarre that his fortifications were under attack in Pamplona, the regents send L'Isle-Adam with an army of forty thousand men to help the mere three thousand defenders. La Fayette's army of twenty thousand and Le Maingre's army of equal size continue to stand guard for any English naval landings on the coast. The navy is ordered to continue harassing small trade fleets around French waters. The cities go back to their usual conditions, but many mourn the lost of love ones due to smallpox. The quick disappearance of the disease restores moral in the French troops and people. Positive and healthy attitudes are maintained with our notable vassals and lords. The crown also tries to improve relations with the Papal States. Nicolas du Bosc invites the English to negotiations at Cherbourg, and also asks the Pope to urge peace between our two nations. The regents still focus on keeping vassal relations high, as to not fracture the system under France. (OOC: Turn may be subject to change)
 * <p class="MsoNormal">Cologne: In the end, smallpox does not hit Cologne as hard as expected – a small percentage of the population dies, and new quarantine measures for trading are established. Archbishop Dietrich II sets up a small force of guards at the main trading points, with the minimal medical knowledge, who check all imported goods to ensure they are free of the smallpox plague. This is, of course, not completely accurate, but nonetheless an attempt is made. Meanwhile, trade slowly begins to recover and Dietrich II sets up a further station for the making of weapons and armour, this time in Cologne rather than Westphalen. Finally, Dietrich II hears through the Pope about Brandenburg’s handing-over of Jan Hus to the authorities, and sends the Brandenburg government a letter thanking it for its honesty and offering it a trade deal in gratitude. Also realising that Sweden must therefore have lied about Jan Hus being imprisoned, he sends Sweden a polite letter enquiring as to why this happened.
 * <p class="MsoNormal">Essen: As the plague subsides, the abbess of Essen publicly mourns the loss of her people, hanging the finished tapestry in the entryway of the abbey to emphasise the city’s loss. At the mourning ceremony, Adelphina is approached by one of the younger canonesses who had been speaking to many of the hospitalised people in the infirmary. Although nervous, this canoness manages to point out that the people of Essen, on the whole, were increasingly willing to look to God for a miraculous rescue from the plague, which eventually came. However, despite the learned canonesses’ constant presence at the infirmary, they ached to learn more themselves. But even if they can read, and even if they find a copy of the Bible, they are unable to read it. So this canoness proposes that Adelphina commission a learned theologian from the University of Cologne and a few canonesses to rewrite the Bible into German, making one copy publicly available. Knowledge is important: if the people do not know why they should believe, they will stop trusting the Church and may become discontented again. Adelphina knows that this canoness is right, so she commissions these people immediately and they begin work. Meanwhile, she makes another address, now on this subject, and her canonesses continue to write down her wisdom.
 * The Austrian Nation continues to prosper under the rule of Albert V & II, Archduke of Austria and Bavaria. Having recently acquired some ports from Gorizia. The Austrian military is improved upon this year, especially with the addition of more hand cannons, and "Giant Bombards" to the Archducal Tormenta. The Economic situation improves slightly with the increase trade andn taxation efficiency brought upon by recent reforms. Ernst oversees preparations for further potential conflcits by training mroe blacksmiths and weaponsmiths, or at least overseeing that training. Austria's Alchemists have no luck recreating black powder as of yet, Secretly, however, he begins to plot to destabilize the regions of Aquileia in order to justify a swift and bloodless acquisition of those coastal territories. The City of Trieste, while held by the Austrians for a few decades now, has never been more than a minor port. The Archduke and His advisors, especially Lord Chancellor Ernst, decide it is time for a change, and declare it the Archducal Residence by the Sea. The first step is to increase the defences of the city, the second, to build shipyards and a port. The First few ships of the Austrian warfleet are ordered built to protect Austrian traders upon the recomendation of the Lord Castellan. Preparations for the great Wedding are currnetly underway as just next year Archduke Albert will marry the Bohemian Princess.
 * <p style="font-weight:normal;line-height:21px;">Lord Magistrate-General of Bavaria, Frederick Habsburg, continues his process of building more mines in the territories of BAvaria in order to fuel the Austro-Bavarian crown's coffers. He receives small parcels containing a hand cannon, and is ordered to train a few soldiers in its use. he does this with Gusto, although he begins to look upon his brother's prestige as Lord Chancellor and his cousin's Archducal prestige with great envy...although now officially a subordinate, he wishes to be more independant...
 * Chimu Empire:  The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). With Chancay becoming a vassal of the Empire, the national pride increases, and more people enlist in the military, surging the numbers enough that soldiers are being diverted into workers units, which advance with the main combat force to build roads and military installations as the army advances as well as working around the country. Contact is made with the Ica-Nazca, and attempts to woo the people of the country to become a vassal state begin in earnest by the Chimu in order to secure their southern border from any potential hazards.


 * ​Chancay State (Chimu Vassal) : With the becoming of a Chimu vassal, the Chancay celebrate, as there borders are now safe from any who would attack their beloved kingdom. The Prince begins modernizing the military to meet the same standards and quality of the Chimu Empire, and road construction, using the wheel, using mortar and bricks, and the deployment of catapults begin in earnest throughout the state.
 * ​ Teutonic Orde:  We accept the offer of Brandenburg for the alliance between our two nations. To cement our entry into the Holy Roman Empire,  Römerkomtur  and Grand Master Ulrich  proposes an alliance with the Imperial nation of Bohemia and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire.  Our numerous but smaller sized fleets continue to protect and promote Baltic trade with all nations in the Baltics. A false alarm at a coastal outpost leads to a small defensive levy being raised for nothing other than a mistaken trade fleet. Grand Master Ulrich begins to set aside Order funds to purchase a great deal of mercenaries for reasons unstated. Construction of the University on the outskirts of the Cathedral is halted as the funds orginially for it are diverted for reasons stated. Debate has begun within lower Order commanders and Knight-Brothers about the implications of the Order in the Holy Roman Empire. Some see no cause for alarm, others are worried about the potential of the Grand Master proclaiming himself Prince/King and taking the Order away from the interests of God and the Pope. Certain commandries have been accused of threatening to 'cleanse' plague-stricken individuals should they not pay for lodging in the commandries. Grand Master Ulrich does not issue a statement in regards to this because he does not notice it as a pressing concern.


 * Bohemian Dip: We accept the alliance.
 * Bahmanids:Though the Hindu rebels were a great threat, with the city of Vijayanagara recaptured, the tide has turned decisively in the Sultan's favor. The Sultan offers clemencey to any common rebel soldier who surrenders and mere house arrest (instead of execution) for any of their leaders who do so. The main Bahmanid army attacks Kozhikode and Venad, while a secondary force chases down the few remaining Vijayanagran leaders. Lastly, Firuz Shah sends a firm message to the Abbasids: the Bahmanid Sultanate will protect its ally if Mogadishan sovereignty is threatened.
 * Crown of Castile: Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 18 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy.  IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountins (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon, and offers another royal marriage to France between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.
 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): Christian settlements in Northern Morocco continue to grow, with several  new settlements established by Christians alone. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.

1416
<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' The Pope still needs to be selected. The next round of voting is up. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Ragusa outlaws slavery. (Sky change if you wish). '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">'''I changed it, it's slaveRy not slaveLy. -Skyboi'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The first Peking Duck resturaunt opens in Beijing 

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' A famine in Ryukyu and Okinawa somewhat limits Japan's attempt to resettle the areas previously lost for the next two years. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">Thank you sky -Feud

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Jan Hus is taken under custody of the Papacy, leaving behind some 10,000 followers scattared around Brandenburg, Luxembourg, Bohemia, and Sweden, mostly concentrated around the theologians of Berlin. An underground movement in Luxembourg begins printing the New Testament in German, led by Jerome of Prague '''


 * Wait a gosh-darn minute, when was the printing press invented? Callumthered (talk) 07:09, August 2, 2016 (UTC)
 * No this is BS. The printing press was invented in 1440. This underground movement ain't happening. —  T   I   M  (TSW • AH • MGW • <font color="#006400">Contribs ) 08:36, August 2, 2016 (UTC)
 * There are still movable prints at this time (and they are actually pretty widespread within China and Korea), but not printing presses.
 * And actually, a further related point, the Church was not opposed to vernacular translations of the Bible per se. It is true that it banned certain vernacular translations at certain periods (in response to the Cathar heresy, for example) but it is also true that there were vernacular translations of at least the New Testament. My point being that Jerome of Prague's translation needn't be "underground" since, as long as the book doesn't advocate the Hussite heresy, there would not necessarily be a need for it to be. Another interesting point: most literate people at this time could read Latin. A vernacular Bible would actually be kinda useless, IMO. I will admit that a slight anti-heretic bias (my Order relies on Europe remaining Catholic) does inform my opposition to this particular mod event ;) Callumthered (talk) 11:14, August 2, 2016 (UTC)
 * I do not see how Bohemia could have any Hussites, as Jan Hus was exiled from the nation within the year he began preaching, and that was many years ago. Since we have been anti-Hussite as well. - Blocky858 (talk)
 * When a heretic is turned over to the church, isn't it the responsibility of the church to decide when he is to be burned? Feeling kinda left out of the process here. -MP
 * A moot point as I incorrectly assumed MP was burning him, but yeah I wasn't referring to movable type. (Block printing, anyone?) Unauthorized venacular Bibles were being printed since the 1380s by early Protestants like John Wycliffe; it was a main point of the movement. Blocky, there aren't as many Hussites in Bohemia as OTL but there still are some as a) it is his native diocese and b) Bohemia borders Brandenburg. -Nate
 * May I point out that last turn, my very Catholic canonesses (as part of their peaceful reforms) did indeed begin to write out a German translation of the Bible? There is absolutely no need for it to be underground, especially in Bohemia, since the canonesses in Essen are lecturing there against these Hussites. - NonsensicalJourney.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The independent Kingdom of Kotte supports Hindu disent against the Bahamanids in India, and reaches out to the Majaphit Empire for organization and aid 

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' The independent Malacca Sultanate encouages Islam in Indonesia, spreading the faith to the islands of Borneo and Java, in fierce competition to the new religion of Gunter. '''


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:   Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 52 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kashgarh and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  Upon  learning that the Russian Boyardom had invaded the Astrakhan Khanate, Shahrukh Mirza sent 100,000 men to aid the Astrakhan Khanate and invade the territories it had lost in Ukraine or wherever. Meanwhile, the person from the Abbasid Caliphate was entertained for a while, and given some supplies before he continued his journey onward to China. 
 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient. Alaud Daulas daughter is bethroned to Ulugh Begs son, Zeeshan Beg Mirza. 
 * Duchy of Burgundy: In Burgundy, Duke John had mobilized the army of the duchy and its territories, and kept them as a reserve force should the French king need them against Aragon. With the Aragonese having withdrawn from Navarre, John was to stand down his army, when he receives word from his ally Brandenburg, calling him to arms against the oppressive and expansionist emperor. With his army and greatly expanded navy eager to prove themselves, he agrees to aid his ally. John sends a letter, committing his  40,000  men to Brandenburgs cause, though the Duke also quietly hires 5000 mercenaries to supplement his force. Burgundy sends a letter to Milan and Palatinate (mod response please), asking them to join against the expansionist Emperor. With the Teutonic order joining the Emperor, Poland-Lithuania is asked to join, offering them Teutonic lands in the event of victory (mod response please). Hungary is also offered a chance to join.
 * Burgundy's army can't be over 15,000 in an offensive war.
 * Palatinate declines to join Burgundy and Brandenburg, although also declines sending forces to aid the Emperor.
 * The Polish-Lithuanian szchlachta begins discussing their involvement in the war as the more religious members argue that it wouldn't be right to attack the servants of the Pope (The P-L involvement will be dictated by a mod event next turn)
 * Bradenburg-Luxembourg: the imperial betrayal of the treaty of Berlin represents the breaking point of the young Johann and the regency's patience. They declare in an act of open rebellion against imperial authority after the corwn stole land and then refused to negotiate in honest terms. To further the greviences Bohemia's aggressive expansion into Saxony and Messien sickens the Elector and he calls on the other princes to revolt against the emperor. Bradenburg also invites their Burgundian and Danish allies to honor the alliance and fight against an aggressive and detestable emperor. The Bradenburgian troops are fully mobilized and 54000 mercs are raised bringing the forces of the elector to 17,000. Pomerania is called on to honor its alliance with Bradenburg and to repay the favor of keeping them intact against Danish aggression. The renovated forces are finally going to be put to the test as the forces align along the border, fortifying the previously occupied Silesia to enforce the treaty of Berlin in an act of defiance againt the emperor. The Regency promises to allow great levels of autonomy to the silesian nobles and merchants should they side with Bradenburg against the centralization policies of Bohemia. They don't invade Bohemian territory but messengers are sent out to the other princes to get them to join in (players and mods please respond). Calls for new elections are made by the elector and the regency to elect a ruler that won't backstab and expand at the expense of his loyal fiefs. The fortress of Luxembourg is fully fortified in case bohemia tries to attack it. The elector sends one envoy pleading with the emperor to see reason otherwise it will be war. Military and industrial expansion continue.
 * Danish Diplomacy: Denmark honors Brandenburgian call to arms and sends 6000 soldiers to help them in their war against Bohemia
 * Holstein diplomacy: Holstein helps Denmark by sending 2000 soldiers to the war.
 * I already informed KK he can't have such large numbers
 * Danish-Holstein Diplomacy: Fearing a joint invasion of Pomerania and the Teutonic Order upon Holstein and Denmark, we send our troops back to Holstein and Denmark.
 * Swedish Diplomacy: King Kristjen Vasa calls for his banners in help of our friend Brandenburg. We offer the King's daughter, Birgitta, to the heir of Brandenburg, We call for Denmark to join this war and not cower behind some meager terms.
 * Bohemia: We call our allies of Austria, Milan, and the Teutons into action. We revoke Brandenburg's electorship rights, and put it down as an offer for anyone willing to defend the Emperor. We mobilize our troops and begin to raise mercenaries from around the Empire. Germanization continues, and Wenceslaus V comes of age. We begin to dig in and fortify our borders. We offer for all members of the Empire to support the Emperor in exchange for a handsome Imperial reward. Anna is wed into the House of Habsburg. We offer further protection and imperial prizes and awards for assistance in the rebellion.
 * ​Unless you actually manage to defeat me I am still technically an an elector if other states revolt and the imperial crown is a much higher prize not to mention your an expansionist and oppresive emperor. With Blood and Iron (talk) 01:40, August 2, 2016 (UTC)
 * The Emperor can revoke and grant electorship privileges at anytime. Also, I don't see how I am expansionist and oppressive, you're the one trying to annex all of northern Germany. Speaking of which, Pomerania is not in the war as your only agreement with them was that you'd protect them. Also, you would need to be voted in as Emperor, while the Emperor can grant electorships at will. Thanks. - Blocky858 (talk)
 * I have no desire for the emperorship and im not trying to annex shit also I had an alliance with Pomerania prior so I am simply requesting they participate it is ultimately up to the mods. With Blood and Iron (talk) 01:46, August 2, 2016 (UTC)
 * I also had an alliance with Pomerania prior, AND I helped them in a war versus the KU. And I wasn't talking about you specifically, but the princes in general. Also, I don't believe that Pomerania would so quickly join a war fighting with an ally that just curbstomped them, and vice versa. - Blocky858 (talk)
 * also you forgot one point. by attempted to revoke my elector position you are making it obvious that you are willing to do anything to kep power and you refuse to listen to the reasonable requests of your subjects. With Blood and Iron (talk) 02:13, August 2, 2016 (UTC)
 * Teutonic Order Diplomacy: The Grand Master of the Teutonic Order, Ulrich von Jungengin issues this letter to the Holy Roman Emperor, Wenceslaus V: In return for your gracious support to allow the Teutonic Order into the Holy Roman Empire and expand our recruitment across the entire Imperial territories, we firmly declare our support for you, the Emperor. I have been advised by several Komtur's to request stalement between both sides and mediaton between neutral parties and warring parties. As I am the sole representative and Romerkomtur, I support war. God bless for victory, Ulrich von Jungengin.
 * Danish Diplomacy: Fearing another invasion with Pomerania and an invasion by the Teutonic Order, we request to make peace with Bohemia as well as being allowed to return our armies home through Pomeranian lands.
 * Pomerania Dip: Pomerania agreed to allow Denmark's army to pass through our lands, shall peace be achieved, although they would have to be escorted by our army back to their homeland, to avoid to the crimes of the past happening again.
 * Danish Dip: We agree to these terms and we wish to avoid war once again and we thank Pomerania for letting us go through your lands.
 * Bohemian Dip: We accept their peace, and give them an offer to join us. We offer exclusive trade in the north, further control of Danish northern imperial territories, and the support of the reconstruction of Denmark.
 * Danish Dip: We are surprised and intrigued at the Bohemian offer and we request that Holstein be an elector state of the HRE and for Denmark to join the HRE and become an elector state as well while remaining the head state of the Kalmar Union.
 * Bohemian Dip: While we cannot promise electorship to both parties, they will both be eligible in selection, and we accept their offer to join the Empire.
 * On 2nd April, tragedy strikes the Crown of Aragon when King Ferdinand I is declared dead. His sudden death triggers a wave of mourning throughout the realm. Young Crown Prince Alfonso, now 20 years of age, ascends the throne in Zarazoga and is crowned Alfonso V of Aragon; his wife Catherine of Castile is crowned Queen Consort. Alfonso moves back into the Royal Palace in Barcelona and the castle in Malta is left vacant, awaiting the investiture of a new heir. His first act as King is to order the withdrawal of all remaining troops from Navarre. He sends a personal letter addressed to the French regency and the King of Navarre, apologising for his father's lack of foresight, and acknowledging the strength of the Kingdom of France. He presents an offer for the immediate cessation of hostilities between France and Aragon and the opening of negotiations. Alfonso V asks in his letter for mercy upon him and his people.
 * Crown of Castile: Continues naval expansion. The regency continues, and will end on King Henry IV's 16th Birthday in 1420. In the meantime, Catherine rules quite efficiently, consolidating the Crown under the control of the kingdom. The navy continues to expand, adding 18 new ships to the Royal Navy. The Queen's Guard expands to include 1000 men. In Granada, 4000 more Christian settlers arrive. 5000 more Muslims are deported, and 2000 more are forced to convert. An additional 1000 die as a result of Castilian policy.  IN Morocco, Christian settlers arrive in Gibraltar, and begin to force the local Muslim populations. Their destination is the newly established Sultanate of Morocco, established to the west of the Atlas Mountins (See map on talk page). Many are also moved to Tunis as well. In other domestic policy, the crown establishes three more naval academies, while Castile continues to invest in the gold trade in an attempt to out muscle Genoan dominance in South Iberia. Infrastructure is developed in Toledo to include the construction of three more cathedrals as well as new roads, houses, etc. In terms of foreign policy, Castile attempts to deepen relations with France and Aragon, and offers another royal marriage to France between Henry IV and the youngest daughter of France. Castile also looks to increase influence in Italy. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.
 * Kingdom of Morocco (Puppet of Castile): Christian settlements in Northern Morocco continue to grow, with several new settlements established by Christians alone. The rebellion in Granada justifies Spanish deportation, and the Muslim populations are sent to Tunis or the Sahara.
 * King Janus of Cyprus sends his regards and sorrow to Aragon, but secretly wonders if Alfonso has any spine. We offer to buy Crete from the Knights Hospitaller for ten million up front and ten million over a period of 20 years. We send members of the Raven's Watch to Tunis in order to create unrest. We plan an invasion of Tunis in order to consolidate power. We inform Aragon and request permission to land in Aragonese Africa.
 * Hospitaller Diplomacy: The Grand Master turns down the Cypriot offer, but proposes a counter-offer. For a third of the price, the Order proposes that Crete become a condominium of the Order and Cyprus. This way we could pool our monies and manpower to defend (and if need be, subjugate) the relatively large island, whilst both receiving the lucrative income from Crete's trade. By Grand Master Philibert's proposal, both the Grand Master and the King of Cyprus would hold the title "Co-Prince of Candia", whilst the local administration could be jointly headed by the Order's Grand Prior and a Cypriot Governor, assisted by the council of notables and landowners established a few years ago. Philibert writes that this is a win-win situation, which would also help strengthen ties between the two bulwarks of Christendom against the infidels.
 * Cypriot Dip: King Janus of Cyprus agrees to your preposition.
 * Doge Marco Visconti of Genoa scoffs at this proposal seeing that they were the ones to gift Crete to the Knights of St. John, and refusing to let it fall into enemy hands. It instead requests that the Knights instead make it a condiminuim with Genoa before this deal can be finalized.
 * Brunswick: offers to join with Bohemia's vassal Saxony as the Saxon Federation and declares neutrality in the Imperial Struggles.On the condition Brunswick retains autonomy will the offer of the Saxon Fed. be valid (You can play as the Saxons) (To the mods:Saxony and Brunswick have similar cultures and Saxony used to own Brunswick)
 * Bohemian Dip: We will accept Brunswick's offer only if they assist us in the rebellion.
 * Brunswick Dip:Accepted.
 * Abbasid Caliphate:  In this year, the Caliph finished his earlier reforms to education. The scholars of Alexandria and Damascus determined a cultural identity for the land of Egypt, described in their three eras of history: Pagan Egypt under the Pharaohs, Christain Egypt under the Copts, and Musilm Egypt under the Caliphate. In order to facilitate this heritage, the Caliph ordered three treasures from these eras to be gathered in his treasury. From pagan Egypt, the Crown of Sosestris was uncovered in his tomb in Dashur. From Christian Egypt, the Ring of Saint Catherine was recovered from her relics in St. Catherine's monestary at Mount Sinai. Finally, from Muslim Egypt the Sword of Saladin was recovered from his mausoleum in Damascus. These collectively have hence been known as the Three Sacred Treasures of Egypt, although never actually worn by the Caliph.  Meanwhile, the statesman and traveler Mahmud ibn Tulun As-Sagheer is sent out by the Caliph to seek the Emperor of China. In this year, he arrives in the Lands of Tamerland and seeks the audience of the Gurkani Sultan to strengthen relations from the Caliph.
 * Majapahit Empire: Following the disastrous Battle of the Strait, 73 ships are sent to reinforce the force clearing the waters near Malacca and wipe out the remaining Malaccan ships before they wipe out the remaining 45 ships. Meanwhile, Northern Sumatra has turned poorly, with our forces grossly underestimating the enemy, to which 30,000 troops and ten ships are sent to that front to capture Northern Sumatra. In internal issues, the High Speaker continues to train his son in the ways of the true faith to prepare him for his future role, and of the rulership of the Empire. At the same time, the High Speaker begins to appoint Rajya who have been taught in the ways of the true faith, places generals not in the front who are faithful to the Trimurti, and appoints a new set of ministers of similar background as the new Rajya. Around this time, the High Speaker decides to form a new body of the government to defend the Gunturist faith, and to defeat the enemies that threaten the faith, known as the Order of the Enlightened, or better known as simply the Order. He orders them upon its formation to defend the faith by any means necessary, and to spread the word of the Trimurti, both across the Empire and elsewhere, if possible. The High Speaker, upon receiving an emissary from Kotte, agrees to secretly assist, hoping to be ready by the next year for assisting a second rebellion in the Bahamanid Empire.
 * Mayapan continues the integration of the southern city-states into the League. Each new state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation. The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Whilst work continues on the naval buildup and improvements of fortifications on both Rhodes and Crete, the Grand Master and Chapter General start to notice a slight stretch in manpower since the acquisition of Crete. The Grand master thus sends a letter to the King of Cyprus containing a mutually advantageous proposal. In other news, the whole Order waits with bated breath for the result of the Papal Conclave.
 * Chimu Empire:  The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands southward along the coast. Roads connect a large chunk of the empire, and continue expansion toward the Lima Valley (general direction toward Lima Valley). A baby boom begins. The Chimu propose an agreement with the Ica-Nazca that would grant the Ica-Nazca valuable new technology, military defense, and infrastrucure in return for them entering into a personal union with the Chimu with their Queen marrying the Emperor, uniting the crowns and forging a strong bond between both nations. (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED)


 * ​ Ica-Nazca accept -Skyboi
 * Chancay State (Chimu Vassal) :  The Chancay work on their military and road systems, begining to integrate them with the Chimu. A baby boom begins.


 * Pomerania: Archduke Otto II declares support for his Emperor and joins Bohemia against Brandenburg to help the HRE Emperor retain his throne. Archduke Otto II asks the HRE Emperor for Brandenburg's electoral rights in return for his support. He mobilizes [max troops] to defend the Archduchy as the army is in no state to invade another nation.


 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. We send 60 dhows to the Bahmanids to help them quell the rebellion.
 * Tondo  continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Massive naval expansion in the regard of trade ships and naval craft commence, as Rajah Gambang, fearful of the Japanese ships that escort the tributary vessels heading to Japan, orders the construction and study of these war junks, as the Chinese call them. The fishing fleet expands to 500 boasts, while small war ships capable of fighting in rivers are increased in number. Five war junks are to be constructed within the year. The first public aklatan (library) opens in Central Maynila to further spread the knowledge gained by the Kingdom. Smaller libraries are planned to be built in Maynila, Kawit, and Tacloban Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. Maynila is further opened for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean traders. We ask the Huangdom of Pangasinan if they would be willing to come under protection of Tondo, while still being a Chinese tributary  <u style="color:rgb(255,0,0);font-size:16px;line-height:26px;"> (Mod Response) 
 * Is Pangasinan the Chinese tributary or are you? You confused me, also please stop writing with such large letters.
 * Pangasinan is the Chinese tributary
 * ​Ma-I: Under the regency council and Queen Kalangitan, a re-organization of Ma-I infrastructure and society commences. Ma-I will still pay its  tribute to the Ming, but Tondo holds nominal control over foreign affairs and other things such as protection. The largest settlement in the area is named Li Han, after the first Huang of Ma-I. A port town in northern Ma-I, Beigang, is developed upon by expanding the port facilities, paving roads, and introducing two blast furnaces in the port
 * Korea, under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under Yi Bang-won with input from his advisors, ministries, and the Joseon state-council. Korean metallurgical related industries are further developed with the erection of more blast furnaces (mainly in cities located within the Han and Nakdeong river basins, namely Busan and Hanseong), with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools, and weaponry. To provide the blast-furnaces a source of raw materials, as well as revenue to fund the government efforts. Expansion of mining activities within the Hamgyeong province continues, providing a source of revenue and funds for government projects and a source of raw material (such as iron ore and coal) to fuel the blast furnaces. The importance of education continues to be heavily emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program, and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean (now using Hangul instead of Hanja). Hangul joins Hanja as the national script, becoming widely adopted by some peasants and those of lower castes due to its simplicity. However, the nobility and neo–Confucian scholars dislike it, as it is viewed as too simple and removes the importance of Hanja, a writing system seen as an indicator of power and elitism. However, they still use Hangul to write Korean morphemes and affixes with no Hanja characters to represent them. With the creation of the easy-to-learn writing system, Korean literature enters a golden age, also further facilitated by the construction of movable prints. Korea continues vigorous expansion into arable lands north, and northeast into the fertile Amur basin. Expansion of soy and wheat farms continue, as they are now the staple grains of Manchuria. Local cold-resistant varieties of Siberian pea shrubs, sea berries, and Siberian crabapples are further cultivated in farms and incorporated into the local provincial cuisine. Honey, collected from the Amur basin, is becoming extensively used as a sweetener in Korean deserts. Two thousand more settlers from the Pyongan and Hamgyeong provinces are sent to Ryojeo province to settle within its castle-towns and as part of a campaign to displace local inhabitants. Resistance among displaced groups are crushed, and those who participate in these rebellions become of the cheomin caste, being social outcasts for the rest of their life. The army is further developed, though at the expense of the navy. The navy becomes increasingly focused on the protection of maritime borders and protecting merchant vessels instead of projecting power. More hwacha, cannons, hand-cannons, multiple-rocket-launchers alongside Chinese weaponry such as firecrackers and fireworks are manufactured and armed to Korean troops. The Incheon and Kaeseong arsenals are completed, with the construction on the Hanseong arsenal is also done. A massive palace complex similar to China's begins construction, estimated to be finished within a decade.
 * Holland: The troop count is now up to 12,000 men in the army. Our navy has about 42 ships built. After hearing about an underground movement in Luxembourg, a similar one starts up here. We ask Brandenburg and Pomerania for an alliance. Trading goes well with nations in our trade alliance. Farming goes well as usually this year. Our nation declares war on Utrecht, to unify the lands that are separated by lands we don't control or own. Count William asks the Emperor of the HRE in a letter if he can be given a promotion and become a Duke.
 * Hainut: Military is building up slowly. Farms are doing good this year with many surpluses happening.
 * Bohemian Dip: We will accept the request to become a Duchy if Holland joins in the war against the rebellion and on the side of the Empire.
 * Kingdom of France: After the Aragonese withdrawal from Navarre, about half of the troops are paid and sent home to lower the costs of the French army. This leaves three armies of twenty thousand men led by L'Isle-Adam, La Fayette, and Le Maingre. All three of these men are called to Paris for a feast and to be recognized with special titles, and then sent to defend strategic locations on the coast, and ready to assist each other if England put together an invasion. Diplomatically, with the Kingdom of Aragon, the regency asks for status quo antebellum with the nation, a truce of seven-years, and a small reparation to repair the Navarrese walls damaged by the Aragonese cannons. They wish to restore peace with the Kingdom, and even propose marrying a relative off to the Aragonese throne to deter war between the two nations. Although France does not contribute any military support, the regents write a letter to their vassal, the Duke of Burgundy, stating that they support his efforts in taking a stand against the expansionist and aggressive Emperor. Meanwhile, inside the French kingdom, with the death of John of Berry, with no sons, the Duchy of Berry and his other holdings are inherited by the King (this happened OTL). A funeral is held for this notable vassal, with most of the dukes and counts attending. With the withdrawal of Aragon, and the decisive occupation of the English mainland, the regents invite the English King to sign the Treaty of Cherbourg. Louis, the Dauphin of France gets married to his Castillian wife.
 * Aragonese Diplomacy: The new King Alfonso V agrees to France's proposals, and welcomes the rebuilding of bridges between Aragon and France. We dispatch a corps of engineers and builders to repair the Pamplonan walls. We propose a marriage between Prince Henry of Aragon and Princess Catherine of Valois.
 * Grand Republic of Ragusa: With the defeat of the wrong-believing Zetan nobility the Ragusan Republic lays its claim over the lands and brings back the name Duklja (Dioclea). With papal support the missionaries reconvert the populace and release the peasants of their low status. and those with enough wealth are allowed to become citizens of the Republic. The administrative divisions of Ragusa are being reformed as well as the three-tier society. (More info next turn and/or Ragusa's nation page)
 * Benin: Following the conquests of Nupe, Borgu, and Igala, the construction of odi to maintain order in the new regions begins immediately. Each castle is able to house and maintain a garrison of about 300 men and their families, as well as up to fifty horses which belong to any cavalry in the area. Oba Ewuare introduces the odi as a means of projecting law and order in the once lawless regions, as well as facilitating trade and settlement in the new lands. Each odi houses hundreds of non-military residents such as blacksmiths, merchants, and shamen, who provide services to the surrounding lands as well as integrate the territories into the economy of the wider Benin Empire. As nexus of activity, odi slowly attract settlers to their sphere of safety, leading to the founding of cities outside their walls. So as to ensure the construction of new cities is uniform and the method of sanitation maintained, Oba Ewuare orders all new settlements to follow the city plan his father introduced during his reign to maintain the orderliness sought after in the empire. Such a city plan is typically about 0.5-2 square kilometers in size, and can house between 15,000 to 45,000 residents before requiring additional expansion. Wide avenues and a ring road in the middle of the city provide swift means of transportation and travel, while a center of government and grand bazaar sit in the middle of the city, the former within the host odi and the latter just outside of the walls. In the capital city Edo, Oba Ewuare pins the holy scripture of Kuzirism, known as the Iwe ti Iwo, or the "Book of Knowledge" (literally the "Letter of Understanding"), in which the Oba declares his beliefs and the nature of God. Within the Iwe ti Iwo, the Oba lays out the premise; Oghodua (God) created mankind with the burning desire to learn and to understand nature and the universe around them, not because of the fascinating nature of nature itself, but because within the inner-workings of nature is the power of Oghodua himself. Oghodua hid himself within the very fabric of the universe and awaits humanity's discovery, at which point he shall reveal himself to all mankind as their god and creator. Ewuare acknowledges this, and believes that it is by way of scientific endeavors that man searches for God. Oghodua speaks to mankind through mathematics, for numbers are neither liars nor concerned with agendas and always tell the truth; Oghodua guides mankind through physics, for the manner in which nature behaves is an indication of the method in which God wishes mankind to behave (such as through the harmony of the heavens); Oghodua nurtures mankind through botany and zoology, as plants and animals are food and shelter for humans by God's will; and Oghodua molds mankind through biology, as the very inner-workings of humans are laid bear through the study of the organs. So as to find God, mankind must strive to learn everything about nature, for God has hidden himself within its innerworkings waiting to see if mankind is worthy enough to bask in his revealed presence. Thus, schools and places of learning are declared centers of worship, wear all aspects of understanding God's thoughts and his will are taught and shared. The clergy of Kuzirism are the Oluko, or "the teachers", with individual members being known as dari (guides). These men and even women are highly educated individuals who have come to understand a great deal of information in the fields of chemistry, biology, botany, mathematics, and so on, and each serves as a representative of God through their individual scientific occupations. All members of the clergy are teachers and professors, and serve as the educators of all within the religion and even the empire. Though the clergy is small now, in time, their numbers shall grow to aid worshipers of Oghodua peel back the layers of the universe as they search for God just beyond the next theorem. The next Oba of Benin himself shall no longer just be the son of the ruler, but is required to have obtained a qualification in at least two fields of study, as the Oba shall be the high priest of the Oluko and thus the religion Kuzirism itself. Because of the education that is required, and the importance of intellectual rather than physical honors, for the first time the daughters of an Oba may qualify for the position. Though revolutionary within Benin itself, female rulers are not uncommon in the region, with the former queen mother of Oyo and female monarchs of Igala being the rule of the day there. So as to support the needs of the religion, a more fleshed out caste system is established by the Oba. Because intellectual expansion requires many resources and much devotion of personal time, other aspects of society must not be allowed to falter. Thus, warriors, farmers, artisans, and merchants are still required by Oghodua's followers. Members of the priesthood wear white robes as a sign of the purity of their teachings; warriors wear black robes as a sign of their role as protectors of the faith; merchants and artisans wear blue robes as a sign of the limitless potential of the human heart; and peasants were red robes as a sign of the blood that flows through the heart of every common man. Because all contribute to the health of the faith either by feeding it, protecting it, or enriching it, all members of the faith regardless of caste are deemed equal in God's eyes, though naturally there will be those who deemed themselves "more equal than others". The religion also professes the unity of "mind and body", the "mind" being the ideology of the religion, and the "body" being its adherents. Schisms or heresy will not be tolerated, and Kuzirism teaches that interbreeding with other ethnic groups beyond those within the Yoruba and Igbo populations is unholy. Many traditionalists have spoken out against the Oba's reforms and codification of a new religion, though they are quickly suppressed by members of the Royal Regiment to maintain order and stability within the empire. Those who manage to escape flee into the hinterlands of the empire. The expansion of the navy continues with five additional oke having been built, as well as ten more epeepe. Recruitment for the warriors continues yet again to replace those who died in the previous campaigns against the three northern kingdoms near Benin. Expansion of the road network into these new lands also takes place so as to promote trade and security in the northern territories.
 * Sweden: We begin preparing for war, helping our friend, Brandenburg. We raise 10,000 troops and march off to war. We begin attacking the Bohemian ally, the Teutonic Order. We start giving Gotland more autonomy and ask for a restoration of full Hansa rights to Visby. The Bank of St. Birgitta blockades Pomerania and the Teutonic Order.
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: The reconstruction of Copenhagen continues after the Great Fire of Copenhagen and homes, ports, naval yards, the University of Copenhagen continues to be rebuilt and expanded upon. The Danish army is also rebuilt and reformed, under the advice of military books and military scholars and generals, as well as based upon my own expierence..  My tultage of Princess Emma of Denmark continues, and we continue to study the actions of Jesus and the works of St. Thomas Aquinas. My curiorisity into the natural world  deepens further and I am drawn to the study of medicine, thus I order the construction of various sewer systems. I also explore the natural world as is and I write my observations and I invite the leading natural philsophers and theologians to Copenhagen upon the University of Copenhagen's rebuildment and expansion. Fearing another war with Pomerania, I order for the Danish Army to retreat. I receive word of the Imperial offer from Bohemia, and given the  situation that Brandenburg is in, surrounded by Pomerania and Bohemia as well as the Teutonic Order against them, as well as the offer for greater Imperial relations with the HRE, we join our vassal Holstein to help Holy Roman Emperor Wenescleus IV in Bohemia and send 3000 troops for the Emperor.
 * ​Holstein: In order to be granted further Imperial favor and boost relations with the Emperor, we join Bohemia and send 3000 troops to his side. 
 * Empire of Japan: Shogun Yoshimochi convenes the first Flower court in nearly a decade alongside the Teikoku Gikai go address the problem of natives of the lands that trade forts are being established in. Multiple Daimyo slight the Shogun saying that if he wishes to embark on these foolish expeditions he may, but he will be the grand total loser. When the vote is convened a 70% majority is attained and the Assembly passes a law on the defense of the colonies on the condition that the share of the Shoguns profit on any new colonies and the current ones are cut back quite a bit. Yoshomochi sees this as necessary and it saves him money in the long run as he doesn't have to pay for the full defense of the colonies out of pocket. Another proposition by the Shiba clan is presented. With the gold and silver being pulled out of the mines in and around Shizuoka and the other areas, the Shiba clan proposes that a certain amount be devoted into developing all the clans and their lands across Japan in exchange allowing the Shogun to levy a tax, which will be the incentive for the Shogun to do this. This creates a cycle of profit as the higher the development of the provinces the higher the amount of money the Shogun can gain from the taxes. This passes narrowly with a 66% vote of the Gikai but is not to be implemented until the next year. Japanese resettlement of Shinotashima and Saitama is continued but in a different way, consolidating the colonies further into forts making a layered wall system for the forts as well as planned expansion later.  The two colonies in the now named Manchukuo province outside of its new population is given two small guard forces of 300 per colony with a rotation of six months with clans currently under the new law switching out every six months with a guard force. Japanese trade fleets continue to run across multiple seas to trade. Japanese trade fleets now dart across to Korea, China, and Tondo making major pit stops regularly at Keilung, Shinotashima and Saitama. The ships arrive quite regularly and with the new forts in place on all three colonies they are expected to be able to hold for at least three months a piece on their supplies while they wait for reinforcements. The average lag time for a voyage is two weeks. The Daimyo of Japan having to handle the Flower Courts and the Teikoku Gikai are rumored to be relatively poor being unable to raise their military forces for anything but a call by the Shogun to war. This is somewhat resented but the high life and intrigue of the capital keeps many happy as they all look to curry favor and showcase something special about their lands to the shogun to try to gain the investment of capital from the Shogun himself.
 * Scotland: King Robert IV sleeps comfortably in his castle until he is shaken by a large blast. He then looks out the window. Below him is a large cannon commissioned several years back and a group of knights and men-at-arms rushing inside a hole in the castle walls. The bloodthirsty King attempts to rally support within the castle and hold them off, but it is to no avail. James I, having gathered enough support, has returned from Ireland and killed his uncle, leaving him as King of Scotland. However, he is currently little more than a puppet of the powerful Douglas family and is unable to do much. He does, however, covertly finance privateers against the English, with some using adapted hulks to raid remote stretches of shoreline and gather treasure before they can be countered. The Gaelic language and culture continues to become divorced from the main Scots-speaking regular old feudal Scotland. In the economic realm, growing cottage industries begin to develop, such as iron working and wool trading in the burgeoning burghs, and animal husbandry/fishing continues to displace grain farming. Traders in the coastal burghs begin to reach farther and farther, and with the now-exclusive trade links to the Scandinavians in Aberdeen, traders from there are forced to use modern and advanced shipbuilding techniques to cross the wet North Sea. Military-wise, the pendulum continues to swing in favor of more quality troops rather than the mass levies popular before the Plague, with men-at-arms emerging to support the pikemen. James recognizes the importance of artillery and continues Robert's construction program. As trade works its way around the North Sea, we become exposed to advanced new Dutch shipbuilding techniques. We petition the Pope to make the Diocese of St. Andrews, the primary diocese in Scotland, into an Archdiocese, in order to facilitate closer relations with the rest of the Catholic world.
 * ​Papal Diplomacy: This currently cannot be done, as the Papal office is vacant. You may request this of the new Pontiff upon his selection.
 * (OOC-Swanky): So I guess I can't trust you at all Bfox, we agree to terms on making Scotland and England, peace friends, and this is how you're starting shit? ok.
 * Papal States: Not much is done as of this year, as the Papal office remains vacant. The College continues its attempts to select a new Pope, but until this is done most business is either put on hold or continues in a reduced fashion.
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. An army of 2000 is sent to Çanakkale and Eceabat and begin to work on two anti-sea castles, while traps are thrown into the sea leading in to Istanbul. The Sultan begins to work on making movable walls and the idea of defences.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and recruiting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 300 and the goal is to keep Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Ethiopia: Gabra orders three more trade ships to be built in the time to come, he also offers money to any person or family willing to move Adulis before it is complete. Road workers expand the system of roads in the nation. Gabra Begins to wear more lavish clothes to stand out from his people, yet also attempting to keep good relations with them. More workshops are set up in Aksum to allow for the production of more coins.
 * Bahmanids: With Kozhikode and Venad smashed and the last embers of Vijayanagara extinguished, Firuz Shah prepares for a final set of campaigns to smash the dastardly rebels once and for all. 40,000 men are sent to subdue Andhra, while the combined navies of the Bahmanids and Mogadishu sail with 100,000 troops to annihilate Kotte. Nonetheless, Firuz grants more freedom to Hindus within the empire, and his son, Ali Nadeem Shah, will take a Hindu as a wife when he comes of age. All Hindu priests among the captured rebels are released. Many of the rank-and-file rebels (but not their noble leaders) are pardoned as well. Firuz was careful to feed and pay his army prior to assaults on cities to minimize unnecassary damage.
 * The Archduke of Austria, Albert V & II, after receiving news of civil war, and consulting with who is now his most trusted advisor, the Lord Chancellor Ernst "the Iron" Habsburg, Herroberkommandant and Sword of Austria, decides to go north to meet his betrothed in Bohemia, whom now just became old enough to marry. He does not go alone, however. Before he leaves, thirty thousand troops, including levies, Guardsmen (those not acting as police) and even a small bit of mercenaries are raised. The Archduke marches north with eighteen thousand men, leaving twelve thousand for his unvle to command. This new army is different than those seen before. The Archducal tormenta contains troops versed in the use of hand cannons and "Gian Bombards"...aka cannons...as siege weapons using tactics devised by the Lord Chancellor himself, making them a formidable force to be sure, especially in siege combat. Albert marches north. (More to come)
 * Iroquois Confederacy: Chief Akaitcho sends word to the Cherokee that an Iroquois nation is forming and asks if they would be willing to join. Urban development continues.
 * Teutonic Order: Grand Master Ulrich orders the Teutonic Knight-Brothers to raise their forces for the upcoming war on the side of Bohemia. Approximate estimates of raise forces include about 14,500 men which includes knights and their personal levies. The funds diverted to purchase large numbers of mercenaries are not touched. However. Grand Master Ulrich issues two letters. One is to most all border outposts to be on full alert for any possible intrusions into Teutonic territory. The other letter is issued to the Holy Roman Emperor to coordinate strategies in order for a swift and quick victory.

1417
<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' A Pope still needs to be selected. The next round of voting is up. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> (This is almost the longest conclave in history) 

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> The Isle of Man holds its first parliament.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Huitzilihuitl of Tenochtitlan dies.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> '''As the lesser branch of Brandenburg attempts to defeat the older Imperial branch of Bohemia, some of the smaller states in the HRE begin to speculate that the war is nothing but a conspiracy by the Brandenburgs to usurp their older relatives. As a result, most settle into an uneasy neutrality, preferring not to pick sides in a "family squabble."'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' Songhai continues to expand, coming into contact with the Empire of Mali and Benin, soon to be great rivals. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' In Delhi, Umar Hamza Khan takes control and is declared Sultan of Delhi. He widely declares his intention to make Delhi great again and increase his power. '''


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:   Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 52 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kerch and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  The war with Crim doesn't happen as me and Crim agreed to retcon it. Moving on.. With a significantly large amount of revenue being collected annually from the taxes imposed on the merchants bound by the Compact of Iskenderun, the royal treasary had been soon overflown with gold and silver. Keen on putting the revenue to good use, the Sultan had diverted funds toward the development of the Gurkani Black Sea and Persian Gulf fleets, modeling it along the lines of it Mediterranean counterpart. Funds were also transfered toward the repair and improvement of the roads being utilized by merchants on their way to China and India. However, at the very same time, the sudden increase in the Sultans wealth had taken a toll on him, as he had soon become quite extravagent. He had brought about massive improvements to the capital city, Isfahans fabled imperial citadel, the Golden Fort or alternatively referred to by the locals as the Sunehra Quila. The Imperial Citadel had its marble walls bedecked in silk, perfumed water fountains and canals running, surrounded by fragrant gardens. Sumptuous feasts and innumerous artists and musicians ensured that the lived a joyful and colourful life, far away from everyday worries. Moreover, the very recent construction of a royal harem with over a 100 men and women meant that the Sultan had soon begun to spend hours in the company of his concubines. The lack of Shahrukhs involvement in everyday affairs had soon meant that de facto control of the Sultanate was brought under the control of his wife, Goharshad Begum. 


 * Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultan Alaud Daula continued his reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, he would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultan, Alaud Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient. Alaud Daula falls suffers an injury whilst on a hunting expedition. 
 * The Kingdom of England: King Henry V puts down the attempts to take his throne, hiring Welsh assassins to hunt down, track, follow, and kill the traitors. (Secret) King Henry V calls upon The Kingdom of Aragon, to once again reinstitute an attack against the French, if denied, the war ends, and terms WILL be drawn, if Aragon chooses to help, all of Southern France will be under Argonese control. King Henry V decides to send a representative to the French signing, just to see what the terms are to see if they can put in an end to this English-French War. England increases its military and economy. We strengthen our alliance, sending positive intentions, and wishing to marry our kingdoms. We call upon the Kingdom of Denmark asking to donate ships to the Anglo-Scot border.
 * Wales: Centralizing, Wales increases its navy and military, and sends reinforcements through Wales from England to Dublin.
 * Dublin: Walls are reinforced around the main city, ships are organized to protect the stretch between Wales and Ireland, and soldiers are reimbolstered to Ireland. Dublin increases its navy and military.
 * Abbasid Caliphate: The intrepid travaler Mahmud ibn Tulun spent six months in the city of Baghdad, observing the glorious ruins of the Round City that was once the shining gem of the Abbasid Caliphs. He also toured and documented the cities of Mosul, Basra, and Esfahan, taking note of the castles and defenses of the Jaylarids. He then mushed on beyond the Gurkani domains, into the court of the Chagatai Khanate, continuing his voyage toward the land of China. While this was going on, the court of the Caliph was visited by the envoys he sent to the Sultanate of Tunis. He responded "O Commander of the Faithful! The lands of Africa are being overun by the People of the Book, and the lands are in a state of disarray and decay. But still, the Hafsids will not bow the knee to your Holy Seal". Greatly angered by this, the Caliph deployed his new modal military to invade an annex the lands of Africa, reclaiming the lands formally lost under the former Abbasids.
 * Dip: The Caliph feels snubbed that his finest scholars could not persuade the Oba of Benin away from his idolotry, and so the Caliphate orders all Muslim nations to remove their trade from this nation, as is the policy against all idoloters. Instead, the Caliphate sends all their caravan trade to the Empires of Mali and Songhai, who have been Musilm for many centuries


 * Chimu Empire:  The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands eastward toward the Lima Valley. A baby boom continues in celebration of the new tie with Ica-Nazca. The deployment of troops and teachers to educate the Ica-Nazcans on the new technologies the Chimu have unlocked. Catapults are improved upon more, and ones that work much better in fortifications around towns and forts begin being built into the installations and towns. The technology is given to both the Chancay and the Ica-Nazca. The first sewage system is tested in Chan Chan, where the rich and preists would have a primitive pump manned by servants on ground floors which would "flush" the waste away to a pre-dug ditch downhill from the users home, though slow at first, it is effective in keeping the streets cleaner and somewhat healthier in the richer districts.


 * ​Chancay State: The Chancay work on their military and road systems, continuing to integrate them with the Chimu. A baby boom continues.
 * Ica-Nazca:  Roads and Chimu technology begin to be integrated with those of the Ica-Nazca, increasing the amount of trade and speed between cities and states. The state expands southward along the coast and works on its military.


 * The understanding and forgiveness afforded by France is met with great relief in Aragon, and the King eagerly agrees to his former foe's peace proposals. He offers to have his younger brother Prince Henry marry France's Joanna Valois-Orleans, and dispatches a corps of engineers and builders to repair the walls of Pamplona. Meanwhile, we secretly prepare for an invasion of Tunisia, as we plan to take down the rest of the Hafsid Empire. Our 20 caravels and 30 other vessels are armed with newly-build cannons, ready to lay siege upon Tunis. We also prepare an army of 25,000 soldiers, based in Argelia, to swarm over the border and create second and third fronts. This army will split into groups of 15,000 and 10,000 and will cross the western and southern borders respectively in a strategy intended to confuse and frustrate Hafsid resistance. The invasion is scheduled to begin next year, when full recovery from the war with Navarre is complete. Post-war plans include the expulsion of the Hafsid government from the territory (which will be incorporated into Argelia; the Kingdom's capital will be moved to Tunis, which will in turn be renamed Cartago) and the Christianisation of Tunisia.
 * French Diplomacy: The regents agree with these arrangements.
 * Highly improbable numbers there -Nate
 * Fixed. better? ~Tim
 * Brunswick continues to aid the Emperor.( Secret)In order to neutralize Burgundy,assassins who speak perfect French and German deliberately fail to kill the Burgund Duke but leave behind evidence that it was a French-Brandenburger joint force who attempted to assassinate the Duke.(This should cause Burgundy to abandon Brandenburg and attack France.(end Secret)


 * Yeah, no. First off, you need a mod to determine the outcome. Second, after the assassination of the Duke of Orleans, the French monarchy assigned special bodyguards for the more prominent vassals, any would-be would-be assassins would have to get through them. Thirdly the fact that royally appointed bodyguards would defend their charge instead of stepping aside would give away that the French weren't in on it. Fourthly,...speaks perfect German? You're in Germany. What language do they speak? German. Fifthly, that Brandenburg would try to assassinate the Duke is stupid, anyone can see. Maybe if they had a claim to Burgundys throne, but that's not how French vassal successions work, so no. Sixthly, what kind of paid assassins carry evidence that incriminates their employer? There's probably five more points I could bring up, but I'm too tired. -Guy
 * Silly Brunswick. Just no- Skahboieaux
 * Cyprus prepares for an invasion of Tunis. 3000 soldiers land in Aragonese Africa and line up on the Tunisian border. Small forts are constructed across both Cyprus and Candia, each manned by 50 men and stocked for long sieges. Booms are placed in major harbors and Cypriot "privateers" sink Ottoman ships. Traps are set throughout the Aegean Sea and along coasts of major islands. The Theodosian walls are reinforced to reflect cannon fire. We import Aragonese cannons and send them to Constantinople.
 * Firuz Shah of the Bahmanids can finally begin to rest easy, with the Hindu rebellion finally defeated, and Vijayanagar, Kotte, Kozhikode, Venad, and Andhra reannexed. The lesser princes are allowed to have more control over their territories, with local governance now mostly being left to them. Large forts are built throughout Firuz's conquests, manned with Muslim soldiers who are requested to bring their families with them. A road network to connect the empire is started. It will be completed in five years or so. The cities of Hampi and Kolon-thota are expanded and made easy for businesses, hoping to slowly draw people away from Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte and Vijayanagara, the old capitols of Kotte and Vijayanagar. The scholars of the University at Gulbarga are ordered to look into the methods of the Ismaili Assassins, in hope of using those same methods to halt any more conspiracies among the Hindu nobility. When searching the papers of the 'king' of Kotte before his execution, evidence is found of his connection to Majapahit. Firuz does not take any action on this, however, noting that with the fall of Kotte, the problem has been solved, yet he remains on alert for any more outside interference. We regret to inform Mogadishu that 17 of their ships were lost in saving our empire.
 * Mogadishu Diplomacy: We thank the Bahmanid's gratitude and hope to further our ties. It is a small price to pay for the protection of our ally.
 * Holland: The troop count is currently up to 12,000 men in the army. Our navy has at about 42 ships built. After hearing about an underground movement in Luxembourg, a similar one continues to go on here. In secret we ask Bohemia for an alliance. Trading goes well with nations in our trade alliance. Farming goes well as usually this year. The war goes great against Utrecht sacking Amersfoort, then sacking the capital this year with our army.  Our navy made up of 42 ships secretly blockades Burgundy.  We stand clear for any suspicious French troops or people who may come to our nation now or in the future. The population continues to grow in a healthy rate with the annexing of Utrecht's lands.
 * Hainut: Military is building up slowly. Farms are doing good this year with many surpluses happening.
 * Bohemian Dip: We accept.
 * Lel, just wondering how you "secretly" blockade someone ... ~Nic
 * Pomeranian Dip: We accept an alliance with Holland.
 * It's either blockaded or not, no secret blockade. darnit.
 * Iroquois Confederacy: Since they have not fully surrendered, Chief Akaitcho leads 400 more braves in the hopes of finish off the Delaware, since peace does not seem achievable. Notaku returns home to Nowadaga to rule in his father's place while he is at war. On his father's orders, Notaku assembles all chiefs to create a council of tribal leaders. Akaitcho, being the great uniter, would lead the council but a representative from each tribe would reside in Nowadaga to be the voice the their respective tribe and lend their voice to all decisions made by the head of the Iroquois. Most chiefs elect their eldest son to sit on the council in Nowadaga. Word comes back from the Cherokee. They do not wish to join the Confederacy but do pledge their allegiance, wishing to be a sovereign entity. Our urban centers expand, trade continues with the Mahicans.
 * Majapahit Empire: With Malacca subjugated and order restored, suspected rebels begin to be hunted down and executed publicly, the island of Sumatra begins to slowly (culturally) integrated into the Core Empire, with the Order being used to convert other citizens to the new faith. Our forces begin to solidify around Java before further annexation can continue and infrastructure Empire-wide is being rebuilt, constructed and repaired, particularly in areas affected by more than a decade of trouble. With the High Speaker continuing his education of Bhre Kuwat, he begins to try to balance his attention between the coming Godking and statecraft, in the latter issue becoming concerned about the Bahmarids. However, due to internal concerns, there is little, if any help to send in the Hindus' direction.
 * Pomerania: Archduke Otto II is forced to declare his support for Johann of Brandenburg with every single loyal subject of the Archduchy being furious for fighting in the same side with Denmark, their worst enemy. So he joins Brandenburg against Bohemia to stop the expansionalist HRE Emperor. Archduke Otto II Johann of Brandenburg when he becomes the HRE Emperor for electoral rights as well as support against Denmark in return for his support. He mobilizes [max troops] to defend the Archduchy against its enemies as the army is in no state to invade another nation.
 * ​Brandenburg Dip: The regency appreciates Pomerania's support but clears the air that they do not wish to become the hre emperor, Bradenburg desires that the imperial position respect the rights of the princes and agree to treaties that he has previously agreed to sign.
 * ' Brandenburg-Luxembourg:  The imperial betrayal of the treaty of Berlin represents the breaking point of the young Johann and the regency's patience. They declare in an act of open rebellion against imperial authority after the corwn stole land and then refused to negotiate in honest terms. To further the greviences Bohemia's aggressive expansion into Saxony and Messien sickens the Elector and he calls on the other princes to revolt against the emperor. Bradenburg also invites their Burgundian and Danish allies to honor the alliance and fight against an aggressive and detestable emperor. The Bradenburgian troops are fully mobilized and 3000 mercs are raised bringing the forces of the elector to 17,000. The renovated forces are finally going to be put to the test as the forces align along the border, fortifying the previously occupied Silesia to enforce the treaty of Berlin in an act of defiance againt the emperor. The Regency promises to allow great levels of autonomy to the silesian nobles and merchants should they side with Bradenburg against the centralization policies of Bohemia. They don't invade Bohemian territory but messengers are sent out to the other princes to get them to join in (players and mods please respond). Calls for new elections are made by the elector and the regency to elect a ruler that won't backstab and expand at the expense of his loyal fiefs. The fortress of Luxembourg is fully fortified in case Bohemia tries to attack it. The elector sends one envoy pleading with the emperor to see reason otherwise it will be war. Military and industrial expansion continue. Pomerania, Sweden, and Burgundy are thanked for their support and the other princes are called upon to join the efforts to bring the emperor under control. But no forces attack Bohemian territories as the Regency stillhopes that there is space for negotiations. '
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Grand Master Philibert, noting Genoa's discontent with the proposal regarding the treaty, writes to  King Janus of Cyprus  informing him that the counter-offer has been revoked in order to maintain peace in the region. A strongly worded letter is sent to the Doge of Genoa, informing him that his viewing the Cypriots as enemies is shameful given that now more than ever, Christian rulers need to form a united front against the ever-present Ottoman threat. In other news, since the planned condimunium of Crete is not going ahead, Philbert and his Chapter General meet to discuss ways to resolve the manpower issue which, whilst not immediately pressing, could cause problems in the longer term. Again, the idea of incorporating "Tertiaries" the way the mendicant orders do is raised, and the majority feels it is the best long-term solution. The Chapter also decides that to emphasise the Grand Master's position amongst the secular (in addition to ecclesiastical) Princes of Christendom, he should be granted the title Prince of Rhodes and of Candia. Both of these changes will have to wait for the election of a new pope. The Order has been in raptures waiting for the Habemus Papam to thunder from Rome and echo throughout the world.


 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. We reorder the 17 dhows lost in aid of the Bahmanids. With control over Zanzibar and Mogadishu, the two largest trading ports of East Africa, Mogadishu begins its own currency system and seeks to use it as the standard system of all Swahili city states. The Mogadishu currency is made of copper from Kilwa. It is composed of the coin dinar with the names of all Mogadishu Sultans inscribed on the back and a calligraphy of Muhammed's name on its front. Ali ventures further North, traveling in the Abbasid Caliphate and wishes to see the Caliph.
 * Tondo  continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Massive naval expansion in the regard of trade ships and naval craft commence, as Rajah Gambang, fearful of the Japanese ships that escort the tributary vessels heading to Japan, orders the construction and study of these war junks, as the Chinese call them. The fishing fleet expands to 500 boasts, while small war ships capable of fighting in rivers are increased in number. Five war junks are to be constructed within the year. The first public aklatan (library) opens in Central Maynila to further spread the knowledge gained by the Kingdom. Smaller libraries are planned to be built in Maynila, Kawit and Tacloban Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers.


 * Ma-I: Under the regency council and Queen Kalangitan, a re-organization of Ma-I infrastructure and society commences. Ma-I will still pay its  tribute to the Ming, but Tondo holds nominal control over foreign affairs and other things such as protection. The largest settlement in the area is named Li Han, after the first Huang of Ma-I. A port town in northern Ma-I, Beigang, is developed upon by expanding the port facilities, paving roads, and introducing two blast furnaces in the por.
 * Not sure you have the access to these ships to make this study or construct the ships in the first place just saying. Nobody gave you ships to use or study. -Feud

<p style="font-weight:normal;">Vytaytas also declare his sucessor and co-ruler Ivan Vasilyevich son of his daughter and Prince of Muscowy which have been saved by Vytautas during Timurid invasion into Muscovy. Some nobles says that Ivan isn't real Ivan and Vutaytas declared his sucessor son of small Landowner died by plague. But as all Ivan"s family was killed we are likely not to find out trooth. at the same time lithuania continue recovering after Timurid Invasion
 * Lithuania: after years of voeivodisation, last principality (Kursk) was replaced with Voeivodeship. As last principality abadoned, Vytaytas is crowned as Rex Litwinorum et Russiae(King of Lithuania and Russia).


 * Bohemia: We continue to hire mercenaries and fortify our borders. Wenceslaus V ends his schooling. We look for a wife for himself. We continue to offer rewards to anyone who joins the side of the Empire in the War of the Lions, as it has been called. We call Cologne and Milan once again to the conflict. Germanization continues. We maintain our rights to Silesia and to Moravia. We see the open rebellion stated by Brandenburg as a declaration of war upon the Holy Roman Empire, and the Holy Roman Emperor.
 * Ottoman Empire:  The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. The Sultan begins to work on making movable walls and the idea of defences. The Sultan begins to work on huge moveable walls that work on stoping arrows that can conver 50 men. Mehmedi ask the Caliph if he can send his son to Cairo to study more about Islam and the Arabs way of war.


 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 300 and the goal is to keep Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Grand Republic of Ragusa: With the Dukljan lands under Ragusan administration governors are put to control the area via four divisions. Using their connections, the current powers-behind-the-throne ensure their family memebers control the four provinces.
 * Assam: Assam declares war on Koch and asks Bengal for help.  (MOD response needed)
 * Empire of Japan: Shogun Yoshimochi personally visits Saitama and Shinotashima and personally and under his decree reorganizes the two colonial trade posts into the formal Japanese Colony of Manzhuguo. This visitation by the Shogun brings some new importance to the reorganized colony bringing nearly 300 settlers who settle in Shinotashima bringing the population to 900 which forces many to expand the town beyon the walls of the fort. This, however, does not expand the outright borders of the colony but does turn Shinotashima from a struggling trade town to one that has begun to see a true agricultural base develop. Saitama being located in a less arable area sees less families settle and remains at its previous population with trade of specialized goods becoming its specialties. The Keilung colony sees its population expand to 27 people as the colony begins to rebuild its ports to accomodate further trade from China and Tondo. Taiwanese natives attempt to attack the colony again but are repulsed by soldiers which serve as guards on the merchant ships. Of the nearly 115 attackers, half are wiped out and the rest retreat. Three are captured and some dialogue takes place in order to talk with the natives and prevent further raids. The Teikoku Gikai is convened once again with nothing of note taking place except for the nearly 95% approval of the establishment of a banking system. Most of the Daimyo seem to be content with the current system and the various elements and cadet branches of the developing Ashikaga clan gaining a royal marriage with both the Hosokawa and Shiba clans strengthening their alliance further. The three clains become known as the "Holy Triad" as they have been the key components to Japans new stability. The famine in the Ryukyus subsides as food shipments from the home islands remove the situation as a key threat. The gold and silver mines in southern Japan undergo another expansion as the Shogun and his allies look to fully establish the new Banking system of Japan. While a general disdain of the Merchant class remains the Shogun and the Gikai and all its Daimyo members seeing a significant amount of wealth flowing their direction through trade agree that the Merchants would be the best group to handle the development of the bank and the First three banks are opened in Kyoto, Kamakura, and Fukuoka seeking to establish stronger southern ties. This leaves a branch of each bank in the central, Northern and Southern parts of Japan. Its estimated the development of a true banking system with all the kinks worked out will take roughly 15-17 years. Hokkaido seems more expansion and in this point aggressive settlement by the northern clans see the population increase by a fair margin. The Japanese navy particularly the fleet of the Shogun continues to expand now having a significant fleet of War Junks. The expansion of agriculture overall in Japan continues as well with the investment by the Shogun and now multiple Daimyo shows notable expansion of food harvests.
 * Mayapan continues the integration of the southern city-states into the League. Each new state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation. The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Cologne: Over the past year since Jan Hus was taken into custody, Archbishop Dietrich II has become more and more worried about the possibility of the heresies he could have spread in the few years that Cologne and the rest of Catholicism were not aware he was active for, due to Sweden and Brandenburg’s trickery. Given that neither country has replied in the past few years, Dietrich II begins to anger before an advisor reminds him that revenge is best served cold. Noting that it has been ten years since Friedrich III did this last, Dietrich II gives a speech (and writes an accompanying pastoral letter) that invites any followers of Jan Hus to speak directly with the archbishop of Cologne at the centre of the reform in order to peacefully resolve their differences. This news travels with the canonesses to Bohemia, and generally spreads along the trade routes Cologne has made. Meanwhile, Dietrich II watches trade continue to prosper after smallpox subsides. The Court of Discipline is very active this year, and two further priests from Westphalen are sent to the mines in Essen. Furthermore, Dietrich II receives the letter from Adelphina and follows her directions (banning the giving of all indulgences involving money) reluctantly, despite being convinced by Friedrich III’s devotion to her as a learned ally. In his heart, and when he looks to the Lord for guidance, he knows that she is right. Eventually he also sets up a division of the Court of Discipline to enquire directly into matters of monetary indulgences and enforce the ban if need be.
 * Essen: Over the past two years, translation of the German bible has been, for the most part, completed. Strangely, however, the people are less excited about this than Adelphina would have thought. Given that her canonesses’ reports from Bohemia are not particularly positive, in frustration Adelphina personally sends a letter to Bohemia to enquire as to whether the propositions for reform (Court of Discipline, help for the needy, etc.) have been carried out. Knowing that she is getting old, Adelphina finds her second wind and makes a record number of addresses this year. One of the new ones regards indulgences, which Adelphina believes should not have a price at all and never be associated with the changing-hands of money. She writes to Cologne about this matter, hoping to reform this given the relatively prosperous state of the economy in both nations. This money is not necessary, and it fosters the idea that the Church in Cologne is corrupt! Surely this is not what they want. She urges the archbishop to make this change as soon as practicable.
 * Bohemian Dip: We regretfully inform that the reforms have not yet been carried out, as the rebellion has put a halt on the reforms. However, we do ask that Cologne join our forces.
 * Burgunduian Dip: as Duke Johns 30,000 strong regular and mercenary combined expeditionary force prepares to march east in support of the Electorate of Brandenburg, a vanguard arrives in Cologne, asking that the Prince-Bishop not join Bohemia, and instead choose to maintain its princely rights and join the coalition against the overbearing emperor.
 * Albert V & II, Archduke of Austria, continues to muster his forces, waiting for the real fight to beign. Meanwhile, the construction of a commercial port, shipyard and drydock continue in Trieste. some tax collectors are sent into aquileia in order to impose Habsburg dominance and spread the word of secularization. (hopefully more later)
 * Papal States: The new pope is elected and begins his turn, to great celebration across from Europe. Privately, the rest of the college and perhaps his holiness himself wish that such a long conclave never again happens in the history of the Papacy. Previous policies are put into high gear once again. The fortress at Ancona is completed and manned by Papal soldiers, earning the surprise of the Anconans who now find their city effectively under Papal control once again.
 * Benin: With the reorganization of the army completed and the expansion of the warrior caste to 215,000 men, the Oba wishes to expand the arms and armor for the warriors under his command. Several new forges are built throughout the land, and the system of odi expanded in light of the expansion of Songhai to Benin's borders. To facilitate troop movement, Benin expands the width of its road networks to allow for wider columns of troops with shorten lengths so as to move armies quickly. Teaching of the Iwe ti Iwo becomes mandatory for all subjects of the empire, many of whom are quick to convert to the faith of their ruler and leaders. As the science-centric belief of Kuzirism spreads throughout the empire, the places of worship where the knowledge of the faith is dispensed are built, teaching followers about Oghodua as well as unintentionally educating them about botany, mathematics, and astronomy. Many practical teachings are dispensed as well, such as the sanitation laws of the religion, requiring human waste be removed from centers of dwelling, hands cleaned before eating a meal, and routine cleansing of the body at least once a week, and after eating intimate act with another people. Teaching of the Edo script to the people so as to allow them to read the Iwe ti Iwo becomes a regular part of the religious teachings, and indoctrination of non-Yoruba followers into the empire and its culture. The uzama with the Oba's permission, passes a law stating that all farmlands must be laid out in grid patterns similar to the cities being built throughout the empire, so as to allow for a better and more equitable distribution of land to commoners. Okpara Maduka provides some insight to the proper manner in which farming should be pursued, leveraging his firsthand accounts of farming in other nations during his travels. Crop-rotation and use of manure as fertilizer, and burning of old crops to put energy back into the ground, are taught to the farmers of Benin, especially those in the northern districts, allowing them to make better use of their lands. Additionally, irrigation techniques from the south are imported into the north, allowing for the increased output of agricultural goods in the new lands, where once pastoral tribes dominated. With the superior farming plans gaining ground in northern Benin, a population boom is expected by the imperial authorities, especially as city-building encouraged by the presence of the odi continues. The navy adds another seven oke and thirteen epeepe to its fleets.


 * Kingdom of France: With the signing of the Treaty of Cherbourg, the troops from the war are finally paid and sent home. All the commanders, constables, marshals, nobles, and vassals that participated come to a feast in Paris to celebrate such a great victory. Although delusional and losing his sanity (with ailing health due to speculative treatments), Charles VI proclaims that the lands of France are finally free from English tyrannical occupation. With the betrothal of Joanna Valois-Orleans to Prince Henry of Aragon, and the acceptance of the peace treaty, relations are finally restored with Aragon. The regents remain happy to support Burgundy in his efforts against the Emperor, but choose not to support him militarily fearing a breakdown of relations with Germany. The regents also don't give out the Duchy of Berry as an appanage, as they believe they do not have the full authority to do so. With the English lands annexed, they are immediately annexed to the French crown due to sharing the same culture, religion, and traditions. The regents continue to improve relations with Castile and the Papal States.
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: I continue the reconstruction of Copenhagen after the Great Fire, rebuilding it upon the foundations that are left and expanding it from before, in particular I rebuild and expand homes and the University of Denmark. I send 3000 troops to Holstein to defend it against a potential Pomeranian invasion. My tultage of Princess Emma of Denmark continues as we continue to study the actions of Jesus and the works of Thomas Aquinas, I also teach her how to be a great ruler, so she will improve upon my rule, making even better choices than I and avoid my mistakes. My interest in natural philsophy and theology continues and natural philosphers, theologians, and doctors continue to pour into Copenhagen as the University continues to be reconstructed. The army continues to be reformed and rebuilt as well. With the French-English war over, we move our 13 ships to help England against Scotland.
 * Holstein: 3000 troops are raised to defend against a potential Pomeranian invasion. Internal development continues.

1418
<p style="font-weight:normal;"> '''We have a Pope! His Holiness takes the name John XXIII. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Saxony descends into a civil war of its own, divided between those who remain loyal to the King of the Romans and those who want to re-assert Saxony's prior independence.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Angry at being summoned for war yet remaining idle for years, the vassals of both Brandenburg and Bohemia threaten to abandon their lords and return to their homes.

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> '''Riots break out across Serbia and Wallachia at the construction of so many mosques there. Many are damaged, some are burnt to the ground, and many Muslims, preacher and civilian alike, are killed in the chaos.'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> '''The spending of the Cypriot court finally catches up with it. By the start of the year Cyprus is effectively bankrupt, unable to continue both rebuilding the Roman Empire and supporting its own expeditions in distant lands.'''

<p style="font-weight:normal;"> Revolts all across Christian North Africa erupt as the Moorish, Muslim population quickly tire of their ruthless and cruel Catholic overlords.


 * Duchy of Burgundy: Early in the expanded Burgundian Navy engaged the Hollander Navy as they attempted to blockade the city of Ostend, Flanders. Initially, the Hollanders were overwhelmed by the shear weight of numbers, but during a critical point in the battle, the Burgundian Admiral is injured and incompacitated. John de Luxembourg, now eighteen years old serving on the flagship, in order to avoid confusion in the fleet, organizes the few ships armed with swivel guns into line behind the flagship, allowing them to make the most effective use of their new weapons. The initial Admirals' aggression costs the fleet some losses, but in the end John de Luxembourgs intervention helps result in a resounding victory in the Battle of Ostend. In the aftermath, with the most imminent naval threat in the Emperors alliance defeated, John de Luxembourg leads the establishment of a Burgundian blockade of Amsterdam itself. With word of a naval battle between Pomerania and Denmark, a detachment of twenty ships leaves the blockade to support Burgundys allies in the Baltic. Meanwhile, with the French intervention in the war, Duke John finally feels free to take the 30,000 men he gathered to march to Brandenburg, and invade Holland, claiming to be offered the Hollander Crown by local nobles (which happened OTL, btw).
 * BTW Scar, you can't pull your fleet after I've accepted battle (i.e., posted the algo), mods word.
 * The Gurkani Sultanate: Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 52 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kerch and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate. With a significantly large amount of revenue being collected annually from the taxes imposed on the merchants bound by the Compact of Iskenderun, the royal treasery had been soon overflown with gold and silver. Keen on putting the revenue to good use, the Sultan had diverted funds toward the development of the Gurkani Black Sea and Persian Gulf fleets, modeling it along the lines of it Mediterranean counterpart. Funds were also transfered toward the repair and improvement of the roads being utilized by merchants on their way to China and India. At the very same time, importance was also given to the development of siege weaponry including cannons.
 * ​Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultana Rukhsana Daula continued her reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, she would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultana, Rukhsana Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterranean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient. Alaud Daula's sudden death came as a shock to the people of Iraq, many of whom came to the streets in sorrow over their loss. Alaud's funeral was held in Baghdad, with the Gurkani Sultan visiting the city to take part in the funeral procession. With the death of the Jalayirid Monarch, the throne was passed over to his daughter, Saima Daula. However, with Saima being only three years old; her mother Rukhsana Daula was appointed as the Queen Regent until Saima came of age. 
 * Ethiopia: Gabr sets up a series of fairs that keeps the people happy. Livestock farms set up around Adulis to feed the populace that will soon move there. Holy men go around teaching people the bible so that everyone may be holy, Gabra states that everyone should be holy, from the king to the lowest slave. a great church is set up in Adulis.
 * Abbasid Caliphate: Having conquered Tunisia, the Caliph appointed the commander Marwan ibn Zayyid as the Emir of Tunis. Marwan raised troops from among the Arabs of the land to replenish the soldiers lost in the attack, as well as reinforcments from Egypt, convoyed by 114 ships harbored in Tunis. When word was sent back to Cairo, the Caliph laughed and said "this is a great day for the house of Islam, where the first nation bows the knee to the Holy Seal and pays the zakat. One day all the people from Al-Andalus to Al-Sin shall know the true God". While this was going on, the great traveler Mahmud Ibn Tulun crosses over into the land of China from the north, seeking the audience of the Emperor oh behalf of the Caliph. Ibn Tulun hopes to ask the Emperor for a tour of the nation and city of Beijing in exchange for gold and perfume. From this time Ibn Tulun recounts many strange kingdoms and fantastic creatures living in central Asia, including the remnants of A'd and Thamud, as well as giant monsters with the heads of dogs and scorpions. Later this year, the Caliph entertains the traveler Ali Al-Aswed (Ali the black) from the city of Mogdanshu. The Caliph shows him all the finest works of art and treasure in Cairo as well as the Holy Sites in Jerusalem and Mecca, while strengthening his trade in the Indian Sea. The Ottoman Prince Mehmed is also allowed into Egypt where he is given the finest education in Alexandria, although the Caliph did not see him himself.
 * Addendum: The Caliph sends large support to the Moorish rebels in Algeirs, including organization and resouces to build their military against Aragon. 
 * Dip to Morocco: The Caliph establishes an NAP with the Kingdom of Morocco, ensuring that he will not have any plans to bring Morocco into the Caliphate
 * Empire of the Great Ming: The Yongle Emperor sends two emissaries to greet new traveller from the Abbasid Caliphate. The Emperor invites the traveller to stay in the Forbidden Palace and take back some tea and pottery back with him.
 * Brandenburg-Luxembourg: After years of preparation and hoping that some solution would come The Regency is forced to accept that there is no diplomatic solution to this crisis, Frederick and the young Johann declare war on Bohemia in support of Saxon independence and to force the Emperor to stop it's centralization policies and to respect the institutions of the Empire along with respoecting the treaty of Berlin. Frederick leads the Brandenburg soldiers numbering 18,500 (14,000 nationals, and 4500 mercenaries) fully march into Silesia and Sorbia to engage Bohemian forces unleashing the newly trained and reformed mixed pike, crossbow, manowar, and hand gun troops on the Bohemian forces. They march on the cities of Breslau and Lusatia. Following the formal beginning of hostilities Bradenburg calls once more on the other princes to join the revolt and bring the emperor to terms or to justice. In a stauch promise Bradenburg promises that it will not attempt to become the emperor and publicly supports Austria for the emperorship as it is time for a change from the old Luxembourgs who have proven corrupt and insane not a good fit to rule. Frederick also calls on his allies to engage against the allies of Bohemia should they not abandon an unjust and corrupt ruler. 
 * You're not an elector anymore. - Blocky858 (talk)
 * He is stil acting as one and considering its a big deal to do something like that with an elector he does have some basis for backing another candidate as some other revolting princes might see his process and proclaim for a different emperor which then leads to an HRE civil war over the emperor title. That is a very real possibility considering how ridiculous the process was OTL -Feud
 * The Kingdom of England: With the losing of English lands in France, and Scotland's lack of help, and response, England declares official war against the Kingdom of Scotland, accusing them of sea raids and small attacks against the English Crown. King Henry V, knowing France will be unable to help with regaining their footing in France, he himself begins divising military strategies with his finest generals in order to start bringing down the Kingdom of Scotland. The english navy which was posted near Ireland begins blockading the Western Scottish ports, as well as having (Denmark, KK,) blockading the eastern ports, which is a combines effort from Denmark and England. With Edinburgh still being slightly crippled from previous English occupation, England lands troops engaging directly for the capital, alongside with the Kingdom of Denmark. England expands its military and navy. England calls upon their new ally, the Kingdom of Aragon for minimal naval support, and moderate economic support for England. England increases postitive relations with Brittany, offering them to become a vassal of the English crown, as well as formulating good intentions with Burgundy.
 * Wales: Continues to centralize, bolstering their military and economy, and sending economic tribute and support to England, to front the war. Wales expands their military and economy, and creates few ships as the bulk of their navy has sailed north to blockade western Scottish ports.
 * Dublin: Ireland, sends its huge garrison of longly stocked troops into the western side of Scotland, along with a few Danish troops which were garrisoned in Wales. The army lands in Dumfries, planning to meet in Melrose, where the larger English force will meet them from Edinburgh. Dublin expands their military and economy. Economic support is channeled to England, to front the war. Irish merc ships are sent to the lower entrance of the Irish-Welsh sea channel.
 * Duchy of Savoy:  Amadeus VIII rules over the Great Duchy of Savoy. Seeying Milanese dominence over Italy, the Savoyards begin to prepare for war, and start gathering troops. We pledge our support of the Margraviate of Brandenburg in their struggle against the Holy Roman Emperor, while also sending envoys to the court of the Archduchy of Austria.
 * Aragon declines England's offer for support in a renewed war with Navarre. Instead, we call for the support of the rest of Mediterranean Christendom for a Crusade on the alarmingly expanding Abbasid Caliphate, arguing that we should put aside our differences and fight for the elimination of the devilish cult of Islam from the world. A total of 25,000 soldiers swarm across the borders from all directions, while nine caravels and 18 other vessels stand ready to be deployed to Tunisia. A corps of priests and missionaries are on standby, ready to begin Christianisation of the new territory in the event of a victory. Meanwhile, while Islam is believed to have been eradicated from Argelia, we remain on our guard, ready to put down any flare of a Muslim revolt.
 * You're not getting away that easily. Algo posted -Nate
 * (OOC, Swank/England) I can jive with working together to take out Islamic nations, will need economic efforts for the war in Scotland, then will double back to help you, and make peace with France.
 * OOC Aragon: I literally changed my mind seconds after posting that. I'm not going to war. End of story.
 * King Janus of Cyprus places 4000 Cypriot soldiers under Aragonese control as the crown must take a look at the economy. We ask Rome to temporarily supply our soldiers in Constantinople. Since taxes and trade in Crete were essential to fund our campaigns we blame Genoa for this mess. All stocks, ships and possessions of Genoa in Cyprus are seized and Genovese merchants imprisoned. Traps are placed in the Straits of Messina. We ask for Aragon's support in the event of war with Genoa offering island of Sardinia. We inform the Knights Hospitaller that Genoa will not be a problem. King Janus sends his bastard son to serve as a servant of christ on Rhodes. Taxes and tariffs are increased dramatically while farms and copper mines are built and then given to local barons.
 * Duke John II Crispo of the Duchy of Naxos sides with Genoa in the brewing trade war between Genoa and Cyprus. We offer a trade alliance to Genoa, that we replace Cyprus as your main trading partner in the Aegean. The alliance is to be laid out in the Treaty of Lesbos. Meanwhile, we also begin our specialization in our navy, the Cycladic Fleet. We begin construction on fifty longships, ten cogs, and five carracks. We expect the fleet to be finished by 1423. We ask for trade with the Kingdom of Denmark, specifically oak wood and pine resin from Denmark in return for olives, figs, watermelon, wine, grapes, and pistachios.
 * ​I'm not entirely certain, but I believe Naxos was given to Naples in the Treaty of Padua after Vencie fell. Naples is inactive, so you could probably play as their vassal at Naxos. Just an FYI (but other mods please correct me if I'm wrong). -Rex
 * The Duchy of Naxos has always been ... tricky, to say the least. The duchy is formed of mostly Venetian lords who took over the islands in the 1200s. They chose to be independent of Venice for some years before becoming the vassals of the Latin Empire. The vassalization continued for a while until they became vassals of Morea, and then sometime later they became vassals of Naples. If history had continued, the Duchy would have switched to become the vassals of Venice in 1418. But, throughout all of its history, the duchy has always acted with independence. They were really only vassals in name. -NathanialPrice
 * Danish Diplomacy: We accept this trade agreement, and we thank the Duchy of Naxos for offering us the trade agreement.
 * Benin: With the encroachment of Songhai upon Benin's borders, fears of an invasion spread throughout the nation. Having caught word of Mohammad Benkan's invasions of Mossi, Mema, and Jenne, and the alliance with the Tuaregs who dominate the trade routes of the Sahara, the military, political, economic, and religious dangers posed by Songhai cannot be ignored by the Oba. Summoning the uzama to session in Edo, the Oba inquires of the council an assessment of the threat posed by the armies of Songhai. To his surprise, the uzama informs Oba Ewuare that though Songhai has expanded greatly thus far, its armies are small and poorly equipped compared to Benin's. However, Ewuare is also warned of the tactical capabilities of the ruler of Songhai, Mohammad Benkan, who masterminded the conquests of three nations and the alliance with the fourth. The uzama states that Mohammad Benkan most likely will not invade Benin, though his past actions do not sit well with the Oba. Given that the Tuaregs are allied with Benken, and much of Benin's slave trade and sell of ivory pass through the Sahara, the Oba states that he cannot allow this to continue. Of most concern is the danger of a large Islamic state on the border with Benin. While in Timbuktu in his youth, Ewuare recalls acutely his reading of the history of the Rashidun and Umayyad Caliphates which tore through the lands of Christianity centuries ago, and the death and destruction they wrought upon the non-Islamic peoples of the Middle East and North Africa. Fearing the worst for his own people and the faith that the hold, Oba Ewuare has made up his mind on the subject, and states in no uncertain terms that the armies of Songhai shall never march toward Benin be it for peace or for war, and that Mohammad Benkan's head shall be delivered to him by the year's end. Acknowledging the will of the Oba, the uzama ends its session and begins preparations for a war with Songhai. With war on the horizon, Oba Ewuare prepares to deliver a speech to his people on the matter of the conflict. With tens of thousands of his subjects awaiting his message beyond the palace walls, Oba Ewuare gives his speech. He tells of the horrors of the Islamic armies, and their conquests in the past and present. Calling upon Okpara Maduka to testify on his behalf, Okpara relates his time in Constantinople, and the armies of the Ottoman Turks arrayed beyond the walls of that great city waiting to strike down the non-believers within. Ewuare states that should Benin waste this opportunity to strike down the conquering armies of Songhai, as with Constantinople, it short measure the armies of Islam shall stand outside the great walls and trenches of Edo seeking the opportune time to strike at the heart of Benin and Kuzirism. At once, the tens of thousands of Bini people begin shouting Ògo fún Ọlọrun, "Glory to God", and calls for war ring out from the crowds. Tens of thousands of warriors are raised for the First Great Ijakadi, or the "first great struggle" for their faith, and the calls to war spread throughout the nation. The troops sail up the Niger River to confront the armies of Songhai, and regardless of how great a general their ruler may be, for the sake of their god the Bini warriors must prevail. The number of warriors is expanded as young men wishing to prove themselves on the field of battle join the army headed to Songhai. Emblazoned upon the banners of the Bini armies is the Star of Oghodua, the symbol of the Kuziri faith and people. These banners begin to multiply as the armies of Benin amass on the border for the invasion. Preparing for the assault, twelve oke and twenty-eight epeepe are built and ferried up the Niger to the invasion forces to meet the rest of the ships and war canoes. With the host ready for the invasion, Oba Ewuare leads his men into battle once more for what he and his people believe to be the survival of the nation.
 * In Korea, Yi Bang-won's third born child, Yi Do, reaches the age of 21 and is now viable to be coronated. On September 18, Yi Bang-won abdicates and adopts the title as Former King, while Crown Prince Yi Do accedes to the throne. However, for the first five years of his reign, Former King Yi Bang-won will be the Head Advisor. The King revolutionises the government by appointing more people from different social classes as civil servants, rather than just the yangban nobility. Meanwhile, Korea under Chinese aid and suzerainty, continues development as a command economy under the newly crowned monarch Yi Do with input from his advisors, ministries, and the Joseon state-council. Yi Bang-won, who is now dead due to assassination attempts at Yi Do, is named the posthumous name Taejong, and calls for a hundred-day long period of mourning. Korean metallurgical related industries are further developed with the erection of more blast furnaces (mainly in cities located within the Han and Nakdeong river basins, namely Busan and Hanseong), with the smelted iron being used in the production of high quality armour, tools, and weaponry. To provide the blast-furnaces a source of raw materials, as well as revenue to fund the government efforts. Expansion of mining activities within the Hamgyeong province continues, providing a source of revenue and funds for government projects and a source of raw material (such as iron ore and coal) to fuel the blast furnaces. The importance of education continues to be heavily emphasised by the government, with those within the national civil service program, and those of the upper castes being encouraged to partake in education. Numerous libraries and universities are constructed within the major Korean settlements, equipped with the Chinese texts that have been translated into Korean (now using Hangul instead of Hanja). Korea continues vigorous expansion into arable lands north, and northeast into the fertile Amur basin. Expansion of soy and wheat farms continue, as they are now the staple grains of Manchuria. Local cold-resistant varieties of Siberian pea shrubs, sea berries, and Siberian crabapples are further cultivated in farms and incorporated into the local provincial cuisine. Honey, collected from the Amur basin, is becoming extensively used as a sweetener in Korean deserts. Two thousand more settlers from the Pyongan and Hamgyeong provinces are sent to Ryojeo province to settle within its castle-towns and as part of a campaign to displace local inhabitants. Resistance among displaced groups are crushed, and those who participate in these rebellions become of the cheomin caste, being social outcasts for the rest of their life. The army is further developed, though at the expense of the navy. The navy becomes increasingly focused on the protection of maritime borders and protecting merchant vessels instead of projecting power. More hwacha, cannons, hand-cannons, multiple-rocket-launchers alongside Chinese weaponry such as firecrackers and fireworks are manufactured and armed to Korean troops. A massive palace complex similar to China's begins construction, estimated to be finished by 1425.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: Habemus Papam! Like a flash of lightening the words reach the distant outpost of pontifical authority, electrifying the people with the good news: Angelo, their Archbishop, is Pope. Angelo, who had spent his entire adult life serving God on that small island now weilds the keys that the risen Christ gave to Peter. The man who baptised children now-grown in a little parish church now sits on the throne of Peter as the vicar of God on earth. Unsurprisingly, there is a great clebration throughout the land. Grand Master Philibert sheds a quiet tear on hearing the news. The Greek Bishop, remembering his words to the Grand Master sixteen years ago, sends him a letter congratulating him on the success of his protege. Once he recovers from the initial jubilation, Philibert quickly realises the great benefits the new Pope John could bring to the Order. Noting that there are lots of matters relating to the Order which require His Holiness' attention, Philibert sails to Rome to meet the new Pope, to swear fealty and to discuss the aforementioned matters. Firstly, he requests Papal confirmation for the addition of a Tertiary grade to the Knight and Sergeant classes of the Order. Secondly, he requests confirmation of the Chapter General's decision to grant the Grand Master the additional title of Prince of Rhodes and Candia. Thirdly he asks that His Holiness put into action his plan to raise the Archbishop of Rhodes to Primate over all the Catholic Greek Islands (specifically those under the Order). Fourthly, the Archbishop-Elect of Rhodes, Robert of Devon, asks to be consecrated and installed in his new post. And finally, he simply asks the new Vicarius Christi to remember the Order and all it stands for. In non-pontifical news, Philibert sends a letter to Janus of Cyprus apologising for the difficulties caused by the revocation of the offer relating to Crete, and sending a quarter of the tax income from Crete for the year (since the budget was worked out assuming there would be half the normal income). Navy is expanded and improved.
 * Assam. Assam upgrades its military after the defeat by Koch. Assam begins to distance itself from Bengal as they did not offer support in the war. Assam offers an antebellum peace treaty with Koch.
 * Bengali support was not approved -Nate
 * Tondo continues to expand south, and sends 6000 settlers to Samar Island across the narrow strait to claim it in the name of Tondo. 12 blast furnaces around the capital are built to augment the increasing iron and mettalurgy industries of Tondo, and paved roads to and from Maynila are built to connect the Kingdom together. Rajah Gamgang starts to consolidate his power in the capital and orders all political opponents to be a part of the settling process enacted upon Tondo in the nearby islands, primarily to keep them away from seizing or threatening his power. Massive naval expansion in the regard of trade ships and naval craft commence, as Rajah Gambang, fearful of the Japanese ships that escort the tributary vessels heading to Japan, orders the construction and study of these war junks, as the Chinese call them. The fishing fleet expands to 500 boasts, while small war ships capable of fighting in rivers are increased in number. Five war junks are to be constructed within the year. The first public aklatan (library) opens in Central Maynila to further spread the knowledge gained by the Kingdom. Smaller libraries are planned to be built in Maynila, Kawit, and Tacloban Military personnel stands at 28,000 active troops across southern Luzon, and 52,000 additional men ready to be conscripted to defend the state. They are armed with swords, shields, and armor made from the blast furnaces. Roads in and round Maynila are built, and a town in the south, Kawit, is experiencing rapid population growth as fertile farmlands attract settlers there, along with abundant deposits of minerals in the area. This promts the Council of Kawit (Kataas-taasang Lupon ng Kawit) to petition Rajah Gambang for a read that connects Kawit to Maynila, thereby attracting more and more settlers. We ask the Ming and our overlord, Japan for some of their finest war junks so as the help Tondo defend the trade routes beneficial to both parties, and to help lessen the required ships used by Ming and Japan to patrol the area, as we would replace those ships with ours
 * Ma-I: Under the regency council and Queen Kalangitan, a re-organization of Ma-I infrastructure and society commences. Ma-I will still pay its  tribute to the Ming, but Tondo holds nominal control over foreign affairs and other things such as protection. The largest settlement in the area is named Li Han, after the first Huang of Ma-I. A port town in northern Ma-I, Beigang, is developed upon by expanding the port facilities, paving roads, and introducing two blast furnaces in the port.
 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. Ali ventures further North, traveling in the Ottoman Empire and wishes to see the Emperor.
 * OTTOMAN DIP: The Sultan meets Ali in his home in Ankara to talk about Mogadishu
 * Majapahit Empire: The Empire continues to solidify control of Java and restore destroyed infrastructure, while the ageing High Speaker continues to educate Witabhumi's son, whom he feels is nearly ready to become his "next vessel". With stability being gradually restored, cultural integration of Sumatra continues, and the High Speaker decides to send a small fleet to the Philippines to conduct exploration of the region and re-establish contact with the Tondo, whose word has not been heard of since the Mayak Wuruk glory days.
 * Order of the Enlightened: With the Order continuing the conversion of citizens, and the spread of Gunturism continuing, the need for a military force to protect and spread the faith emerges and the High Speaker decides to re-establish the organisation as a semi-autonomous military organisation, while retaining the same mission: defend and spread the Gunturist faith. With this in mind, the High Speaker appoints the Order's Grand Master as Susilo Slamet, a faithful general of the 1415 insurrection and the Malaccan War, who has served the faith without question since the late Guntur's visit to the Sunda Kingdom. With this in mind, the Order is given a small fleet of ships (at least 15) and an army of a total of 12,000 men to get started, all selected by the High Speaker and all to spread the faith beyond our borders when the time came.
 * Pomerania: Archduke Otto II officially joins the war in Brandeburg's side against Bohemia. Archduke Otto II prepares his 6000 troops in Stettin for a Danish/Holstein offensive into our lands, to defend the Archduchy against the Danes. Duke Casimir V, Archduke Otto II brother, being defiant as well as desperate to earn some glory, being in charge of the Pomeranian fleet, after receiving news that most of the Danish fleet is occupied in England blockading Scotland, he sends two letters, one in Scotland urging them to engage with the Danish fleet, promising them that as soon as the war is over, Pomerania shall help them against the England in return and another letter to Sweden, urging them to join the war and help him with their fleet to win a decisive naval battle against the Danish fleet to end the blockade.  Duke Casimir V also orders the best Pomerania agents to sabotage the Danish/Holstein fleet in Denmark/Holstein and/or burn it.  (MOD response needed)  Then Duke Casimir V leads the fleet of Pomerania against the Danish/Holstein fleet at home, seeking a decisive naval battle against the Danes.
 * Dear God no, you can't use agents to burn the Danish fleet.
 * Holland: The troop count is currently up to 12,000 men in the army. Our navy has at about 42 ships built. After hearing about an underground movement in Luxembourg, a similar one continues to go on here. Trading goes well with nations in our trade alliance. Farming goes well as usually this year. We stand clear for any suspicious French troops or people who may come to our nation now or in the future. The population continues to grow in a healthy rate this year. We send troops to Brandenburg to fight against them in the war. Our leader sides with Bohemia and the Emperor in this war.
 * Hainut: Military is building up slowly. Farms are doing good this year with many surpluses happening.
 * Blocky is making me confused I am not sending any ships to Burgundy ok. - Scarlet Outlaw
 * Ottoman Empire: 'The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. The Sultan begins to work on making movable walls and the idea of defences. The Sultan begins to work on huge moveable walls that work on stopping arrows that can cover 50 men, while 100 long towers are made. Mehmedi ask the Caliph if he can send his son to Cairo to study more about Islam and the Arabs way of war, Mehmed sends his son to Cairo but forces him to live a simple life.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population. With the riots across the vassals the government is sent in to stop any riots but the government halts their construction of mosque (but already built mosque will stay) but Serbian Muslims are recommend to move down south and to spread across the green areas and to populate the area.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants. With the riots across the vassals the government is sent in to stop any riots but the government halts their construction of mosque (but already built mosque will stay) but Wallachian Muslims are recommend to move down south and to spread across the green areas while they are recommended to them populate the area.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 300 and the goal is to kepp Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Bohemia: We engage the Brandenburger army in Sorbia with half of our forces, numbering 25,000 men, and subsequently crush them (Check algo.) The other 15,000 men are kept on standby in Bohemia proper in case they are needed elsewhere. We ask that the Teutons assist us in Brandenburg. We ask the Danish and Teutons to send their navies to help the Dutch. Our forces comprise of 30,000 regulars, and 10,000 mercenaries. After the defeat of the Brandenburger army, the northern half of the army marches for Berlin.
 * Empire of Japan: Shogun Yoshimochi begins personally teaching his son alongside some of the most famed samurai in the land who train the young Yoshikazu in the ways of leadership, waging war, and the code of the Samurai. He is recognized as an unparalleled prodigy in sword combat and also seems to have uncanny understanding battle tactics and leadership. He is trained alongside some of the notable sons of other clans, the Hosokawa, Date, and Shiba clans most notably. The young boys become fast friends and are notably all significant leaders. Yoshimochi seeing the importance of such a system proposes outside of the Assembly that the clan leaders of all the the 20 clans of Japan send their first born heirs to Kyoto for fostering under the tutelage of Japans most prominent samurai, philosophers, and leaders. the fostering of these young men is to be taken in such a way that when all these men grow up they will be not only as close as brothers but will cease some of the petty competition and fighting that has ravaged Japan before. Unexpectedly all 20 Daimyo clan leaders agree and the first born sons (or designated heir) are sent to be fostered in Kyoto under the watchful eye of the Imperial Guard, famous samurai, philosophers, among others. They are all within varying ages but quickly a very unusual codified form of honor is created as the samurai teachings of Bushido and the philosophical teachings of Japanese elders create a sense of earned mutual respect. The older kids already retain this respect but the others begin to earn it as the year goes on. Besides the creation of this education system the development of the Japanese banking system continues with some notable instances of money being stored in the bank by merchants and most notably the Ashikaga shogun himself. With the need for the expansion of the Manzhuguo colony the forts of Shinotashima and Saitama both see the expansion of the outer town which the two towns now see a decent amount of immigration from all across Japan as the laxer laws and potential for a new life brings the combined colonial population breaching somewhere around 1900. Keilung sees some expansion as well with a dialogue established between the three captured natives as well as the marriage of a merchant and one of the native women which was captured disarms quite a bit of tension. While about 30 more Japanese merchants come and settle down expanding the port facilities even building a warehouse in tandem with expanding the fort walls. However, with the notable union of the Taiwanese native and the Japanese merchant the raids stop and in this case some natives from the tribe establish contact and trade rather than a militaristic intent as before.
 * Grand Republic of Ragusa: The Republic solidifies its control of Dukljan lands and "reintroduces" them to the Western Rite. The administration in Dukljan lands is forced to speak Croatian to converse with the people which also influences the city of Dubrovnik itself.
 * Scotland: The rash and young King James I suddenly realizes that he has a lot more on his plate than he bargained for with a fullblown war with England. James drops the feudal feudmongering with the Douglasses and other prominent Scottish families and they unite, faced with the existential threat from the English menace. Though our navy is not as strong as the combined Danish-English forces, we strike enemy ships when they are weak, breaking them off from the main fleet and taking them down with our privateers in the remote and dangerous Western Isles. The Gaelic clans of the north have been momentarily pacified and enlisted into the levies of Scotland in order to defend against the English threat. As the English march on the Scottish Marches, we engage them in skirmishes as our combined army marches south, preparing for a conflict before the English reach Edinburgh. We hope to hold the English off in the southern uplands for so long as possible before we retreat to our more fortified locations in Central Scotland. Our goal is to wear down English manpower in a war of attrition and the Scottish occupy fortified locations across the nation in order to stretch the conflict out. We thank the Pomeranians for the efforts against Denmark and we ask the French for aid of some sort to be sent into remote Scottish ports by blockade runners or privateers.
 * Mayapan continues the integration of the southern city-states into the League. Each new state is expected to supply men to train and serve in the national army. Expansion continues in the southern regions of the nation. Having reached the ocean, the High Council agrees that expansion should occur northward along the coast of the Nuchol Sea (OTL Gulf of Mexico). The council seeks to improve commerce and communication between the many settlements of the Yucatan by constructing and maintaining roads between them. Due to Emperor-King Iktan's initiative, work continues to renovate and update existing buildings, roads, and to create plans for future upkeep and renovations.
 * Cologne: A few priests are caught selling indulgences for money, but overall the reform is quite successful. For many people in the dioceses nearby, this is a shock, but a warmly received one. Catholics from nearby countries begin flocking to Cologne to get these indulgences for themselves. Meanwhile, Archbishop Dietrich II is distressed about the situation between Bohemia and Brandenburg. He writes a solemn letter to both Bohemia and Brandenburg, expressing his extreme disappointment with what he sees is a pointless war and waste of resources that could more effectively be used to defend Christendom against the Ottomans. He offers to draft an agreement between the two nations to be enforced by Cologne itself, and calls upon other discontented HRE nation-states (MOD RESPONSE) to join him in this bid for peace. In the event that this does not achieve anything, Cologne supports its ally, Bohemia, offering to send 900 men and 90 knights, along with weapons made in Westphalen and (recently) Cologne itself. The Archbishop also sends 30 of Cologne’s physicians and canons to assist Cologne’s forces with illness and injury.
 * Essen: Abbess Adelphina is encouraged somewhat by the establishment of a Court of Discipline in Bohemia, and further encouraged by the decree against indulgences made in Cologne that is slowly spreading to Westphalen. Now that the German bible is complete and public, Adelphina gives lectures nearby and invites people to come see it for themselves. Near the end of the year, she and an envoy of canonesses take the German bible around to do a tour of the little towns in Essen and Cologne. As the year comes to a close, Adelphina is lecturing in northern Cologne, where the people are distressed by a potential war with Brandenburg. Adelphina’s words bring them guidance in these rough times. Finally, both the Archbishop and the Abbess send a letter of congratulations to the new Pope.
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: Once again war plagues us as Pomerania attacks with all of its navy to the coast of Zeeland as 13/25 of our ships are gone to help England blockade Scotland. We engage the Pomeranian navy, all 34 of its ships with our 12 ships and Holstein also defends with 17 of its ships, totaling 29 ships in all. The naval engagement in the Baltic is a long and brutal one, but eventually we emerge victorious over the Pomeranian fleet and the Danish and Holstein naval crew are hailed as heroes. We continue to defend Holstein with 3k troops on our end and 3k troops on Holstein's end, having the number be 6000 in case of another land invasion. My reconstruction of Copenhagen, particularly the University continues as well as my tultage of Princess Emma. Rebuildment of the Danish Army also continues.
 * Holstein: We raise our navy, 17 strong to defend against the Pomeranian naval attack and we are victorious. We celebrate our naval victory and internal development continues.
 * Kingdom of France: In February, while at his palace with his mistress, Charles VI, known as the Mad King is declared dead by courtiers. The same week of hearing this, his eldest alive son, Louis XI, is coronated in Paris as the King of France. After watching and being around the regents for the last eighteen years, Louis has built up an ambitious character and favors interventionist foreign policy. Almost immediately after Louis is coronated he orders the reintroduction of the talented advisers known as the Marmousets to help balance the royal budget every year and restore royal prestige. Although over half of them have died, the Marmosets still alive, like former Regent Nicolas du Bosc, is ordered to select new potential marmousets. Foreign policy wise, Louis denounces Henry V of England and establishes an embargo between the two nations, and calls on other nations to do so. Louis V hires some small blockade runners and privateers to attempt to deliver supplies to the Scottish army. He also secretly authorizes the use of piracy on English merchant ships going past the French coast. Louis, also believing in the unity of France, "assumes" the participation in the War of the Lions, and officially declares military support for the Magrivate of Brandenburg. The king sees this war as an opportunity to improve relations with his powerful vassal of Burgundy, and to greatly increase influence in Germany and Italy. An army of forty-thousand men are risen to assist Brandenburg, and have the target of seizing Prague. Although the nation is hyper-focused on improving its army. Louis continues to cement relations with Castile and the Papal States. (Add me to the algo)
 * When word of King Louis' succession, and his decision to enter the war, reaches the Burgundian army, the ranks break into the chant of "Vive Louis". Duke John also writes to the new king, thanking him for the support.
 * Your support is implausible. - BlockyFrance 1.png
 * Worng. The declaration of support given by Holland, and the attempted blockade by it, represents a threat to Burgundy itself, and by extension as a vassal, France. That the HR emperor would support direct aggression against France's most loyal vassal would push the new, not mad, French king to throw his support behind his vassal, and his vassals ally. Plus, it'd be an opportune time to expand French influence into the Rhineland, because why take twenty years by peace when you can do in one year by force. I am that guy (talk) 02:48, August 5, 2016 (UTC)
 * In the Duchy of Milan, the condottieres who led the Milanese court under Gian Galeazzo place internal pressure upon Duke Gian Maria Visconti. Fearing a military uprising due to the relative peacefulness during his reign, Gian Maria mobilizes the large assemblage of condottieres and sends them into Savoy, claiming that the crown belongs to the Visconti family through his grandmother, Bianca of Savoy. Overjoyed by the declaration of war, mercenaries flock to Milan which sends them forth en masse to assault Turin. They meet the Savoyard forces at Chivasso, and utterly decimate them. Meanwhile, Gian Maria continues to support the arts for which he has made his name in Italy - and indeed in Europe.
 * Bahmanids: Firuz secretly orders the formation of the Secret Guard, a covert force with two objectives: to monitor the nobles in case they try another revolt,  and to serve as a 'special ops' force to provide retaliation capacity against those who support Hindu sedition . Persian, a language with high status but not linked to religious texts, is made the main court language. Finally, Firuz's son and heir apparent, Ali Nadeem Shah, marries a Hindu woman related to the (former) royalty of Vijayanagar.
 * About 500 years early -Natemod
 * I kinda worded that wrong. I was thinking something along the lines of the Ismaili assassins, but I'll accept your judement.-The Guardian
 * Papal States: His Holiness John XXIII continues the work of his predecessors in establishing Christian unity. He continues to support the Papal military and uses his experience as a knight to further advance their establishment. He establishes his former position as Primate of Catholics in the Aegean, and begins to write letters to members of the Orthodox establishment to help pursue the efforts of church unity to both save the Orthodox and unite the people of God. Concerned over the state of violence in the Empire, the Pope demands that foreign entities cease their involvement in the Holy Roman Empire's civil conflict and focus their efforts elsewhere such as the Balkans and North Africa. 
 * Chimu Empire:  The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands eastward toward the Lima Valley. A baby boom continues. The Chimu crown prince is married to the crown princess of Ica Nazca, a vassal of the Chimu. Resarch into improving the sewage system continues.


 * ​Chancay State: The Chancay work on their military and road systems, continuing to integrate them with the Chimu. A baby boom continues.
 * Ica-Nazca: The state expands southward along the coast and works on its military.

1419
<p style="font-weight:normal;">''' The War of the Lions bursts into full force as Brandenburg and Bohemia, along with their respective alliances, begin to actually make war against each other. '''


 *  Bohemia defends Sorbia convincingly and is poised to launch a counter-attack against the Brandenburgian forces. 


 *  Denmark crushes the Pomeranian fleet in Baltic Sea, allowing for a siege of the Brandenburgian ally to be more effective. 


 *  Burgundy defeats Holland at Rotterdam, paving the way for expansion throughout the Low Countries by the Brandenburgian ally. 

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' Elsewhere in Europe, Milan defeats Savoy and Gian Maria Visconti is crowned Duke of Milan and Savoy. The status of the anti-Milanese coalition is now in flux as its most vocal leader, Amadeus VIII, is currently imprisoned and possibly facing banishment. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' Portuguese settlers arrive at the Madeira Islands, beginning their colonization after their recent discovery. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' An explorer from Majapahit reconnects with Tondo after being sent searching for the Philipines. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' During a routine meeting between John of Burgundy and the Dauphin of France, a would-be assassin runs  up and manages to chop off the right hand of the Burgund Duke before being hacked down by the French guards. With the assassin dead, it is impossible to trace the source of this attempt, but some nobles in Burgundy begin to suspect French involvement, as John is bed-ridden by such a mutilating wound. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;"> An angry mob of Hussite supporters throws several government members out the window of the Berlin Town Hall, an incident known as the "Defenestration of Berlin" 

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;"> Filippo Bruschinelli submits his designs for Florence Cathedral 

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' Umar Hamza Khan solidifies his control over Delhi. He then invades and conquers Gwalior. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' To the east, Bengal conquers Arakan. As part of Bengal policy, Islam is spread through the conquered territories and people are encouraged to convert to Islam. Non-Muslims pay taxes unless they convert. Many convert to Islam, although Islam remains a minority in the new territory. '''

<p style="font-weight:normal;font-size:13px;">''' The King of Oman sends envoys to the Gurkani Sultanate to explore trade relations and the potential of an alliance. Meanwhile, explorers are sent to India to determine the economic value of becoming involved in that region. ''' <p style="font-weight:normal;">


 * The Gurkani Sultanate:  Amir Shahrukh Mirza was proclaimed as the Sultan of the Sultanate, starting a new era under his rule. The Gurkani population rose to about 52 million with the people flocking to cities like Herat, Isfahan, Merv, Aktau, Samarkand and Iskenderun; primarily due to their strategic position in the spice trade. The military was primarily composed of medium-to-heavy cavalry, composite bow, lance, mace, and sword. Heavy cavalrymen wore plated chain mail or metal lamellar armor, with their horses also wearing leather or metal lamellar barding. The infantry was equipped with daggers and swords to be utilised in close combat against the enemy and elephants as well as carts were used for the transportation of supplies. Cannons were constructed to serve as siege weaponry whilst experimental muskets were beginning to be developed. Naval bases were established at Kerch and Gamrun to establish the presence of the Gurkani fleet in the Black Sea and the Persian Gulf respectively, keen on controlling the sudden surge in piracy. The Gurkani Navy developed galleys and carracks to augment the smaller patrol fleets. Agriculture and commerce were at the Sultanates forepoint, with wheat, rice and barley being amongst the largest produced crops. Fishery was promoted as well as it helped in sustaining the fishery villages that were present along the coast, as well as the major port cities of Iskenderun, Basra, Gamrun, Aktau and Kashgarh. The Sultanate mined large amounts of silver and gold, to serve as currency as well as ornaments and jewellry. Importance was also given on the development of proper roads for the merchants utilizing the trade routes through the Sultanate.  With a significantly large amount of revenue being collected annually from the taxes imposed on the merchants bound by the Compact of Iskenderun, the royal treasery had been soon overflown with gold and silver. Keen on putting the revenue to good use, the Sultan had diverted funds toward the development of the Gurkani Black Sea and Persian Gulf fleets, modeling it along the lines of it Mediterranean counterpart. Funds were also transfered toward the repair and improvement of the roads being utilized by merchants on their way to China and India. At the very same time, importance was also given to the development of siege weaponry including cannons. With envoys arriving from the King of Oman, they're treated with dignity and offers for trade are accepted. However, the Sultan refuses to accept an alliance for now, politely rejecting the offer. Meanwhile, the Sultans son, Ibrahim Mirza's wife gives birth to a son who is named Mahmud Mirza. About around the same time, the Sultan raises an army of 150,000 soldiers who are sent to Kerch to await further orders.
 * ​Jalayirid Sultanate: Sultana Rukhsana Daula continued her reign over the Sultanate. Acting as a vassal to the Gurkani Sultanate, she would only be answerabe to the Gurkani Amir. The military and the navy were developed along the same lines as their Gurkani counterparts, with a major naval base constructed at Iskenderun where the Jalayirid fleet was also situated. Jalayirid authorities continue to work on the construction of a fleet at İskenderun, working side by side with Castilian authorities. The Jalayirid Sultana, Rukhsana Daula would continue to develop the trade route leading from his Mediterannean port of İskenderun to his Persian Gulf port of Basra, hoping to make it much more advanced and efficient. Rukhsana Daula, Shahrukhs daughter continued her control over the Sultanate as the Queen Regent, stregthening ties with the Gurkani Sultanate. 
 * Gurkani Diplomacy: The Gurkani Sultan whilst quite angered at the defeat of the Astrakhan Khanate sends gifts to the Russian Prince, thanking him for the safe return of his daughter, Mariam Mirza and the former Astrakhan Khagan, Karimov Ishakih.
 * Duchy of Burgundy: Following victory over Holland, both at land and sea, John, now known as John the Fearless, is crown Count of Holland, Zeeland, Hainut, Friesland, and Lord of Utrecht. The remnants of the Hollander army are disbanded, and the survivors distributed among the various units of the Burgundian regulars, bringing the army to over 24,000 men. New mercenaries are hired to replace those mercs units depleted or wiped out, bringing the total of the army to 26,000 men. As he prepares to march east, the assassination attempt occurs. Duke John is restricted to his bed. Prince Philip, Johns eldest son, is selected to lead the army east. While marching, Philip hears the growing rumor amongst his fathers nobles suggesting the French monarchy was involved. He tells them, that while he can't eliminate royal involvement, the action of the royally appointed bodyguards, placed in the aftermath of Duke Louis of Orleans assassination, is a factor detracting from that theory. In any case, Philip points out, even if the monarchy was behind it, it'd be suicide to rebel against them in their state. As Philip leads the Burgundian army, he sees a border sign: "BRANDENBURG". With Holland subdued, forty warships are left to keep peace there, while the remaining one hundred leave for the Baltic. Prince Philip hears of the agreed upon armistice, and has his troops make camp with those of Brandenburg while negotiations proceed. He also sends word back to his forces in Holland, but unfortunately it arrives far too late, as the Burgundian fleet had already left for the Baltic. Unaware of the armistice, the Burgundian navy meets up with the survivors of the first battle of the Baltic, and engages the Danish fleet between Sjaeland and Bornholm, near the island of Rugia.


 * Chimu Empire: The Empire continues working on increasing its military and expands eastward toward the Lima Valley. A baby boom continues. The Chimu crown prince is married to the crown princess of Ica Nazca, a vassal of the Chimu. Resarch into improving the sewage system continues.
 * ​Chancay State: The Chancay work on their military and road systems, continuing to integrate them with the Chimu. A baby boom continues.
 * Ica-Nazca: The state expands southward along the coast and works on its military. The first road from southern Ica-Nazca to the northern tip of the Chimu Empire is completed, enabling trade everywhere within the Chimu realm of influence.
 * Majapahit Empire: High Speaker Cayaha has officially "found a new vessel", and thus Gustimajahara (Godking) Kuwat Wira of the Majapahit Empire is crowned, and thus he begins the process of securing political power, starting with the creation of the Keeper's Council, with official the purpose of advising and consulting the Godking on key decisions and matters of domestic and foreign affairs. Over the course of the year, the Council and the Board of Ministers remain rather calm, with the ocassional air of tension and hostility appearig, as some members of the Board seem to resent the creation of the Keeper's Council. At the same time, solidification of control in Java continues while simultaneously, 15 ships begin construction, along with 12,000 new recruits to replace those given to the Order. After a period of time, Admiral Buana Dwi finally reaches Tondo and decides to extend a hand of peace, rather than a sword of conflict, unlike Hayak Wuruk beforehand, who came to this very nation more than half a century ago and paid the price in blood. Now, the Admiral, is surprised by how much it has changed since they previously appeared, with previously unknown ship designs and new people entering the land originating from a nation across the Seas to the North that the visitors call "Nippon", and signified with a flag of a Rising Sun. He is able to tell the Godking of this new land and new people when he returns, and the Godking takes an interest. He then sends Admiral Buana to serve as the Majapahit emissary to Tondo, and make the peace between the Tondo and the Majapahit official.
 * The Order of the Enlightened: The Order begins to construct training grounds to train new members of the Order, and conversion of citizens in the Empire continues. The Order also begins construction of a port area in Western Sumatra and another one in Mindanao is planned, although the Godking refuses to allow authorisation in Mindanao until the situation with the Tondo and the newly discovered nation is settled. The Grand Master orders the creation of a monastery (since I cannot come up with a creative name yet) for members of the Order to reside, train and preach to the Trimurti, along with accompanying fortifications in the event of an attack. In the meantime, 2500 potential members reach the Order, but of those men, only 1200 could become a part of the Order's military branch and the remainder are assigned to convert and to spread the word of the Trimurti. With this in mind, the Order begins to organise people who can specialise at specific roles. Some for manning ships, some to convert, some for the armed branch of the Order and some for use in convert operations, mostly reconnaissance and assassinations. The result is that the Order allows members to enroll, all starting with some degree of combat training and other members being enrolled for other purposes, should they fail to pass combat training (if they live).
 * Due to the blatant failure that was the invasion of Tunis, King Alfonso V of Aragon becomes popularly known as Alfonso the Hypocrite. His reputation tarnished, the King scrambles to evacuate all Aragonese citizens from the marauding Abbasids swarming across the border with Argelia. The embarrassing loss of Argelia devastates him, and he enters a deep depression, rendering him unable to rule. As a result, Prince John becomes Regent of Aragon. With both the army and navy wrecked, Prince John immediately begins to rebuild the navy, ordering the acceleration of caravel and ship production, but chooses not to raise another army at this time, choosing to focus only on the Armada. The ten ships that are completed this year and the surviving vessels already in the navy are immediately assigned to protect Aragon's remaining possessions, lest the Abbasids decide to advance further and invade the heartland.
 * Abbasid Caliphate: In this year, the Caliph ordered the annexation of Algiers. The soldiers were reluctant to follow these orders through Marwan ibn Zayyid, the Abbasid governor of Africa. "How can we stand up against the Nazernes again?" they thought. But then they remembered the bounties of Allah in history, the blessings on Ibrahim, Nuh, Dawud, and Sekendar, and that Allah is the best at planning. So they waged war against the men of Aragon, and Allah granted the victory. This territory was given to the new Emirate of Africa, centered at Tunis. The Spanish are allowed to leave the nation and return to their homeland, but any who wish to stay are free to remain Christian so long as they pay the Jizya tax. After Ibn Tulun took all he needed from the Emperor of China, he journeyed by sea southward to the Empire of Majapihut. Ibn Tulun was shocked to see the treatment of Muslims in this nation, and wrote extensively on this strange idolatry used by the Hindus there. So he did not stay long, and continued his journey to the Bahaminid Sultanate in India. When the boy Al-Najm was 15 years old, his gang of outlaws was rivaled by many larger gangs in the Red lands. But using his cunning and will he built up over his life, Al-Najm began a campaign to outdo all the other gangs in Egypt, and become a most legendary leader. Some cannons were captured in the war on Aragon and were analyzed in Alexandria.
 * Benin: With the conquest of Songhai, the Songhai people are quickly cowed into obedience, with the fighting age men either killed, enslaved and sold in North Africa, or forced to convert to Kuzirism upon pain of death. The women are doled out to the victorious Bini warriors, with some getting as many as three or four additional wives, and tens of thousands of Bini subjects begin to trickle into the newly conquered lands to settle them. Dozens of odi are immediately laid down and construction begins to serve as outposts for the Imperial Army of Benin, and proselytization of the Kuzir faith begins at once. Many have already converted seeking peace and stability over resistance and death, and they are permitted to remain on their lands with their families. Many esuku are built throughout the land to begin teaching the doctrines of Kuzirism in Songhai, indoctrinating both the old and the young in the ways of Oghodua and the secrets of nature behind which he hides himself. With the armies of Songhai destroyed along with most of the fighting age men, the call to fight against the Bini armies disappear. The Tuaregs submit to Edo's rule, and lands of the Mossi are brought to heel in the same manner as Songhai. Great care is taken with the libraries of Gao and Timbuktu, who's books and manuscripts are carefully copied into Edo and Yoruba, and transferred to the libraries of Edo and other major cities in the empire. Many Songhai nobles who resisted Bini expansion into their lands and domination of the country are executed or forced to convert. Upon those captured by the Bini warriors is the defeated Mohammad Benkan, who is transferred to the Royal Palace in Edo, where he is brought before Oba Ewuare. Though he was highly distrustful of the man, Ewuare could not help but be impressed with the bravery of Benkan and his men, and his devotion to the protection of his honor as a leader. Expressing his deep respect for Benkan, Ewuare states his wishes the man to serve him as one of his generals. All he would be required to do would be to convert to Kuzirism, but his life would be filled with wealth and riches, and his way of life in Gao would not be infringed upon. When presented with a seat on the uzama as a member of the warrior caste leadership, Benkan is presented with a deal that few other men would have gotten in their lifetimes. With few other options available to him, Benkan submits to the will of Oba Ewuare and Benin, and converts to Kuzirism, stating "better to live as a lion among men than as a sheep among gods". Benkan's family is moved to Edo to live with the Oba has hostages until Benkan has earned the trust of Ewuare, while Benkan is permitted to return to Gao as a governor of the Oba, albeit under the supervision of the Royal Regiment. With the integration and assimilation of Songhai underway, the Oba turns his attention toward the pursuits of science and the arts, as well as the development of his nation's infrastructure. Many new cities are built throughout the northern regions of Benin, and the growth of the population in the new territories continues to remain at a steady pace. With near complete domination of the Niger River, the Oba has control over the most fertile and productive farmland in Africa, with an agricultural output superior to even that of the Nile (the Niger is actually more productive that the Nile is in OTL). Taking from the people of Songhai the farmlands and refashioning them to be more productive utilizing superior methods of farming and crop-rotation, the authorities of Benin are able to increase the food production in the fertile soils of the Niger regions. The cities that exist along the river are rebuilt in accordance to the grid plans of Benin, and sanitation laws are enforced in the newly annexed regions. A census for the population of the nation is scheduled for 1420 by decree of the Oba. Elsewhere, as trade with Morocco and North Africa increases, the need for a place of rest for the sailors becomes more apparent as time passes. The ports of Mali once served this purpose, though following the conquest of Songhai, access to the ports in Jolof was denied by the Mansa of Mali. Punitive tariffs on goods be transported by the Bini merchants forced to land in Jolof also reached a point where it was no longer profitable to do so. Prince Uwaifiokun and Ezeani are consulted on the matter by Oba Ewuare, and both point to an old map their warriors acquired following the conquest of the city of Gao. This map, produced by the Arabs centuries ago, highlights a set of islands west of Jolof and as far as the Arabs were able to find, uninhabited. With the Oba's permission, Ezeani and a force of 500 warriors and twenty epeepe set sail for the islands to determine if this claim is true. Upon the reaching the islands, the warriors determine that no prior peoples had ever landed on the island, and establish an outpost on the largest island were they await the first settlers to begin work on a trade outpost for passing Bini vessels. The Bini name the islands , and claim them in the name of the Oba of Benin and the Kuzir faith.
 * Bohemia: We call for an armistice with Brandenburg in the War of the Lions. Our troops halt their maneuvers, as Wenceslaus IV sees the futility of fighting with his cousin. Wenceslaus V continues to look for a wife. We prepare for any further hostilities in case the armistice fails, however. We call for the warring nations to come to the city of Prague, to negotiate the terms of peace.
 * Sweden: We raise 9000 troops and attack Denmark for their attack on our ally Brandenburg, citing our support for the Brandenburgian claim, marching upon Blekinge, poised to take over the cities Sölvesborg and Kristianopel. We continue expanding our infrastructure and economy, and renew our settling program North.
 * Cologne: Archbishop Dietrich II, miffed that both Bohemia and Brandenburg (and also apparently all the dissatisfied HRE states) have ignored him, reluctantly sends his meagre troops to join the War of the Lions. This is accompanied by a brief apology to Bohemia. Dietrich II wishes he could do more, so he prays that the Lord will forgive him and the citizens of Cologne for not being able to defend Christendom effectively. He also prays that the Lord will forgive him for not stopping this pointless war before it began. He prays for the recently-conquered people of Holland, and sends a further team of 30 physicians to assist any and all injured on the front. He reiterates his support for peace and, now, Bohemia’s armistice. We must be fighting the Ottomans, not ourselves!
 * Essen: Abbess Adelphina continues on her second wind and brings the German Bible around Cologne on a tour, then moves into Westphalen on this mission. On the way, she peacefully passes through nations such as Berg and Mark, where her strange tour makes waves. Meanwhile, the people in Cologne and Westphalen tell tales of the ancient abbess who guards a single German bible with her life and walks around excitedly as if possessed by mystical forces for the power of good. It brings the people hope.


 * Mogadishu: The nation's income continues to grow, both from increased tariffs and from the Royal Trade Fleet. Our factories expand and make more money. We further expand toward the Jubba River, as canals, dikes, and ditches are being built. The land surrounding the Jubba-Shebelle Rivers become more fertile. 10,000 local tribesman and foreign settlers became citizens of our nation last year due to our policies of land reclamation and immigration attraction. Ali ventures further North, traveling to the Gurkani Sultanate and wishes to visit the Sultan.
 * ​Gurkani Diplomacy: Ali is given an audience with the Gurkani Sultan, Shahrukh Mirza and is treated with dignity.
 * Ottoman Empire: 'The Sultan works on building schools across the Ottoman Empire and works on hiring people across the state. The Sultan is heard saying during the Siege of Istanbul " Let all of Europe can and kill me if they want this Empire to die". The Sultan opens up military schools and pick the best troops out of the army to the schools and a man named Walid Kaan Ziya al-Din begins to make his way past his peers and is sent to Ankara to meet with the Sultan. Mehmed (or now known to the people "The man with the long beard") and declares he is a Sultan and that the Ottomans will enter a new era of an Islamic deen, and he begins to send son Murad 2 to an Islamic school. The Sultan begens to work on making movable walls and the idea of defences. The Sultan begins to work on huge moveable walls that work on stopping arrows that can cover 50 men, while 100 long towers are built. An army of 100,000 is raised and is sent to Istanbul and lay seigh to the city as the moveable walls and the long towers and sent, while 90 ships are sent to Gloden Horn and fire upon the city while an army is sent to north of Istanbul. The Sultan ask for the whole Muslim World to free Istanbul and to be apart of the army that Allah might bless. Mehmedi ask the Caliph if he can send his son to Cairo to study more about Islam and the Arabs way of war, Mehmed sends his son to Cairo but forces him to live a simple life.
 * Serbia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 1000 more mosques - mostly in the South. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population. With the riots across the vassals the government is sent in to stop any riots but the government halts their construction of mosque (but already built mosque will stay) but Serbian Muslims are recommend to move down south and to spread across the green areas and to populate the area.
 * Wallachia (Ottoman vassal): The sultan begins to create 800 more mosques - mostly in the South, and reciting peasants for the army. More imams are sent to Serbia in hope of converting the population.. The troops are order to not fire unless fired upon, the troops begin to work on defenses. The castle are now worked on with Peasants. With the riots across the vassals the government is sent in to stop any riots but the government halts their construction of mosque (but already built mosque will stay) but Wallachian Muslims are recommend to move down southand to spread across the green areas while they are recommended to them populate the area.
 * Epirus (Ottoman vassal): The invading army is brought down to 300 and the goal is to keep Epirotan people in line, while the state begins to send aid to civilians after Sultan Mehmed is heard saying "Let the Christians, Jews and anyone get food ... so long as they stay with the state."
 * Abbasid dip: We send 30,000 troops through Syria to aid the Ottomans take Constantinople
 * Brunei: The Sultan begins constructing mosques and recruiting citizens to the army. Trade deals are offered to the states of India and to Ming China. Warships are constructed to protect the port of Kota Batu.
 * OOC Brunei: Would it be possible to request a figure on my troop numbers?
 * Castile moves to put down the revolt in Morocco.
 * META Side note: it seems implausible for them to have revolted all at once. I understand that revolts need to happen but I am doubtful that they would happen as a sudden surge like this.
 * Duchy of Thuringen: After seeing a massive war just go on in the HRE, Duke Frederick recommends that the city guard defend the capital city of Erfurt. Frederick asks the states of Pomerania, Bohemia and Austria for an alliance. Our military has a bout 2000 troops in it. A large scale wall with scouting towers is starting to be built around the capital Erfurt. A nation bank is being built within the capital. Since the war in the HRE has ended, we start to trade again with our neighboring states.
 * Ethiopia: Gabra sends holy men around to teach the bible so most people in the cites will know how to read, but he also says everyone should be as holy as the pope. He commissions a great church to be built in Adulis, also town guard of 200 is sent to Adulis before the main population arrives.
 * Empire of Japan: Shogun Yoshimochi continues his training regimen of his son who is now 14 and one of the oldest of the current group of boys being taught as wards in Kyoto under Japans master samurai and philosophers. He is also taught by one of the most successful merchants in Japan of the finer points of finance and money management as well as some other economic techniques. This is to be extended to the other Daimyo heir apparents. The Japanese settlement of Manzhuguo continues with a few hundred people establishing a few farming communities outside of Shinotashima utilizing their own crops as well as local ones to begin providing a self sufficient amount of food to the the rest of the colony. The Shogun himself appoints a member of the Ashikaga clan as the governor of the colony who takes up residence in Shinotashima shortly thereafter. The Colony of Keiling continues to expand a bit as more cooperative policies with the Taiwanese natives as their trade expands significantly with many choice goods being traded for basic Japanese items and tools which are of immense value to the Taiwanese natives. The Colony expands to about 100 as the new friendly nature of the Keilung colony and its new trading opportunity has started to attract some high quality and powerful merchants who wish to turn Keilung into a "Trade City to which nothing can match" The Keilung colony is hence turned over to nominal control of a high level merchant who is given free reign to develop the colony but only hire and utilize Ashikaga soldiers and trade ships for his dealings (outside of his own personal ships) effectively retaining control of the trade of the colony and preventing another Daimyo from infringing on the Shoguns affirmed colonial rights. The Japanese delegation holding residence in Tondo makes contact with Majapahit and demands to know their intentions bringing nearly 200 hired guards to the current residence of Majapahits ambassador mostly as a show of force. The Shogun continues the development of his personal navy building more of the Large scale war junks arming them with some cannons and a large force of soldiers in tandem with the sailors for a power projection purpose.
 * Majapahit Diplomacy (as Admiral Buana Dwi): I, on behalf of the Majapahit Empire and Gustimajahara Kuwat Wira, was sent to Tondo to broker a formal peace and end to hostilities between the two nations that began more than half a century ago. However, given my current circumstances and the encounter with your people, I do not suppose establishing trade relations with Nippon would be a bad idea either. Regardless, on behalf of the Empire, I come not with the flames of war, but with a token of peace in mind. OOC NOTE: I am merely playing as the Admiral on this particular piece of diplomacy. As time passes, things begin to change.
 * Iroquois Confederacy: The victory over the Delaware is both a joyous occasion and a tragic one. The leader of the Iroquois, Akaitcho fell in the final battle. His braves were able to continue fighting until the Delaware threw down their tomahawks and surrendered. Now the chief of the Mohawk and presumptive chief of all Iroquois, Notaku once again assembles his fellow chiefs to decide who will lead in Akaitcho's place. Due to his work with the other tribes, a unanimous decision is made to make Notaku head chief. Following his father's legacy, the new chief begins integrating the remaining Delaware people into the Iroquois Confederacy. Trade throughout the north east flourishes. Villages start turning into towns and Nowadaga's population exceeds 1000. The Delaware are taught the farming techniques of the Iroquois and trade starts to extend south along the coast.
 * The Kingdom of England: King Henry V, is conservative with wars and battles on the frontlines of Scottish territory. As the Danish and English armies begin meeting in Scotland, they begin to push north toward Edinburgh, encamping the city, meeting a head on Scottish army, engaging in warfare. Henry V sends his finest generals to begin warring and leading the Scottish war, meanwhile the English navy in the south is defending the English Channel, and is embargoing all French goods and trade, and refusing to let any ships to pass to French northern ports from Scotland, or any others that would sail through English waters to reach France. England expands their navy and military. Danish forces begin raiding the northern lands of Scotland near Stromness and Dornoch, (KK can confirm if need be.) Ports are continued to be blockaded, and the English navy attacking Scottish coastlines is more restrictive in being careless of allowing Privateers and Scots to pull them from the bulk of ships which ravage the seas. England begins investing more money into the Scottish war, hiring privateers, pirates, and merchant warships, and mercenary galleys to help defend in case France tries to muster up a sea force, and if Scotland continues to try to battle for the water. King Henry V, strengthens his alliances with Aragon, Brittany and Denmark. And asks for continued economic support from the Kingdom of Aragon, promising support in the near future. England also asks for economic support from their old ally The Kingdom of Sweden.
 * Wales: A large muster army from Wales is ported to Scottish shores landing in Ayr, and begins invading Scottish lands, destroying farmland, towns and slaughtering their peoples. Wales expands their military and economy, and sends more economic support to England, in order to add extra economic strength to the war. Wales continues centralizing.
 * Dublin: The large garrison of English-Danish troops which were stocked in Ireland, finally hit Scottish coast, sailing north, landing in Glasgow, the city, is immediately under siege, as the English forces terrorize the surrounding towns, not allowing them to get people out, or send help to the besieged city. Dublin increases its military and navy, and English ships are split, a southern portion, helping protect Brittany ports, and keeping trade ships protected and safe for trade routes, and a northern portion begins encircling Scottish shores and ports, using water-Parthian tactics to unload small organized groups of soldiers to loot and pillage towns, and work along the entire coast, devastating Scottish economy and infrastructure.
 * Pomerania: Archduke Otto II full of anger, mourns for his dead brother and vows to avenge his brother, Duke Casimir V that died in the lost naval battle against Denmark. Archduke Otto II leads his 6000 troops to invade Denmark/Holstein with the help of our ally Sweden that is also invading Danish/Holstein.  Archduke Otto II calls on all Germans in Denmark and Holstein to rise against Eric of Pomerania, promising them their independence, as well as the Danes, citing that their ruler is incapable of ruling their great nation, since he brought so many disasters upon them, however he also sends the best Pomerania agents to cause unrest and revolts in Danish/Holstein not believing he should totaly depend on luck.  (MOD response needed)  What remains of the Pomeranian fleet helps the army to invade Denmark/Holstein.
 * Otto and his agents fail.
 * Grand Republic of Ragusa: The Dukljan governors begin amassing their wealth as the feudal system is abolished and effectiveness is increased. This puts the oligarchic families in a position of even increased power and they begin to solidify their status, de facto making themselves the only ones who can rule. The Senate remains filled with all patrician families but they are forced to stay silent as the majority of the non-patrician population supports the oligarchic status. They bring Croatian in as an official administrative language which is favourable among the population and keeps them content. With the power of the patricians being abolished the numerous homines novi are given land as a way to buy their loyalty. This marks a new age of the Republic. Although it still is a maritime nation, its government is led by an oligarchy.
 * Norway: As the War of Lions heats up and an inner Kalmar war begins we maintain our position of neutrality and not being in the war. We begin to focus on economic development focusing on mining in northern regions of copper. Development of the county of Jamgtland begins with many roads and building being build to link us to Sweden. A port is planned out on the Border of Norway and sweden being close to OTL Gothenberg. The Ports is named Havetberg (City of the Sea). In the cities merchant groups begin to pop up with one notable one being calix aureus as a group they have considerable influence over the north sea trade routes being able to gain influence in many important ports around the north sea. Norwegian trade routes continue to bring in new wealth with them stretching all the way to brittany. King Jonathan's wife Queen Katharina gives birth to a boy and heir to the throne who is named Mikkel. In Oslo and Bergen the Arts flourish like never before with many brillant artists and writers appearing in the cities after opening up the new Roman and Greeco idea based universities the Scientae Dei and Creande Dei are officially open to the public, The norwegian navy is continually expanded and upgraded becoming an ever increasing force in the north sea. Army is expanded and upgraded. Inside of Kola more settlements are founded with our influence over the peninsula increasing every day. On Iceland the development of the fisheries around the Island continuing interestingly enough the Springs in Iceland are tapped into to give freshwater to the mainland. On the faroes agriculture is increased with sheep grazing and subsquently wool increasing as well there begins to be whaling operations increasing there as well.In shetland and orkney fisheries grow as well.
 * Grand Boyardom of Russia: With the conclusion of the White War, Russia begins massive naval reforms. While the fleet was originally a large body of vessels protecting Russian trade interests, Russia realizes that the time has come to protect its interest via its navy. The First and Second Fleets are commissioned; the first one being stationed in the Baltic Sea, the second one being stationed in the Black Sea. The Rechnykhsudov (River Ship) Fleet is also created. Unlike the First and Second Fleets, which are controlled by admirals, the Rechnykhsudov is controlled by one commander over the major river fleets. Currently, there is the Rechnykhsudov-Volga and the Rechnykhsudov-Dnieper. Moscow sees increased trade due to protected river trade routes. In the meantime, the roads to former Golden Horde territories see construction, having seen significant weathering at the hands of the Timurids and the Golden Horde itself. The former territories are turned into the Crimean Princedoms, with three divisions created: The Princedom of Chernimore, the Princedom of Princedom of Astrazemil, and the Princedom of Crimea. OTL Kherson sees significant development as refugees from former Astrakhanate civilians. The area becomes a popular area for Russia's Muslims to relocate. As Russia signs trade deals with the Gurkani Sultanate, they wish to improve relations with the Khanate to the southeast. Russia begins expanding its borders in Armenia.
 * ​Principalities of Siberia: The people of Perm begin expansion to the east, intending to earn more land for hunting and trapping. The Siberian Way is proposed in Siberia, which will link all principalities to each other and to Russia. This would drastically improve the economy of Siberia. In the meantime, the military of Siberia sees improvements as used armor and weapons make their way to its lands via Russia.
 * Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark: While educating my daughter, Princess Emma of Denmark on the teachings of Jesus, St. Thomas Aquinas, and how to be a great ruler and great person I received a report on the Naval Battle of Ragusa. "We celebrated our victory over the Pomeranian-Burgundian fleet, as we were outnumbered. We thought this was the end, but alas it wasn't, for upon the horizon we saw a multitude of ships we have never seen before, 140 ships in total descended upon our navy of 26 ships, we fought valiantly, but alas, it was in vain as we were obliterated by the Pomeranian-Burgundian fleet, all that could be seen upon the water was an awesome fire over our ships, destroying them all." With the crushing defeat of the Danish-Holstein fleet by the Pomeranians and the Burgundians, I only knew it was a matter of time before Holstein was invaded once more by the Pomeranians, thus I went to defend against the Pomeranians, and I left my Queen, Phillipa of England to continue the reconstruction of Copenhagen and I sent 6000 troops to Skane in case Sweden and Norway attacked us once more. Upon the horizon I saw Danish-Holstein forces in a long struggle against the Pomeranians, who also had 6000 troops, but then I rode upon my horse,  Wartislaw, named after my father, with sword in hand, and I spoke "Soldiers! Today we fight our arch enemies the Pomeranians! For 13 long years we have been at war with them and now they once again invade our lands. The time has come to defeat them once and for all, for God and for Denmark, we shall be victorious!  We shall avenge all the fallen! Charge!" A surge of morale was upon my soldiers and we charged heroically into the Pomeranian lines, descending upon them the wrath of Heaven, and we decimated their forces. With 234.9% of the war in our favor I push the unconditional surrender upon the Archduchy of Pomerania, my terms are simple, crown me, Eric of Pomerania, King of Denmark and Emperor of all the Kalmar Union, as the Archduke of Pomerania, for Pomerania is rightfully mine. Me and my men celebrate our final victory over the Pomeranians, and I receive news on the Swedish invasion of Skane, and I'm thankful that Norway did not invade to, and that we are also victorious over Sweden's 9000 troops against our 6000 troops with a 184% victory! I make a treaty with Sweden, the Second Treaty of Malmö, which removes the King Jan Vasa of Sweden and me becoming the sole King of Sweden. After our navy being decimated, I order the rebuilding of the navy, and I order ten ships to be created by the end of the year.
 * Pretty sure you need an offensive algo if you want to take land, which you're in no position to do. -Guy
 * I don't want land I want the crown of the Archduchy of Pomerania. Since the algo was over 200% in my favor, and the rules say over 200% = unconditional surrender, this was my unconditional surrender. I will let the mods have the final ruling in this, though. -KK
 * Kingdom of France: In hearing of the armistice, Louis XI orders his men under L'Isle-Adam to turn around before reaching Bohemia. Louis XI also reassures the French crown had nothing to do with the Burgundian assassination attempt, and sends gifts to the Dukes palace as a "get well" message. The new Marmousets are selected and assume their positions this year. Louis V hires some small blockade runners and privateers to attempt to deliver supplies to the Scottish army MOD RNG, Please. He also secretly authorizes the use of piracy on English merchant ships going past the French coast. Although the nation is hyper-focused on improving its army, the King begins building a small fleet of mostly transports in the Mediterranean, and experiments with ocean-going ships on the Atlantic coast. Louis continues to cement relations with Castile and the Papal States.
 * Scotland: The rash and young King James I suddenly realizes that he has a lot more on his plate than he bargained for with a fullblown war with England. James drops the feudal feudmongering with the Douglasses and other prominent Scottish families and they unite, faced with the existential threat from the English menace. Though our navy is not as strong as the combined Danish-English forces, we strike enemy ships when they are weak, breaking them off from the main fleet and taking them down with our privateers in the remote and dangerous Western Isles. The Gaelic clans of the north have been momentarily pacified and enlisted into the levies of Scotland in order to defend against the English threat. As the English march on the Scottish Marches, we engage them in skirmishes as our combined army marches south, preparing for a conflict before the English reach Edinburgh. We hope to hold the English off in the southern uplands for as long as possible before we retreat to our more fortified locations in Central Scotland. Our goal is to wear down English manpower in a war of attrition and the Scottish occupy fortified locations across the nation in order to stretch the conflict out.
 * Order of Knights Hospitaller: With news of the Ottoman attack on Constantinople, the Order sends naval assistance to help protect the remnants of the Roman Empire. Grand Master Philibert, wishing to galvanise support for this counterattack against the infidels, writes to the Italian States, the Pope, Cyprus, the Spains and all of Christendom begging them to help protect the bastion of Christianity that is Constantinople. Robert of Devon takes his place on the cathedra in Rhodes, officially coming into his role as Archbishop of Rhodes and a Primate of the Catholic Greek Islands. In other news, Philibert reiterates his requests to the Pope from last year.
 * John II Crispo, the Duke of Naxos, declares his support for the Latin Empire against the Ottoman Empire. He offers ten longships, two cogs, and a carrack to the Order of Knights Hospitaller in order for their use in the defense of Constantinople. He also pledges 3000 soldiers to the use of the Knights. John II also promises to use his political savvy to bring other countries into the fold against the Ottomans.
 * Bahmanids: Ibn Tulun of the Abbasids is welcomed warmly, and we offer to trade with him, as well as the emissaries from Oman and Brunei. India is a rich land with many diverse resources that we would love to export. A universal coinage system is developed and such coins are now minted. Meanwhile, the port facilities of Venad and Kolon-thota are expanded.
 * Papal States: The Pope grants the remaining three requests of the Knights Hospitaller, recognizing them as the sovereigns of Rhodes and Candia and the titles thereof "Until the defeat and/or conversation of the heathens that threaten the land." His successor in Rhodes is officially ordained and some aid, mostly material, is sent to the Knights to help further their cause in protecting the remaining Christian outposts in Greek lands. Farther west, his Holiness calls upon Milan to free the sovereign of Savoy, stating that no good Christian should imprison another for such familial squabbles. Additionally, he calls for a swift conclusion to the War of Lions and that all titles are rendered to their rightful owners. 
 * ​Milan, seeking benevolent relations with the recently-elected Pope, announces that Amadeus VIII will be allowed to spend the rest of his years, with his family, within the Palazzo Madama in Turin. Milan is also willing to exile Amadeus VIII to the Papal States, should His Holiness request as such.
 * In the Duchies of Milan and Savoy, Gian Maria Visconti is crowned Duke of Savoy, through the line of his paternal grand-mother, Bianca of Savoy.  Gian Maria personally tours Savoy, from  Nizza  (Nice) to  Torino  (Turin) to  Sciamberi  (Chamberry). Seeing that Savoy is not as developed as his main Italian possessions, Visconti begins investing heavily into Savoyard territories, both in an attempt to convince the peasants and nobles of his dedication and to raise the economic strength of the region.  The condottieres, pleased with the swift outcome of the war, are internally divided within the court: half advocate greater expansion while half are willing to consolidate their newly conquered realm. Ultimately, practical considerations led the court to convince the Duke that he ought to incorporate d'Asti and Montferrat into Milan - either by force or diplomacy. (MODS) When Gian Maria returns to Milan, he hears of the plans from Florence to complete the Florentine cathedral by a young, budding architect, he immediately hires him to work on the Duomo di Milano at the same time. Gian Maria continues to act as a patron of the arts and of literature, employing almost a hundred scholars to translate ancient Roman works.
 * King Janus of Cyprus declares war on the Ottomans in defense of Constantinople. We call Aragon, Castile, and the Papacy to war. 237 Cypriot warships carrying 5000 soldiers are sent to Constantinople to guard the Bosporus and the city. Troops in Africa are sent to defend Cyprus. We burn the fields outside the city, and poison the wells.
 * In Rome, Manuel II looks over his lands. He knows that this is the end. The Saracen armies, the combined hordes of the Osmanli and Caliph. However, Manuel is stubborn and naarcissistic to a horrible fault. He and his army behind him, would rather see the city die then become known as "Istanbul". The seat of the Orthodox religion, shrinking and fracturing, must be baptized with fire. Thus he asks his citizens and army to do the unthinkable. Treasures are dumped into the Bosporus. Buildings are lit ablaze. The sickly and dead are catapulted into Osmanli lands, and civilian ships are filled with gunpowder and greek fire are lit and sent sailing directly into Ottoman and Caliph fleets. Farmers burn their fields and the excess food suply.  Wells are poisoned with the dead. The citizenry knows full well this is the end, and while many attempt to escape to Morea, many vow to fight alongside the army to the last man. As all this occurs, Manuel II stays with his men in Constantinople, rather to Morea. The Morean troops, meanwhile, stay to defend Morea rather than join the defense of Constantinople. It was a fun, short ride.