401-500 (Origo Mundi Map Game)

401-410
If you haven’t posted in the previous turn and still need to, you may do so.

'The city-state of Makuku manages to subjugate a neighboring tribe in the northeast, expanding its influence to surround the bay north of the titular city. The nations of Makuku reject the offer from Sillas to become autonomous military provinces.'

With pressure from surrounding nations, most notably the arrival of Exhula in the south, the nation of Gahren takes efforts to upgrade its navy, while also sponsoring colonization of the islands just northwest of its lands.

'The nation of Teninukal agrees to make peace with Exhula, ending its support for Kaloman rebels in the south, and creating a new border with Exhula. Afterward, when Sillas invades Teninukal suddenly, they request a white peace.'

'The Irrosian Islands agree to the terms put forth by Exhula, in which they will be allowed to continue their elective system of government, but will begin to curb their practice of piracy. The new king sponsors more legitimate naval practices, such as trading, exploration, and protection of settlements, and also omissions several new settlements in the surrounding area, including in the islands to the northeast.'

'A nomadic tribe known as the Kledesians migrates into the region between the Irian cities and Hythia, after making a name for themselves raiding the Ten Cities of Eldebethias. They conquer the natives of the region, and begin settling their people in the region.'

'General Talmai’s expedition to find the source of the Meran River leads to their discovery of the nation of Susanylon. Talmai reports that while traveling their movements are stalked by one of the nomadic desert tribes, and that these mysterious forces eventually attack his men, before disappearing into the desert.'
 * Chatna Empire: Arts and sciences begin to flourish across the empire under the singular system of language and economy. The Great Library of Iskandaria is completed at this time. The emperor reaches out to all nations near the Chatna domains if they wish to donate books to improving the library. The older, idealized art of early Azoz history disappears in favor of realistic sculpture work, often in dramatic and exaggerated poses commonly called the "Chatna Baroque". Most of the only such statues to survive the test of time are made of marble, but two bronze statues of javelin throwers were recently uncovered from a shipwreck near Mesallia, known as the "Lysandran Warriors". Ornate marble chess sets were produced en masse as well, with pieces made of stained glass. Milon of Isono was the most prominent mathematician at this time. He is primarily known for having developed the formula for the volume of a sphere, by calculating its ratio to that of a cylinder. Milon also studied extensively the contrast between truth and false statements, represented by the numbers one and zero respectively. In such a manner, Milon developed a binary system of logical mathematics, commonly known as Milean Algebra. In the north, the remaining troops stationed in Syres work to train a local military of the Syresians to be of the same equipment as those of the Azozans, so that the de facto government will have ability to instate order as the Azoz warriors pull out. In the south, a diplomatic expedition is sent to Susalyon to extend trade of both money and culture, including a contingent of Ulmian Apostles. Similar apostles continue to be sent to spread the Gospel of Nelrim to southern Emalia, but also pushing farther north to convert the lower-classes of Darna and Niani. The mysterious tribal attack is not firmly identified by modern historians, but it is noted in contemporary historians as the "Apirun" (nomads). Scholars of all manner of religions continue to sponsor debate at Iskandaria, even including some of Drokksidite faith, although generally not taken seriously. The navy of Tuartha continues to be upgraded and improved after each battle against the Syresian pirates, making adjustments along the way. The Chatna navy consists mainly of quinquereme as heavy warships, with a few hexareme in addition. These are supported by lighter hemiolia ships, with a few trihemiolia for defense of major ports. A full expedition of five ships are sent out of the Gabatrian Sea, exploring and trading with nations along the far eastern coast of the peninsula, and attempting to push farther south on the coast. According to one anecdote by Parius, this naval expedition eventually arrived back up on the Bangui Sea, having completely encircled the Asmeran continent. This is generally believed to be fiction by modern scholars, and owes to Parius often referred to as the "father of lies" instead of Father of History.
 * Mesallian intervention: The Emperor Iskandar throws his support behind Olynthimus and Pocrates, seeing them as the key players in the struggle to offset Erasidon's domination of the archipelago. 40,000 troops under the Edomite General Oman are sent to support Olynthimus to seize power over Erasidon. 5,000 troops are sent to support Proctates himself in Pheramos against the Agirans, dispatching trasports from Nerismos to the north of the peninsula. A further 10,000 troops with General Aren are sent to support our ally the Phydinians to defend their independence and resist further attack from Erasidon. A naval squadron of three quiremenes, one hexareme and seven hemiolas are deployed from Nerismos to blockade Yannis from involving itself with the war, sinking as much transport ships as possible. The contemporary chronicle of the Jafiad Stone mentions the invasion in the third year of the 50th Jafiad, which corrolates with the 286th year after the Rising in the Chatna Chronicle. The Chatna court was possibly inspired to aid this faction after Pocrates' first defeat in the first year of the 50th Jafiad (= 284 AR), and supplied military support just before the the next campaign by Erasidon. In general, the syncronization between the two chronologies begins with the 1st year of the 1st Jafiad, which corresponds to the 84th year after the Rising.
 * Those Darn pirates! Major coastal cities in Azoz start to live in panic over the sacking and raids of the Darnan pirates, with many Ulmians living in those regions being taken captive in whole families at a time. In reaction to this, the armada formally positioned in blockade near Mesallia is diverted to intercept the Darnan pirates at Seita, accompanied by a second fleet stationed in that city, crushing the Darnan navy completely.
 * Qera: After almost 20 years of friendly relations with the Dolbalan political influence on them continues. After the hard plague a baby boom occurred from the better food situation the average women gets now four-to-five children on average in contrast to the former three-to-four. The basic sanitation in the major cities is also improved when Princess Zrias personally, out of disgust by the filth in the streets, orders to found a section of either prisoners or soldiers to clean the city every fifth day. These men and women will collect the garbage and other dirt like feces and waste from the shops and households, put it on an oxcart and drive it out of the city bounds where it is either used to produce fertilizers through turning it into ashes or simply burned. The newly founded colony Uotahtzija continues to grow, as well as the colony closer to the Sillan territorry which is now officially a county, called Cyrphetzija. The newly appointed count is the former governess Zekemâ, a distant relative from the ruling family of the Ualjaks. The county expands far west with many lands claimed along the coast (10 px become claimed). Massive investments are taken by rich merchants in the south of Qera proper and the Uotahtzija colony, to fund many coffee and spice plantations with nutmeg as the main good. The colony expands rapidly, by 408 the complete bay to the east of it is claimed for the colonists. A wonder happens in 409 when Zrias I gives birth to triplets and actually survives the torture that took, according to the scribes, a complete day and the whole night following the day. The children are three boys, Yller, Ycas and Vavas. The lands of Qera expand westward with an expedition in the southwest to discover new lands and a claim on said regions (30 px to the west is claimed, 15 px is rural). The Qeran arts are now a well-documented trade that has entire books written on how to build a mozaic or a statue. A great temple is planned in Uotahtzija in the classical Qeran architecture. This includes a gigantic, four-sided pyramid with two smaller buildings on top, one for the god of nature and creation, Uon and another building for the god or the concept/event the god represents. Here daily sacrifices are made which can reach from simply burning grain and fruits to actual humans being killed.
 * Hythia: Years 118-127 Since the Return of Hythus. Myrnech Dynian dies without a clear heir under somewhat suspicious circumstances. Myrnerch Wyn assumes the throne as the highest ranked government official. His rule is notable for the exceeding stability it brings. Partech support for the government is exceptionally strong under Dynian, and with that support there is limited internal infighting among the nobility. New works projects are undertaken, a large iron-processing workshop is constructed to the south of Gyt, just across the rivers. This facility will replace the great arsenal with a network of bloomeries, blacksmiths, arsenals, kilns, and a large port for trade in these goods. Water is diverted from the Tythies to power several large water-wheels that run a system of hammers for crushing raw ore, as well as bellows to provide air to the bloomeries. The organization of these activities is run by the state and a large percent of profits are state-owned. Weapons for the Unar are standardized around bone-recurve bows, iron or rawhide lamellar armor, iron helmets, long thrusting spears, short throwing javelins, and the universal Gytan War-Axe. Heavy cavalry units are equipped with the iron armor, the long spears, and a selection of short javelins. Light cavalry is armed with the rawhide armor, recurve bows, and short javelins that can be used as spears. Across the south more irrigation canals are constructed, but it is becoming apparent that there is a limit to how far these systems can extend.
 * Mesallian Culture: Whether it orchestrated was the Azozians, the other Mesallians, or the gods themselves, Ptelamus’ ambition had been steadily contained by his debilitating injury. Over the past decade he remained mostly bed ridden, but still sought to oversee the expansion and training of the military, the tutoring of his children, and the growth of Erasidon. In the second year of the 49th Jafiad (Year 397), Ptelamus passed away peacefully. Despite their differences, the Agirans and the rest of Mesallas ordered a day of mourning in honor of the hero of the Azozian war. They had hoped that the death of the king would quietly end the chapter of Erasidon expansion, but that would prove to not be the case. Due to Ptelamus’ numerous wives and children, several claimants emerged. Ptelamus’ chosen heir was his son Ioxemander, who had been trained by his generals and tutored by the scholars of the region, and he was the first to be recognized in Erasidon. However, just north was Thusmos, where after its liberation the states had recognized Ptelamus’ brother Nolonus as king, and later Nolonus’ son Olythimus. In the east there was the nobleman of Nymander, who was the son of Ptelamus with a Phydinian noblewoman. And lastly there was Ptelamus’ son Zanates, who the Agirans secretly supported in exchange for a promise to restore certain Erasidonian lands to Agira. Within the span of one month after the death of Ptelamus, Zanates had already landed in Erasidon via its port in the Lydonian Sea, and marched south with a small group of supporters. Ioxemander won an unexpected battle against Zanates and his army of primarily Agiran mercenaries. Zanates was killed and Ioxemander persuaded the Agirans to support him by promptly releasing the Agirans he had captured and by offering trade concessions in Erasidon’s ports. After the news of this battle was known, Olythimus offered to swear fealty to Ioxemander, dropping his claim to Erasidon and clearing suspicion. The first test of this uneasy alliance came ten months later, when the two nobles jointly invaded the Pessalonians, after their king Kolander died without a clear heir soon before. By the end of the second year of the 49th Jafiad (Year 398), the kingdom had submitted, but the success of the young Erasidonian brought him unwanted attention from the surrounding area. In the winter of that year into the next year, the Erasidonians targeted the city of Eiramacolis, an important stronghold in the southeast Gudumanes peninsula. To dissuade Agiran intervention the king said the city would be turned over to Agiran control, as the city had before been part of the League of Agira. This was instead a diversionary tactic, and by the time the city fell Agira had been distracted by the machinations of Elapheron, after it ended its democratic government in favoring of ending support for Agira. The brief Social War of the 49th Jafiad ended with Agira retaining control over its territories, but as a consequence, Ioxemander took Eiramacolis. Erasidon formed an alliance with another powerful state in the peninsula, Sericolis, as a means of ensuring that they would not align with Agira, and offered them highly disadvantageous terms, including the offer of the city of Lementium in the center of the peninsula. The Agirans remained neutral because of the belief that they still may be granted Eiramacolis, but after the capture of the central Gudumanes, they elected to formally get involved. As promised Ioxemander granted the desired cities to Sericolis, and also allowed the Agirans of the captured territories free passage back to Agira, out of respect for the city. The situation reached a new high during the 50th Jafiad. During the eponymous festival and sporting event, the city’s religious authorities issued a fine against the town of Pheramos, who at this time was the head of a small confederacy of other towns, as they technically infringed upon holy land of the Jafiad. In reality, this accusation was heavily politically motivated, as the Agirans had persuaded the religious authority to come after Pheramos after it failed to support Agira during the Social War. Pheramos selected a general named Pocrates to lead their combined armies, and he elected to seize Jafia before anyone could respond to Jafia’s order. The city fell, and Pocrates used the massive treasury of the holy site to fund the coming war. A force of 10,000 mercenaries were raised, including many foreigners, and the rest having been convinced to fight for a sacrilegious cause after Pocrates heavily increased their pay. The Agirans would join the war on Jafia’s side, defeating Pocrates in a decisive battle the following year. Pheramos would nearly be brought to the point of defeat, but with the help of the stolen treasury, and by intimidating the confederacy with his mercenary army, he convinced the states of the alliance to press on. Soon after he managed to sway both Karissa and Meshwati to his side, as both states had a strong rivalry with Agira. The League of Agira faced a series of setbacks in by the third year of the Jafiad (Year 402), and under threat from Meshwati’s navy, the state of Karistos asked Erasidon for assistance and protection. Ioxemander agreed, leading an army first through the Phydinians, who submitted to Erasidon, and then up the Melopenes Peninsula. On the same side as Agira, Erasidon defeated Pocrates decisively, but Ioxemander would be unable to press the advantage, as he received word that Pocrates had bribed his relative Olythimus to stage a coup to take over Erasidon, also allying with much of the western Gudumanes. Ioxemander traveled by ship across the Lydonian to Eiramacolis, defeating an army in the north with aid from Sericolis. By the end of the year he had taken Thusmos, killing Olythimus in the process, as well as his makeshift alliance of Thusmos, Virados, and others. The war entered a second phase, as Agira had managed to subjugate Pheramos, and now an alliance against Erasidon’s rising power. Two years later at the Battle of Meganos Ioxemander would defeat the entirety of the alliance in battle. The battle was be the end of the Agiran Hegemony, which had governed Mesallas since the fall of Karissa. Instead Ioxemander established that Mesallas would submit to Erasidon, with the League of Isthama being created under his leadership.
 * According to contemporaries, the intervention of the Emperor Iskandar was seen as clear jingoism to take advantage of the situation, in the same way that most writers admit Agira’s mission against Pheramos was politically motivated. Whatever the case, the attack by the Chatna Empire renewed support for a unified defense just as the region had a few decades earlier, and also helped to unify the region under the developing hegemon of Erasidon, although they would not formally take that title from Agira until the second phase of the Jafian War, which came after the Azozian invasion (two years after per the first turn). At the time of Azoz’s involvement, Pocrates had died soon after, and likewise Olythimus had been killed in the west. As such the reason for Azoz’s intervention became more evident. The army of Ioxemander numbered about 30,000 at this time in his campaign, which was at Thusmos when the Azozians arrived near Erasidon. From the Phydinians, southern Melopenesians, and Agirans, another 30,000 was called south. The two armies hoped to meet the Azozian invasion in the middle, force a decisive victory, and make peace with Azoz.
 * Yannis Empire: The last of the resistance from Weritsz is extinguished, with many rebels being killed in one final act of resistance. A Yannian army settles in the Weritsz capital, creating a new district in the ashes of the former settlement. Soldiers garrison these major cities and towns, and oversee the building of new Yannian-style cities, including temples. A great deal of labor at this time goes to connecting the many places of Weritsz into the empire with highways and fortifications. Elsewhere the spoils from the war also go to infrastructural upgrades nationwide. In the Holy City of Yagothna-vis the sewer system is completely covered by this time, and the Anointed One has it expanded to facilitate a larger population, complete with a new aqueduct into the city. In other major cities he orders that they should follow suit, and over the course of the next few decades also equip themselves with sewers, baths, fountains, and other amenities to improve the nation’s cities. In the west the nation also elects to formally integrate its possession as full provinces, as they hold large Yannian populations. In Mesallas, the governor of the Yannian hegemony supports the rise of Erasidon, partially due to a personal vendetta against the leaders of Agira.
 * Exhula: We agree to a White Peace with Teninukal, and request Sillas withdraw their forces from invading Teninukal, pointing out they can't realistically hold that territory regardless (SILLAS RESPONSE NEEDED). With us now having agreed to peace with Teninukal and a long ceasefire we resume the process of settling our new conquest, consolidating control over the area as Teninukal is allowed to withdraw its troops from Texora and the surrounding region, leaving only the few remaining Kaloman Forces under General Tarrquo Qyqillipuq, which we easily overwhelm and defeat, resulting in the third and final sack of Texora and most of the remaining populations death while the rest flee. As a result Texora is left to ruin in the aftermath with the severed heads of every Kaloman soldier left impaled on wooden spikes on the city’s walls and gates and all around it, with thousands of heads on said spikes as a grim reminder of the price of defying us for years to come. With Kaloma now firmly under our heel we officially split the region into three territories rather than keeping it as one governing body, in order to make it harder for any potential rebellion to seize in the future. First, a large portion of the territory around it is annexed into the former Mexiquen land, the name of which, Brria, is finally decided on, with that territory consisting of most of what we took in our initial invasion, including the former capital of Kaloma, called Kallor in Kaloman but that we have now renamed to Ccisuris, and which becomes a major site of Exhulan settlement. The other two are the renamed provinces of Ryccayst and Srrun (We are renaming most major Kaloman Settlements with Exhulan names as part of the assimilation process we are forcing in the region), which consist of the former borders of those areas in Kaloma, with the exception of the lands ceded to Teninukal. The mass settlement of Amyrith (Kaloma, which we have renamed with this label, and the original borders of Brria). We heavily encourage the settlement of the region by ethnic Exhulans by providing many large tax breaks and Cash payments for several years for those willing to move there and settle permanently, with many being encouraged to take Kaloman wives but educate their children solely in Exhulan culture and religion as much as possible. Hundreds of Hcctaal preachers are sent to the region and the conversion of Kalomans to Hcctaal is greatly encouraged, with those who do gaining many economic incentives to do so and lessened taxes, in addition to being shown general favoritism over the masses who still follow the Kaloman religion. These changes are introduced over the turn slowly though, and although the Kaloman Faith is discouraged and often discriminated against, it is not actively persecuted and although assimilation is encouraged and many are discriminated against, the cultural and religious traditions of Kaloma mostly just receive low level harassment and discrimination from their new Exhulan overlords, and although it is disliked and resented by many most don’t see it as worth rebelling over, and many do end up doing the conversion and assimilation, although most still don’t. A census is also ordered throughout Exhula to learn of the population is now after we have conquered Kaloma and we have experienced so long without a census (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED). In the Exhulan court, with the birth of three children including an heir to the throne during the last turn (And thus his claim secured on the throne of Kaloma), Vassiga looses most of his interest in Clorryil and they rarely spend time together anymore. Although the preachers in Beraba are severely limited in when they can preach and where they can go and when, they begin to get around this problem by teaching several of those who they do manage to convert how to be Hcctaal Priests and then using them to preach to the populace, as they are far less restricted than the Exhulan Missionaries. This is much more successful in gain8ng converts than the previous Missionaries where, both due to it being locals doing the preaching and due to them not being subject to the heavy restrictions imposed on the Exhulan Hcctaal missionaries.
 * Beraba: The Crown Princes agree that the tax code is outdated and needs to be upgraded. New taxes take the place of the old ones and pay for many services and projects across the nation. The Crown Princes also support the creation of a new class of skilled artisans and tradesmen know as the “Tangakwunu” or “men of skill”. One sect of cartographers among the Tangakwunu embark on ambitious project to map the known world. With support and patronage from the Crown Princes, they embark on voyages to the corners of the known world to both explore and trade. One group sails north past the Gahrenese Islands to explore what lies there. Nations encountered on the voyages are offered copies of what is known as the “Great Atlas of the Known World” in exchange for their maps and knowledge of the world. Offer is extended to Gahren, Makuku, Sillas, Sayalen, Qera, Exhula, and Yannis. On the journey to Makuku, the ambassadors propose the expansion of the Salt Road so that it would reach directly to Makuku, giving them more trade access to both Beraba and Gahren. One member of the Royal Academy notices that farmers who plant different crops in their fields year to year typically can grow crops for longer, especially when giving fields a “rest year”. This practice is implemented throughout the nation, with farmers rotating which crops are planted on their land between seasons.
 * Emalia: Prince Leto Siania (The Afflicted), comes to age, and decides to forge his own path through the sword, amassing a force of 30,000 Messelian men who are inspired by the young prince, his tragic story, and his infinite drive and ambition. Leto now addresses his men, giving them a speech. "I am Prince Leto, I am a Messelian man as my father Agetos before me, and for this reason of being Messelian my father was slain, my birthright of Emalia taken from me and given to my sister, Princess Pyra, I left landless and exiled from my childhood home. I know many of you have shared in my affliction, to have been surpassed by your sisters, wives, and daughters in this life, but I say no longer, for you shall all join me in the glory of conquest. This conquest shall be for the great city of Ephenus, where many of us are descended from and where my rule shall begin!" With this command, Leto's Legion of 30,000, (led by Leto with General Atalia beside him) marches upon Ephenus with record speed, adopting a light and mobile warfare by splitting the army in groups of 5,000, rejoining back to 50,000 when biseiging the city, surrounding it from all sides possible. In the chaos, the Emalian Navy takes the initiative under the command of Admiral Sabia, using the opportunity to launch a surprise attack on the Ephenian navy in order to cement dominance in the Ema Delta. News of Leto's expedition reaches Queen Ionia, (who since the death of Agetos has dedicated her life to the teachings of Ema, becoming a full Priestess in her own right by continuing the sacred tradition of fertility by having as many children as possible.) Ionia's feelings are mixed on the matter, she dislikes that Leto's actions were unnanoucned and are dragging Emalia to war, however, she is pleased that a major enemy of the state is being invaded. Ionia sends Princess Pyra, now also of age, to watch over her twin brother Prince Leto and marches north with an army of 50,000 Emalian warriors to act as reserves in case anything goes wrong in Leto's conquest. Emalia is at war again, perhaps in its greatest, and in its midst Emalian and Messelian continue to merge into one people.
 * Syres: The training of men by the Kingdom of Azoz’s military garrison was alarming to the Syresian population. Quickly the Hensa reasserted control over the military, ensuring that Azoz could not forcefully recruit men from Syres to fight on its behalf. There was a panic in the city that the Azozians were creating an Ulmian army, leading the city nearly to the brink of civil war, as the military split between supporters of the Hensa and the Syresian religion and culture, and supports of the Azozians and Ulmism. The civil war was narrowly avoided through the diplomacy of the statesman Nabiethan, who had been elected consul around the same time as the Azozian military build up. Finally he issued a message to the Kingdom of Azoz, stating that they should lift the garrison of the city. In the meantime, the nation re-established control over its outposts on the nearby coasts, after the brief war with the Darnans. During this time under Azozian occupation and vassalage, the city made use of the trade network established by the Chatna Empire, allowing Syresian merchants greater entrance into the cities it had tried to permeate on the western coast. The nation’s merchants also heavily favored the cities of the Mesallas region, taking advantage of the conflicts appearing in the region.
 * Chatna Empire: The garrison has been decreased to 800 men.
 * Darna: In the thirst for Ulmian slaves the Darnan navy raids the Azozian coast and takes many prisoners as slaves. When the Kingdom of Chatna is distracted most they strike and seize valuables and loot, burning cities and towns. The island taken from Syres becomes a base of operations for these raids. Later the ships travel south toward Mesallas, and since we have good relations and trade connections with the Yannian-Mesallian governor, the Darnan navy becomes employed in raiding with its fleet being one of the largest in the world. The navy attacks Usinilago and Setia, taking many Ulmian slaves from Setia to be transferred back to Darna. Then it attacks farther to the east, all the while seizing as many slaves as possible.
 * Sillan Empire: Upon learning of the truce between the Exhulans and the Teninkualese, Silla accepts the offer of white peace – thus restoring boundaries to pre-war borders. However, despite a slight disappointment within the military nobility, Cabeza Canxi and the General leading the Teninkual Campaign – General Banzhen – still considers it to be a strategic victory (as it disrupted its economy, and thus its capacity to wage war), while the reported levels of destruction brings intense national pride and confidence in Sillan military might. The Eight Regiments is revamped to the Nine Banners system (corresponding to the eight cardinal and intercardinal directions, as well as an additional army to protect the interior); in order to better coordinate defense and enforce Silla's territorial legitimacy. Due to reports of suspicious activity and the refusal of the various Makuku city-states to cooperate with Silla, a garrison of ~3,000 military nobles (serving as active troops) each are stationed in three northernmost cities of Silla (Nuesixi, Danuerxi, and Norianxi) – through a high degree of centralization allows for the conscription of infantrymen, if needed. Meanwhile, Cabeza Canxi – due to an increasingly large population allowing the decreased need for auxilliary or non-combatant roles – reduced the ratio of military nobility to infantrymen to 1:2 (during times of war; as only the military nobility are active during peacetime, serving as a gendarmerie force). The Da Qing Arsenal produces a high quantity of reflex bows, iron-tipped and incendiary arrows, polearms (halberds, lances, and pikes), and swords. Meanwhile, its bloomeries also produce a high volume of wrought iron, bronze. Massive quantities of copper and tin are imported overseas, in order to produce bronze for mirrors, jewelry, and statues. Lamellar armor is produced for cavalrymen. Latrines, drainage, as well as communal baths and grammar schools are built. An increasing quantity of silk textiles, porcelaneous wares, jewelry is manufactured both for export and domestic consumption. In addition, cash crops such as hemp, tea, sugarcane, cocoa, coffee, honey, spices, and exotic fruits are cultivated; while alcoholic beverages and condiments are produced. Large-scale deforestation continues, yielding land for rice paddies. Agricultural production increases due to the utilization of more land, the utilization of fertilizer (in the form of bovine manure), and the construction of canals for irrigation and to deliver nutrients (from silt) to rice paddies. Intercropping of rice, aquatic plants (water spinach, lilies, and water caltrops), and perennial fruit-bearing plants (namely coconuts and plantains) are done to boost crop yield, and combat soil erosion – thus maintaining soil quality. In addition, subsidies are given to farmers to establish more large-scale fish farms. The large-scale raising of mollusks (snails, oysters, mussels, clams) and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, crabs), and the cultivation of seaweed in littoral areas also begins. In marshes or wet areas, deep-water rice is cultivated or small, rectangular artificial islands are built to provide cultivatable land. The population grows immensely due to increased wealth and nutrition.
 * The Most Serene Vynos: For all the Nations under the Heaven, who can compare to the Most Serene of them all Vynos. Maz Div Tyv Neti managed to survive another election for the position of Maz Div held every ten years numbering his terms up to three. He orders the Construction of a Temple within the City of Vynos, dedicated to the god of the Sea and Commerce, Vyn. The exploration of the coast from North to South continues in search of new lands and people to trade with, along with new riches, along with the sponsoring of expeditions up the River Til (River beside me). He also expands the role of several prominent merchant families within the government, and grants land to them. This is seen as a snub to the traditional Noblist faction of the government, stirring up resentment toward him. These land grants primarily come from land where we expanded into by 2 px. Construction of the temple is placed on a top priority and many hope with it completion it can be a pilgrimage spot and bring wealth to the city. We also begin to explore the areas surrounding the River Til hoping to find more fertile land to grow food on. Mining of the Precious Metals surrounding the cities continue. Construction of storage areas for grain begins as well.

411-420
If you haven’t posted in the previous turn yet you may still do so.

'Although the tribe between the cities of Ibramos and Allsid accepts Beraban rule, allowing Beraba to claim the northern peninsula near Allsid, in the south the tribes are much more hostile. A powerful confederation known as Cazekorom manages to disrupt and raid the southern expanse of the Salt Road, before sacking the relatively new settlement of Eiros.'

'The Azozian invasion of Phydinia causes a rift between the Erasidon-aligned state and the Phydinian clans aligned with Chatna. When the Mesallian invasion from the Melopenes arrives a battle occurs that ends in a strategic Azozian victory, as it stops the Mesallians from rendezvousing. The Azozians suffer 3,340 losses, while the Mesallians suffer 5,100.'

'In the west that leaves the army of Erasidon outnumbered, but at the Battle of Ganatos, jurst north of the Thusmos River near the central mountains, Erasidon is victorious. The Mesallians suffer 1,940 casualties, while the Azozians suffer 5,450.'

'The Emalian invasion of Ephenus is successful, with Emalia successfully conquering the kingdom. The Emalian suffer 7,560 casualties in combat and another 16,440 from disease and other causes.'

The nation of Valun launches a series of wars to expand considerably in its region, gaining loose control over the areas north of Azoz.

After Prince Leto acts partially independent of the Emalian government by invading Ephenus, the nobility in Emalia become anxious of his growing power, and seek to have him eliminated, or to at least convince Queen Ionia to have Ephenus striped from his possession and made a possession of the state.

'The Kledesians settle a series of small cities in the center of their territory at this time. Then then continue outward epansion, raiding the northern edge of Solcia in the process.'

'A descendant of Cassander IV of Tuatha ascends to the throne of the Three Cities (as a vassal of the Chatna Empire), after he marries into the the daughter of Xares II. He becomes known as Cassander I Nerimanus.'
 * Tsardom of Algeorgia: The tsarina dies this year at the age of 92 and is succeeded by her son who takes the name of Boris I. He takes the annual Dodo pilgrimage and receives the Dodos blessing. He orders the tsar's fort to be strengthened and expands our colony by 1 px.
 * Mang: Legend says that the emperors are chosen by the Five Mangi Stars, which civilians thought for a long time how Fuki and Ompai took power in the regions. A flag design was constructed, and it involves the colors Red, Yellow, and Blue on top of three stripes, and a green bird to represent the national Mangi bird. Meanwhile, a currency was being created, for a reason to sell stuff from the civilian food markets (not the current ones in 2018, like stands for food markets). This would give wealth to the food stands, and rice farmers, as people would buy their food in order to survive. Houses were also being built, like houses from straw or wood material. One problem is that straw was very rare, and barely in large quantities, so people usually made it up with material making to an axe for chopping trees (yes, they had axes in the BCE, CE, and the AD (present time) and also are pretty weak, mostly wooden).
 * The Most Serene Vynos: In a new and glorious Decade for Vynos they have accomplished much. The Temple dedicated to Vyn has finished it construction within the city overlooking the Great Forum. It has been enshrined with many gold statues and gelded to show the glory of the gods. The temple has quickly attracted many pilgrims and faithful to its halls in order to celebrate the father god. With the growing power of Maz Div Tyv Nyti, many nobilists in the city have begone to grown nervous at his power. During a feast held at his family's palace with many key supporters of the Merchant guilds, poison was slipped into the wine and the food causing the death of Maz Div Tyv Niti and several key supporters. The blame was shifted toward a servant who was discontent with his government resulting in his drawing, quartering, and beheading. The Nobilist quickly call an emergency election before the Merchants have unified under a successor. Because of this a landslide election is won by the Nobilist candidate Jor Birtyzi. Soon enough massive reforms are conducted with the term for a Maz Div being shortened to only five years and voting only be allowed to free landholders and landlords, which are primarily nobles with a small fraction being merchants. This sparks outrage in the merchants who begin riots which last for two weeks until they are put down by the army. The arresting of several prominent merchants occurs causing even further discontent among the middle-class. In order to maintain several barracks are built throughout the city. Many people angered by the sudden change in interests flee to surrounding areas claiming land in order to gain a greater voice (expands by 4 px). However, several merchants do flee to the neighboring Higros Islands south of the city and begin founding small trading outposts fleeing the political persecution. In addition to this in a search for land to claim five expeditions are conducted by several merchants - one going north up the coast, one going south down the coast, two following the newly discovered Emyr and Tilno rivers, and finally one heading east. One of these even decided to found a small trading outpost on the Emyr. The election for another Maz Div occurs and the current Maz Div Jor Birtyzi stays in power due to his popularity among the nobles, which only serves to enflame the merchants. However, he does sponsor the expansion of the navy by 15 ships in order to help compete against their bitter rivals the merchants.
 * Darna: Our ships continue to raid the coasts of the heathen lands, taking many valuable slaves. We decide to raid Syres while they are weakened, destroying coastal towns, taking slaves, and as many valuables as we can. Once we have taken as much as we can, we demand payment in order to bribe us to go away. After the Darnan fleet raids the Azozians, destroying their puny fleet of only a few ships. We raid their coastal cities, even landing soldiers at major cities there, and even raiding up their Ashe River. Upriver towns and cities are raided. The raids generate wealth which is used to create more raids, but also to improve infrastructure and new settlements in Darna. People move from the islands to the mainland in the north or to Isimandia, where new land is plentiful. In the thirst for Ulmian slaves the Darnan navy raids the Azozian coast and takes many prisoners as slaves. When the Kingdom of Chatna is distracted most they strike and seize valuables and loot, burning cities and towns. The island taken from Syres becomes a base of operations for these raids. Later the ships travel south toward Mesallas, and since we have good relations and trade connections with the Yannian-Mesallian governor, the Darnan navy becomes employed in raiding with its fleet being one of the largest in the world. Many slaves are sold to Yannis for sacrifice.
 * Qaryaat: King Ghasyan IV dies, and his son, Hassun, ascends the throne. The eastern boundary of Maqiri is expanded along the coast, while the western coast expands to cover the rest of the northern tip of the peninsula. Meanwhile, the southwestern boundary of the main territory is expanded along the coast. In both areas, settlers are sent to loosely-claimed areas to consolidate control of said areas. The outpost of Maqiri is improved upon, with a granary, temple, and basic walls being built. Exploration is done along the southern of two close-by rivers north of Mohejaro, dubbed the Bizafir River. We propose a trade deal with the Kingdom of Nolossia. We will trade spices, dates, dragon's blood tree resin from Saqqatra, dyes, and incense for whatever else they may have to offer. (IRIAN RESPONSE NEEDED)
 * Ri'Kiva: Agriculture continues to thrive in Suh'Hyik, but this is slightly problematic as Suh'Hyik has nearly eclipsed Ri'Kiva in population. In other news, the empire is expanded 8 px to the west, as well as 3 px along the north side of the river. Roads continue to be built. Contact is facilitated, with a trading post being established on an uninhabited stretch of land, in a bay similar to OTL Pylos. Regular trade is made, in an attempt to penetrate the markets of Gahren. A similar fortified trading post is established on the island of So'dor (the one where Personia is) in unclaimed territory, and colonists begin arriving there. The reason for this sudden burst of activity is that Ri'Kiva's cities are full, and so young men have taken to such enterprises. The high seas quicky become a wild west due to this, and attempts at trading posts are numerous and rarely successful. One such expedition to the north ends comically bad with the entire foundation being destroyed in a mudslide.
 * Chatna Empire: Economic and cultural developments continue to become more shared across the empire. The Library of Iskandaria especially is used as a central place of learning, with scholars from different religions and cultures as far away as Syres debating there. Separately, the various different sects of the Ulm religion convene at the Temple Library of Nerismos to pool together their ideas on theology and ethics. Milon of Isono continues his development of mathematics. This time, Milon considers how to calculate the volume of objects not in perfect shapes like a sphere, tetrahedron, or cylinder? He eventually developed the "method of exhaustion", in which consecutively-smaller rectangles are embedded within the remaining area of a solid, until it approximates the size of the object as close as desired. Using this method on a circle, he calculated the ratio of a circle's circumference to its diameter is approximately 355 divided by 113. Apostles continue to spread the gospel of Nelrim to the new lands discovered in the Far East, especially Phorintheon, Marensa, and Susalyon. Ulm apostles are also sent internally to the nation, setting up a Great Basilica in Usilinago. Many students of Anthrax or "geographers" begin traveling more frequently from Edom into Mesallia, studying individual cities' customs, politics and religions. Iskandar dies after a substantial reign, and left the Empire in charge of brother, Dara. Iskandar was given a magnificent funeral in Edom, and laid his body to rest in a glass coffin in the library that bore his name. Dara was amiable in personality, and unlike most other members of the Chatna family he tried to be well-liked and agreeable to everyone. It is generally considered that Dara was specifically named successor because he was the only member of the Chatna family not constantly hounding the emperor's court for power. However, as a result of this, Dara was far weaker in person, and allowed the rest of the Chatna clan attain de facto power in each part of the realm as they saw fit. Cassius, father-in-law of Cassander, held 15,000 men stationed in Dascelos and Nerismos. He held authority over the de jure Kingdom of Mesallia, which consisted of three disconnected parts of the archipelago. Oman, illegitimate son of Thalut by an Edomite woman, held 30,000 men in Iskandar, although also tasked with defending the Phydinians. Ricimer held 30,000 men stationed in Usilinago, having domain of all the lands south of it. Levian the Short held 30,000 men in Neum, and would often feud over finances with the Viceroy from Seita. Landrew the Generous was eventually made Viceroy of the Western Coastline, and thus held authority over vassalage in Syres as well, having a reserve force of 15,000 men. Finally, Ramu the Young led a reserve force of 30,000 men in Teman near Azoz itself. Unlike his predecessor, Dara withdrew himself back to the city of Azoz itself, leaving the rest of the empire under his relatives to organize, while he legislated directly to the Senate. He had no sons himself, but only one daughter named Roxanne. Husiang, the Holy Patra at the time, grew some great respect for the new emperor by his moderate lifestyle, as the Patra still ran the Senate directly at this time. The navy eventually returned to port in both Tuartha and Nerisomos, having crushed all the forces of the Darnan pirates, although losing many citizens as slaves in the process.
 * Hythia: Years 128-137 Since the Return of Hythus. Myrnerch Wyn is replaced in the 129th year after he is implicated in the murder of the previous Myrnech. His successor, Myrnech Vyln is one of the youngest and more aggressive of the Partechs. His rule immediately departs from his immediate predecessors and follows the path of older Hythian policy. The Unar is reformed to a more professional force. Levies drill for several weeks a year with standardized equipment provided by the state. With support from the Partechs, Vyln leads a force of 2,000 heavy cavalry and 2,000 light cavalry to convince several of the tribes to the south to submit to the true lord Hythus and his chosen people. The target, the Baust people, are a large tribe to the southwest of Hytia. They are offered a chance to become vassals of Hythia or war.Despite the war footing late in the decade, across the south more irrigation canals are constructed in the first one-half.
 * Mesallian Culture: (Will update with more information later) The commencement of the League of Isthama came in the 51th Jafiad (Year 404), with Ioxemander appearing personally at the festival and sporting event in the center of the Melopenes. During this time he consolidated his rule in Mesallas, appointing new generals and administrators, and made plans for a new military campaign. One of his first actions was intevening when the Yannian governor in Mesallas died, with Ioxemander signing a deal with the Yannians to have himself appointed governor. When this was blocked by several noblemen, a short campaign was launched in the Nykos region, with the region finally accepting a single hegemon, even if only temporarily. Initially the Mesallians were in favor of a campaign against the Chatna Empire, who had attempted to conquer the Mesallians previously, and had succeeded in taking many Mesallian cities in the west. After the decisive victory at Ganatos an uneasy peace existed between Mesallas and the Chatna Empire, leaving Ioxemander free to turn his attention elsewhere for the time being. Across the Gabatrian Sea the rise of Prince Leto in Emalia led to an opportunity, although most of his army would remain in Erasidon in case of a threat in the region. That same year he departed with a small army toward the territory of Ephenus, offering to aid Emalia in their war. In exchange he asked for Emalia to join the League of Isthama and to marry the noblewoman Pyra, joining the two states in marriage. The remainder of Ephenus fell relatively quickly, and early in the following year Ioxemander crossed the Ema Delta and assaulted Iseisalia in Haretius, and north to Marlios and Idasimos, uniting the region of the Ema Delta under his and Emalia’s control. With 25,000 men from Mesallas (12,000 heavy infantry, 8,000 light infantry, 5,000 cavalry), a number of men from the Ema Delta, and forces from Emalia, Ioxemander crossed through the Heratian mountains and invaded Temayal. The attack came as a surprise to the Temayalans, but nevertheless they raised a large force from the major cities of the north, placed under the command of Lecolec’acnom. In the subsequent battle Ioxemander led a cavalry charge into the heart of the enemy line, nearly being killed himself. According to one account the king was nearly hit from behind, but one of his generals, Cestalus, severed the attackers arm off while he was mid-swing. Lecolec’acnom was killed while attempting to retreat, and owing to the fractured nature of the eastern region, his city soon opened its doors to Ioxemander. The king would consecrate the grounds outside the settlement toward the west river, which would later become a settlement of its own. After the fall of Ixima the forces of Itzqatoc II were raised in Temayal, and the king prepared to oust the Mesallians from the north. In the meantime, Ioxemander pursued a strategy opposite to what he did in Mesallas, where him and his generals had personally chosen tyrants and kings as needed to avoid revolts, and instead appeared as a “liberator”, granting towns in the region self rule. He ordered the dead of both sides to be buried, and had the armor and spoils of the battle shipped back to the temples at Jafia. As local governors surrender, Ioxemander ordered new ones to replace them, with independent officers to collect tribute and taxes. A number of towns also submitted and in exchange joined the League of Isthama, which required them to contribute military forces to aid Ioxemander. The Battle of Nezocal, north of Temayal, would result in the death of Itzqatoc II, and also prompted Fano’yetoc VI of Tik’akna to press a claim to Itzqatoc’s throne. As Ioxemander entered Temayal, he received word from the north of a Tik’aknan invasion toward Ixima. Ioxemander marched through the east of the nation with his cavalry, arriving at the rear of the approaching army and causing havoc among their ranks. Fano’yetoc would escape, and Ioxemander pursued north, achieving another small victory near Cuiracala. Toward the end of the year Ioxemander advanced on Tik’akna itself, and Fano’yetoc fell back to the ancient strongholds of the “Sky Level”, where he thought he’d be untouchable. After a few weeks one of the ancient tunnels of the underground kingdoms was discovered, and the Mesallians entered the city from below. Once inside Fano’yetoc was killed when the Mesallians demolished the foundations of part of his citadel. During his time in the region Ioxemander would visit the famed Mausoleum of Iximanasa, donating to improve the compound. To protect against threats to the east, Ioxemander would spend the rest of the year and the beginning of the following year campaigning against Jaris, the Franic Confederacy, and the Yannian colony in the east. In the later one-half of the third year of the 51st Jafiad (Year 406) he entered the Great Lakes region, befriending the Tahuan tribes and allying with them to subjugate the Kingdom of Uloyiso. His arrival aligned with a Tahuan prophecy that Nelrim would return when Uloyiso fell, and he was declared to be the prophet returned. He sought to travel to Sephimora to be affirmed by the high priests as Jesiphem, and to do so led his army and an army of the Tahuans and Lakemen into Lyania, which he decreed would fall back under the authority of Emalia. Arriving in Sephimora in the fourth year of the Jafiad, the king successfully proved himself to be the prophet reincarnated, and the kingdom bowed to him. Traveling to Leviea, he became the first ruler since Nelrim II to enter the holiest levels of the citadel. Having accomplished much in the east, the king sought to return to Mesallas for the 52nd Jafiad, and continue on to fulfill his destiny against the people who had killed his father. Luckily the death of the Chatnan emperor came soon after, and by that time the region fell largely to the authority of individual governors and claimants. From Leviea the king decided to first invade north and retake the Holy City of Nerimos, leading a small army of Sephimorans who believed him their prophet. They discovered the city under the command of Cassander I Nerimanus, and his father-in-law Cassius, and the king prepared for a siege. The Mesallians produced three siege towers which would be used to scale the walls, while the Sephimorans attempted to call upon divine intervention to curse the defenders. Both appeared to work, as the city soon fell. Although the king showed mercy to all the city’s inhabitants, when Cassius refused to kneel before the king, he had a rope forced through Cassius’ ankle, and had him dragged alive by chariot around the city, much like the ancient stories of Leto in the Dioman War. As Cassander had fall back to Dascelos, a garrison was left in the city and Ioxemander pursed the fleeing governor north. According to one account, once Ioxemander came to the city, as the city was almost entirely Mesallian, with many Ulmians and Enulmians, the city’s inhabitants decided to turn on their governor and grant Ioxemander entrance. The king knew that soon retaliation would likely come from the Chatna Empire, and he ordered a proper army to be raised in Mesallas. Men from every city were taken to ensure their compliance, and one of Ioxemander’s trusted generals, Evandus, was left in command in Mesallas. The king sailed back to Mesallas to oversee the action in Agira and to travel to Jafia, before traveling back to Nerimos in the beginning of the 52nd Jafiad. Once he landed he sacrificed to the Mesallian gods and departed with his army, leaving the Enulmian-Sephimorans and a Mesallian group to garrison the east. He marched on Iskandaria, hoping to catch the governor Oman and attract him toward the east. Not expecting an attack from that direction, Oman assembled his forces hastily and prepared for battle near the city. Mimicking the traditions of an Edomite monarch, Oman placed himself in the center, surrounded by his most elite infantry. Ioxemander split his forces in two, with himself on the right side, and his second-in-command, Xeracles, on the left flank. Ioxemander was positioned with the Mesallian cavalry, with veterans on the flank of the right and the lighter cavalry closer to the center near the infantry. The battle began with the heavy Erasidonian infantry advancing toward the enemy line, angled at 45 degrees to lure the Azozian cavalry. At the same time Oman sent a large portion of his army to try to attack Xeracles’ flank. Ioxemander responded by riding far to the right, which drew much of the Azozian cavalry to the side, which he hoped would create a gap in the enemy line near the Azozian general. Most of Oman’s cavalry was drawn to the flanks, with one-half now engaged far to the right and in the left against Xeracles. This created a gap in the Mesallian line, with some Azozians charging toward the center, but they were stopped by reserve forces still in the center. A gap formed in the Azozian left flank due to the Mesallian cavalry drawing most of the forces far to the side, and Ioxemander ordered a charge through the gap. In the end most of Oman’s army was left dead, although the general himself fled. The Mesallians continued on toward the Meran, while Oman managed to instigate conflict in the region of Phydinia, which would lead Evandus to lead an army into the region around the same time as Ioxemander approached the city of Edom. He found that the region of Edom, which had only recently fallen to the Chatna Empire, despised their Azozian overlords, and Ioxemander was welcomed as a liberator. He was declared king, marrying one of the claimants to the throne of Edom, Shameza, and he left the administration of Edom to her. During this time the king would travel down the Meran to the edges of Edom, where supposedly he wandered into the desert for several days until he came upon a small holy oasis. The nomadic peoples of the region, who had been hostile to all others who entered the region, saw this as a divine sign, and led Ioxemander in peace back north toward the sanctuary of the Umhlaba council, which had been operating in secret the last few decades after the Azozian conquest of the confederacy. Ioxemander was elected High Water Tyrant, and sought to liberate the region. Leading a small group of nomads and Water Merchants, he would strike from the south, shocking the small garrisons of the desert oases, before regrouping with the rest of the Mesallian army, stationed at the easternmost oases, west of the Meran. The Azozian-backed High Tyrant Lezenus assembled an army at Isono, while the governor Ricimer launched an invasion with 30,000 men toward Erasidon. With his homeland threatened, Ioxemander returned north and came toward Usinilago from the south, managing to attack the army of Ricimer from two sides. Emboldened, the forces of the confederacy launched a rebellion against the High Tyrant Lezenus. With him distracted and on the run to the west, Usinilago and Isono would both fall by the end of the year. Ioxemander would continue north along the coast, with the major cities that had been Mesallian surrendering quickly. Igounematis and Salarinos would be two cities to openly join Ioxemander immediately, while cities such as Setia were more elusive due the Azozian military presence in the city. Setia would ultimately fall only after the governor was promised that his rival, Levian the Short, would be removed. The next pivotal battle would occur at Neum,where Levian the Short had amassed a large army from his own lands and from Azoz. By this time the remaining governors of the empire had largely consolidated their forces with the king’s direct army, hoping to crush the invaders once and for all. Levian would ultimately be betrayed, and instead Harus of Setia replaced him under Ioxemander’s guidance. Next the king would follow the coast northward, eventually coming to the city of Syres. Here he instigated the city to revolt against its Azozian overlords and join him, while he proceeded to do battle against Landrew the Generous. By this time the situation in Azoz proper had become desperate, with parts of the remaining empire rebelling, and its remaining generals planning action against both Ioxemander and their ineffective king. Around the same time it is believed that Emperor Dara would be killed, although the circumstances around this death would not be made known to Ioxemander. Ramu the Young assumed virtual control over the empire, and would lead the defense against Ioxemander at the Battle of the Ashe River, in the eastern one-half of the old Azozian kingdom. Disappointed that the Chatnan emperor had been killed by someone else, Ioxemander attacked Ramu’s position, dealing a major defeat to the Azozians. The king would enter the ancient city of Azoz itself and have himself crowned Chatnan emperor, marrying Dara’s daughter Roxanne. He would spent the next several months campaign in Fashnoq and western Azoz, crushing the last of Ramu’s forces and others opposed to his rule, although many of the remaining governors of the empire elected to simply capitulate. In the capital he discovered enormous treasure, which he used to pay his troops handsomely, before sending the rest to be transported back to Mesallas. The king admired the city’s centers of learning, its basilicas, and other wonders, and widespread destruction was prohibited. Despite this a fire broke out in the city the following month that damaged part of the city, including the enormous Statute of Thalut. According to one anecdote, the king saw the damaged statute and asked it, “Shall I pass by and leave you lying there because of the expeditions you led against Mesallas, or shall I set you up again because of your magnanimity and your virtues in other respects?” Ultimately he had the statute and its complex restored completely. In the months Ioxemander would spend in the capital he adopted many Azozian customs, including a strong love for the game of chess. This would prove to cause an uneasy feeling among some of his officers, with one potential conspiracy against the king being discovered and halted. Seeking to promote a lasting peace between the two worlds, Ioxemander promoted trusted Azozians into his ranks, and ordered a mass marriage of senior Azozians and Mesallian officers and noblemen. After nearly one-half a year in the Azoz region, Ioxemander continued westward. Over the course of the next two years he would campaign in the west, stretching the Mesallaian world’s knowledge of the known world. Sellasiyan, Corun, and the states of Eskaladun would ultimately be conquered, before Ioxemander came upon the western sea. Having reached the edge of the world, his men finally called for a return to their homeland, and Ioxemander obliged. The young king would ultimately never see his homeland, as while traveling back east the king fell ill suddenly and died. With his death the fate of his new empire hung in the balance, with no clear direction. When asked on his deathbed to whom he left his empire, Ioxemander simply replied, “to the strongest.”
 * Succession: (This is background information that will come into play in the next turn, as Ioxemander’s death occurs right as the turn ends.) After the death of the king the empire became divided among different claimants and generals. One such question was who would succeed as king. In the east it was believed that Ioxemander had a son with the Emalian Princess Pyra, but this was ignored by the army far in the west, who instead considered the possibility that Ioxemander’s latest wife, Roxane, was pregnant and could possibly give birth to a son. Ioxemander’s second-in-command, Xeracles assumed regency over the empire for either claimant, something that all the generals could roughly agree on. After several months Roxanne gave birth to Ptelamus, and Xeracles successfully persuaded to have him elevated to the position of king. The regent also divided the empire among the remaining commanders and governors appointed by Ioxemander. At the same time the empire faced numerous rebellions and threats. Notably the Mesallian city-states loosely held in the League of Isthama rebelled to re-establish their independence, and in distant parts of the empire the Mesallian garrisons stationed deserted their posts.
 * State of the Royal Family: At the time of Ioxemander’s death his family was as follows:
 * Relatives through Ptelamus:
 * Ioxemander’s brother, Amelianus, age 30, was considered mentally unfit to rule, and was in Veselia, Erasidon at the time of the king’s death.
 * Ioxemander’s sister, Erelia, age 23, was in Agira at the time of the king’s death.
 * Ioxemander’s sister, Calepide, age 32, was wed to Agenon III of Sericolis.
 * Through Pyra of Emalia
 * Igneous, age 6
 * Through Nelra of Sephimora
 * No issue
 * Through Shameza of Edom
 * Medesa, age 5
 * Through Roxane of Azoz
 * Ptelamus, age 0
 * State of the Governors: At the time of Ioxemander’s death the empire was divided among the following governors:
 * Xeracles - Had served as Ioxemander’s second-in-command, and was considered the most senior commander. In the aftermath of the king’s death he successfully convinced the army in Azoz to rally behind the future offspring of the pregnant Roxane, despite an alternate faction seeking to elevate a child from Emalia to the throne. One of the leaders in the faction Xeracles, named Stelanus, would be found dead soon after.
 * Evandus - One of Ptelamus’ most trusted advisors, Ioxemander had left the general in command of the home region in his absence. Evandus was named Regent of Eraisdon and General of Mesallas and the League of Isthama.
 * Cestalus - One of Ioxemander’s most trusted bodyguards and advisors, he had been ordered to return to Erasidon from Azoz at the time of the king’s death. He would join Evandus as his second-in-command for the time being.
 * Sotaren - An Edomian-Mesallian commander who sought to establish control over the rival claimant Igneous in Emalia.
 * Rambius - An Emalian who had been tasked with governing the northern Ema Delta from Iseisalia.
 * Ichabon - A Sephimoran who led Ioxemander’s religious zealots in the south. He was descended from the House of Xares on his father’s side, and a Tahuan noble family on his mother’s side. He was wed to a relative of Ioxemander, and his sister had been wed to Ioxemander.
 * Neoptolanus - Governor of the Great Lakes, he was wed to the daughter of the last Uloyiso king, Senzanganon.
 * Argon - Governor of the East, ruling over Temayal, Tik’akna, Ixima, and the Yannian lands.
 * Asandius - Governor of Edom, he quickly asserted control over the region by marrying the de facto ruler Shameza.
 * Lucanus - Elected High Tyrant of the Umhlaba Confederacy due to garrisoning the city of Isono at the time of the king’s death.
 * Dienades - Governor of Neum, who exerted control over the lower Ashe River and surrounding coastal areas.
 * Garius - Governor of the West, who exerted control over everything past the Kingdom of Azoz.
 * Emalia: In the union between Ioxamander and Pyra, Pyra bears the child, Igneous, the rightful heir of Emalia and Ioxamander's empire. Leto escapes the chaos of war, embarking on a naval expedition past the blue island in the far corner of the known world.
 * (Chatna? Edom? Mesallia? Erasidon?) Dip: Sotaren, an Edomite-born general under the command of Ioxamander, enters Emalia and becomes the godfather and guardian of the young child, proclaiming him to be the new Emperor.
 * Sillan Empire: The cultural exchange between Silla proper and the Olmac provinces becomes eventually known as the "Olmaco–Sillan Exchange"; with the introduction of various new spices (chili peppers, vanilla, nutmeg, cilantro), fruits (tomatoes, avocados, various berries and nuts), vegetables (squashes and gourds) into Sillan cuisine. However, perhaps the most significant introduction to Silla is potatoes and cassavas; joining other Sillan root crops such as sweet potatoes, taro, and yams are "food security crops" to be consumed during poor harvests. The culture of North Olmac – due to its proximity to Silla proper causing disproportionately higher levels of Sillan settlement and thus the increased transmission of Sillan culture – becomes heavily Sillanized, with little traces of pre-conquest culture remaining. However, South Olmac sees the birth of a "new culture" – a blend of both Sillan and indigenous elements. For example, while Sillan architecture is based around wood and (clay) brick, South Olmac architecture is based on stone. Meanwhile, millet and whole-wheat flour (imported from Exhula) becomes the staple grain; while maize continues to be grown as animal fodder. Indigenous lentils and pulses are also grown extensively, becoming a major source of protein. In addition, cash crops such as cotton (for the production of muslin, which becomes the main textile instead of silk), barley (for alcohol), spices, and opium and tobacco (for recreational purposes) are also cultivated. '''Meanwhile, a conquest of Punauia and Rakaroa commences – mobilizing a total of 31,000 troops. However, while cavalrymen continue to be trained in both archery and melee warfare, there is an increased (but still informal) distinction between lightly-armored mounted archers and highly-armored cataphracts. Due to the realization of lances as a clumsy and largely ineffective at close combat, cataphracts are instructed to use lances only as a "shock weapon" to disorganize enemy infantry lines while using sabers (previously designated as secondary weapons) as their primary weapon. 3,000 cavalrymen and 6,000 infantrymen (yielding a total force of ~9,000) are stationed in three army groups near the city-state of Makuku; thus allowing flexibility and ensuring there is no breach or vulnerable area in defenses (thus limiting the Makuku city-state's ability to launch an offensive on Sillan territory). The fortifications of Norianxi is heavily-reinforced, with massive sloping walls of rammed earth measuring 30 ft in height, and ranging from 30 ft (at the base) to 10 ft (at the top) in width. This design – unique to Silla – ensures that it is more structurally-sound and easier to build than other walls. 12,000 troops (consisting of 4,000 cavalrymen and 8,000 infantrymen) – divided into four army divisions consisting of ~3,000 each – are dispatched to Punauia and Rakaroa each; yielding a total of 24,000 troops. Rams, heavy crossbows, and incendiary arrows are used to effectively destroy walled cities and fortifications; thus limiting the two city-state's ability to inhibit the rapid movement of Sillan forces northward. Massive forest fires are intentionally started to clear land (thus allowing the utilization of traditional cavalry-heavy tactics), while settlements and the surrounding farmlands are razed – with the inhabitants told to spread the message (thus destabilizing unaffected settlements with a massive influx of refugees). In both Punauia and Rakaroa, two army divisions are sent north to outmaneuver and outflank enemy forces; leaving one army division to the south of enemy militias to engage with them and to create an illusion of numerical inferiority. They are told to inflict attrition, and then to feign retreat for about a few days (in order to maintain the illusion of a real retreat). The former group, utilizing their superior mobility, will then attack the enemy militia's rear and/or flanks in a surprise engagement; thus annihilating the weakened enemy militias in a swift, decisive move or forcing them to capitulate. The fourth army division is sent to the north to prevent the movement of any reinforcements and to cut supply lines – focusing more on ranged warfare rather than close combat to minimize any casualties. Communication between the four army divisions is maintained by a comprehensive system of mounted infantrymen (especially literate ones) serving as a rudimentary communications system and as reconnaissance troops. Most infantrymen are stationed (in phalanx formations and protected by mounted archers serving as skirmishers) in the remaining forested areas, therefore, preventing enemy militias to bypass cavalry through forested areas. However, many also fulfill auxiliary roles – such as acquiring resources through raids, managing the huge horse herds, or delivering (on mounts) armaments on the battlefield. When permitted, crossbows and incendiary arrows are heavily used to inflict damage on enemy militias as well as an element of psychological warfare; as the sight of such sophisticated weaponry would demoralize enemy militias.''' Sillan arsenals produce a high quantity of reflex bows, iron-tipped and incendiary arrows, polearms (halberds, lances, and pikes), and swords. Meanwhile, its bloomeries also produce a high volume of wrought iron, bronze. Lamellar armor is produced for cavalrymen. Latrines, drainage, as well as communal baths and grammar schools are built. An increasing quantity of silk textiles, porcelaneous wares, jewelry is manufactured both for export and domestic consumption. In addition, cash crops such as hemp, tea, sugarcane, cocoa, coffee, honey, spices, and exotic fruits are cultivated; while alcoholic beverages and condiments are produced. Large-scale deforestation continues, yielding land for rice paddies. Agricultural production increases due to the utilization of more land, the utilization of fertilizer (in the form of bovine manure), and the construction of canals for irrigation and to deliver nutrients (from silt) to rice paddies. Intercropping of rice, aquatic plants, and perennial fruit-bearing plants are done to boost crop yield, and combat soil erosion – thus maintaining soil quality. In addition, subsidies are given to farmers to establish more large-scale fish, mollusk, crustacean, and seaweed farms. In marshes or wet areas, deep-water rice is cultivated. The population grows immensely due to increased wealth and nutrition.
 * The initial Sillan invasion north, crossing over the mountain range, is hampered by the poor terrain, and the Makuku make use of guerrilla tactics to harass the advancing army. To invasion of Makuku results in a Sillan defeat, with the Sillans suffering 8,540 total casualties, including casualties from disease and lack of supplies. In Rakaroa the Sillans achieve a pyrrhic victory, suffering 5,430 casualties.
 * Yannis Empire: The Anointed One focuses his efforts in the home territories, building more highways to connect major cities and territories, and in the cities continuing his policy of building sewers, baths, fountains, and aqueducts. Major cities in the east such as Weritsz see vast upgrades to create a more Yannian city center. The destroyed parts of the cities are replaced by Yannian colonies, with new temples and other major buildings. In the west the Anointed One continues to influence the politics of the western neighbors, allowing for Yannian settlement and integration into the west. News of the rise of Ioxemander in the south initially causes alarm, although the Yannian authorities are pleased that his attention is primarily turned toward destroying the Chatna Empire. Because this task is deemed noble, for it will likely kill many Ulmians by the Anointed One’s estimation, it is allowed to proceed. The Yannian authorities in Mesallas recognize the king in his league, but remain highly autonomous. Yannian authorities also sought to increase their power while the king was away, with Yannian Holy Men spreading the faith to distracted parts of Mesallas and the subsequent empire. It was hoped that the Yannians would ultimately come to dominate Ioxemander’s future empire, potentially by controlling his succession. When the king dies unexpectedly, the Yannians in Mesallas decide to reassert their previous hegemony, splitting the region in one-half. Additionally the Anointed One is tired of tolerating Mesallian governance over Yannian lands, and orders an army to establish the independence of the Eastern States, which were formally governed by independent Yannian rulers.
 * Qera: The city of Imbalama is now officially the seat of the court by 413. The city has practically been the capital for all of the reign of Zrias I, but the first record that mentions it as the capital occurs in 413, when the her son Vavas met his future wife Zoeha for the first time. Other sources already mention Imbalama as a "governing city" around 20 years earlier. The colonies both expand, Uotahtzija expands some 10 pxfarther inland, while Cyrphetzija grows notably about 12 px, while one-half of it becomes rural. The first universal calender is defined in 416. The calender defines the start of the dry season in -160 as the founding date of the modern Qera, which is now set as the start of the calender, making this year the year of 576. The calender is based on the moon eclipse and by the dry and wet seasons. The latter is seen as more important since it plays a big role for agriculture. The usage of bell pepper enters the Qeran cuisine around this time, when merchants brought them from the lands of the Dhonbalan to the south. They are influenced heavily by the Qerans in this decade in hopes of having a strong ally to the south. A mutual military and trade deal is offered to them (MOD RESPONSE, PLEASE) The land between the Ollea country and the Qeran territory is filled with small farms by now, herding either animals or supplying the small copper mines scatterd all over the land. When the Princess hears from Berabian merchants offering to share their "Atlas of the known world" with the Qerans, she immediately agrees, seeing the opportunity to potential new markets (BERABIA RESPONSE, PLEASE). She sends them back with the message that she agrees and samples of Qeran cinnamon, coffee and nutmeg.
 * Beraban Dip: Beraba appreciates the gifts and agrees to trade knowledge of the maps of the world.
 * Exhula: The population survey is finished in 412, reporting that we have about 249,000 citizens now, a major growth from the last survey. The Emperor's son Lorgar also marries in 412, to the last real non-Aurelian claimant to the throne of Kaloma, Cyrra Ryiqus, the daughter of a minor member of the Kalom Dynasty (the youngest daughter of the last King, who fell in love with and married the noble later before they could be stopped) and a high Exhulan noble who was spared due to that connection, securing the throne completely for the Aurelian Dynasty through the marriage. Their first child, a daughter named Lccania, is born in the second month of 413 and their first son Rttagan is born in 414, with their final daughter, Riyya, being born in 416. This could not come soon enough, as 416 is also the year Emperor Vassiga dies of a heart attack, leaving his son Lorgar to be crowned as Emperor Lorgar V in 416. Unfortunately each of his children have several defects, although they were not readily appearing right away. As later records and accounts of this time would show, Rttagan was a weak and sickly boy who was constantly bedridden as a result of frequently catching many diseases, something that later historians attribute to a weak immune system and which later records show would get no better over time. His first daughter Lccania was also blind and quite short and her sister Riyya was the only one who seemed to be completely healthy and normal, but her personality would later leave much to be desired, and she died young. Lorgar V is a strong ruler with a firm sense of justice and an iron grip on ruling, who encourages and sometimes actively orders and forces the increasing of the Exhulan Settlement Of Amyrith even further, actively beginning to outnumber the Kaloman population in some places and with many moving into the agricultural countryside in addition to the cities, which are already heavily saturated with Exhulans. Several new cities end up being built, named Syast, Riccarius, Vassiria, and Ipoyrius, which are mostly made of Exhulans and Kaloman Locals following Hcctaal and Exhulan Customs. Efforts are increased to assimilate the Kaloman Populace in addition to the many thousands of settlers that have by now been settled in the region, with a new tax being introduced in Amyirth where every family who’s members do not follow the Hcctaal faith must pay an additional 7% of their income to the government, with harsh punishments in place for all who try to avoid paying, while those who pay are left alone, although still heavily pressured to convert. To enforce this, a small organization know as the Ccouttirs is established. Made up mostly of former and current Exhulan Soldiers with experience in war and with notable skills for investigation they hunt down those who refuse to pay to either force them to or to punish them for refusing, with methods up to and including torture used in this. While it can't be enforced everywhere, this religious tax is a major factor in pressuring followers of the Kaloman Pantheon to convert, for the sake of their loved ones if nothing else. He also encourages the further settlement of The Northeastern islands, which are named the Assiryan Islands, sending many settlers there as well, in addition to beginning to settle the newly discovered lands directly east of and north of them, founding seven settlements, named Syyorua, Gittoris, Siyyix, Rkoccarius, Cconul, Vninyiga, and Eittina. We also launch three expeditions with many ships, exploring 30 px east of the islands, 30 North, and another one to explore the bay east of them (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED) We also begin, for the first time in a while, to begin actively settling the Ettyian Coast again, specifically expanding much of the land to encompasses by 47 px altogether with thousands of settlers in order to begin an ambitious plan to link the Ettyian Coast and our colony farther north. This is also to lay the foundations for a later plan to create a great road linking the Ettyian Qeran Road to our more Northern colony. In Irrosia the process of transitioning from piracy continues, as Barnam, the first elected King Of Irrosia dies in 413, resulting in an election for the next king lasting until 316, when Syrar Cclor, a member of a powerful Irrosian Noble family descended from a famous pirate Lord who served with Rogar I, is crowned as King of the Irrosian Isles. He continues the process of transitioning from piracy to more legitimate practices, also beginning to employ many pirates in the creation of a massive navy of ships to build on that already held by Irrosia. He also creates four more trade posts and sends an ambassador to the Kingdom of Luhent, asking to open trade relations between Irrosia and Luehnt (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED).
 * Syres: The situation in the city stabilizes, with an uneasy peace existing. On one side remains the Azozians and Ulmians, and on the other the old nobility of Syres and its Mesallian population. The military is ultimately put on the control of commanders from both sides, and the Azozian garrison is negotiated to be lower, which helps to ease tensions. As a result the military grows once more, and the city begins using its navy to combat Darnan piracy and other threats at sea. The Syresian navy makes a name for itself during this time aiding the Chatna Empire near Usinilago, Neum, and Nerimos, slowly pushing back pirates and the threats to the Chatnan coast. When the Erasidonian king Ioxemander arrived at Neum the news reached Syres, and the city was enticed to join his side. Landrew the Generous responded by garrisoning the city and attempting to defeat the approaching king in battle, but after a defeat along the coast forced Landrew to retreat toward the city, the Syresian consuls elected to stage a revolt in the city and refuse him entry. A bloody battle ensued within the city that eventually chased out the Azozians, with a number captured as well. When Ioxemander approached he was allowed entry within the city. Syres remained largely autonomous as it had before, although a small number of men also joined Ioxemander’s army, as the population supported his endeavor. It was hoped that Syres would be able to exert the power it once held, and potentially be granted dominion over the nearby territories that the king had also vassalized. The abrupt death of the king derailed these plans, as soon his generals elected to divide the area into their own governorships, although Syresian territory itself was left to be governed by the Syresians, still nominally under the vassalage of an empire that was fracturing.
 * Beraba: The Crown Princes gather to confer about the new threat of the Cazekorom confederation. They agree that the only way to deal with the threat effectively is by use of force. Gathering an army of 20,000 strong, they march south into Cazekorom territory. (Mod Response Needed) As they march, they clear out enemy combatants and erect guard posts and stations along the Salt Road. The Beraban navy sails south to provide naval support. Cazekorom civilians are spared and shipped north to serve as labor on farms or in mines. As the Cazekorom resistance begins to diminish, soldiers are sent south with remaining members of House Eshashti to re-establish the settlement of Eiros. In the Great Cities, a militant branch of the Faith of Beraba begins to organize. This culminates with the expulsion of Hcctaal missionaries and practitioners alike from the nation, who are all sent back to Exhula. Past offer is still extended to Gahren, Makuku, Sillas, Sayalen, Qera, Exhula, and Yannis: copies of what is known as the “Great Atlas of the Known World” in exchange for their maps and knowledge of the world.

421-430
'An Ulmian apostle named Andionus makes use of the relative stability provided by Ioxemander’s empire, and the decline of the Yannian authorities in the east, to spread the Ulmian faith farther east. Although the Yannian colonies are unreceptive, he reaches the edge of Exhula.'

Explorers sent by the Most Serene Vynos encounters the nation of Xinaben, a feudal kingdom centered around the city of Urum, along the Uthaga River.

'The Baust people accept the offer to become vassals of Hythia, as they fear the Kledesians. They raid the Baust lands heavily, and after the'

The Kingdom of Luehnt accepts the trade offer from the nation of Exhula, and Luehnt expresses interest in an alliance and future cooperation between the two states.

Gahren expresses a desire to trade with Ri’kiva and improve relations, however, the noble family who nominally owned the land on which Ri’kiva’s trade post sits asks for small financial compensation.

'After Sillas fails to significantly occupy the Makuku states it invaded, the states offer peace, with Sillas being given a large number of slaves, amount of gold, and other tribute. In the meantime, an alliance of various Makuku states forms against the Sillas.'

The Valun successfully raid parts of northern Azoz in the chaos during the nation's breakup.

'The Cazekorom suffer a major defeat against the Berabans, with the Berabans suffer 3,400 total casualties. As a result they vacate the Eiros area and enlarge a migration primarily toward the southeast.'
 * Vytia Culture: The land of the Vytia continues to grow every more Serene in its beauty and prosperity. The Nobilist continue their stranglehold over the city of Vynos with another Nobilist Kal Vutos being elected Maz Div in the elections this year following the resignation of Jor Birtyzi as Maz Div. Under him the city begins to take a more centralized approach with a regulated taxation among the peasantry along with a census to count the number of people living in the city. Building projects are sponsored to create a library to hold the records of the various government meetings, along with a barracks being built. The discovery of Xinaben by our explorers intrigues the Assembly and they send an offer to exchange knowledge of maps and open trade between our nation to the newly discovered Kingdom Mod Response.Continued expansion of Land occurs to feed our cities. However, the tyranny of the nobilists inspires various Merchant families to flee the city. A few flee north to the River Emyr where they start a small settlement independent of Vynos. However, within the Hygros Islands south of Vynos, something else entirely occurs - the nephew of the former Maz Div Tyv Nytti, Erln Nytti with an army of ambitious young men conquer the main Island Hynor and found the Kingdom of Hygros under Erln Nytti as its King. They begin a conquest of the islands taking many natives on them as slaves and concubines. The foundation of a new city Karni occurrs within the city with it being the capital. We continue our exploration sending explorers North along the shores and South and following a newly discovered river. However, they also sponsor the election of the inland east of Vynos. The outskirts of Vynos, however, are raided by the surrounding Nykos causing the burning and destruction of several farms and harvests, the Maz Div responds to this by ordering troops to head into Nykos villages, burn them, and take their inhabitants as slaves to work for the Nobles and Merchants.
 * 'Mesallian Culture: The Empire of Ioxemander collapsed nearly as quickly as it formed. Initially the empire was largely united under the regency of Xeracles, who supported the infant heir Ptelamus III. The first major division came with the Emalians appointing Igneous as heir, which in effective split Emalia and the east from the empire, with Sotaren pulling the strings, and seeking to influence other eastern governors to support his government instead of Xeracles (Emalia player, the rest is up to you). In Mesallas proper the “Mesallian War” broke out, as a general revolt following Ioxemander’s death. The late king’s policies of shifting around the Mesallian governments, taking supplies and tribute to fuel his army, and other reforms, led to high discontent that turned to rebellion by the lack of clear succession. Nations like Agira and Meshwati saw an opportunity to reassert their independence, Additionally the King of Sericolis, Agenon III, saw an opportunity to potentially elevate his own kingdom in Erasidon’s absence, as his own dynasty had a claim to the throne as well, and was of full Mesallian heritage. Evandus and Cestalus remained loyal to the imperial government and to Xeracles, and organized an army to put down the unrest. Approximately 20,000 men were raised from returning veterans, new recruits, and mercenaries. The rebellion lasted about a year, with the states of the League of Isthama reunited and accepting of Evandus’ leadership. Xeracles’ power as regent grew, and a year after the death of Ioxemander he married the late king’s sister Erelia. This was seen as an attempt to elevate himself to the throne, and prompted a revolt from three of the major governors; Mesallas, Edom, and Neum. The war is triggered when Xeracles sends a funeral procession with the late king’s body back to Erasidon, and Dienades of Neum has the body intercepted. After one year of war the elderly Xeracles was killed by a conspiracy of three generals: Demus, Lyanates, and Nysimus, who were granted Azoz, Medan-Bangui, and Fashnoq respectively. In the west all parties continued to recognize Ptelamus III as king in Azoz, but Evandus became the new empire-wide regent. (Much more to come)
 * In the far west Governor Garius faced multiple problems. Although he had about 20,000 Mesallian soldiers stationed with him, as well as several thousand civilians which Ioxemander had planted there to begin settling the region, a portion of the Mesallian population rebelled, intending to return back to Mesallas. An army would have to be dispatched by Xeracles to the west (with the situation not fully resolving until after Xeracles’ death). A brief battle would be fought west of Azoz in which the deserters were defeated and forced back into the west. Around the same time the natives of the west revolted as well. Eskaladun had remained largely ungoverned during Ioxemander’s campaign, and the king of the nation reasserted his independence, as did numerous tribes between the small Azozian colony and the Eskaladunians. Garius proved to be a formidable general, but he was unable to fully control the vast western region. Garius decided to make peace with Eskaladun and the kingdom eventually broke off from Mesallian rule de facto. Garius made his capital in Fotashe, while he appointed his son, Lysus, to rule from Ioxemandia-Ekudus (Ioxemandia the Furthest), which was situated on the southwest coast. In the east the governor Argon found himself also facing difficulty. A Yannian army had landed near Tik’akna, and that sparked general rebellions all across the region. He hastily swore fealty to the Emalian claimant Igneous, asking for Emalian soldiers to aid him. Nonetheless, the city of Tik’akna itself fell relatively quickly, and Argon was defeated decisively farther south as well. Multiple strongholds still held out, such as Ioxemandia-Oran (Ioxemandia the East), which was situated on the river in the Far East near Phorintheon. There the Yannians and a number of recruited Phorintheons would storm the fortress, with a Yannian named Sezesec’tolem declaring himself King of Ometoc-vis and Quamocten, and soon after a nobleman named Calecqemec declares himself King of Tik’akna. Despite this, Argon would manage to secure Temayal, with assistance from neighboring provinces. In the Great Lakes the governor Neoptolanus found himself unable to juggle both the Tahuans/Enulmians and their ancient enemies, Uloyiso. Initially Neoptolanus chose the Tahuans, as they were religiously devoted to following Ioxemander, but after he died some elements of Tahuan society, who were annoyed at Neoptolanus’ policies, labelled him another Uloyiso king occupying the holy land. In Sephimora Ichabon succeeded Ioxemander, leading the zealots of Enulmism. Although he was initially to be tasked with governing the entire region between Edom and Emalia, the northern city-states instead aligned behind Mesallian commanders, with Adranates IV ascending to the throne of Ghanis and Zolius II rising in Dascelos. Ichabon would successfully defend Nerimos, turning the city into his capital, and finally transferring the Holy Dwelling back to the great temple in the city.
 * Emalia: It is in this time that Igneous, the first born of the deceased Ioxamander and the living Pyra, the rightful heir of both Emalia and the Empire, transforms from boy to man, being educated extensively in all subjects of human and supernatural thought, having unprecedanted access to the vast knowledge of the world and a constant thirst of knowledge, exploration, and adventure, and it is only with time that he starts to realize the weight of the future he is destined for, of all the land and people that will be under his rule. His youth is spent between his mother Pyra and his guardian/godfather Sotaren, who Pyra marries, not out of love as with the conqueror Ioxamander, but out of political purposes, Pyra to keep the reigns on Sotaren, ensuring he is at bay, and Sotaren to get inside access to the Emalian Imperial Court and having a position of power, though checked in the capital, it was free in the fringes, and he used this power, in conjuctuation with Pyra, to unite the Eastern governors to swear fealty to Emalia, most notablly Argon, who swore fealty to Emalia in the midst of Yannian Invasion. The call to arms is honored, with Emalia sending 20,000 elite soldiers to defend the Argonian lands along with the Thalutians (Exhulians), Neoptolanus and Messelians from the Yannian invasion, fortifiying the Argonian strongholds with boundless effectiveness. As the defense of Argonia continues,Lyania is fully integrated into the Eastern Empire, reuniting with Emalia once again. The integration of Ephesus into the Eastern Empire is also completed, and the integration of Rambia, the land ruled by the Emalian Rambius, naturally begins and ends in a relatively short time. With dominance over the entirety of the Ema Delta and its coastline secured, Emalia finally sees and recieves the full abundance of wealth the sea has to offer. This newfound prosperity, in addition to its Imperial status, ushers in an unprecedanted golden age in Emalia and its Imperial subjects, spurring many scientific discoveries and technological advancements, as evident not only by the massive infrastructure projects throughout the Empire, but also the rapid advancements of the military, with Emalia proper focused on making the army an unstoppable force, gaining procifient and profolic commanders and generals of the age. At the same time, Ephesus massively rebuilds the navy to establish dominance on the seas, both in war and in trade  During this time, a compact is formed with the Governor of the Great Lakes Neoptolanus, and we broker a peace between him and the Tahuans, concluding that Neoptolanus shall stay Governor and the Tahuans shall be autonamous. If Neoptolanus is deposed, however, he shall have a place in Emalian society and the new leader shall be supported in the interest of keeping peace. In the west, the Messelian appointed Governor of Sephimora, Ichabon, is under threat from Evandus' appointments of governor and viceroy over Sephimora. Sotaren declares his support for Ichabon as the rightful Governor of Sephimora, stating that the foreign appointees are unlawful and invalid, and thus raises an army of 20,000 and splits it into four groups of 5,000 to reconquer Sephimora for Ichabon, reinstalling him completely, now under Emalian suzerainty. Sotaren, however, did not stop here, for the Edomite set his sights for Edom, doubling his army, with 10,000 Sephimoran soldiers joining him as a thank you from Ichabon. This force of 50,000 march upon the great city of Edom and besiege it, declaring war on the Asandius, the Governor of Edom. Sotaren's purpose of thie Siege of Edom is twofold. One, to kill the Imperial claimant child Madesa, and two, to conquer Edom, his home, for himself, seeing Governor Asandius as a foreigner who had no right being there. Solaren further bolstered his claim on Edom by stating Asandius' rule was illegitimate due to being threatened by Evandus' appointees for governor and viceroy over Edom, who too are declared illegitimate. It thus follows that Sotaren himself is the only rightful person to rule Edom, being a native to it.During Sotaren's siege of Edom, the Eastern Imperial navy blockades Edom, forcing it to be surrounded by land and sea. All this happens while the Thalutians (Erasidonians), are embroiled in war against Yannis and others. We fear a counterattack from Evandus, even though we never declared war on him, and our army builds fortifications across the Eastern Empire, especially Emalia proper, taking strong defensive positions. A letter is wrote to Evandus, both by Sotaren and Pyra, informing we have no malice toward him, his family, or his land proper, we are only doing what we must against the vassal states, and we continue to provide support against Yannis. Follow up letters are written to Evandus, the one by Sotaren giving detailed reasons for why he did what he did and is doing, and Pyra apologizing profusely for the actions of her husband, chalking it up as natural male aggression in periods of war. As war rages, Prince Leto continues his voyage at sea, exploring the eastern fringes of the known world, now discovering that the blue island at the edge of the world are actually multiple blue islands at the edge of the world, and he continues past them. In the middle of all this, Ionia's life was fading, and with this fading she realized that Emalian culture and religion were fading too, thus she spoke with her daughter, Pyra, for one last time. "Pyra, it is my fear that we are forgetting our goddess Ema, I know you know Her, some still know her, but if things continue, continue as they do now, she will no longer be known, for people will know Messalia instead- the way of our late husbands. Please, do not let Ema, who gave all humanity life through her womb, be forgotten, do not let the life of the Queen Prophettess Nysia, the founder of our family, our people, and our nation, be in vain. Make sure that we will live forever, that Ema will never be forgotten. Defend Ema's City and Her Holy Court with your life, ensure that it will always worship and know Ema even as the rest of Emalia falls to the ways of Messalia. Find a new land where those who still know and worship Ema can live and prosper, keep some Sisters here and send other Sisters to venture out for the new land my daughter Pyra. May Ema be with you always." These words are Ionia's last, and Pyra honors her mother's dying words, with her first order as Queen to teach the new generation of girls in the ways of Ema so that they may know her. She also assigns Sisters  to become Guardians of the Temple/Holy Court, who continue the teaching of Ema in the Capital  and the Explorers of Ema, who are sent downstream south to Alsoba, accompanied by a band of Holy Emalian female warriors. The Ema Explorers, following the river, discover the southern edge of the known world, hoping to find a new home among the newfound lands.
 * Ri'Kiva: In an attempt to foster a good relationship as well as compensate the noble, an official tribute mission is dispatched to Gahren. In addition, due to population pressure in Ri'Kiva, settlers are sent to the colony at So'dor, which expands a bit. Several colonies are established, as well as exploration in Kjv'arn. Raids into the peninsula continue,  and a few forts are built to help deal with Tarahiem raids. A trading post is built in Alegorgia. In Gahren, merchants look for signs of foreign undiscovered contacts.
 * Phorintheon: Early in the year, Mt. Atnosis erupts violently, accompanied by a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami. The tsunami practically wipes Phorintheon off the face of the Earth, while the earthquake destroys many ancient buildings. While the Obsidian Pyramids remain intact, the Arches of Phorintheon split, with the left side toppling over while the right side remains standing. Though it is mostly buried, the intricate columns that survive stand as the only recognizable building in the city after the calamity, as if to shout to the world, "Here was Phorintheon." Records of this calamity describe ash raining for weeks while a seemingly eternal night lasted for months. Black rain destroys crops and soils intricate buildings and works of art across Atnosia. The survivors scatter to the winds, often coming into contact with other survivors headed north. This contact sometimes turns violent, especially against non-Atnosians. Although Phorintheon is gone, its legacy remains. Its characters used for writing and record keeping have become the primary source of written communication on the island. Romantic depictions of its conquests across Atnosia are legion. Around this time, a survivor named Ph:anatok'i compiles a written history of Phorintheon's conquest of Kaiyoshor. This history, told in a poetic narrative, passes into legend, especially given the antiquity of the event in general. By this point, the Yannian colonies have introduced a few loan-words to Atnosian. With this catastrophic eruption, the Atnosian language begins to shift due to the movement of Yannian refugees along with Atnosian refugees to the north of the island. Though this is largely a change in vocabulary, it is enough to distinguish Phase III Atnosian (c.0 - c.420) from Phase IV Atnosian, which sees extensive use in written form. With this shift in power, Phorintheon's chapter in Atnosian history comes to a sudden close, but the history of Atnosis lives on...
 * Citanath: The city-state of Citanath is typically described as being founded around this year by refugees from various northern Atnosian city-states and Yannian settlements. It is located near the ruins of Hedabrig, which had been destroyed by the tsunami. It is guarded by a chain of mountains to the north, with natural springs dotting the landscape. It is said that the survivors stopped in what would become Citanath for water and discovered a hot spring so relaxing, they chose to settle near it. This group of survivors has a number of obstacles early-on. Atnosisians are typically hostile and place much importance on one's own city-state. A nomadic group is frequently seen as weak in the best of times. Some Atnosians believe that a citizen of any city-state should die with one's city-state. For this reason, a number of early conflicts with the nearby Dalgoades occur. This leads to a number of fortifications being constructed to protect the city. The city is established as a Heptarchy, much like Phorintheon's. Trade with Hedabrigian survivors proves fruitful and mutually-beneficial, leading to an early population boom.
 * Yannis Empire: A great army of Holy Men is assembled and lands in Tik’akna. The Anointed One personally travels to the city as well on an enormous ship, with multiple levels of palace-like decks. His fleet stations at Tik’akna, and the Anointed One is carried into the city by a royal procession of Holy Men. It is discovered that many other religions have permeated the city’s walls during the brief occupation, and the high priests of the Yannian procession enter the foreign temples and slaughter any worshipers they find. The Anointed One sees fit to have these structures reconsecrated as temples, and the priests of Nyghesecan, who are cloaked head to toe in long, black robes, who walk upon ten-foot stilts, hit the desecrated land with their black poles, as a means of purifying the land. Generally Mesallians are tolerated, but any disgusting Ulmian heathens are ritualistically tortured, with their limbs torn off. Their blood is then used to paint the floors of the new temples. When this task is done the army of the Anointed One continues south, intending to liberate Ixima, Temayal, and all cities of the Yannian faith. The Anointed One personally seaks to see the shores of Temayal, as his ancient predecessor once did, and from there continue the holy and righteous cause by bringing the Yannian faith across the Great Lakes. In the Holy City of Yagothna-vis the brutal slaughter of the Chatna Empire is celebrated with weeks of festivity and holy ritual. In Tohatia the governor orders that all Hcctaal preachers must be expelled by threat of death, and sends a message to the government in Exhula stating these preachers must never return. Additionally, the colony is damaged by the recent eruption across the sea in Phorintheon, and the colony calls upon the Anointed One for aid. A number of Holy Men are also spared to travel to the island and cleanse the lands of heathen activity, as the eruption is seen as a condemnation of the old peoples there, and an opportunity to spread the Yannian faith. Several small outposts are established in the south of the island, where Holy Men convert all who approach the temples, and kill those who resist. 25,000 Holy Men land in Tik’akna in the initial invasion. After they capture the city and depart south another 35,000 are landed in the region. Then 10,000 men are landed in the eastern colonies to join 10,000 men already there, and invade from the east. Then 20,000 men are recruited from the local population, as they rise up to restore Yannian rule.
 * Hythia: Years 128-137 Since the Return of Hythus. Myrnech Vyln, seeing both an opportunity and a potential rival prepares for war. He bans the export of food, and even goes so far as to import grain from the neighboring states to bolster granaries across the nation. Arms are produced en masse to supply a greatly increased army which is raised over the course of about two years. Thus, in the 130th year since Hythus’ return, Vyln raises the Unar and calls on all of Hythia’s vassals. The Kledesians now represent a serious threat and must be destroyed. Vyln raises a massive army of heavy and light cavalry numbering 10,000 men in total. Of this, 4,000 is heavy cavalry with the remainder light cavalry armed with bows, javelins, and light armor. This strength is augmented by the addition of tribal warriors from across the region, any troops from Hythia’s allies, and those among the conquered tribes who wish to gain revenge. The Unar, after these gains swells before launching its attack on the Kledesians.
 * Erasidonian Empire: In a surprising turn of events, the Mesallian and Azozan cultures had completely married together through the conquests of Ioximander the Great. Historians usually refer to the Chatna Empire as a brief prototype of the true Imperial Age of the city, laying the foundation of the successive empire. Also on the fire of Azoz, some historians sepculate if this destruction was actually responsible for the burning of the Great Library of Azoz, and not the earlier burning in the Ebony Era, but this is uncertain. Xeracles was the first to proclaim Ptelamus III as the new King of Erasidon, and in the Chatna tradition, Emperor of the Erasidonian domains. Xeracles went on to marry Erelia and sire a child, but shortly after was murdered in a conspiracy of his political rivals. This event is commonly referred to as the "Pallan Massacre", due to its execution during the funeral procession of Ioximander. Xeracles' infant son, named Xarenvaras, was hidden by his mother in an Ulmian monestary. Evandus, with main support of his fellow conspirators, and general acceptance of all Ioximander's generals, processed into Azoz personally on his horse, and was recongized by the Senate as the new Regent. Now the task lay to Evandus to restore order to the Empire in the ongoing chaos. A temporary truce is offered to Valun, offering them a high payment of slaves and continual ransom for them to save off their raids for the time being (Mod response). In Mesallias, Evandus pursued a policy to looser control, allowing the Kingdom of Sericolis and the Confederacy of Isthama to operate as autonomous vassals. In the north, General Diodenes is dispatched with 3,000 troops to pacify the region, securing the empire up to the border with Syres, who is offered the same autonomous vassalage. Next Evandus worked to pacify the west. General Castelus was sent to Azoz with 5,000 men to restore peace, and was ultimately made Viceroy as he restored the meritocratic satrapies over Frasnoq and Bangui. In the farther west, Evandus was determined to restore order over the western territories, and so raised a new army of 40,000 men from Azoz and Fotashe to reconquer the Kingdom of Eskaladun. In the east, Evandus dispatched 10,000 men to restore peace across the Upper Meran, appointing Asandius as Viceroy of the Kingdom from Iskandaria. In accordance with our treaty of alliance with Emalia, Asandius and Shemza is strongly encouraged to enter the child Medesa into holy orders of an Ulmian Nunnery just east of Edom, a very highly prestigious vocation according to Edomite culture, while the garrison of peacekeeping soldiers remain near the capital. Farther east, Evandus was keen to ensure a military alliance with Emalia, recognizing its independence and jurisdiction over the eastern and southern territories through their equally-rightful claim to the throne. 30,000 troops under General Ichabon are sent to the northeast, restoring control over the cities of Dascelos and Ghanis under the Empire. Evandus operated out of two capitals, moving back and forth between the courts of Erasidon and Azoz equally, while the child Ptelamus remained secluded in Azoz. In the name of Ptelamus III, Evandus made many reforms to gradually centralize the Empire, instituting the same Azoz system of Satraps over directly controlled regions of many parts of Tuartha, Edom, Usilinago, and Mesallia. In combining Mesallian and Azoz customs of political structure, Evadus instituted both a Viceroy and Governor over each constituent Kingdom in his title: Fotashe, Eskaladun, Azoz, Tuartha, Usilinago, Mesallia, Edom, and Sephimora. In each constituent Kingdom, a census was conducted to estimate the entire population of the empire, as well as the population of each individual kingdom (Mod response). Reforms also worked to create a single, centralized military that included levies from every region and ethnicity of the Empire. Once peace was restored in the east, a new army of 40,000 troops was raised in support of our allies Emalia and Neoptolanus to stall the expanse of Yannis in the east. The largely-undisturbed navy of the former Chatna Empire was deployed once more to support Sericolis and the Isthmala Confederacy to secure control over Nykos, in reaction to Yannis attempts to remove their independence there. The arts and sciences were patronized once more, with the Great Basilicas in both Azoz, Iskandaria and Nerimos remodeled. Ulm religion and Apostolic preachers continue to be sent to the far eastern regions even after Yannis' invasion, spreading the theology of Priapas to contrast their brutal methods against the eternal love of Nelrim. Djorge, one famous martyr at this time, continued to quote from the Hymns of Nelrim as his body was severed at his limbs "Although my body may be turned to ash, I will stand in the presence of God". Historians are often tempted to consider this new phase of the nation as "Mesallian-dominiated" culture, primarily due to the overwhelming presence of Mesallian customs, people and philosophy over so much of the continent. However, this influence also went both ways and the reign of Ptelamus III saw equally as much appearence of Azoz and Edomite philosphy and customs in the Mesallian Archipelago. As such, most historians have instead referred to this period as a "Mesallianistic" Era, with the new empire under Ptelamus III as vaguely similar to the older era but mixed with dozens of other cultures.
 * Emalian affair: Evandus was disappointed to see Emalia reject his very specific offer of peace, and denied both the legitimacy of Ptelamus III and his governors. As a result of this, support could not be given to Emalia's war in the east against Yannis, seeing defense of the homeland far more important, and the alliance with Emalia not completed in the first place. 50,000 troops of the new army, instead of being sent east, stay in Descalos under General Ichabon to stop the Emalian invasion. In support of the defense, both Ichabon and Asandius raised troops of their own people to defend their respective cities. This was far more successful in Edom, of course, due to Asandius being generally loved by the Edomite people through his marriage to Shanza, with volunteers joining from all across both Upper and Lower Meran. Evandus declares that if Emalia wants to reject his legitimacy and invade the empire, he can fight Yannis on his own.
 * Emalian response: The invasion upon Seiphoria and Edom was conducted by Sotaren, not by the Eastern Imperial Court. In the interests of the continued peace between East and West, and the blossoming alliance against the Yannian Invasion, we rescind the claim of suzerainty, over Sephmoria, proposing instead that it becomes a neutral buffer zone between the Western and Eastern Empires, Ichabon's Siphoria regaining independence. We also propose that Edom, the eternal city, be made into an Imperial tributary city-state due to its history and importance, it will be the sight of mutual Western and Eastern cooperation while maintaining its domestic rule under Asandius, further bolstering Asandius' power and leading to a more united Empire, and with this unity we seek to sit in Edom to discuss battleplans against Yannis.
 * Erasidon response: We accept the Emalian rescinding of suzerainty, of the region, as well as their support of our governor Ichabon's rule. We also accept establishing the city of Iskandaria as a vassalized city-state, where both courts of the empire from Emalia and Erasidon can meet collectively. We also agree to establish Neglistos and the regions south of that as an autonomous vassal of Erasidon as a buffer, while the original Three Cities centered at Nerimos remain under Erisadon. This is the terms of our alliance, after which we will dispatch the troops we promised to fight for Emalia in the east.
 * Emalian response response: With the independence of Ichabon's Siphoria granted and the semi-independence of Iskandria as a meeting place between East and West, we accept the Thalutite proposal, the Treaty of Edom now signed, a meeting is set between the leaders of the East and the West, discussing strategies to counter the Yannians. Once the meeting is concluded, Sotaren and the armies led by him, 50,000 strong are sent to the Yannian front to defend Argon, attacking the Yannian besiegers to help relieve the Emalian and Argonite defending the strongholds, with the defending Emalian forces numbering 20,000 in total throughout Argonite territory  attempting to drive them back to Ti'Kana. The navy also withdrawls from Edom, some attacking Yannian ships with the Western fleet, while others returning to the Ema Delta to defend the homeland.
 * Erasidon: The 50,000 troops in Dascalon move east to aid Emalia in all of their endeavors.
 * Tsardom of Algeorgia: The tsar creates the royal institute for mathematics and enginering and allows girls to also go to school there. The tsar's fort is finished completing and is inaugurated by the tsar.
 * Kingdom of Ouayi: In the early part of this decade, King Eizen I dies and is suceeded by his son, Belerik. Belerik is an ambitious young man who sailed in a number of voyages alongside the traders of Ouayi before ascending to the throne. As such, he begins to reorganize the kingdom to promote the maximal economic power of the nation. This includes construction of a new and modern shipbuilding facility at the port of Araghet, the nation's capital city located on the western coast. Meanwhile, the system of roads that criss-cross the big island are improved. We approach Yannis in pursuit of a trade deal, whereby we will sell Exhulan goods to the theocracy. In exchange, we are willing to allow greater Yannian religious influences on the island but want support in future naval endeavors with Yannian manpower. Finally, toward the end of the decade, Belerik orders a census to be undertaken of all Ouayisl people across the archipelago. (MOD)
 * Yannis Diplomacy: The nation accepts trade with the Kingdom of Ouayi, and sends Holy Men to the nation to aid them in spreading the faith. Additionally the empire offers to guarantee the independence of Ouayi, so that no harm may befall them.
 * Exhulan Empire: With the opening of trade relations with Lueht and the continued trade with Beraba and Gahren our trade economy begins to swell as we become more wealthy. The process of assimilating Amyirth (former Kaloma) continues as we set up a number of government-run schools throughout the many population centers in the area. These schools take in orphans and impoverished children around the ages of six to 13 and gives them the highest education possible until the age of 16 to 18 (depending on when they were taken in) Teaching them things such as History and how to read and write, preparing them for jobs (often administrative positions in the bureucracy with which we run the region) and how to survive in the real world. However, this is not done out of the goodness of our hearts, but instead is part of our assimilation effort, as we teach them history and views that are highly in favor of Exhula, Teach them how to read and write in Exhulan to encourage them to speak in that language and encourage the adoption of Exhulan Religious and Cultural customs, in efforts to slowly make more and more of the population assimilated among the lower- and small middle-classes. By now most of the Nobility has adopted Exhulan Culture and converted to the Hcctaal faith in order to gain favour with Exhulan leaders or to get out of the tax implemented last turn, or were Exhulans to begin with, meaning almost all of the leaders of the region are Exhulan culturally and religiously, regardless of actual ethnicity, meaning by now it is mostly a matter of converting the lower poorer agricultural and poorer-classes and the lower-class members of the regions population, which is why we begin sending many of the preachers (and the enforcers of the tax along with armed followers) into the various smaller agricultural villages and communities, where we have less people assimilated but which mostly didn't care about the change in who ruled them, but that now find themselves under increasing pressure to convert (from the tax and from the preachers) and many do, although many others remain discontent and don't convert, although we plan to get them in time. Meanwhile, in the Imperial Court at Siccarius Prince Rttagan, the only heir to the throne after his mother died giving birth to his second sister, continues to be sickly and frequently confined to his bed with various fevers and sicknesses. This is only worsened by the fact that his constant confinement to his bed causes his muscles to atrophy and his legs to develop weakly as he grows up, causing him to constantly have to be carried around on a bed by several slaves or servants on a bed, despite his desire to walk around himself. He is very intelligent and is constantly reading, a thing that developed when he desired it as one of his only forms of entertainment during his constant confinement to the sickbed. His father loved him and helped protect him from many manipulative nobles and people trying to get to him at court, making sure he got the best education he could and even ordering the construction of an entire new wing of the Imperial Palace to house thousands of books for him to entertain himself with. Unfortunately, he is seen as weak and it is believed it is likey he will die before he produces an heir, leading to increasing factionalism at court as both of his sisters betrothed and their families begin competing to gather influence in an attempt to get their future sons as heirs to the throne, with one being the King of Irrosia Syrar Cclor, who marries Princess Lccania in 430, and one being the influential Governor of Amyirth, Lorgar Arassis, who is set to marry Princess Riyya in 432, although she would be the one who would later convince him to compete for the throne, as she is power hungry and quite arrogant and has always despised her sister and brother and hates her father. Lorgar is not blind to this and does his best to crush this factionalism at court, favouring those who oppose them and support his son for the throne, and having Rttagan married as soon as possible (with his son's cooperation and consent as he recognizes the necessity and his help in selecting a suitable match), with him marrying the daughter of the current Fillaq of the Sayalen Tupitoqeri II, Quipi, who is the 2nd great-grandaughter of Tupitoqeri I, when both of them are 16 - although they have produced no children by the end of the turn. In other news Lorgar V, in response to the forced expulsion (And in many cases Murder) Of hundreds Hcctaal followers and Exhulan Preachers from Beraba, Threatens war with Beraba if they do not find and prosecute the militia that expelled the Hcctaal followers, as several of them were our citizens (although it is meant as a show of strength) (Beraba Response needed). We also request our Ally Sayalen provide aid to us and offer to transport their troops with our navy and in the future help them create a larger one if they do help since they are our allies and they have such a small one compared to the large amount of coastline they have (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED). In Irrosia the process of ending the endemic Piracy is mostly complete, as although wartime Piracy against the enemies of the gods remains seen as a noble and heroic pursuit, and acting as mercenaries and hired ships also does, piracy during peacetime and against Irrosian and Exhulan allies has been largely eliminated and discredited, with trade being much more common and beneficial to Irrosia, as the archipelago continues to become extremely rich as a major trade center and not a den of piracy. Many Irrosians who formerly made their living through piracy but who are now unable to due to the changes in policy and culture begin to instead make careers as Mercenaries and Sellsails in numerous conflicts throughout the North and South Seas, making even more money for Irrosia, keeping its warriors experienced, and making Irrosian mercenaries and shired ships famed throughout the North Sea as ferocious warriors and even better sailors who will be very loyal to whoever hires them.... so long as they are paid. The Irrosian Government also begins to become heavily involved in sponsoring, many of which have upper ranks and leaders made up of Irrosian Nobles, including the famous "Iron Company" Which would become famed for its many deeds as mercenaries and later in service of the Irrosian Government as extremely skilled and powerful warriors and sailors in various conflicts throughout the North Sea, and the adventures of which would be heavily romantasised in later Literature and Poetry, becoming folk heros in many parts of Irrosia. Irrosias position as a nexus of trade in the North Sea also leads to further diversity in Irrosia as many traders and sailors from distant lands dock in Irrosian Ports, including an Ulmian Apostle named Andonius, who reaches Irrosia in 429 and begins preaching and attempting to spread the Ulmian Faith in Irrosia, finding that the area's relative religious tolerance puts him at less of a risk than in many other places and allows him to safely gather a number of converts, although he dose not have over 30 by the end of 430, as he is only one man despite his charisma and he has not finished training any Locals as Ulmian Priests yet. This is also due to his desire to lay low due to the many followers of the Yannian Faith in the Area, who are known for persecuting Ulmians and have shown on numerous occasions that they are unafraid to do so even in other nations, regardless of government approval. Finally, we decide to extend an offer to some of the Various nations and city-states in Makuku (The ones Sillas is not at war with) to open trade relations between us, although we make it clear that this does not make us allies if they accept and that we will not get involved with a conflict with Sillas (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED)Intrestingly but unknown to the Exhulan or Irrosian governments a large slave ship carrying over 600 slaves (It is part of an expensive and rare class of ship designed to carry hundreds of slaves as part of our Huge slave trade and the few thousand slaves we are supposed to bring to Sillas each year which was designed specifically to do that and are massive but quite slow and only meant to travel for a few months at most so the inhabitants can be fed (Although they are often malnourished and many usually die in the cramped horrible conditions, so many died even on the journey after the revolt too)) as a massive portion of the shipments of slaves we send to Sillas every year is captured when the slaves onboard, being carried from Slave markets from the West and intending to sail to Sillas and deliver a massive part of the annual shipment of SLaves to Sillas from Exhula, revolt and slaughter the crew, managing to take over the ship and redirect it to sail away from the south (Where the slave markets are as they are about 100 miles North of Irrosia at the time) and instead head north and found a small hidden colony to hide from Exhulans or others seeking to re-enslave them. They find a location on the tip of the area North of Irrosia relatively hard to see if you don't know where it is and where a small abandoned Exhulan Fortress is Located and settle the area around it, building a small port and city around the fortress, where they can retreat in the event of potential raids or attacks on their new refuge, which they name Luls, which in the coming decades will become the center of a large trade network and a refuge for thousands of slaves fleeing recapture, who will settle in the city and grow it further and cause its rapid growth in the future. We also offer an alliance to Luehnt, and begin sending many Hcctaal Missonaries to that nation through our new trade contections (LUEHNT RESPONSE NEEDED)
 * Diplomacy to Yannis: In response to the sudden mass expulsion of Hcctaal Preachers from Toahita by Yannis and their letter stating they will never allow them to return, we send back a letter stating that although we will not send any more Hcctaal preachers into Yannian Territory we will also no longer allow Yannian Holy Men to enter Exhulan Territory, stating that our understanding of our previous arrangement was that we would allow their Holy Men into Exhula in exchange for being allowed to do the same in reverse (which had already become rare by this time as Hcctaal folowers were and despite the expulsion of many preachers still are a long-established community in the region, although a minority one) and that with their revoking of permission for preachers of our faith to enter their territory it is only fair for us to do the same to their Holy Men (with the obvious exceptions of diplomatic missions that are not religious in nature). Although we make it clear we will not expel citizens of Exhula or Irrosia who follow the Yannian Faith or their Holy Men who are citizens of Exhula, as we are better than that and will not persecute our citizens on the basis of their religion.
 * Ouayi (formerly known as Lueht) Diplomacy: We accept the offer of an alliance with the Exhulan Empire, and welcome the missionaries of the Hcctaal faith into our island nation with open arms.
 * Tohatian Diplomacy: The Governor states that you thought very wrong. There will not be any attempt to stop Yannian Holy Men, nor will there be any harm done to them.
 * Exhulan Response: We are greatly insulted by the rude demands by Toahita, stating “We are not your vassals, and we will not tolerate being treated like we are, you do not dictate our policy”. We block any attempts by Yannian Holy Men to enter our territory and although we do not harm them (as we stated we would not) we do not tolerate their entrance into our territory either.
 * Darna: We continue to slave and slave, taking new slaves and enslaving them to the slave pits of the Darna. On the coasts our raids enslave new slaves, and on sea they are transported back to Darna, and back to the slave pits. We attack the Chadna Empire until their coasts are desolate and bare, their children kidnapped, and their wealth destroyed. Our ships continue to raid the coasts of the heathen lands, taking many valuable slaves. We decide to raid Syres while they are weakened, destroying coastal towns, taking slaves, and as many valuables as we can. Once we have taken as much as we can, we demand payment in order to bribe us to go away. After the Darnan fleet raids the Azozians, destroying their puny fleet of only a few ships. We raid their coastal cities, even landing soldiers at major cities there, and even raiding up their Ashe River. Up river towns and cities are raided. The raids generate wealth which is used to create more raids, but also to improve infrastructure and new settlements in Darna. People move from the islands to the mainland in the north or to Isimandia, where new land is plentiful. In the thirst for Ulmian slaves the Darnan navy raids the Azozian coast and takes many prisoners as slaves. When the Kingdom of Chatna is distracted most they strike and seize valuables and loot, burning cities and towns. The island taken from Syres becomes a base of operations for these raids. Later the ships travel south toward Mesallas, and since we have good relations and trade connections with the Yannian-Mesallian governor, the Darnan navy becomes employed in raiding with its fleet being one of the largest in the world. Many slaves are sold to Yannis for sacrifice.
 * Sillan Empire: 10,000 troops (divided into four army groups) are stationed along the city-state of Makuku; with 2,500 in Norianxi (which is heavily-fortified). Its arsenals are stockpiled with heavy crossbows – capable of shooting crossbow bolts and its incendiary variants; thus preventing enemy forces from seizing the walled city. Similarly, while the wall's structure and main material render siege engines (such as rams) ineffective, a shallow moat is hastily-built just in case. Sillan control over recently-seized Rakaroa is further consolidated; with the population pacified with psychological tactics in order to instill fear and thus obedience – which allows leniency, which further incentivizes submission. A walled city is established, w/ a garrison of 2,500 military nobles. The territory has two more defending army divisions numbering ~1,250 each. Vast tracts of forested land are burned to allow the easier location of enemy militias or rebels. A second expedition to Punauia is launched with 18,000 troops divided into nine army divisions instead of four; with the smaller size and more division allowing flexibility, easier movement in forested terrain, and increased ability to evade enemy militias. Due to the pyrrhic victory sustained by the Sillans in the first campaign, Sillan leadership decides to utilize the tactics used in the Olmac Conquest. Guerilla tactics are employed due to differences in terrain preventing the usage of traditional tactics. Mounted archers dismount and form groups of three-to-five – and from concealed positions – target high-ranking officials in order to deprive enemy militias of leadership. Then, operating in groups of five-to-30, they proceed to "lure" and "herd" (keeping them moving in one direction, and contained within a small space) enemy militias (feigning numerical inferiority and retreat) to where infantrymen (who are organized into phalanx formations) are located. The infantrymen are armed with either pikes or halberds, with their light armor enabling faster movement and organized marching, while the foliage helps conceal their exact locations. Archers serve as skirmishers. Upon engaging with enemy militias, reinforcements of cavalrymen arrive and attack the flanks and rear (thus inflicting attrition); while also forcing enemy militias to phalanxes where they would be forced to descend to melee (however, the usage of superior polearms and more effective organization proves advantageous). If they are under heavy attack, infantrymen form effectively pike squares while cavalry flees and instead attack with their bows – thus forcing enemy troops to choose between attacking the pikemen (but losing men at the process) or attacking cavalrymen (but losing cohesiveness at the process). Meanwhile, the razing of settlements and surrounding farmland continues; with rams, heavy crossbows and incendiary arrows used to destroy their poorly-made and hastily-made fortifications. Crossbows are also wielded by some infantrymen (organized in the volley formation) or sometimes by cavalrymen due to its superior range and projectile velocity – being capable of piercing their armor.
 * Beraba: The Crown Princes of Beraba respond to the message from Exhula by stating that, even if they had the means, the militia formed at a time of great crisis when the nation’s attention was focused south, dealing with the Cazekorom. They also state that the Hcctaal missionaries were in violation of their original agreement, therefore they would have been sent away regardless. Meanwhile, the cartographers among the Tangakwunu use the new information from Qera to update the “Great Atlas of the Known World”. In exchange for their generous gifts, the Crown Princes send back a delegation laden with salt and pearls, customary gifts among the Beraban people. This delegation requests a formal trade agreement with Qera. Meanwhile, more attention is shifted south, strengthening the Beraban presence along the Salt Road south toward Eiros. A garrison of soldiers is permanently stationed in Eiros to protect against the Cazekorom. Exas of House Rhethlune, the oldest (and considered wisest) of the crown princes, makes a recommendation that Beraba seek to atone for the hatred felt toward them by the Cazekorom. Official delegates are sent to negotiate with the chiefs to see if some kind of civil relationship can be established (Mod Response Needed). Expansion continues north toward Allsid and Ibramos and east toward Cohibos and Lake Conylt.
 * The Cazekorom accept the offer to normalize relations, if Beraba swears not to harm them in their new territory, if both states mutually pledge not to war with each other, if Beraba allows all their people and their possessions free passage to their new territory, and if Beraba ensures that any Cazekorom captives or slaves are freed.
 * Beraban Dip: This news is received with hope and optimism in the High Cities. Exas and the other Crown Princes accept the offer and send surveyors south to formalize the borders of the two nations. The Cazekorom captives are freed and sent south with some provisions to join their countrymen. A formal non-aggression pact is drafted and presented to the Cazekorom chiefs, with the stipulation that Beraba has sovereign control over the Salt Road and the land surrounding it.

431-440
In the east, Yannian forces retake Ometoc-vis and Quamocten, but they are delayed in the push west by an uprising of the Franics, who declare their independence under a king named Jegany.

'The Battle of Ixima results in a Yannian victory, with the Yannis Empire defeating the forces of Argon decisively. The Yannis Empire suffers 6,500 casualties, the Yannian allies suffer 3,940 casualties, the defenders suffer 13,420 casualties.'

'The Governor of the Great Lakes, Neoptolanus elects to make a secret peace with Yannis and declare independence. He declares himself King of the Lakes with his capital in Uloyiso. This prompts a segment of the Tahuan tribes to revolt against him.'

'The forces of Emalia and Azoz meet the Yannian invaders at the Battle of Telocnom, north of Temayal. The battle ends in a Yannian victory, with Yannis suffering 7,430 casualties, Emalia suffering 7,530, and Azoz suffering 5,100.'

'The forces of Eskaladun manage to stave off the attacks from Azoz, taking advantage of the mountainous terrain to ambush the approaching army. They also hire the Valun to raid Azoz, which harms the city and their supply lines. Eventually the leader of Valun agrees to a ceasefire, but not before seizing a part of Azozian land.'

'The states of Makaku (that are neutral) agree to trade with the nation of Exhula, gaining valuable supplies and weapons. An alliance of other Makuku cities send support against the Sillan invasion. The attempted Sillan settlement in Rakaroa is razed by an army of Makuku after a fierce battle, resulting in 4,000 Sillan casualties. Later Sillas achieves a victory in Punauia, suffering 6,540 casualties.'

'Ichabon is killed while attacking the forces of Adranates IV, which divides the Sephimoran cause for a time. With Emalian and Azozian support the Sephimorans still manage to achieve victory, in the Three Cities, however, but with its army disputing who should succeed.'

'The Hythians suffer a defeat against the Kledesians, with the Hythians suffering 2,100 casualties. After partially raiding the southern lands of Hythia, the Kledesians become distracted by a war against the Ten Cities.'
 * Hythia: Years 138-147 Since the Return of Hythus. Myrnech Vyln is killed by an angry mob for his failures. He is replaced by a new Council of the Partechs as it has become clear that monarchy is no longer working. The new government reaches out to indigenous every tribe that still exists around the Kledesians, offering a defensive pact. Additionally the confederation to the west if offered protection and vassalage. With alliances secured, and other allies called, the Unar is reformed and once more prepares to march south. The military is restructured to improve discipline and the professional core increased to 3,000. More levies are raised and trained and the Unar swells to 13,000 Hythians along with (MOD Response Here) allied troops. These men engage in a series of raids meant to draw a Kledesian army north away from their centers administration where it might be destroyed. The specific aim is to use small bands of light cavalry to lure the Kledesian host into a valley between two of the hills that dot the plains, where it might be encircled and its cavalry-centric advantages negated. The Hythian Unar is comprised of 4,000 heavy cavalry, 4,000 light cavalry, 3,000 archers, and 2,000 spearmen, in addition to the various other troops employed by the allies and other tribes. As per Candies: Agricultural production increases due to the utilization of more land, the utilization of fertilizer (in the form of bovine manure), and the construction of canals for irrigation and to deliver nutrients (from silt) to wheat paddies (Just copying Candies here, so fuck it). Intercropping of wheat, sweet potatoes, and perennial fruit-bearing plants plants is conducted to boost crop yield, and combat soil erosion – thus maintaining soil quality. In addition, subsidies are given to farmers to establish more large-scale fish, mollusk, crustacean, and seaweed farms in the river. The population grows immensely due to increased wealth and nutrition.
 * Qaryaat: King Hassun dies, and his son, Najrim III, ascends the throne. The colony of Maqiri expands southward to the edge of the Ghiqir Peninsula (the mini-peninsula on the western shore of the Maqiri Peninsula). On the main territory, the southwestern edge is expanded along the coast. In both places, settlers are sent to loosely-claimed areas of the kingdom to consolidate control over said areas. The Benyisran religion begins to grow in Qaryaat, though still remaining a minority religion, and a Benyisran temple is built in the outer parts of Makra. Due to influence from Mohejaro through trade, some aspects of Mohejaran urban planning are brought to Qaryaat and drainage systems similar to Mohejaran drainage systems are built in Makra. Inland on the main territory, a salt deposit is discovered and salt mining in said area promptly begins. As a result of the trade between Qaryaat and Solcia, grapes and olives are being grown, primarily in the colony of Maqiri. The use of bovine manure as fertilizer and the use canals for irrigation and delivering nutrients to plants from the silt increases agricultural production around Lake Al'Muyadi and the Muyadi River. Wheat and barley are the main crops, being grown extensively in that area. A national census is conducted in Qaryaat. Since no response from the Drakans was given to Qaryaat's trade proposal decades earlier, King Najrim III requests the Drakans for a trade deal once more. We can trade our spices, dates, dragon's blood tree resin from Saqqatra, dyes, sesame oil from Mohejaro, and incense for their precious minerals and whatever else they may have up for trade. (DRAKAN RESPONSE NEEDED) In the year 440, King Najrim, setting his sights west, sends an ultimatum to Mohejaro. They can submit peacefully as vassals, but if they do not, a war and total annexation will follow. (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED. Also, no algo yet, the war occurs the next turn if Mohejaro does not comply.)
 * Drakan Response: Trade pact is agreed. (More to come)
 * Vytia Culture: Vytia remains strong, serene, and beautiful in all its elegance. In the past Vyt explorers stumbled upon the Empire of Mang and the Kingdom of Xinaben to the North of the Vyt lands. During this time a new realm is founded on the River Til by a group of Vyts that have long since been isolated from the main line. The realm has begun to be called Diama with its capital sharing the name. Unlike the rest which Vyn the god of commerce, sea, and prosperity the Diama worship Dai the god of war, death, and conquest. They are led by a God-King said to be descended from Dai himself. Trade brings new wealth to the Vyt allowing the economy of our people to continuously grow and expand with gold and silver being mined and crafts being expanded. With the settlement on the River Emyr it has grown and centralized under the control of several influential merchant families, the settlement has come to known as Nis with it expanding it control over neighboring lands. The city organizes under a Rule of Ten calling itself the Decarchy of Nis, with the ten richest most influential families ruling over the city. Diama begins a rapid conquest of the neighboring Nykos lands in eastern Til, rapidly bringing around 10 px under their control and taking many slaves to satisfy their need for farmers and craftsman. In the Kingdom of Hygros, King Erln I begins to open commerce with the Most Serene Vynos sponsoring many marketplaces to be opened bringing some amount of Prosperity and Growth to Hynor. He continues his conquests of Islands bringing the island of Hithi under his control by nine years. While within Vynos land expansion continues, experimentation with forms of canals and irrigation occur attempting to divert water from the river Tyr to fields surrounding the area. Also governmental projects are sponsored were granaries and roads are built in order to further connect the agricultural outliers to the urban center. The expansion of the navy occurs as well with many new ships being built. Meanwhile, exploration to the north coast continues as well, in hopes of finding further lands, with exploration of the south coast beginning to lessen due to interest in it waning. However, exploration of lands east of the River Til begin to occur under the patronage of Vynos and Daima.
 * Mesallian Culture: Despite attempts by generals such as Xeracles and Evandus to keep the empire together, the Empire of Ioxemander began to fracture further a decade after the king’s death. The empire remained in a precarious position, with multiple provinces operating either semi independently, or declaring full independence against the government in Azoz. In the third year of the 57th Jafiad (Year 430) Evandus died while in Azoz, declaring the respected General Cestalus as the new regent of the empire. However, in Erasidon the situation would not go as planned. Evandus’ own son, Lysimedes, rejected the decision made by his father, and raised an army in Erasidon. In Mesallas he launched a successful raid against the pro-Evandian navy in Agira, then defeated Cestalus’ appointed governor in the Gudumanes, Laius of Sericolis. The widow of Agenon III of Sericolis, Calepide, who was Ioxemander’s sister, was captured and wed to Lysimedes, furthering his legitimacy. Ioxemander’s mother, Nolona, would lead a resistance effort against the new regent, attempting to rally men behind Ioxemander’s brother Amelianus. This would fail however, and both Nolona and Amelianus would be quietly killed. Next Lysimedes negotiated with Asandius of Edom, who had held ambition for an independent kingdom for some time, and they agreed to mutual aid against Cestalus, with Lysimedes marrying Ioxemander’s daughter Medesa. Three years after the death of Evandus, and after the men of Azoz had fought their campaigns in the west, Cestalus turned east, eager to crush the upstart rival regent, and his supporting governors. Cestalus was highly confident of victory, expecting the Erasidonians to defect to him a battle became near. In order to prevent this, knowing that the Erasidonians wouldn’t fight against one of the most revered generals of the era, Lysimedes didn’t reveal who their true adversary was, and claimed the army was led by one of Azoz’s generals from Usinilago, Abdeshmun. Expecting Cestalus to place himself on the right flank in the traditional place of honor, Lysimedes placed his foreign mercenaries on the left flank, with no Erasidonians near Cestalus. In the center Lysimedes deployed his heavy infantry, with some lighter infantry on the right, which in total numbered about 20,000, followed by Lysimedes himself and the Erasidonian cavalry. When Cestalus arrived he deployed himself and his elite cavalry on the right flank, then 20,000 heavy infantry, primarily from Azoz, Fashnoq, and Tuatha, followed by the rest of his cavalry. Cestalus advanced forward to a nearby hill, hoping to reveal himself, and Lysimedes ordered his foreign cavalry to charge against Cestalus, while he charged himself on the right. All the while the infantry remained back, unable to hear of Cestalus. Overwhelmed on the flank, Cestalus would fall in battle, leaving one of Ioxemander’s most formidable generals now dead. The rest of Cestalus’ army retreated, elevating Lysimedes from an upstart to a true commander. Meanwhile, with Ichabon dead, the elders of Sephimora elected a new leader for themselves, without consulting any imperial authority. The result was Vedun V Sotiras, a Sephimoran officer who had demonstrated himself on the battlefield. This soon caused further crisis, as Adranates IV managed to take Dascelos, while in Nerimos one of Ichabnon’s commanders, Xares, managed to take Vedun’s de jure capital while he was in Nelgistis receiving the blessing of the Sephimorans, and Xares received the approval of Evandus as official governor, as he was married to Evandus’ cousin, although by the time this news arrived in Sephimora Evandus had already passed. In Leviea the high priests of the city declared neutrality until a sign was granted by Enyeas, although neither side was foolish enough to force the city to comply to their will just yet, as such an action would likely be viewed as both sacrilegious and a logistical disaster. Under Xares III and one of his lead generals, Esibander of Naro, Nerimos would hold out against Vedun V’s first attempted attack. When Evandus died and Lysimedes contested the regency of Cestalus, both sides viewed the Three Cities as an important ally to secure Mesallas. While Xares III was hesitant to support Lysimedes, Erisander secretly agreed to support him as regent. In the south Erisander convinced Lysimedes’ ally, Asandius of Edom, to lead a military expedition into Sephimora from the west and south, which proved to be a popular decision among the Edomites, and led to Vedun V’s capture and death. Around the same time Erisander would have Xares III assassinated, then have himself crowned in Nerimos and Nelgistis, with the Sephimorans compelled by Edomite force. In exchange Erisander swore fealty to Edom, although secretly at first. The following year Adranates IV peacefully negotiated to join Erisander’s kingdom, in exchange for retaining rule as a vassal over his domain. Erisander would also convert to Enulmism, taking the name Erisander I Levian, in order to appease the Sephimorans, and to persuade Leviea to submit peacefully as well. In the Far East the Kingdom of the Great Lakes, or Ypelomnes as it came to be known, became the first province to formally break away from the empire, taking advantage of the chaos in the east. Neoptolanus would send messengers to the Yannis Empire, hoping to have them recognize his independence in exchange for peace between the two nations. He also sent messengers to Emalia, asking that peace be recognized between them as well, under threat of joining the Yannians to have independence recognized by force.
 * Emalia: The Yannian natural philosopher appeared in the Emalian court, suing for peace after defeating the joint forces of Emalia and Azoz in the Argonite lands of the East, stated that "Emalia and its parent empire and all else will recognize the “eastern provinces" " the term "Emalia and its parent empire" ignited a furious anger in Igneous, proclaiming "I am the Emperor! The Empire is here!" While getting a sword to lash out against the Yannian, with his mother Pyra restraining him, accepting peace with Yannis and recognizing the independence of the Great Lakes. While Yannis did not see Igneous as the Emperor, Igneous is now of age, and he set sail to Iskandaria, Edom, (with the royal navy and a contingency of the royal guard,) the meeting place between the East and the West. Upon arrival to the Iskandrian Court, Igneous proclaims, “I am Emperor Igneous, first born of Ioxamander, and I have now come of age, making the rule of the Western Regents over Iskandaria and Edom to be irrelevant, you are now free of their oppression over you! I implore my sister, Medesa, and my brother in-law, Lysimedes, to join me against the Western Regents in Erasidon, for together we shall defeat them, those who have long tried to control this land under their rule.” With this proclamation, Igneous has effectively established Edom, specifically Iskandria as a landing point to support his army from. While the Thaluites (Erasidon) is distracted, Igneous rises a force of 80,000, Sotaren beside him, to advance westward into Erasidonian territory to conquer it for the Eastern Empire, removing it from the illegitimate Eradisonian regents into the hands of the true Emperor, Igneous. As Emalia, The Eastern Empire, goes deep into war, the Holy Ema Explorers continue their journey into Alsoba, where they enter the Holy River naked and bathe, attracting males to give birth to a new generation of children, who join their mothers in the journey south of Alsoba, all the while spreading the word of Ema, the goddess who gave birth to the world. Meanwhile, Prince Leto also spreads his seed to the various eastern islands, gets more crew, and travels even futher east.
 * Erasidonian Empire: In his last years on earth, Evandus was desperate to procure an heir to the the house of Erasidon through Ptalemus III. As soon as the boy reached puberty, he was awarded with the "Garden of Pleasures" in the Palace of Azoz, fitted with an extensive harem of slave women imported from a variety of nations. Ptalemus was compelled to remain among the diversions of the palace at all times. Upon gaining control as regent, Casteles garnered support of the Senate in Azoz in a similar manner as his father, but kept Ptalemus contained in the Garden. Troops are raised from Edom and Sephimora to aid in Emalia's war in the east against Yannis, and also allying with the new independent state of the Great Lakes, to help in whichever way they can. Having secured the east almost bloodlessly, Casteles focused on the ongoing threat of Eskaladun and Valun. Having raised an army of another 40,000 troops from Azoz, accompanied by 10,000 troops of Fotashe, the brilliant General Garius led an impressive strategy to put an end to the issues in the western border. They first pushed north with the main contingent of forces to secure control over the Occidental Mountains separating Valun and Eskaladun, which are already firmly in the fortified defenses of Azoz. Then they came down from the mountains up the Eskala River to assault the capital city, while the 10,000 troops under Demus came up from the south just west of the mountains to secure their flank and create supply lines back to Azoz fortifications. This strategy, although-brilliantly executed to cut off support from Valun, failed to completely annex the kingdom, but instead forced Eskaladun into a strong vassalage under Azoz. Immediately after this, the military turned north to dispatch 20,000 troops under Garius and Nysimos on a punitive expedition into Valun. This expedition focused mainly on lancer cavalry, with support of infantry in the Erasidonian style. This was mainly done to push back Valun out of Azoz territory and force them to a more comfortable border. It was this very same campiagn that Lysimedes ordered the construction of the Castelean Wall, or the Great Wall of Azoz, which stands as a magnificent structure to this day. It was originally built to form a sure barrier between the Valun raiders and the homeland of Azoz. Casteles concluded that the true reason Evandus and Xeracles failed to unite the empire was due to being too nice and fair to all the constitunet leaders, who in turn only backstabbed the regent for their own selfish gain. Thus, Casteles raised armies in the regions of his direct control to apply more force to the centralization reforms. Each individual general, governor and viceroy he approached with three tiers of diplomacy: first, a series of flattery and bribes, second a series of immediate threats and show of force, and finally execution or assasination. The contingent of forces returning home from fighting in the east, now changed in loyalties to the new regent, proceeded to occupy both Sephimora and Edom, aiding in the forced centralization and reunification. After Casteles was killed in battle, Randomo of Bagui was appointed as the new regent by the Senate, who inexplicably allowed Lysimedes to continue independent with claims to both Ioximander and Edom, but historians need not judge. Recognizing his legitimacy to the throne through his wife Meseda, even though she was put in a monestary and shouldn't have retained her claim, similarly to the claim recognized in Emalia, Randomo offered a peace treaty to recognize the full independence of the Erasidonian Kingdom from the rest of the empire, despite the fact that the other Mesallian kingdoms were made independent vassals already. Mathematics begins to flourish again in the city of Iskandaria, almost as if the Chatna Empire had been restored. Eudox of Dascelos was the most instrumental at this time, who expanded on earlier work to develop a system of language based on only two symbols, representing a one and zero. The "Hall of Geographica" was likewise added to the Library, housing an extensive collection of maps from across the entirety of the empire, its trading associats, and allies. Anything else in this decade is evidently irrelevant.
 * Exhulan Empire: With the increasingly aggressive attitude of Yannis nearbye we began to see them as a major threat and search for ways to defend ourselves. We first begin a massive amount of naval buildup and subtly try to discourage the Yannian religion among our populace, while secretly reaching out to Sillas and Qera about the possibility of a mutual defensive pact between us, so that if Yannis attacks any of us the attacked nation will have support from the other two, as if we are conquered they are likely the next targets (QERA AND SILLAS RESPONSE NEEDED). However, publicly we maintain a neutral or even friendly stance on Yannis, to discourage potential aggression and to disguise our buildup to defend ourselves, while anti-Yannian sentiment begins to be felt by much of the populace, especially in the northern territories. This also leads us to invest increasingly in Sayalen and do our best to help them build up as a major military and naval power, in the hopes that as our ally they would also be a source of help, and also greatly increase trade with them as a result, resulting in the Salt Barons finally losing their monopoly, especially when they attempt to rebel in 433 and are quickly and decisively crushed by the Imperial army of 7,000 that we usually have had in the capital, which quickly overtakes their meager forces and storms their fortresses, forcing them to surrender and resulting in them being stripped of their wealth, status, and power and being exiled from Exhula, although they manage to flee with a significant portion of their wealth and fund some of the various factions at court. Speaking of which, at the court Prince Rttagan fathers his first and only child, Princess Nyiccia, in 432, with his wife dying in childbirth and his daughter ending up beginning to be raised to be Rttagan's heir and the future Empress despite her gender, resulting in many being cemented in opposing Rttagan and the Emperors faction at court and several times different factions attempted to assassinate her despite her young age, although they are all luckily thwarted, mostly by the Sarkoni guard that has guarded the Emperor and his heirs for the last few centuries but been largely neglected by many of the Emperors. One of these assasination attempts in particular, when the Princess was eight, will greatly affect her outlook on life and personality alongside two others soon to occur when she is 12 and 16, and many historians believe that they were at least partially responsible for the ruthless personality she would later develop. Out of recognition for the need to expand their ability to guard the royal family in light of these frequent and well-planned attempts to murder members of the family including Rttagan himself and Nyccia and out of gratefulness for their fierce defense of them and savior of himself and his daughter, Prince Rttagan begins a massive and ambitious project to greatly expand the Sarkoni guards size, as well their power and ability to effect Imperial politics and policies, enlarging them by thousands and removing them from the traditional imperial command structure so that they answer only to the Emperor and his heirs (but de facto being mostly under the command of Rttagan himself and used to enforce his will throughout the capital and the surrounding empire, and later by his daughter). Under Rttagans direction and with his father's permission they will increasingly come under his command and they slowly begin to become fiercely and fanaticly devoted to him due to his massive expansion of their organization and role in greatly increasing theirs and their families paychecks and standards of living and giving them true influence. His daughter also frequently interacts with the different members of the guard starting near the end of this turn when she is eight, during which time and after she endears herself to them and will later slowly shape them into her own personal enforcers of her rule and politics, although this obviously hasn’t really started to occur yet. Meanwhile, on the edges of the Empire the extensive Colonization of Amyirth continues as thousands upon thousands of Exhulan settlers pour into the fertile lands of what was once Kaloma and the Mexiquen Peninsula and colonize them while building settlements and infestructure, with an astounding nine more cities being built over the course of this turn while many of the extensive number of settlers intermix with the native population and produce many children while further serving to assimilate the area. This is also when the later practice of intentionally and sometimes forcibly recruiting many of the men of Kaloman communities that have not assimilated or who have proved resistant our rule and relocating them to the region between the Ettyian coast and our other more Northern colony (without any families they may have) while also using them to make room for many thousands more Exhulan male settlers, who are intentionally largely redirected to this region in immigration in order to rapidly increase the speed of the populations assimilation, both among the thousands of Kalomans we suddenly and forcibly relocated and among the remaining native population, as the many settlers marry and have children with the Kaloman native women in the men’s abesence and thus raise their resulting children in Exhulan Religious and cultural customs while simultaneously forcing the relocated men to assimilate by relocating them to a primarily Exhulan area to settle it without any native Kaloman influences besides each other while they are usually pretty uneducated while making them incredibly reliant on food and supplies from heavily assimilated Exhulans to survive in the heavily arid desert area, meaning most either assimilate slowly over time when they accept the aid and accept major amounts of Exhulan influence into their lives, with those who refuse to do so either dying, manage to scrape off a living for themselves in the area despite this and persevere, or being forced to accept it by circumstances and giving in. In efforts to more quickly increase the population of Exhulans in Amyrith we begin heavily encouraging and introducing a mix of several natural medicines and fertility boosters to increase the number of children Exhulan settlers of the region have so that they can more quickly finish the process of overwhelming the numbers of the local population, something much more successful in the new process. The colonization Of the Northeastern islands and of the new temprate regions discovered massively increases as they are found to be in an excellent climate to grow great amounts of wheat and other food crops that are difficult or immpossible to grow in much of our territory due to the massive deserts in much of our coastal land. This results in a huge amount of immigration to the area from Exhulan settlers and farmers who are attracted to settle in the area by the profitability of potentially being able to grow a massive surplus in the area and stories of the success of those who have been doing so over the last few years (in addition to being encouraged to do so by the government through large srtipends Of money and promises of economic support for those who move there and farm the land). As a result of the massive immigration increase to the region we are able to claim large amounts of land in the region as our own (40 px become loosely-claimed) but the focus on agriculture makes it less urban than many other areas of the Empire, with the seven cities we found in the region being smaller than many others, although they begin to expand and be colonized by many more people as they slowly begin to become centers of administration in the area and become surrounded by thousands of agricultural laborers and farmers working the land to yield huge harvests that help to further increase population a lot back in core Exhulan Territory as their health improves due to the new abundance of food coming from the Northern Territory, resulting in better health and higher brith rates and more surviving children as it decreases malnourishment and more and more allows those in more harsh environments increase their population due to more access to larger amounts of food, increasing nutrition and decreasing rates of starvation. In other news, trade greatly increases with both Sillas and Qera through the Olmac territory and their coastal regions with a Sillas and through our usual trade connections with Qera. This also results in our relationship greatly improving and us beginning to have an overwhelmingly positive relationship with both Qera and Sillas for the first time in several hundred years (as we had a mostly negative relationship with them for a very long time after the series of wars between us but ever since our cooperation the way we dealt with Sayalen the relationship between us has been slowly returning to a positive state), and most Exhulans end up with a usually positive view of Qera by this point in time, a fact which allows trade to prosper between us, them, and Sillas and which allows us to attempt to form the defensive coalition with Qera and Sillas. It also results in us seeking to increase our chances of defending against Yannis in a potential war (although we most,y want to deter them) and we become less xenophobic overall and with a more positive view of forigeners, leading us to decide to extend the offer to form a defensive collation to the nations of Teninukal (as despite our historic enimity and hatred our relations have become a lot more positive over the last few decades and we wish to get all the help we can and to whom we offer large amounts of developmental and economic aid in exchange), Sayalen (one of our main historic and traditional allies), Ouayi (our other main ally at this time), and to the various Makuku states which we have developed a large trade and diplomatic relationship with (MAKUKU, OUYAI, AND MOD RESPONSE NEEDED!). We decide to formalize this offer in what is called the Council Of Siccarius, a meeting of various diplomats and leaders from the many nations we have offered to form a defensive coalition with nearbye to discuss such an organizations potential formation, and which we invite many other nearbye nations to attend (With the obvious exception of Yannis). We also make sure to offer to help win any conflicts that the nations who do join are engaged in, not demanding anything in return besides joining the proposed Pact Of Siccarius, holding the council in the Imperial Palace in 439 Finally, in Irrosia Andionus form of Ulm, which is rather diffrent from the mainstream religion, continues to spread throughout the Isles, eventually having about 3,000 followers overall which, although small compared to the entire Irrosian population, is still a large number of people. It also develops several more doctrinal differences from mainstream Ulm, often as a result of integration of local traditions and beliefs into the religion and some strange mutations of beliefs over time in isolation from the main branches of Ulm, such as Drokksid and Kharrnan being the same being under different names, the various Hcctaal gods being real beings but only aspects of the True God (as are any gods of diffrent religions including hereticly to many Ulm followers the Yannian Gods), and that the Ulmian True god is a completely supreme being that controls all of his enemies and uses them as forces with which to ensure the worthiness of his worshipers for heaven by ensuring that only the truly devoted and faithful may survive and truly ascend into heaven at the end of times. This results in it becoming identified by many as a newer offshoot branch of Ulm rather than something truly like to the mainstream Ulm religion, coming to be known as Irrulmism for its origins in Irrosia, which also results in a large abscess of normal Ulm in the region and becomes the dominant branch of the (rather small) Ulmian community in Exhula and the surrounding region. However, this also makes it harder to hide and results in it coming under increasing scrutiny from the Irrosian authorities.
 * Yannis Empire: In the south the people celebrate from Tik’akna to Temayal, as the usurper “Argon” is soon gone from the nation. Yannian forces achieve a great victory, sending the Emalians into retreat. The Anointed One sends a natural philosopher to the court of Emalia, stating that Emalia and its parent empire and all else will recognize the “eastern province”, which includes all territory previously owned by Tik’akna and Temayal, as ceded to the Yannis Empire. The Anointed One also accepts the offer from Neoptolanus, and states to Emalia that all parties must recognize the independence of Neoptolanus’ kingdom. A great army remains in the region, with many more Yannians settling the conquered regions. Some Holy Men are returned to the coasts of Yannis proper, where they guard the major cities. Elsewhere, 10,000 men invade the Franics from the west to aid those in the east. In Tohatia the governor orders the construction of a fort every few miles down the entirety of the colony’s river border, as well as new defenses in the coastal cities and major settlements. A number of Holy Men are sent to the colony as well, with some men eventually to connect the colony by land to the Franics. Holy Men are also sent into the Exhulan territory, spreading the faith of Yannis. The nation continues to build up its nation, with the fleet on the coast hosting bigger and bigger ships. A number of large ships become mounted with catapults and fighting towers, while smaller ships focus on grappling and boarding. We guarantee the independence of Ouayi, as a declaration to the hungry nations of the south not to harm them. Many Holy Men and natural philosophers enter the kingdom to spread culture and learning peacefully. 20,000 men are sent to Nykos, with a message stating that the Yannis Empire will fully back Lysimedes, giving him use of this army for his own needs, in exchange for him allowing the old arrangement of Yannis controlling a certain collection of vassals. If he refuses this army is prepared to take the territory by force and depose Lysimedes.
 * Exhulan Diplomacy: As promised, we block all attempts by Yannis to send their Holy Men into our territory, sending them back and warning Yannis that further violations of our sovereignty will be met with force, although we do not harm the Holy Men. Although the few Yannian Holy Men who get through attempt to spread their faith, they find little success as any public appearances by Yannian Holy Men from outside pre-existing followers of the religion in Exhula result in them quickly being arrested by public authorities and deported back to Yannis and those events result in a manhunt for Yannian Holy Men, who are all either arrested or deported. We also put up a bounty throughout the Empire for the capture of living Yannian Holy Men that have illegally entered our borders, resulting in those few who managed to evade us being quickly caught (and in several cases Holy Men of the Yannian religion who are native to Exhula are also mistakenly caught up in these manhunts and deported on threat of death).
 * Mang: The nation declares full isolationist, but will still be open for trades and economic prosper alliances. The nation started off with a full isolationist path, removing any traces of other nations and expanding industries for the goal of surviving in this world. The second enacted plan is to expand cities and villages, starting with the rural areas and working their way up to the main area of Mang, basically expanding any cities and population. The third and final plan enacted was to stay away from any nations who try to find us and start to declare war on the nation for resources or for purposes of gaining more land areas.
 * Sillan Empire: Shortly following the conclusion of the Lower Makuku Campaigns in 441, Cabeza Canxi dies at the age of 76, and is succeeded by her 31-year old niece Yanzen. She sends a diplomatic mission to the neutral Makuku city-states, and accepts their offer to send tribute in exchange for peace, and establishes an annual quota of 1,000 slaves (collectively) but also encourages the shipment of grain. Upon entry into Sillan territory, the sent slaves would then be freed and then converted into tenant farmers (most being categorized as "sharecroppers", as rent and tax are paid in grain rather than coinage). A close relationship is maintained between these ex-slaves, and their landlords, in order to ease their assimilation into Sillan society. In addition, they are highly encouraged to intermarry with Sillans, and are given monetary incentives to do so. Sillan control over recently-conquered Rakaroa and Punauia city-states (renamed into the provinces of Nakaroa and Funaoya, respectively) is consolidated. Cabeza Yanzen decides to establish two Sillan colonies in each province (each having a population of ~2,500 – of which, one-fifth would be military nobles). However, in 442, opposition to enforced taxation laws manifested in a peasant revolt that results in the deaths of 200 colonists and an attempted siege on Danuerxi (which while ending in failure, resulted in the deaths of 800 additional civilians and military nobles). Shortly after these events, a punitive force of ~1,000 troops are sent to quell the rebellion; with its main leaders being placed on trial and being executed for incitement. Small-scale revolts still continue but are dispersed and opposition instead is manifested through tax evasion. In order to incentivize assimilation, the Makuku deities are added to the Grand Pantheon. Meanwhile, the Cabeza commissioned the construction of a wall bordering the Makuku city-states (made with rammed earth) for the purpose of inhibiting the transfer of ethnic Makuku from Silla's new tributary states into Sillan territory. Meanwhile, the Cabeza institutes several sweeping reforms, including a crackdown on cross-cousin and consanguineous marriages of all forms, in order to reduce the power of clans and to promote communalism. However, the formation of extended families is not only tolerated but encouraged. Meanwhile, a minimum age of marriage is established: being 18 (three years after the average age of menarche) for women, and being slightly lower for men, who could be married at 16 (the average age of spermarche). However, the ages drop to 15 and 13 respectively if they receive parental consent; however, couples are prohibited from having children until their late teens due to the widespread belief that teenage pregnancy damages the mother's body, and its associated with the uncivilized border tribes. There is a crackdown on tax evasion and government corruption. Meanwhile, the government and institutions are codified into law – though this is more of a symbolic move. The Secretariat and Chancellory are formally abolished and is replaced with an appointed Imperial Court (with each of the Nine Banners represented by ten officials). A nominally ministerial government is established, with each of the Six Ministers being equal status, though the Cabeza (the highest-ranking General and the Minister of War) is considered "first among equals" (primus inter pares). The Cabeza increases the role of the Censorate in the sectors of surveillance and law enforcement. Due to an increasing shortage of bureaucrats, many lesser positions are fulfilled by members of the middle-class (lesser property holders, such as independent farmers, merchants, artisans, and craftsmen). In addition, they also fulfill the roles of physicians and skilled workers. After recent censuses indicate the stagnation of population growth, the Cabeza begins to undertake measures to facilitate marriage and child-bearing. Licensing and proper medical standards are imposed on physicians, wet nurses, and midwives. Sillan arsenals produce a high quantity of reflex bows, iron-tipped and incendiary arrows, polearms (halberds, lances, and pikes), and swords. Meanwhile, its bloomeries also produce a high volume of wrought iron, bronze. Lamellar armor is produced for cavalrymen. Latrines, drainage, as well as communal baths and grammar schools are built. An increasing quantity of silk textiles, porcelain wares, jewelry is manufactured both for export and domestic consumption. In addition, cash crops such as hemp, tea, sugar cane, cocoa, coffee, honey, spices, and exotic fruits are cultivated; while alcoholic beverages and condiments are produced. Large-scale deforestation continues, yielding land for rice paddies. Agricultural production increases due to the utilization of more land, the utilization of fertilizer (in the form of bovine manure), and the construction of canals for irrigation and to deliver nutrients (from silt) to rice paddies. Intercropping of rice, aquatic plants, and perennial fruit-bearing plants are done to boost crop yield, and combat soil erosion – thus maintaining soil quality. In addition, subsidies are given to farmers to establish more large-scale fish, mollusk, crustacean, and seaweed farms. In marshes or wet areas, deep-water rice is cultivated. The population grows immensely due to increased wealth and nutrition.
 * Syres: Just as the city of Syres welcomed the arrival of Ioxemander during his lifetime, the city also continues as a vassal of his empire after his death. The nation retains a high degree of autonomy and its own internal government, finally doing away with the Azozian garrison after Ioxemander defeated its commander in battle. As such the city recovers and expands its trade networks, using the stability of the empire to reach new found places across the known world. That said, the city retains its anti-monarchy attitude, with the “theft” of the city’s taxes and levies to a king becoming a hotly contested point within the Hensa. Because of the threat of Darnan piracy, the nation spends this time upgrading its navy once more. The primary warship of the nation remains a trireme-style ship with three banks of rowers, but following suit with its neighbors, Syres also increases its number of larger ships. Ships with four banks of rowers become a large portion of the war fleet, as well as a small number with five banks of rowers. Also at this time the first ever ship with six banks of oars is created. The ships largely do not have any artillery or special mechanisms in order to remain relatively light. Likewise a number of smaller ships are designed for rapid speed and for use in rivers and other applications. The nation slowly begins to learn from the military innovations of the recent wars, with Erasidonian phalanxes being trained in Syres, and Azozian tactics being incorporated from the city’s time under occupation. The nation decides to reassert control over its outposts on the neighboring shores. After this, an army of 5,000 men is also sent to the mainland to reassert control over the areas west of Syres, doing battle with the local governors of the coast.
 * Qera: Trading with Exhula, Sillas and the Dholbalan is flourishing as mostly agricultural products and minerals, but also art and jewelery. Fishing is very prominent at the coast, especially to the south, while in the north crocodiles are hunted as well for their skin and meat (as reptile meat is not banned by the Qeran religion). Spices and grain like rice is cultivated in the north and central area of Qera. As Qera is de facto a command economy when it comes to rice farming, records are plenty in almost every city where beaurocratic centers are organized in the palaces of the local counts, or if the region lacks a count, in the local temple. The government grants the produce of rice to grant that even the poor can survive without having to pay much for their life. In 433 Yller becomes prince, while his brother Vavas is the heir of Rollver and Ycas is given the title of General of the Army and additionally the Regent of Tortla. He could gain this title only because the house of Tortla died out long ago and the previous regent couldnt be able to appoint an heir. Yller II, also called Yller the Righteous is loved by the people, especially by the poor. He is seen as caring for the poor and sympathetic more to the people themselves. One of his first laws was the disposession of landlords and making every farm more or less state property (though no farmer was forced to sell any of the produce they need for themselves). This leads to a huge controversy. His brother Valvas is more conservative and sees the actions of his brother as something that will cause more trouble than actual good, while Ycas supports the cause of Yller. In 434 Valvas dares to rebel, but without popular support or any experience of leading an army he fails miserably. Yller strips him of his title and his riches and appoints his cousin Yceues, a loyal follower of his as the Count of Rollver. Other nobles mostly follow Yller II's laws in fear of a farmers riot or the wrath of Yller himself. When Exhula is threatened by Yannis, Yller sees them as a threat to his trading routes and allies, too, he agrees to the pact that the Exhulans proposed. The Berabians prove to be good trading partners, mostly potatoes and spices are traded with them. The tend for mothers to give birth to more children continues, the average women gives birth to 3.9 children by 435. Infant mortality is relatively low since food and medicine is available for almost everyone. This leads to an increase of new farms, who settle mostly in the area to the south (the area around the southernmost river becomes rural).
 * Darna: The great enslaving goes greatly, and soon many slaves have been captured for sale around the world. From the coasts of the Chatna Empire the Ulmian-Azozian heathens fetch a great price, and spend their lives in the slave pits producing more offspring for sale. Darnan ships explore east into the ocean far to the east, and also along the coasts north and south in the west, as well as west into the sea. When the western edge of Chatna is discovered, many Darnans begin trading in the far west. But also, this opens another place where slavers can attack the Chatna Empire, and soon people travel to this region to capture slaves.
 * Beraba: Beraba continues to normalize relations with Cazekorom and further defines the border, careful to respect the sovereignty of the nation while still protecting its own borders. Trade flourishes as new markets open up with Qera. Salt, pearls, cotton, grapes, dates, mangoes, and plums are sent west. Trade continues with Gahren, and trade offers are made with the Makuku states, Teninukal and Cazekorom as well (Mod Response Needed). More farmland is created in the south to cultivate more of these crops. A new textile industry emerges, especially in the high cities, as members of the Tangakwunu begin creating large tapestries and garments to sell to members of the Great Houses. With textile production increases, the Crown Princes commission the creation of a national flag to give the nation a symbol to tie them together. A white, three-layered pyramid on a red field is created, symbolizing the natures of Baione, God of the Overhead, Umbor, God of the In-Between, and Sydes, God of the Underneath. This flag is exported to the other cities and military detachments. Exas, Crown Prince of House Rhethlune, dies in 438, leaving only distantly related male heirs. His daughter, Otekah, using her keen political demeanor, bloodline, education, and understanding of religion, rises to the rank of Crown Prince.

441-450
'The western tribal confederation, as well as numerous other tribes who have been plagued by the Kledesians, agree to raise another 7,000 men to supplement Hythian forces. Together they achieve a major victory in the south, killing the high chief of the Kledesians. The Hythians suffer 1,310 casualties, their allies suffer 1,680, and the Kledesians suffer more than twice as many as the former combined.'

After being pushed east by Beraba, the tribes of Cazekorom seize lands near the lake to the east of them, causing a migration of tribes south and east.

'The expeditions north from Azoz prove successful in establishing a vassal state in Eskaladun, and in pushing back the Valun from the border. Instead, many Valunian chiefs decide to turn east or north.'

'Of the nations that Exhula approaches in search of an alliance, Teninukal refuses due to its historical animosity against Exhula, and because it does not know of or understand the threat that Exhula speaks of. Likewise the Makuku states refuse to ally with Exhula and Sillas, on the grounds that Sillas is attacking their region, while Exhula refused their call for help when it was them who needed aid. Additionally, the state they can't spare men when the threat of Sillas is present. Sayalen agrees to send some men to Exhula if they are paid to do so.'

The Yannian-Tohatian invasion of the Franic Kingdom is successful, with Yannis suffering 3,400 casualties and Tohatia suffering 4,120 casualties.

The forces of Edom agree to the request from Emalia, raising an army of their own to aid them.

'The Makuku states and Teninukal accept the trade offer from Beraba with open arms. Cazekorom is willing to accept but seeks a higher tariff on Beraban goods out of fear of being taken advantage of.'
 * Vytia Culture: The continued growth of the Vyts is a sign of our destiny from the gods. Within the nation at Vynos, the crop Bananas are introduced to city, and begin to be cultivated in the land surrounding Vynos. This crop proves to be massively successful and quickly becomes a staple product of the Vyt diet with it spreading to Daima, and Nys very quickly. The city of Vynos continues to sponsor its many construction products creating roads and Canals for transport of goods through Vynos. The resulting population boom in Nis causes a new city to form farther inland on the river Emyr called Miro. The government begins to take a records of the yearly intake of gold, grains, and Bananas in Vynos hoping to place taxes on these in order to further fund public projects. Most notably are underground sewer systems being built within Vynos in order to move the waste outside of the city. While within Daima consolidation of their territory continues with them further conquering lands west on the River Til bringing them close to Vynos and expanding east to near the Mediterranean area. However, some explorers from Vynos venture south around the Bend of Vand, the god of the continent and exploration who knows all land, and even farther north past Mang into areas far from the safety of Vytia. Under Daima they begin to mine the iron located near their capital by the foot of the Norgis mountains. While within the Hygros Islands the conquest of the islands comes to end under Erln I conquering the last islands to resist his rule. He begins a process of Vytizing the Hygrosi people introducing the Vyt religion and writing system. Some explorers notice how winds blow east at certain times in the sea and west at certain times and begin to document this.
 * Hythia: Years 148-157 Since the Return of Hythus. The Council of the Partechs, urged on by Meunarch Klynius, general for the battle with the Kledesians, agrees to take advantage of the enemies weakness. The Unar, 12,000 strong, and bolstered by its allies, marches against the Kledesians to burn out their evil. Missionaries accompany the army and convert all those who will listen as it marches south. With the Kledesian High Chief killed in battle, the enemy are disunited, a power struggle between the influential chiefs of the Kledesian breaks out and Hythia swoops in to exploit the weakness. With the great Kledesian army fragmented into smaller, chief-led bands, the Hythian Unar and its allies stand nearly unstoppable. Many small Kledesian armies, loyal to their individual chiefs, are soundly defeated before the Unar sets upon the Kledesian major settlements. Having only briefly inhabited the area, the walls of their cities are unable to hold back the Hythian Unar. The Kledesians are given a choice before the start of each assault. Surrender, convert to the true faith in Hythus, and be spared, or die as heathens in a doomed city. Those that accept are taken north and taught the ways of Hythus. The rest either burn with the city or are enslaved and taken north into bondage for the customary decade of service to Hythia. Hythian troops thoroughly raze the buildings of all the Kledesian cities in an effort to wipe them from the map. This process is repeated across the Kledesian lands as Kledesian cities are destroyed without mercy. By the end of the decade dozens of Kledesian settlements have been destroyed in full, among them the largest city. The cities of the native tribes are spared, their people given aid and welcomed into the fold of Hythia as free and full citizens of the True God’s realm. It is among these poor and wretched people that faith in Hythus takes deep roots as missionaries administer much of the aid in feeding and clothing the native tribesmen in this time of hardship. This faith and the cultural ties that bind the Gytans of Hythia and these people of the southern plains allow for their rapid integration. More food is imported from abroad to support the Unar, paid for in iron, but the strain of war does truly begin to show as orphans now dot the Hythian lands. These children are rolled into the service of the government as wards, and are rented as labor to landowners in need of farm hands.
 * Erasidonian Empire in Azoz: The official capital of the empire at this point had been located in Azoz, as the original core territory of Erasidon was broken off under Lysimedes. Ptalemus III had finally reached majority at this point, and an official coronation passed on control from the Regent Randomo to the young Emperor, reducing Randomo's title to Viceroy of Azoz. Even still, in private Ptalemus remained utterly unstable mentally, and largely remained a puppet of Randamo's charismatic leadership. In one anecdote, Ptalemus ordered three dogs hanged for suspected treason. But for the most part, the rest of the empire remained firmly loyal to the Emperor through his Viceroy Randomo, who also had a very likable personality. Seeing Emalia directly violated our treaty of peace earlier, to the same ruler of Igneous in fact, a full military is raised of the most troops capable from across the empire. The great humanist historian Mores gave the most detail of this military campiagn, describing it as the most defining event in the history of Azoz up to that point. Randomo sounded the alarm of healds to the farthest regions, declaring how the treacherous Emalian prince is determined to destroy the peace of the empire by their insidious rule. It was at this point Viceroy Randomo reached out to King Lysimedes of Erasidon. He explained that the invading armies of Emalia are bent on the utter destruction of independent states and conquest of the empire, threatning the existence of Erasidon more so than Azoz, especially as Lysimedes was just now granted independence for this very reason, that the liberty of Mesallian people is of high importance. Furthermore, the Ithmala confederacy and their allies are indebted to the Empire for our support in them retaking control of Nykos, homeland of the Ulmian faith in Mesallia. For this reason, we ask for Lysimedes of Erasidon, as well as the kingdoms of his vassalage, to offer their full or partial military support toward pushing Emalia out of territories where they pose a threat. We hope that the Mesallians are satisfied by having given everything that we understood they wanted, and we want them to be comfortable as new allies to jointly defend the archipelago, and if there is anything else we can give Mesallis to ensure his friendship we will gladly consider it. (PLAYER RESPONSE). After gathering the largest army they can muster in the city of Usilinago, command was structured under three tiers of leadership to maximize the effective organization: Demus, the hero against the Valuns, put in charge at the top, followed by lower generals appointed by each participating governor, and then the lower colonels at the bottom. Defecting spies were plentiful for Randomo to employ, as many subjects in the military of Edom and Nerimos to that point had been more comfortable under Azoz rule. If their scouts reported a smaller military size, then Demus organized a coordinated three-pronged attack: one main thrust in the center to split the Emalian forces in half, followed by two other flanks to surround the enemy in a double envelopment maneuver. If they reported a larger force, Demus split off a smaller section of the army to attack Emalian forces from an angle, drawing them into the desert with a feigned retreat. This feigned reateat went on for more than a day into the desert, drawing the enemy farther out until they would be ambushed by the larger proportion of Azoz military. The tactics of the military incorporated the Erasidonian phalanx into the professional Azoz military, augmented with Azozan lancers and longbowmen. Simultaneous with this, a naval assault consisting of twelve heavy warships and dozens of smaller vessals transport 40,000 troops led by General Xarenvarus from Tuartha to invade the Three Cities, seizing control of Nerimos, Dascelos and Garantes yet again. With such light population in Sephimora, the invading forces occupying the coastline quickly cuts off the supply lines of the Emalian forces, and exposes the rear flank to a further invasion of the forces south to seize control of Edom from the east. Xarenvarus was a rather young, ambitious commander and although he was told this plan to be utterly crazy, he believed he had the best strategy to implement it. (More to be added in response of battle results). A new form of art in Azoz went back to an older time of Azoz history using mosaic patterns of faience, but this time enhanced with the more classical style of perspective developed under the Chatna Empire. Ulmian Apostles continue being sent farther east, to spread the Gospel of Nelrim to all the regions in the Great Lakes, as well as the lands in the process of being conquered by Yannis, to ensure a church remains under Yannis rule. In the west, apostles continue being sent north to convert the Valun themselves. The Cestelean Wall continues being constructed. We offer Valun to pay them substantial amounts of money and slaves in exchange of hiring Valunian military as mercenaries to further bolster our military forces against Emalia (MOD RESPONSE).
 * Emalian War Continues: The pivotal battle of West Edom ultimately proved to be a victory for Azoz, which forever shaped their future history. However, the forces of the empire alone were not enough to dislodge Emalia from their position in Edom near Deshema, and Demus executed a retreat from that position, although keeping the Emalian forces mostly stuck in their entrenchment. Both Demus and Xarenvarus reached out to the states of the Mesallian peninsula, asking to help recruiting more forces for their seizure of Edom and Nerimos away from Emalia, in order to fulfill the compromise treaty we determined.
 * Mesallian Culture: The outbreak of war in the Erasidonian Empire, with Lysimedes’ kingdom caught in the middle, would prove a turning point in Mesallian history. With the responsibility of practically choosing a victor in the largest war the empire had seen since Ioxemander, Lysimedes would later become known as “the Kingmaker”. Ultimately, although the emperor in Azoz had granted what Lysimedes wanted initially, he saw Azoz as too dangerous to leave unchecked, and so Lysimedes planned to support his allies Edom and Emalia. Before he would enter his first battle, Lysimedes attempted diplomacy. He proposed that the “Empire of Ioxemander” should formally break up, so that none of the successors would have a claim to that title or against each other. Instead four kingdoms: Erasidon (Lysimedes), Edom (Mesena), Emalia (Igneous), and Azoz (Ptelamus III), would be created as independent nations, and hoped to create a lasting peace and “balance” in the region between the four states. To his end, Lysimedes would vow to never claim Azoz or the “imperial” title, despite the belief among many Erasidonians that he was the most qualified or connected to the empire, through his descent from the House of Ptelamus and through his marriage connections. To the Yannis Empire, Lysimedes proposed the following deal: a de jure “kingdom” title would be created, under which all the Yannian states or Yannian vassals would fall, which would be ruled by a Yannian, however, this kingdom would swear fealty to Erasidon. In effect, Lysimedes would continue to rule over the region, but would allow a Yannian substate to continue the promotion of Yannian customs and religion within its designated area. Regardless, he accepted the 20,000 men that the Yannis Empire had stationed, which he used to augment his own army. After the above diplomacy was attempted, Lysimedes (now in his late 50's), marched through Phydinia to meet with the army of Asandius (now also in his 50's). The king’s strategy would involve leaving one large army guarding the mountain passes into Erasidon from the west, so that if the Azozians attempted to invade Erasidon they would be forced to fight in a poor position similar to the great battle at the Thusmos River two generations prior. Ultimately, Lysimedes had concealed his involvement, so he hoped that the Azozians would not think to attack Erasidon, as they would not realize Lysimedes’ had joined Edom until they witnessed the act itself on the battlefield of Edom. Although after the involvement was revealed he did not discount the possibility that Azoz would attack through Erasidon with a second army. A second army would cross the small strait from Lysandria to northeast Edom, to further augment Lysimedes, but afterward, when Azoz invaded Nerimos, Lysimedes ordered Gamedes of Lamigis to march with 25,000 men east toward Nerimos, expecting the Emalians to also attack the isolated Azozian army from the east as well. At sea the powerful navies of Agira, Meshwati, and Lysandria, some of the quintessential naval powers of the period, would also patrol the Gabatrian Sea to further trap this army, but mostly focused their attention toward protecting the rest of the Mesallas region from the west and north. Finally two smaller armies would be raised, one under Dephamus as “Deputy of the Gudumanes” and one under Hynagalus as “Deputy of the Melopenes”, which would be tasked with maintaining order and protecting the region. After an initial battle Lysimedes accepted that if the Kingdom of Azoz implemented the idea of releasing Edom as free then he would not have a need to fight them, so he withdrew back to Mesallas. He then proposed that both sides should make peace, with Emalia vassalizing Edom if need be, due to their current possession of it.
 * Azoz Dip: In the original correspondance of Randomo to Lysimedes, we accept the treaty proposed by Lysimedes, except that Edom remains a vassal under the Empire, but otherwise an independent kingdom.
 * Yannis Empire: The Anointed One commissions many great writers to compile the histories of the region, and establish the Yannis civilization as the center of the universe and the beginning of human history. During this time many great accounts would also be written of the stunning fall of the Chatna Empire, brought down by the fierce vengeance of the gods and their devout followers. They write of the current history in the region as follows: “The heathen in Chatna is called the “Thalutite, the Whore of Azoz”, and the Yannians condemn their sacreligious, overly aggressive ways. To protect the holy Yannian followers of the world, the Anointed One allows his forces and allies in Mesallas to aid the nation of Emalia until sufficient apocalyptic fire has been rained down upon the evildoers, their false idols named “Nolrim” cast aside and scattered, and their savage people stripped of their barbarity, either by conversion or death. Forty plagues ascend upon the Thalutites, cast down by 40 sparrows of the gods. These mouthpieces of the eternal scream curses in bird speak that the Thalutite witches can't unutter. The Hydra Mother brings out 1,000 of the octopi to pull apart Azozian ships in the turbulent seas near Norimo, the false city. The sea speak with an unparalleled fury for the burden of supporting such heathen-rich machinations that are the Azozian ships. Their accursed vessels are made from weak, dying spirits that can't compare to Yannian timber. Their oars shimmer crooked in the sea, and their sails hardly contain the pulls of the wind. When an Azozian speaks a thick foam spews from his cracking, pale lips, leaving sprinklings of spew on their bald, narrow heads. They are birthed from the fire pits of Azoz, the dark and twisting tunnels deep below that city, where all that is good in this world is burned and consumed to produce beings not of any mother or father, but pulled from primordial matter and formed of fleshly, cruel metal. Their bones become twisted and mismatched in that hell place, with Azozians permanently hunched over and lumbering on all fours to walk. They scream and cry, “Nolrim save us,” but their false god can't hear their prayers. They speak in the black tongue that the Yannians reserve only for evil spirits, led by their king, “Asasg-ishi krimpazdis”. He is portrayed a great thin man who commands over a horde of “writers”. They are blinded with rags and unable to see, but scribble the gibberish of “Ulm” and the other falsehoods of the great deceiver. Their books, fashioned from the skin of their own people, contains volume after volume of lies and deception, written in the blood of the innocents.” Elsewhere, five governors are appointed to rule the territories of the southern lands. Cities are rebuilt with new walls and new amenities, including sewers, baths, and aqueducts. By this time in the Holy City of Yagothna-vis most homes possess private outlets into the sewers and canals of the city, all powered by the might of the Soloney River. In the many wetlands of the nation the harvesting of fish and other animals of the sea is also plentiful. With a deep love of fish and meat himself, the Anointed One has soldiers and their offspring accustom to their consumption. All along the river and around the Yannian cities the fertile land is converted to farmland, with bovine manure becoming more widespread, and canals connecting farmland to the rivers. The main crops are rotated with perennial plants and other crops.
 * Emalian Diplomacy: We thank Yannis for raining Hellfire upon the Thalulites, and urge the Yannians to launch a full scale attack upon the Thalulite homeland, ensuring they face massive destruction while their forces are busy fighting the Eastern Imperial Forces outside of Edom.
 * Sillan Republic: As the population grows (thus proving harder to control) while the number of military nobility (relative to the total population) declines, there is an increasing need for a solid and strong bureaucracy to manage the country's administrative and civil affairs. Acknowledging this necessity, Cabeza Yanzen revives the practice of issuing civil examinations (as a separate institution) – and as a result, military officials are stripped of any real administrative powers within the provinces but still continue to oversee military affairs and exercise a wide degree of influence. This leads to the revival of a powerful class of scholar-bureaucrats and civil servants. In order to enforce the "quality" of acceptants, more stringent standards for imperial examinations are established. Similarly, since the abolition of serfdom (and associated feudal institutions), social structure has been undefined and thus have been in a state of flux, with everyone being roughly egalitarian and high social mobility (thus leading to instability within the composition of the elite). While this system was initially viable, a growing population has led to the necessity for increased social stratification. Through the "Code of 445", three classes are officially delineated, characterized by the amount of property owned: major property holders or landed gentry (comprising 10% of the population), lesser property holders (30%), and finally, leaseholders (60%); the latter is further into sharecroppers and tenant farmers, which differ by whether they pay their rent in allotment of grain or coinage, respectively. As these reforms have shifted the main determinator of social status from occupation to wealth and land ownership, high social status becomes de facto hereditary. In addition, the imposition of higher score requirements (which requires a higher level of educational attainment) and a renewed emphasis on legal education has led to the landed gentry-class dominating (or even monopolizing) participation in imperial examinations; thus stifling social mobility but also maintaining social stability. However, since imperial examinations are open to all (but in practice, limited to the literati), some non-nobles continue to pass imperial examinations or acquire a sufficient amount of wealth to acquire noble status. These individuals are known as the "newly rich" (in contrast to the "old rich") and supplement the population of nobility (as a percentage of the total population). Due to reports of pirate raids, a centralized navy (managed by the Office of the Navy, which in turn, is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of War) is established in 442. Over the course of a decade, ten "motherships" and 40 "lesser ships" are built, based on enlarged Sillan riverine designs. Ships are equipped with heavy crossbows (which could shoot incendiary arrows or regular bolts) and are covered in lacquer to improve their capability to resist the elements. In 349, the Imperial Court declares an edict which discourages the slaughtering of mammals. As a result, the main sources of (animal) protein continue to shift to poultry and seafood; while leather is derived from ratites (such as rheas and ostriches) or hunted from crocodiles and snakes. All city walls (consisting of rammed earth) are annually maintained and reinforced, while canals and flattened dirt-roads are built to facilitate transport. As part of a public health and sanitation campaign, sewer and plumbing systems, latrines, and communal baths (along with evaporative coolers) are built in all major settlements – with water being supplied by water channels. Meanwhile, irrigation and groundwater-wells are also built to provide an ample supply of water and fertilizer (from fish paste or bovine manure) to crops; thus leading to high productivity with the excess produce being stored in town granaries to ensure food security. Meanwhile, bloomeries and workshops are built; manufacturing textiles (silk and muslin cloth), ceramics (porcelain wares), jewelry, leather, and military arms (reflex bows, swords, polearms, and arrows). Regional economic specialization begins. Within Silla proper, rice and plantains are cultivated as a staple; however, various exotic fruits, vegetables (turnips, radishes, cabbages, legumes), root crops (taro, yams, sweet potatoes) are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include tea, ginseng, hemp, and abaca; while other major industries include sericulture and beekeeping (for honey and wax). The main diet in the Makuku region is similar, though it specializes in the production of leather, the farming of ratites (specifically ostriches and rheas), and crocodile-hunting. Cash crops include various spices, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco. Within the Olmac region, the staples are radically different and include millet, wheat, and maize (though it is more used as fodder). In addition, various berries and nuts, lentils, chickpeas, various beans, various gourds and squashes, and true potatoes are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include cotton, coffee, and natural dyes (indigo and henna). Within marshes or near bodies of water, artificial islands are built and are planted with maize, squash, and beans (with the trio being referred to as the "Three Sisters" system). While small, they are highly productive, being capable of yielding seven harvests annually. In more deeper water, however, deep-water rice varieties are cultivated. Areas of the lowest depths are reserved for farms for fresh-water fish, mollusks (snails, clams), and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, and crabs) – which become the main source of animal protein. In order to facilitate population growth, rapid southward expansion continues to acquire more arable land, raw materials, and to spread the gifts the civilization through the assimilation of the barbarians.
 * Tsardom of Algeorgia: The tsar orders that the wall should be expanded and expands our colony with 1 px.
 * Darna: A number of Darna’s finest raiders take to the sea and begin to pillage the cities of the Thalutite Empire, traveling farther inland. 5,000 raiders travel up the Ashe River and extort payment from many major cities. They leave a path of destruction in their wake, destroying many smaller towns. All that is valuable is seized and taken back to the islands of Darna. Additionally many people are captured and enslaved, and these slaves are taken back to the Darna islands. In some cities the Darnan warriors demand that the cities pay them a hefty bribe in order to spare their cities, and when they do so this money is used to fuel more raids. Later when the Chatnan soldiers are defeated in the east, the Darnan navy arrives at Nerimos and takes thousands of people hostage as slaves. Many resist and are killed by the Darnan army. Many also decide to become mercenaries against the Thalutites or for various powers.
 * Qaryaat: In the year 441, the war against Mohejaro begins due to Mohejaro not complying when given the chance. King Najrim III requests Benyisra, Kepitits, and Anakhedam to aid him in his fight against Mohejaro as allies. (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED) A small division of the Qaryaati navy is sent to the northern coast of Mohejaro. While the Mohejaran navy fights off this distraction, the rest of the navy along with land soldiers on boat launch a direct attack on the capital of Mohejaro, in the strait where the rivers known in Mohejaro as the Seru and the Sindha. (ALGO NEEDED) Explorers are sent to explore the coastline in southern Anakhedam. Desert caravan trade routes are expanded. Qaryaati farmers discover that burning weeds and mixing the burnt weeds with manure before using it to fertilize their fields makes their crops grow better. The aforementioned change causes an increase in food supply. Qaryaati poetry begins to flourish, with poems being mostly written about nature, romance, and fables.
 * Syres: In the city of Syres the condition of being a vassal to a king finally becomes too much to bear, and the Hensa requests to the empire in Azoz that the nature of Syres’ relationship to the primary government be renegotiated. Syres will become independent, but continue to ally with the empire in Azoz and pay a certain amount of tribute. Due to the wars waging across the empire, it is hoped that the empire in Azoz will be compelled to accept this deal. In the meantime, the nation formalizes its peace with the western vassals of Azoz, creating an agreed upon border in the west. As a result the areas formally claimed by Syres are legitimized to some degree, and many more people begin settling the regions, especially along the two rivers. The area between the two rivers also is settled heavily, expanding the claims of the city of Syres farther along the southern river.
 * Emalia: Igneous, with the speed of 1,000 horses and strength of 100,000 men charges into Thaluite lands with his Imperial Army full of youthful vigor, ambition, and hope, war not yet known to him. But war made herself known to him, for though Igneous and his Imperial Army killed many, they lost 5,000 more to the defenders, thus the young Emperor was driven back by the Thaluties just outside of Edom. With the knowledge of war gained by the humbling defeat, Igneous successfully mounted a defense against the Thaluite counter invasion of Edom with the Edomites on his side in Deshema. Simultaneously the Emalian-Edomite forces decisively crush the Thalutites in Nerimos, giving a huge morale boost to the Imperial forces and ascending a new hero into Emalian history, Shimizu, a soldier from an unknown land who managed to rally the garrison tto victory in the chaos of battle. The combined victories at Deshema and Nerimos have inspired the Yannians to join our ranks, filling up our lines and replenishing the losses previously suffered, all of them eager to quench their bloodlust for the Thaluties. Darnian mercenaries are also hired for their services. The new Eastern Imperial Army is divided into multiple divisions to allow for flexibility and mobility in command, ensuring versatility everywhere. From Deshema to Nerimos, the Eastern Imperial Forces assumed strong defensive positions, garrisoning in behind walls of shields and spears, with swordsmen in the center. Out of all of these cities, however, Iskandria is the most fortified and well-defended, with Emalian forces stationed all over the city, effectively taking over Iskandria through occupation. Meanwhile, the Yannians and Darnians are sent to the frontlines in Deshema, where they to harassed and raided the Thalulites, using hit and run tactics to weaken the Thalutite forces and destroy supply lines, with small encirclement campaigns conducted as well, softening the Thalutite lines. Combined with the raiding and the small scale campaigns, fire arrows are rained upon the Thalulite forces. With news that the Thalulites are being invaded elsewhere, his forces repleshened, and the enemy being weakened, Igneous follows up his defensive victories and launches a second offensive from Deshema, this time more careful, one that is intended to attack from all sides and kill the Thalulite leadership in order to cause chaos into the Thalulite ranks and break them, dispersing the Thalulites throughout and achieving midsized gains. In Absobla, the Holy Ema Explorers, start a new phenomenon in the Holy River, women from all over the land ritualistically bathe in the river to bathe and attract males, and at these river bathings the teaching of Ema is spread, and the Sisterhood grows, now flourishing in Alsoba where it was stagnating in Emalia. While the Holy River has ended, there's a small contingent who are determined to go even farther south, and so they explore south of Alsoba with the chapter in Alsoba sending vital supplies down the Ema Explorer's way. Leto continues his perilious journey east, passing the orange archipelago.
 * Exhulan Empire: With the decades of colonization and assimilation efforts, the area that was once Kaloma has by now been mostly assimilated and integrated into the Empire, a few thousand more colonists arrive in the last few years of our efforts, but they stop before the year is over as we finally ban the Kaloman religion officially and begin hunting down its remaining followers, a process made easier by the large bounty soon put on their heads. Meanwhile, at the court of Siccarius, The enlargement of the Sarkoni guard continues, with about 3,000 members eventually coming to be part of it, essentially serving as the private army of the Prince and later, his daughter. The two main factions that sought to have their members, the husbands of Rttagan’s sisters, continue to seek to push their claims to the throne, using the justification of his only heir being a woman, and thus unsuitable to succeed to the throne in their eyes, although The Emperor continues to support her claim. Unfortunately Rttagan unsurprisingly dies of a fever due to his weak immune system in 442, when his daughter is only ten years of age. This leads to the two factions, led by King Of Irrosia Syrar Cclor and Governor Of Amyirth Lorgar Arrasis, to much more confidently push their claims while Lorgar V increasingly devotes much of his efforts to countering their influence, leaving Princess Nyiccia to spend the rest of her time in the palace being raised by the Sarkoni, leading to many becoming increasingly loyal to her. In just a few more years her claim would likely have been secured, but unfortunately in 446 the Emperor is found dead with his throat slit and she is forced to flee the capital soon after as a coup, led by Syrar, quickly leads thousands of his armed supporters into seizing Siccarius and the Isle of Zoelle overall, forcing her to go into hiding somewhere on the island unknown to Syrar or Lorgar Arrasis. This leads to the two factions relying many forces and seizing the north and south of Exhula, leading them to fight each other in a civil war for three years. During this many die and thousands are killed, significantly weakening both of the, and leading to Siccarius being poorly defended despite being the center of Syrar’s power. This leads to the new Empress Nyiccia being able to successfully march on and size Siccarius at the age of only 17, using the remaining 1,756 Sarkoni as the core of the army of 4,000 she is able to rally and wit which she successfully sizes the capital and the rest of the island, after which she has Syrar and his entire family executed and burned alive, after which she sends an ultimatum to all the remaining forces and territories neutral or supporting his claim, demanding they either support the rightful heir to the throne or later be destroyed, but promising to forgive all their crimes and to provide alive economic benefits (and hunting at the possibility of a royal marriage) to those who rally to her side. Most accept this, as Syrar and all carriers of his legacy and bloodline are now dead and they have no alternative to survive other than siding with her, and thus only the strongholds of Lorgar, who was losing the war regardless and by this point had largely been confined to Amyirth, as the only place still in rebellion in the Empire. The Empress begins to gather a large Army to strike back at him and retake her territory, which by now is almost entirely sure to be crushed. She leads this army of 11,000 into battle herself near the end of 450, launching an invasion eerily similar to the one launched during the Exhulan Conquest Of Kaloma a few decades before, facing the remaining army of 4,000 Lorgar had on his side in the battle of Myriq (a town near the center of the Amyirth territory), where she is victorious and where she personally slays the usurper herself and latter has his corpse burned. The site of her victory leads to the routing of his army and to thousands of his soldiers surrendering en masse, leading to her easily retaking the other two areas of the region. She decides to spare those who fought for Lorgar (with the exception of the main leaders of his faction and his family) in order to avoid the depleting of the population in the aftermath of the civil war and to ensure she has a manpower base to draw from in the future. She returns to Siccarius at the end of the war, and is officially crowned as Empress Nyiccia I Aurelian. She marries the newly elected King of Irrosia, Rogar Rythius, who was one of the main loyalist supporters of her claim in Irrosia, which had largely sided with their King in his claim, and suffered large amounts of damage for it (staying loyal due to a historic rivalry with Syrar’s family). Although they have no children yet, it is generally agreed that the heir will take the father's family name, although the Empress will remain in charge, as Rogar is only Emperor-Consort (as his wife has made abundantly clear).

451-460
'After Nerimos is surrounded by Emalia and its allies, the commander Xarenvarus manages to slip out of the city and escape, rather than surrender his army to enemy forces. The general and 6,000 men manage to escape by sea to Azozian land, several thousand others escape into Sephimora and Edom and are unaccounted for, and 10,000 turn themselves over to Emalian forces.'

'The initial attacks by the Qaryaat against the nation of Mohejaro falls, with Mohejaro beating back the attacks. Qaryaat's remaining forces manage to withdraw, taking a large amount of loot and pillaging parts of the countryside. Benyisra sends a small contingent of 2,000 men to aid Qaryaat, while Kepitis and Anakhedam state they are willing to send mercenaries.'

'In western Edom the forces of Emalia (and its Yannian-Mesallians, Darnans, and other allied troops or mercenaries) and Azoz (with Valun mercenaries) meet in battle, and Emalia is victorious. Emalia suffers 5,400 casualties, Yannis suffers 2,110, Darna suffers 590, and Azoz suffers 12,300.'

'After the defeat of their main army by Hythus, many of the tribes of the Kledesians submit to Hythian rule. In the south some of the Kledesians cluster around a series of small cities and walled settlements, resisting Hythian rule and offering peace.'

'A similar tribe to the Kledesians, known as the Adandites, migrates through the eastern mountain range to settle the region between Hythia and the Ten Cities. They bring stories of a growing threat that pushed them from their homelands.'

'A nation known as the Tabornites, pushed north by a much larger empire to the south of them, travels north along the coast, arriving at the city of Fashnoq. They successfully sack the city after a short battle, and pillage farther north.'

'After Igneous dies in battle, Medesa of Edom becomes the primary claimant to the throne of Emalia. Despite this, due to Mesallian influence in the Emalian court, factions arise supporting Prince Leto or one of his descendants, or another male relative, to the Emalian throne, despite the nation’s historical matriarchy. In Edom, the governor Asandius, who had ruled as consort of Edom, and then in a regent/prime minister role after the death of Shameza, seeks to appoint his own son, Ioxemander, to the throne of Edom, instead of a personal union led between Edom and Emalia. Asandius dies soon after of old age, but his son manages to seize control of Edom the city.'
 * Emalia: Igneous, at the sight of his greatest victory, is slain in the midst of the brutal chaos of war, slaying a multitude of Thalulites with him, as he rained a maelstrom of death upon his enemies, he too, died, victorious with the burning of 1,000 suns, teaching all he knew the ways of war, and all learned to fear war and all the devastation it brings. In death, Igneous became immortalized as nothingless than the firey bringer of death, Igneous now meaning Death,  and with his death, his sister Medesa immediately ascends the throne of Emalia, uniting the Kingdoms of Edom and Emalia into one state, forging the Medesan Empire. Upon ascension to the throne of Emalia, Madesa proposes peace with the Thalulites in Azoz, forming the Treaty of Iskandaria, which states “Empress Madesa will be recognized as ruler of Edom and Emalia, as well as ruler of Sephmoria, and maintain claims to the fallen East, and she shall surrender the claims to the rest of Ioxamander’s Empire, instead forming an alliance with the successor states. In turn, the other rulers shall drop claims to the entirety of Ioxamander’s Empire, instead maintaining the status quo and forming an alliance of nations.” While the process of peace is being pursued, the Medesan Army maintains a defensive position, in case any nations decide to prey upon it during this transition to peace.
 * Erasidonian Empire in Azoz: Historians are somewhat confused on the chronology of the Emalian-Erasidon war at this particular time. Although the general era of the event is known to take place 340 AR, the exact decade seems to shift between one writer and another. The initial victory in defending against the Emalians proved to be a defining moment for the unity of the empire, as most provinces as far away as Fotashe were donating forces for the defense. However, the continued losses against Emalia in dislodging them from Edom and Nerimos has been greatly damaging to public opinion against the derranged monarch Ptalemus and his Viceroy Randomo, especially among the Senate and other courtiers in Azoz. The naval forces in both Tuartha and near Nerimos once again work at crushing the involvement of Darnan piracy, as well as blockading their military involvement in the war against Emalia. Eight large warships and 10 smaller vessals make up the largest contingent to blockade passage toward the largest cities on the Ashe River. Seeing that Emalia continues to invade and refuses the peace agreement between Lysimedes and Randomo, we fully expect military cooperation from the Mesallian states to enforce the agreement on the upstart Igneous (numbers assumed, feel free to correct me). General Demus worked to raise an additional 20,000 troops from among the people of Usilinago to recoup his losses in the previous two battles in Edom. The majority of those who were recruited this time were more nomadic tribes of the southern deserts, often skilled in unconventional warfare but work on a more mercenary basis. Additional mercenaries are purchased as well from Valun, as well as the Tabornites, who are offered tracts of land to settle as Azoz citizens should they volunteer forces within the military. An additional 30,000 troops are brought in from the Kingdom of Erasidon under Lysimedes, in order to enforce the Treaty of Randomo. Additonally, the Kingdom of Edom complies with the call of the rulers' son-in-law, and switches sides to fight against the more unfamiliar invaders. Viceroy Randomo officially supports Ioximander II as the rightful king of Edom, and reaches out to petition his forces in the region to support our counterattack to ensure their independence away from the occupation of Emalia. In addition, Edom supports the side that promises their independence after the war as a vassal nation, granting the independent kingdom they require (mod response, if required). With compliance of Edom to be allowed passed the fortifications near the city, the Second Battle of Dashen saw a general siege of the city against the remaining Emalian troops, with exits on all sides cut off by the combined forces of the empire and her allies. The nomadic cavalry of Usilinago, Valun, and Tabornites are sent in first, using their unconventional tactics to disrupt and confuse the enemy forces while softening their main infantry lines. This is immediately followed through by lancer charges of the Azozans, striking through the army groups to divide them into separate clumps. Finally, the elite Erasidonian phalanx is combined with the infantry of the Azozan hoplites for surrounding the remaining army groups, coupled with peppering of the Azoz longbowmen. Meanwhile, Xarenvarus retreated back to rest in Agira with his remaining 6,000 troops from the initial attack, his famous "band of brothers" featured in a number of later plays. Xarenvarus proceeded with a second attack for Sephimora, this time focused at Dascelos, and accompanied by a far larger group of supporters. 23,000 troops along with the entire navy of the Ithmala Confederacy accompany his invasion from the Mesallian peninsula, in addition to the Edomite troops in Nerimos who switched sides to turn against the Emalian oppressors. Xarenvarus reaches out to Prince Leto of Emalia, and offers to help support his rise to power over Emalia after the current invasion forces have been defeated, so long as he begins recruiting power to begin seizing control within Emalia now. (More to come after algo results)
 * Medesan Diplomacy: Igneous is dead, and with him, his war of conquest. I, Medesa, have ascended the throne of Emalia and I continue to reign in Edom, and I propose the end of war between Emalia and Azoz. Hopefully peace can finally be achieved between our two powers.
 * Azoz Dip: Ioximander II is the rightful ruler of Edom, and we will not allow the Emalians to annex the nation that rightfully belongs as independent.
 * Emalian War update: The military invasion occupying parts of Edom became increasingly confused and disorganized by the sudden change of the political situation. Orders from the capital dictated by Randomo, on behalf of the Emperor Ptalemus III, were becoming increasing eratic and incoherant. It seems that Ptalemus wanted to give in with supporting independence of Edom and Sephimora, which almost certainily would continue fracturing the empire, as well as giving as much economic and tributary sacrifice to Emalia as possible in order to end the conflict. Demus continued to faithfully follow these orders and moved his military in support of Ioximander II, fighting against both the Emalian military stationed there and the invading troops of Lysimedes and Mesallia. Xarenvarus, however, had a better and more ambitious idea. Xarenvarus landed his "band of brothers" of 6,000 troops in Edom, having recruited an additional 10,000 men to his cause of fighting back against the legacy of Igneous. Xarenvarus declared his support for Lysimedes to overthrow Ioximander II and fight against Azoz. He unfurled a banner of the family of his father, Xeracles, and under that flag absorbed most of the troops away from Demus' control. As Demus was crushed in defeat at the Battle of Dashen, Xarenvarus found himself in a powerful position, commanding a rebel army of over 100,000 men. Xaren immedaitely offered to marry the daughter of Lysimedes, and further support her claim as rightful Queen of Edom in opposition to Azoz. Likewise, Xaren supported Prince Leto of Emalia to marry Lysimedes' other daughter in support of her place as Queen of Emalia, and send a large contingent of his military into Emalia to enforce that support. Ioximander II, meanwhile, was officially deposed and executed under Xaren's orders, as well as burning remaining letters sent to him by Ptalemus.
 * Second update: Xaren's marriage to Queen Evanemetra is celebrated as "Union Day" among traditional Azoz holidays to this day, and is often romanticised for its immense beauty. In reality, however, this was only the beginning of a renewed conflict with Azoz, known as the "last great Azoz Civil War", finally putting an end to the string of internal conflicts up to this point. Demus was beaten back with his remaining forces expulsed from Edom, and regrouped at the city of Isono. Ptalemus contninued to order Demus to maintian the war against Lysimedes and Xarenvarus, declaring him to be in contempt of treason, and so Demus complied with what all of his commanders agreed as a suicide mission. Xaren's military, meanwhile, first dispatched into Emalia while their forces were temproarily depleted, ensuring an alliance to Leto and his wife Audesta while exacting tribute from major cities. After regathering the military near Edom once again, Xaren continued on the offensive to strike against the remaining forces of Demus at Isono.
 * Mesallian Culture: Initially prepared to declare war on Emalia to ensure Edom’s independence, Lysimedes found that unexpectedly Igneous had died, and that made him king of Emalia through his wife Medesa. He immediately sailed for Emalia to quell Emalia’s Mesallian population, appearing as a strong and well-respected ruler, even if under Emalian law it was his wife that technically ruled over Edom and Emalia. By this strange turn of inheritance, Lysimedes prepared Emalian and Edomite forces to defend against the Azozians, who acted under the assumption that they would acquire Edom for themselves. First he sought to ensure that Edom was secured, going to war against Ioxemander II. He reinstituted the same strategy as before, with three armies stationed in Mesallas proper, while one-fourth, small army, met up with the remaining one-half of Edom’s forces that were loyal to Medesa, to retake the city of Edom. In total, this would appoint to some 40,000 men. Although he means to retain his grip over all three kingdoms, he realizes in his old age that a more permanent solution is needed, and seeks to have his three eldest children designated to different kingdoms, so that by the time of his death Edom, Emalia, and Mesallas will become independent once more - and he notes, at that time it may still turn out that Edom becomes a vassal of Emalia or Azoz, which seems fitting enough. His son Democrates becomes heir to Erasidon, his daughter Evanematra becomes heir of Edom, and his youngest daughter Audasta became heir to Emalia. In an effort to ensure peace, it was proposed that Lysimedes’ eldest daughter, Thesalla, would marry Ptelamus III, while Evanematra would marry someone of Ptelamus III’s choosing. Additionally it was proposed that Audasta be wed to Leto, son of Ionia. (Much more to come)
 * Hythia: Years 158-167 Since the Return of Hythus. The Council of the Partechs, shows its political weakness as Klynius, assumes ever increasing political influence from his military position. His power becomes nearly absolute thanks to his popularity and military exploits. Under his command the Unar has won its largest victories in history and become a serious and professional fighting force. It is with this power that Meunarch Klynius offers the Kledesians peace under the condition of vassalage. The Kledesians will be able to live in relative peace so long as they convert to Hythianism and accept Hythian overlordship. Furthermore, the Kledesians will pay a yearly tithe to Hythia to consist of grain, livestock, and other goods to the value of 500 kilograms of gold a year. Should they refuse the campaign will continue. [Mod Response] The native cities in the region are granted a greater degree of autonomy and receive military and economic support from Hythia. Settlement by Hythian soldiers among the native population is encouraged and nearly 6,000 Hythian immigrants are documented as settling with what remains of this population. The city of Klynia is founded in the heart of the new territories to administer the once Kledesian lands. A string of smaller cities are built, along with roads to connect them in order to properly control at least a small section of the territory. These cities, Lythania and Tystia are named for Klynius’ progenaic Mepartechs, leaders of the professional fighting core of the Unar, and are also famous for their military exploits. Overall, the nation recovers from the war, which expanded Hythia massively, despite the expense. Agricultural production increases due to the expansion of farmlands, the use of human, bovine, and equestrian excrement to enrich soil, and the construction of canals and tythoruses for irrigation. A basic form of crop rotation begins to appear with cereal crops, sweet potatoes, legumes, and then animal fodder become the standard. Each year farmers switch to the next in the crop sequence with many farms divided into four sections to maximize the overall yearly diversity. In addition, subsidies are given to farmers to establish more large-scale fish, mollusk, crustacean, and seaweed farms in and along the river bank. The population grows immensely due to increased wealth and nutrition. Pomegranate and cotton become the favorite luxury crops as both are highly valuable and relatively easy to transport.
 * Qera: The prince still enjoys a massive support and popularity from the commoners and also the nobles. Yet after some time, the land redistribution laws turn out to be far less effective than they thought. Although the landlords are lifted from their power, competition between the settlements and villages is desired now. (more added later)
 * Vytia Culture: During this year the continual expansion of Vytia goes through new length with Daima, Nis, and Vynos expanding. However, Vynos becomes burdened with feeding its evergrowing urban population, as such they begin to cut down vast numbers of trees in the lands surrounding Vynos expanding agricultural land by 15 px and offering this new land to many poor within the city in order to farm Nis also begins a proces of expanding agricultural land by 5 px. In order to maintain the current land knowledge of how to farm the various crops is spread to the various farms. However, in order to cope with the water constraints, a new type of well designed to store the yearly monsoon rains are created. This helps expand our food surplus with the excess wood being used to create food storage, and ships. Daima follows a similar system of chopping down the trees, however, offering the land to former soldiers to farm off of and grow wealthy expanding agricultural land by 13 px. This encourages enlistment within the Daima army, expansion of Daima continues into neighboring lands. However, the oppression of Daima encourages many Vyt to flee east to the temperate river founding the city of Fygio. The land surrounding Milor proves to be very suited for agricultural with the city ordering the expansion of these farmlands. While in Vynos the expansion of agricultural encourages the city to build canals, and roads to transport the farmstuff back to their city. In order to officially keep track of the population but unofficially to monitor the lower-classes to prevent them from growing too strong the government orders yearly censuses to be taken that monitor population, family land size, and money to occur within Vynos (One census per five turns is fine). Furthermore, explorers continue to explore farther north of the Eastern side of the Bend of Vand, and an accident occurs where several sailors sail on Monsoon winds blowing west across the Gulf and manage to find their way back to Vytia on these same winds blowing west. They take note of this and record it down in severla books.
 * Ouayi: In the Kingdom, Belerik - feeling secure with guarantees from Yannis and Exhula - announces that war will be made with the slave city of Luls. He mobilizes the nation's navy, including the ships of the local merchants who base out of Ouayi, and begins a blockade of the city from the western shore. He then ships his army to encircle the city, and begins the siege. In total, 3,000 men are dispatched to capture the city of Luls.
 * Northern Saemonites: The ascension of Naditabirus to the status of King has prompted some general discontent due to his more hardline ruling style and military training. He begins his reign by stating that the Northern Realm will return to its superiority in the continent to please the goddess's Anatu and Humusi and to end the Era of Decline. This gains him much large support within the nation. He follows this statement with the raising of taxes to comfort areas of increased trade and society, with more developed regions with higher populations paying more while regions without development and primarily farm-filled are kept at a base fare of two-hundred. This also re-organizes the realm into numerous districts. Following this re-assortment, military conscription is imposed as prepare for large war against the realm's enemies and former tributaries. Spy networks are made throughout the Southern Realm, Kaughn, Herati, Ri'Kiva, and Mithadia in 455. In 458, with an army size of 25,000: 20,000 trained soldiers armed with large daggers while 5,000 are armed with bow and arrows, war is declared on Herati for re-conquest and re-subjugation. Much of the soldiers invading are promised land within the nation and as many slaves as the population of Herati supports, which boosts moral. Expected to be somewhat of a medium conflict, progress is asked for from Anatu, the Goddess of War (Mod).
 * Syres: The nation of Syres during this time supplied a number of men and ships to the cause of the Kingdom of Azoz. However, the number of land forces was considerably small, after the pro-independence faction won out, campaigning on the idea that the theft of Syresian levies to the empire was untenable. The navy was much more committed, especially as Darnan pirates began to threaten Syresian trade in the south. As attention was taken away from the army the navy continued to see expansion, with Syres’ main fleet seeing battle against pirates as far as Edom and the Gabatrian Sea. During this time the city nearly falls apart when the poor of the city exit in protest. The Hensa is forced to give the poor a number of concessions, including their own assembly and elected officials, in order to persuade them back into the city and back into Syresian society.
 * Darna: A great number of Darnans join the company of Emalia and Edom, becoming mercenaries in the wars of the south. Many slaves are captured and taken back to the Darnan islands. A number of Darna’s finest raiders take to the sea and begin to pillage the cities of the Thalutite Empire, traveling farther inland. 5,000 raiders travel up the Ashe River and extort payment from many major cities. They leave a path of destruction in their wake, destroying many smaller towns. All that is valuable is seized and taken back to the islands of Darna. Additionally many people are captured and enslaved, and these slaves are taken back to the Darna islands. In some cities the Darnan warriors demand that the cities pay them a hefty bribe in order to spare their cities, and when they do so this money is used to fuel more raids. Later when the Chatnan soldiers are defeated in the east, the Darnan navy arrives at Nerimos and takes thousands of people hostage as slaves. Many resist and are killed by a Darnan army. Many also decide to become mercenaries against the Thalutites or for various powers.
 * Exhulan Empire: The New dynasty becomes secure throughout this turn as the first children bearing the new name are born, Lorgar, Yiia, and Myrroam. We also send 4,000 forces to assist Ouyai in conquering Luls, on the condition that we are able to take a large portion of the population as slaves. Trade increases with Ouyai, Sillas, and Qera, as well as with Yannis as relations are slowly repaired. Nonetheless we Once again extend an invitation to Sillas to join the defensive pact between us and Qera, stating it is not just against Yannis but against aggression from any other powers, and that it would make us obligated to assist hem in future wars if they join (SILLAS RESPONSE NEEDED!).
 * Khin Federation: By an auspicious sign from the heavens and a slowly expanding population, the Chanri announces the great hunt, where the riders of Khin shall venture to the far corners of the steppes for prey that will be sacrificed to Than. More contact is made with Azoz traders.
 * Sillan Republic: In order to facilitate foreign trade and to secure key trading routes, Cabeza Yanzen authorities the construction of 50 more ships – specifically 15 more mother-ships (for a total of ~25) and 35 more out-rigger ships (for a total of ~75). The mother-ships, driven largely by sail power, have rounded hulls and higher drafts; being intended to carry supplies and serve in defensive roles. Typically operating in pairs, its sailors are armed with heavy crossbows and pikes in order to discourage pirates from boarding. Meanwhile, the out-rigger ships are driven solely by three decks of oars and are fitted with outriggers – allowing for the ships to reach high speed without sacrificing stability. However, since both of these vessel types are essentially upscaled versions of riverine ships, they are not sea-worthy and are limited to littoral areas and requiring frequent resupplies at ports (only being able to withstand open sea conditions for a maximum of three or so days before exhausting supplies or risking capsizing). Meanwhile, the Cabeza Yanzen begins to tour around Silla to monitor the assimilation of newly-conquered and peripheral peoples; particularly within the recently-acquired and pacified Makuku provinces – where resistance and opposition to taxation have stifled the adoption of Sillan culture. Meanwhile, the official currency is changed from coinage to bars, with silver, gold, and copper also being accepted. Promissory notes made of silk (with written silk) is made, and as a result, many begin to store their money in bullion vaults. All city walls (consisting of rammed earth cores and brick exteriors) are annually maintained and reinforced, while an intricate system of canals and flattened dirt-roads are constructed to facilitate transport. As part of a public health and sanitation campaign, extensive sewer and plumbing systems, latrines, and communal baths (accompanied by evaporative coolers) are built in all major settlements – with water being supplied by a comprehensive system of aqueducts and minor water channels. Meanwhile, irrigation channels and groundwater-wells are built in agricultural lands to provide an ample supply of water and fertilizer (in the form of fish paste or bovine manure) to crops; thus resulting in high agricultural productivity. Excess produce is either sold to the market or is stored within town granaries to ensure food security. With heightened demand for consumer goods (both for domestic consumption and for export), many bloomeries and workshops are built – manufacturing a high quantity of textiles (silk and muslin cloth), ceramics (porcelaneous wares), luxury goods (jewelry), farm tools, and military arms (reflex bows, swords, polearms, and arrows). Regional economic specialization continues. Within Silla proper, rice and plantains are cultivated as staples; however, various exotic fruits, vegetables (turnips, radishes, cabbages, aquatic plants, soybeans), root crops (taro, yams, sweet potatoes) are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include tea, ginseng, hemp, and abaca; while other major industries include sericulture and beekeeping (to acquire honey and wax). The main diet in the Makuku region is similar. Economically, however, it specializes in the farming of ratites (specifically ostriches and rheas), and hunting of wild crocodiles and snake – all for the purpose of acquiring an alternative source of leather. Cash crops include various spices, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco. Within the Olmac region, the staples are radically different, consisting of millet, wheat, and maize (though the latter is more used as fodder). In addition, various berries and nuts, lentils, chickpeas, various beans, various gourds and squashes, and true potatoes are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include coffee, cotton, opiates and natural dyes (indigo and henna). Within marshes or near bodies of water, artificial islands are built and are planted with maize, squash, and beans – intercropped together to maximize agricultural yield. While each plot of land is small (less than one-tenth of the hectare), it is capable of yielding seven harvests annually – enough to support a single household (assuming they utilize all produce for human consumption). In lower depths of water, however, deep-water rice varieties are cultivated. Finally, the areas of the lowest depths are reserved for farms raising fresh-water fish, mollusks (snails, clams), and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, and crabs). In order to facilitate population growth, rapid southward expansion continues to acquire more arable land, raw materials, and to spread the gifts the civility through the assimilation of the barbarians.
 * Beraba: Beraba draws politically closer to Gahren, sending delegations to regulate trade and commerce between the two nations. Until now, the government of the nation had been based on individual Crown Princes. Now, with seven Princes, a governing body is codified as the Princely Council. Each prince will speak for their city and territory, but they will make decisions that affect the whole nation as a unit. The Court of the Princes is established in Ngaoudera, the geographic center of the nation. Cohibos, which lacks a prince, will be governed as a territory since adding another prince to the council would split the council evenly.

461-470
'In the aftermath of the Hythian defeat of the Kledesians, the tribes of the confederacy split into numerous, differing nations. In the north two nations emerge, Joredesh and Antanem, who both agree to become Hythian vassals. In the south one of the tribes migrates south and founds a city on the coast, known as Gomis.'

'Numerous Kledesian tribes invade the Irian nations. Most simply raid and take tribute, but some manage to conquer cities, beginning a period of Kledesian lordship over certain nations. Alternatively, several northern Irian cities take advantage of the chaos to expand north, and in the far north a new nation, known as Lomia is founded by an Irian king.'

The attack by the nation of Ouayi against the city of Luls is successful, with Ouayi suffering 535 casualties in the attack.

'The invasion of Herati by the Saemonites results in a Saemonite defeat, with the Saemonites suffering 5,300 casualties. Nevertheless the Herati offer to pay tribute to the Saemonites for them to leave the country.'

Explorers dispatched by the city of Vynos to the east encounter a city-state named Daukani, which offers to trade with Vynos.

'The nation of Benyisra, and other nations of the region, begin trading across the vast desert to the south, creating outposts at major oases along the route. They encounter a coast to the south where they establish small trading posts among the natives.'

'Ioxemander II of Edom is defeated and killed in battle, solidifying Lysimedes’ control over Erasidon, Edom, and Emalia. For a brief period the Mesallian rules over all three kingdoms, until his death in Year 454.'
 * Mang: After declaring isolationist, the leader dies from an unknown fate, and is replaced by Huzin Emperor, who happens to be the brother of Fuki Emperor. He was believed to be chosen by the 5 Mangi Stars (Backstory: The 5 Mangi Stars are five stars in a straight belt line, meant to represent by Mangis the honor and glory of the world, and the nation it shines bright upon, which the Mangis believed the five stars gave Mangi the pride it has.) The nation decides to explore a bit to the north, hoping to gain more land in case an invasion (who would try that) came into place, or just for the general purposes to expand the Mangi culture around the areas. The nation only send 45 explorers from the Mangi military to explore farther north to generalize the culture and the people living in the region security from outside threats. Legend said that two people tried to create wax wings to fly out and explore the stars, especially the 5 Mangi Stars. However, the idea wasn't enacted because it was nearly impossible, as the Mangis already had a legend dedicated to the 5 Mangi Stars, which was known by many Mangi civilians as "Honozo" - an old legend before the Mangi civilization existed in the known era. [Work in Progress]
 * Xeran Empire: Xeranvarus crushed Demus in the Battle of Isono, scattering most of the troops, although many joined on his side as well. At the climax of the battle, Demus himself fought fiercely, breaking through the enemy lines and facing Xeranvarus head on. Although two of Xeran's body guards were killed in the process, Demus himself was ultimately hacked down by a battle axe. From there Xeran marched south upon the city of Azoz itself. Randomo himself led the last remaining forces of Azoz against the revolt, consisting of less than 3,000 troops. The Battle of Teman was a clear slaughter for the enemy, and Randomo attempted to flee from the field but was picked off by an arrow. Xeranvarus then entered the city of Azoz itself, who by this time had turned to welcome the new leader and gladly gave up Ptalemus alive. Ptalemus willing abdicated the crown to Xaren, on the only condition he would be allowed to retire to his harem he grown accustomed to. Thus Xarenvarus was crowned Emperor of the Xera realms, inlcuding the King of Azoz, Frasnoq, Tuartha, Usilinago, Edom and Sephimora. Xeranvarus first declared he was to destroy the barbarian invasion of the Tobarnmites, and dispatched 15,000 troops to the south led by General Remu to conquer the entirety of the Tobarnmite realms, including what they previously owned in the south. Having secured occupation of the city of Frasnoq, Xeran used this opportunity to spread the faith of Ulm and culture of Azoz through the region, and declare his reign as a hallmark of a united, homogenous culture through the entire empire as a whole. Various new libraries and centers of learning and culture are spread to various cities, taking the same model of Iskandaria and consolidating their religion and philosphy into a single, consistent message. Since all the former governors had donated their armies to the defense of the Emalian invasion, the Xaren dynasty now had complete and total control of the government, and fully completed the policies of establishing annexed satraps started by previous Regents. Azoz was proclaimed to be the official capital of the empire, with all other major cities expanded to accomodate local military garrisons. Xarenvarus further implemented a reform to establish a centralized road system across the entire empire, allowing quick access between major cities as far flung as Fotashe and Ioximander-Farthest. A census was taken at this time to determine the full extent of the military and tax pool. The Castelian Wall continues to be constructed. The military is further expanded and recovered from the civil war, including expansion of a more advanced navy in both Seita, Tuartha, Neum, Nerimos, and Dascalos. A new western navy is likewise built on ports constructed on the western coast, with a total of eleven ships made in Ioximander-Farthest and Fotashe. A military expedition of 1,400 men is sent to aid Eskaladun, our vassal, expand west along the coast into the black, trying to confirm if the lake is actually in fact a bay. A military contingent of 20,000 troops under General Joab is sent north toward Syres, annexing more territory east to touch Valun. Syres is offered to be given complete independence, as long as they remain in the same economic sphere of Azoz and retain relations as a friendly military ally. The military of Joab is sent into Syres to expel all the Darnan piracy and liberate their ports. Any Darnan ships caught near the coastline are fully captured and are forced to disembark in Xera, simultaneously freeing all their slaves and forcing the Darnan crew to live in the empire. 
 * Qera: New laws that give land to the respective community give groth to the economy in the rural areas, where every community competes over the prices of their grain on the markets of the major cities. Farmers are responsible for their fields by themselves, yet the state is allowed to seize the land and produce in order to combat a famine or similar crisis. Population continues to grow, especially in the "new" colony of Uotahtzija (the colony becomes rural) The trade with Exhula requires a large army to combat pirates and corsars, while smaller tribes to the west are integrated to the realm of Qera (50 px to the southwest are claimed). One of them are the Vaskatan, or as they call themselves Bästssatan, who are relatively small compared to other tribes in the empire with only around 3,000 members, yet they are known to resist the Qeran forces for around three years, until they disappear without anybody having seen or heard about them. The land they previously owned is now under Qeran rule. A party of soldiers, diplomats and translators is sent out, to contact the Vaskatan leaders and turn them into a vassal or incorporate them into Qera (MOD RESPONSE; PLEASE). The cultivation of potatoes has by now replaced largely the rice production in the dry south of Qera proper. In Uotahtzija and Ollea wheat starts to be cultivated in large scale along potatoes since it is dryer. Cash crops like cinnamon, nutmeg and pepper are grown in large quantities. Culurally, Qera sees a time of flourishing arts like pottery, jewelery, and sculptures being produced with turquois, copper, iron, gold and from the tagua palm (also called ivory palm). Notable popular images are religious scenes or scenes from the national epos Qojoquez. Political influence over the Dholbalan and the Adjibans is made, with many diplomats entering the courts of the countries. Since the Dholbalan have a long time of political influence from Qera and are on good terms, the Prince Yller II personally asks the king of the Dholbalan to join the Qeran-exhulan alliance of defence (MOD RESPONSE, Please). Trade with the Ajibans increases.
 * Hythia: Years 168-177 Since the Return of Hythus. Meunarch Klynius passes his authority to his two generals, Lythanius and Tystius. The two will share the Meunarchship as co-Meunarchs in these trying times. In accordance with Hythia’s treaties, food, weapons, armor, 3,000 heavy cavalry, and 2,000 light cavalry are sent to our friends the Herati. The rise of the dual Meunarchs causes the Council of the Partechs to become increasingly irrelevant as power becomes increasingly concentrated. With the Kledesians subdued, Lythanius marches south with 1,000 men to consolidate Hythian authority over the remnants of the tribal confederation and establish vassals from the remainder of the states. Gomis is offered a trade arrangement under which it will retain independence but accept Hythian missionaries and merchants as terms of a peace deal. Additionally, a map of their surroundings is demanded. [Mod Response] Further road networks are built to the south and another three cities founded to extend the administrative influence of Hythia. These cities, Lyanta, Syllia, and Pysa, are each built a days’ horse ride apart due south from Klynia. The road, with the customary guardhouses is extended down into Antanem (the eastern state) with the intention of connecting to Gomis in the south. The full development of the new land is organized around a system of grants under which single citizens can claim as much as one quarter square septon (160 acres) and married citizens may claim three fifths of a septon (384 acres). The depopulation of the cities of Hythia does cause significant issues with revenue, but the end of the war allows the government to cut back greatly on its spending. Furthermore, under the grant arrangement the new farmers agree to pay double taxes for five years after the first full harvest. A full 10,000 families are settled from across the nation to fill out the rural northwest, southeast, and around the recently founded cities in the south. This great ruralization of the nation sees increased agricultural output but an overall reduction in trade revenues. However, it also witnesses a minor population explosion as rural mothers are known to bear more children who more often survive to adulthood in the absence of the disease of the cities. The labor provided by enslaved Kledesians helps continue the public works projects of the past while decreasing the dependence on the Hythian workforce. The administrative burden of the protracted war sees the creation of new governing power structures including the establishment of a standing mint for the creation of Hythian coinage, as well as the introduction of more standard taxation and levy policies that reach a greater percentage of the population. Overall, the nation recovers from the war, which expanded Hythia massively, despite the expense. Agricultural production increases due to the expansion of farmlands, the use of human, bovine, and equestrian excrement to enrich soil, and the construction of canals and tythoruses for irrigation. A basic form of crop rotation begins to appear with cereal crops, sweet potatoes, legumes, and then animal fodder become the standard. Each year farmers switch to the next in the crop sequence with many farms divided into four sections to maximize the overall yearly diversity. In addition, subsidies are given to farmers to establish more large-scale fish, mollusk, crustacean, and seaweed farms in and along the river bank. The population grows immensely due to increased wealth and nutrition. Pomegranate and cotton become the favorite luxury crops as both are highly valuable and relatively easy to transport. Under direct orders from the Meunarchs, a band of 200 heavy and light cavalrymen cross the southern mountain pass to the eastern wastes. They are ordered to return with information about the lands of the east and to verify the truthfulness of the reports of savage cannibals. They are accompanied by a band of female warrior monks of Hythus, the Hytoriy, who are in many ways similar to the Bysula of the past.
 * Gomis accepts the offer.
 * The Herati send a message to Hythia offering to become a vassal of Hythia if they help Herati to repulse the Saemonites.
 * Hythian Update: (Steph asked me to post this) Envoys are sent to the South Saemonites and to Mithadia, promising each land in the Saemonites' realm in exchange for aid (they accept). The Hythians also send word to their vassals and allies, although not the recently acquired Kledesian states, and 10,000 men are raised from them. After this the Hythians accept the offer to vassalize the Herati, and raise an army against the Saemonites.
 * Northern Saemonites: The ascension of Naditabirus to the status of King has prompted some general discontent due to his more hardline ruling style and military training. He begins his reign by stating that the Northern Realm will return to its superiority in the continent to please the goddess's Anatu and Humusi and to end the Era of Decline. This gains him much large support within the nation. He follows this statement with the raising of taxes to comfort areas of increased trade and society, with more developed regions with higher populations paying more while regions without development and primarily farm-filled are kept at a base fare of 200. This also re-organizes the realm into numerous districts. Following this re-assortment, military conscription is imposed as prepare for large war against the realm's enemies and former tributaries. After the major loss, the war is considered to not be over until the Heratian King's head is cut off. With this, the infantry is once more increased by another 40,000, making the total now 59,700. Although expecting the daggers to be a successfully useful weapon, their failure causes for them to be deduced to a secondary close-combat weapon, and as such spears are replaced as the primary weapon. The offer for Herati to become a tributary state is declined, and as such another invasion is launched into the region in 462 (Mod).
 * A second battle takes place between the Saemonites and the Herati, with the Saemonites being victorious. The Herati suffer 6,600 casualties, Hythia suffers 1,290 casualties, and the Saemonites suffer 5,300 casualties.
 * Vytia Culture: In these times of growth and prosperity change comes to Vytia as fast as the Monsoon winds. Within the Most Serene Vynos, the current Maz Div Kynr Birtyzi, the adopted son of the former Maz Div Jor Birtyzi, begins to build up his power base. He starts a land distribution program to the soldiers within the army winning their loyalty to him. He also begins numerous "welfare" programs to the people in order to gain the common folk's trust in him. And begins to build infrastructure throughout the city and surrounding farmland, along with building forms of entertainment for the people to enjoy including Amphitheaters, and Blood Pits. The Most Seren Vynos accepts the offer from Daukani to trade with them following their merchants back to their city in order to find the trade route. Farmland in Vynos is continually expanded through the chopping of trees and is expanded by 15 px. Within Daima the expansion of Land continues into foreign lands by about 10 px continually conquering the neighboring people and enslaving them. They also continue the process of settling soldiers onto newly created farmlands expanding it by 15 px. Within Milor and Kygras the cultivation of wheat and barley on the suitable farmland begins allowing them to further utilize livestock within their agriculture and beginning a surplus in order to accomodate this they expand farmland by about 10 px. Within Nis the cultivation of grapes, black plums, rice, mangoes, and mustard starts increasing the demand for farmland within the city expanding it about 20 px. Iron weapons produced by the Daima begin to spread throughout the Til Valley and beyond throughout Vytia. We continue our exploration of the Eastern Coast north of Kygras and explore farther Northwest and travel through the river of Mang and Xinaben along with the two northwestern Rivers.
 * Exhulan Empire: With the succesful capture of the city of Luls by our ally Ouyai with our assistance, the city is sacked and we enslave one-fourth of the population, and before the forces we sent to assist him, led by the Empress, depart a great celebration is held outside the walls of the city as we feast on the city’s food stores and enjoy the spoils of war we split with our Allies during this great celebration. However, as the celebration goes on both Empress Nyccia and King Belerik end up getting extremely drunk and sleeping with each other, resulting in the birth of a bastard son named Raccim nine months later, after Nyccia has already departed back to Siccarius. Her husband does not take it well, but since she holds the real power he can't do anything, and when he tries to have the child killed in 463 she has him executed by decapitation, leaving her authority unquestioned. She begins heavily building up the military again and begins implementing Agricultural reforms to increase crop yield, testing a rudimentary form of crop rotation for the first in the Fertile Northern Colonies, which become a heavy focus of colonization as thousands are moved to the area, founding six cities in the area, named Masier, Bosor, Rtteor, Assiron, Dyral, and Petra, although the area continues to be mostly agriculturaly focused as production of wheat and other food crops within the temprate region continues to increase. The further expansion of the Sarkoni guard increases, with them numbering about 6,000 by now and being used by the Empress to begin suppressing dissent in several areas and to monitor (and in some cases.... dispose of) her political enemies and rivals, giving her an iron tight grip over Siccarius and all of its affairs. Trade continues to increase with Ouyai, Sillas, and Qera, as well as with Sayalen, and we continue to trade and slowly repair relations with Yannis. We also begin sending Hcctaal Preachers into Qera again, alibit in small numbers. Finally, the Empress begins seeking war with Teninukal (as we only agreed to a white peace instead of actually agreeing on a non-aggression pact and it’s been over 70 years since the last war by the time this is prepared for) and thus has her son marry a minor Siccarian Noblewoman from a small Loyalist family and father a child (later found out to be a daughter, but the birth only occurred post departure of Lorgar, Nyccia, and Myrroam) before they depart while they make preparations for the war, departing with 29,000 Soldiers near the end of 469 after the birth occurred earlier in the year, arriving and marching through Amyirth before launching a three pronged attack into Teninukal, with one led up the coast led by Lorgar, one led up the other side by Myrroam, and one, led by Nyccia herself, through the center, planning on meeting up with Lorgar’s prong Of attack at the river farther up the land if these attacks succeed. Lorgars prong has 9,000 troops, Myrroam’s has 9,000, and Nyccia’s has 11,000 troops ALGORITHM NEEDED!. We also ask to open trade relations with Cazekorom (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED!). Finally, in the chaos of the civil war Irrulmism was able to gain a significant following in Exhula in the chaos, but it has remained a minority. However, it has now begun sending missionaries into Sillas and Qera, seeking to spread beyond Exhulas borders.
 * Mesallian Culture: The death of Lysimedes was a major event in Mesallian history, closing the chapter of the “War of the Successors”, and ushering in a period of culture and cooperation among the known world. In matters of religion the conquests of Ioxemander had opened the door for the Mesallian religion to spread across the empire, with the emperor founding numerous notable temples during his lifetime, as did many of his descendants. While the primary Mesallian cities of the northern peninsulas saw little religious change, several cities in the south and other parts of the empire saw the introduction of new gods and customs, ss foreign influence began to spread back to Mesallas as well. Parts of the native Edomite religion were particularly popular, with the cult of the goddess Seza even spreading as far as the city of Agira. The island of Oximilos would become another center for the worship of Seza, with a major temple being constructed during this time. Several gods would come about through religious syncretism, one such notable god being Soronis. The god would be mentioned in the account of Aphimus, who lived around the time just after Ioxemander’s death, who states that Soronis had a temple in Azoz built by the emperor. Whether or not this would have been the case in an Ulmian city such as Azoz, this would become the earliest known mention of the god in literature. Around the same time Asandius of Edom is said to have dispatched a raid to the city of Isono to take the cult statue of Soronis back to Edom, after being instructed by an “unknown god” in a dream. Whatever the case, the first known temple of Soronis was built in Edom by Asandius, and was promoted by the later rulers of Edom descended from Lysimedes. The exact characteristics of the bod aren’t fully known, but they are believed to have come from a combination of Mesallian and Edomite deities. Also during this time the Cult of Lementer emerged as a major force in the city, creating lavish temples in Edom, Iskandria, and other cities. According to one account, the Cult of Lementer had secretly orchestrated the entirety of the War of the Successors. Various sources indicate that they pulled the strings of Asandius’ reign to gain full control over Edom, and that they had created Ioxemander II from among their own ranks. Although still unlikely, the idea that the Lementarians were behind the government of Edom bears some truth to it, judging by their increased presence in Edomite society around this time, and their close relationship with many Edomite rulers. Other sources accuse them of assassinating figures such as Xeracles, Evandus, or even Ioxemander himself, but most of these claims have little to no evidence about them. Also in Edom, the promotion of a cult around Ioxemander himself emerged. Although such a practice was unheard of in Mesallas, the practice was likely introduced from elsewhere in the empire, and surrounded Ioxemander due to his mythical and unprecedented conquests. Although Mesallas was reluctant to adopt such a practice, the many cities that Ioxemander had founded accepted the idea, due in part to the tradition of Mesallian cities attributing the founding of their cities to divine heroes or gods. Asandius would also be responsible for shaping the cult in Edom, and later Evanematra followed suit. Monuments in Edom became centers for the worship of Ioxemander, and this also helped to solidify the new ruler’s legitimacy, due to their connections to the late emperor, which led to worship of many Edomite rulers after as well. Due to Azozian influence, the Ulm religion likewise spread back east, growing in major cities in the north of Edom, such as Iskandria. Just as Ioxemander had founded numerous cities during his reign, many of his successors did as well in their new territories. Notably, Lysimedes is credited with founding the city of Calepa (named after his wife), in the southern end of the Melopenes Peninsula. Asandius would found the city of Ascana south of Edom, which became a temporary capital of the kingdom during Ioxemander II’s brief reign. Farther south along the Meran Lysimedes would begin construction of the city Lysimedia, which would be completed by Evanematra. The queen would also commission Evanematria several years later. In Sephimora Lysimedes would also found the city of Democratos, which quickly eclipsed the much older cities in the west to become the honorary “Fourth City” of the Sephimoran coast, along with Nerimos, Dascelos, and Ghanis. During this time Mesallian culture in the Great Lakes region would lead to the first Mesallian-style statues of Tahuan and Enulmian figures, as well as representations of Enyeas in artwork. There the Tahuan revolt had been crushed with aid from the Yannis Empire, allowing Neoptolanus to establish a dynasty in the region that would continue through his son.
 * Tsardom of Algeorgia: This year the tsar visits the kingdoms first ever centenarian (100-year-old citizen) and awards him the centenarian medal. We begin researching more complicated mathematics.
 * Ri'Kiva: Over the recent Saemonite declaration, we send an alliance proposal to Mithadia and Hythia. The fortress at Sud'Kivja is massively expanded, with a secondary stone wall being placed between the hold and the river port. The bridge to the South of Sud'Kivja is rigged to collapse in case of Saemonite ships. A few forts are built along the border, and minor conscription is implimented. Arms depots are built near towns in order to ensure hasty mobilization. Infrastructure is put in place to evacuate the noncombatant population of Suh'Hyik and Sud'Kivja. Food storages are built in Ri'Kiva, and they are filled from excess harvests. The colonies continue to grow, most notably in Kjv'arn and So'dor, where a native/Ri'Kivan elite begins to emerge. Exploration and economic penetration continues south of Iria, west of Gahren, and southwest from Kjv'arn.
 * Yannis Empire: A great stadium is built in the Holy City of Yagothna-vis, which will host festivals and games for the holy citizens of the city. When the stadium is opened a great celebration is held, in which there is gladiatorial combat, ritual sacrifices, and games of sport. A small shanty town is also created and brought out to the center of the stadium, so that people can act out the “Fall of Chatna”, in which Holy Men destroy the mock town and slaughter a number of Ulmian prisoners, who were placed within the assembly. There is a great uproar from the crowd as the cheer on the fall of the Thalutites. An Ulmian prisoner, who was a pricey royal-blood slave from Darna, dressed in the regalia of a Patra is strapped to the top of the city, with a crown of thorns on his head. An inscription states, “behold, the false prophet Thalutus”. As the mock city burns he is burned alive, much to the crowd’s enjoyment. The nation begins an increase in its navies, with larger ships mounted with artillery being constructed. The Yannians begin to incorporate catapults into their line of siege weapons. The major cities of the empire see interest in constructing new walls, now that many of them have grown past their original boundaries. It is ordered that these cities will have walls made of earth and stone, incredibly thick and taller than most walls of the world. In the Holy City of Yagothna-vis this includes the most impressive fortifications. The lower portion of the city features a great number of artificial islands of extremely fertile land in the shallow banks of the Soloney River. A great network of islands emerge in the delta, connected by canals into the city, which are guarded by gates. In the other nearby deltas and rivers of the fertile Yannis empire other floating islands emerge, but they are especially popular in Lake Xlaban. In case of drought or other problems, the Anointed One orders the creation of reservoirs and cisterns in the major cities and around farming areas, which are supplied by canals and aqueducts. The easternmost provinces of the empire see expansion east, claiming part of the peninsula above our trusted ally Ouyai, and in the north up to the nearby river.
 * Beraba: After years of dissatisfaction and unrest, the citizens of Cohibos and the Lake Region demand their own representation on the Princely Council. After careful consideration, the cadet branch of House Hjadra, known as Hjadra-Xun, is given the title of Crown Prince. This elevates the number of princes on the Princely Council to eight. The power to break ties is rotated between the eight princes once a year, so that all the Houses have an equal amount of power. The textile industry continues to boom as new methods of dyeing fabric are researched. More expansion occurs around Lake Conylt due to the discovery of a rare fish that is considered a delicacy among the Great Houses of Beraba. Expansion also continues in the south, to the west of the Salt Road onto the southern peninsula.
 * Syres: The nation accepts the offer from the Xeran Empire, hoping to rid itself of Darnan piracy. The decision to welcome Azozian troops into the city is minimally controversial, but it is accepted due to the dire state of the piracy situation. With renewed vigor the nation’s navy is sent to uproot the Darnan presence. The straits near Syres are patrolled by ships, with small camps being set up by Syresian soldiers on either end of the straits. Slowly the straits are cut off, preventing easy movement of Darnan ships into the south, and it is hoped that this will allow the Xeran Empire in the south an easy opportunity to capture or destroy the ships still operating in the area. Numerous religious movements spread to the city of Syres from Mesallas, after the city’s short time as a Mesallian vassal. A small sect of the Cult of Ioxemander appears in the city, among the most adamantly anti-Azozian of the lower-classes. He also becomes heavily associated with the Syresian deity Victory.
 * Darna: The King of Darna launches a major expedition to destroy Azoz itself. One of the largest armies ever assembled sails for the Ashe River. The great army decides against taking too many slaves or loot for the time being, so that they can remain highly mobile. They sack the cities of the coast, sailing closer and closer toward the unholy city. Eventually they are stopped at the eastern city and attack it for a time, but ultimately choose to continue on land, pillaging and ravaging the lands. They sail back for the coast and flee into the ocean before any proper defense can be made. None of the Thotites is spared or saved. Many are killed or enslaved. The stolen treasure is used to build more ships and improve the military.
 * Sillan Republic: '''With news of the invasion of Teninkual by the Exhulans, the Sillans quickly amass an army of 25,000 troops (consisting of 6,250 cavalrymen, 1,250 crossbowmen, and 17,500 infantrymen) organized into five army divisions. In addition, in exchange for lowering the annual slave quota from ~1,000 to ~500, 5,000 Makuku mercenaries are hired to serve auxiliary roles; thus increasing the total number of Sillan-led forces to ~30,000. Sillan-led forces – grouped loosely together to allow flexibility and to repel enemy attacks – rapidly advanced northward, using their numerical superiority and ranged weaponry to crush any advancing enemy troops. Any settlements that agree to surrender are ordered to provide Sillan armies needed goods and commodities. Meanwhile, any settlements that refuse (and surrounding farmland) are immediately razed, with displaced populations being forced to resettle in unaffected settlements (bringing the news of Sillan invasion); this influx of refugees leads to destabilization of native populations, thus encouraging immediate capitulation to Sillan forces upon encountering them. For encountered fortified settlements, a policy of encirclement is used to exhaust defending militias of supplies, while heavy crossbows (firing both crossbow bolts and incendiary arrows) are used to inflict damage from a range. Once the defending garrison is weakened, Sillan forces then besiege the settlement from multiple directions – increasing the chances of a successful breach. Upon reaching the Teninkualese capital (assumingly heavily-fortified), the five army divisions then diverge. Two army divisions proceed to attack from the south – drawing enemy troops outside of the city and proceeding to outmaneuver them with massed cavalry charges. When approaching the enemy formations, cavalry use bows to inflict attrition and to disorganize enemy troops, before switching to melee weapons. In order to inflict shock, the first ranks use lances, while the following ranks use sabers as their main weapon (due to its effectiveness close combat), which are superior to clumsy and inferior thrusting-spears. They then proceed to raze the city and damage enemy fortifications with incendiary arrows and crossbow bolts and utilize siege engines (rams) to create numerous breaches in enemy defenses. Once enemy fortifications are weakened, the three remaining army divisions arrive (with one arriving from the south; and the other pair arriving from the north) and join the other two army divisions in besieging the city – this arrangement allows the Sillan forces to overwhelm the defenders and prevent them from successfully coordinating their defenses against the Sillans.''' All city walls (consisting of rammed earth cores and brick exteriors) are annually maintained and reinforced, while an intricate system of canals and flattened dirt-roads are constructed to facilitate transport. As part of a public health and sanitation campaign, extensive sewer and plumbing systems, latrines, and communal baths (accompanied by evaporative coolers) are built in all major settlements – with water being supplied by a comprehensive system of aqueducts and minor water channels. Meanwhile, irrigation channels and groundwater-wells are built in agricultural lands to provide an ample supply of water and fertilizer (in the form of fish paste or bovine manure) to crops; thus resulting in high agricultural productivity. Excess produce is either sold to the market or is stored within town granaries to ensure food security. With heightened demand for consumer goods (both for domestic consumption and for export), many bloomeries and workshops are built – manufacturing a high quantity of textiles (silk and muslin cloth), ceramics (porcelaneous wares), luxury goods (jewelry), farm tools, and military arms (reflex bows, swords, polearms, and arrows). Regional economic specialization continues. Within Silla proper, rice and plantains are cultivated as staples; however, various exotic fruits, vegetables (turnips, radishes, cabbages, aquatic plants, soybeans), root crops (taro, yams, sweet potatoes) are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include tea, ginseng, hemp, and abaca; while other major industries include sericulture and beekeeping (to acquire honey and wax). The main diet in the Makuku region is similar. Economically, however, it specializes in the farming of ratites (specifically ostriches and rheas), and hunting of wild crocodiles and snake – all for the purpose of acquiring an alternative source of leather. Cash crops include various spices, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco. Within the Olmac region, the staples are radically different, consisting of millet, wheat, and maize (though the latter is more used as fodder). In addition, various berries and nuts, lentils, chickpeas, various beans, various gourds and squashes, and true potatoes are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include coffee, cotton, opiates and natural dyes (indigo and henna). Within marshes or near bodies of water, artificial islands are built and are planted with maize, squash, and beans – intercropped together to maximize agricultural yield. While each plot of land is small (less than one-tenth of the hectare), it is capable of yielding seven harvests annually – enough to support a single household (assuming they utilize all produce for human consumption). In lower depths of water, however, deep-water rice varieties are cultivated. Finally, the areas of the lowest depths are reserved for farms raising fresh-water fish, mollusks (snails, clams), and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, and crabs). In order to facilitate population growth, rapid southward expansion continues to acquire more arable land, raw materials, and to spread the gifts the civility through the assimilation of the barbarians.

471-480
'A Tabornite chief named Arsamesneqem seizes control over the city of Fashnoq after the previous governor in the city fails to pay a substantial enough bribe to its invading army. Rather than face retaliation from the government in Azoz, Arsamesneqem pledges to become a vassal of the Azozians as long as his governorship over Fashnoq is confirmed, and in exchange pledges to end the incursion of rival Tabornites into Azozian territory all together, by conquering them for Azoz.'

'The Exhulan march along the coast into Teninukal, led by Lorgar, is decisively defeated, with Lorgar’s army suffering 5,700 total casualties. Myrroam’s army is also defeated, suffering 3,450 casualties. Nyccia’s army achieves a minor victory, suffering 2,700 casualties. The Sillan attack is successful, capturing southeast Teninukal. The Sillans suffer 3,700 total casualties in battle and another 3,000 casualties from other causes.'

'Teninukal raises a large army to counter the invasion, crossing over the border into Exhula, and also enlists the aid of many Makuku states or their mercenaries. One of the leaders of Teninukal sends a message to Sillas, promising to accept vassalage under Sillas if they expel the Exhulans.'

The Azozian expedition to the west encounters that the region west of Eskaladun is particularly difficult terrain to traverse, with the native tribes fiercely beating back expedition parties, with many disappearing completely.

'The Darnan sack of the Ashe River results in numerous towns being destroyed. In the retreat back to Darna, however, many of the Darnans are killed or captured after the locals stage an organized counterattack.'

'The Vaskatan refuse the offer to become a vassal of Qera. Similarly, Dholbalan is willing to ally with Qera, but is unaware of who Exhula is, and so does not want to accept an alliance with them.'

'The Mithadians accept the offer from Hythia and order 50,000 men to cross the border into Saemonite territory and siege their coastal cities. Additionally the South Saemonites dispatch 50,000 troops toward the Saemonite capital. Their king, Nesaranasser IV means to oust the Saemonite king and unite the two realms, at which point he secretly plans to counter the foreign invasions.'

'The nation of Anakadeham experiences a period of upheaval, with numerous nations breaking from their empire, and rival kingdoms being forced around them. (Note: The nations of Avsylann and Anakadeham have gotten confused, Avsylann is the name of the one that is near Qaaryat.)'

'Several of the explorers dispatched by the nation of Vynos discover trade posts in the northern desert. The traders they encounter claim to be from a nation called Benyisra, and they seek to spread their religion to the newcomers.'


 * Xeran Empire: Xarenvarus continues to administer over the empire from Azoz, but now the more complex beauracracy under him has been taken care of matters in his name. Arsamesn is accepted as Satrap of Frasnoq, but as a result the Tabornites living in the region were required to be annointed into the Ulm faith. The Holy Patra Levian III called a Grand Council of Patras to be held in the city of Medan. This council, filled with the most eminnet Ulmian theologians of every branch and flavor, was tasked to compile a single theologic doctrine to be mandated across the entirety of the empire. The extent to which this Council enforced its policies is often debated by historians. Some have argued that their theology was the same as that of earlier, Orthodox Ulm, and successfully eliminated the syncretic denominations. On the other hand, more critical scholars point out that the council instead worked to recognize all Nerlimic religions as the same, Ulmian communion of one theology, represented in different cultures. As a result of the council, however, more obscure mystery cults surrounding Ioximander and Shema were gradually removed from public discource of theology, and transitioned to become cloesd-off secret societies. The native pagan religion in Edom also began to phase out at this time, as Xeran ordered the Edomite temples to be converted into Monestaries. At the same time, other religions such as Lementarianism and Enulmism begin spreading farther than ever, appearing in the southern territories as well as Emalia and Susaylon. Occam of Iskandaria was the most famous scholar at this time, most famous for "Occam's razor" which is a cornerstone of the modern scientific method. Occam was also profficient with the earlier mathematical works of Ganddai, and used it to calculate the precise trajectory of objects in reference to gravity. This was especially usefulf for the continued advances in the military, which at this time perfected the use of long-distance catepults. On the western coast, a new porrt city of Garan is made just north of Ioximander-Farthest, where the new western fleet has been started. From Garan, the fleet of three ships is tasked to move north along the coast, and attempt to meet up with the northern coast mapped out in previous exploations. In the east, an exploration mission of three large ships and five smaller ships is sent to open trade relations with the kingdoms of Jaris, Bangelor, Angelites, and the Isles. We offer them fine crafted bronze and copper, alumite, and copies of the Nelrimic scriptures. Cyris is overall in charge of carrying out this mission, and appointed as embassador to these nations in the Far East. Being a convert of Enulmism himself, the theology given by their religious mission is more Enulmian based than Orthodoxy. Xarenvarus was next tasked with the largest land campaign of his reign, against the Valun. General Remu comprised 60,000 people of Azoz and 20,000 of Eskaladun into his army, focusing mainly on the cavalry-heavy tactics learned from the Tabornites and Usilinagans. Eskaladun's attack was mainly used as a distraction, while the rest of Remu's forces pushed in a coordinated three-part attack to carve out a new border against the Valun, comfortably away from the Occidental Mountains. Having crushed the initial forces, Remu pushed farther against the Valun capital, forcefully deposing the current monarch. Nkore, a lower officer of the Valun army, betrayed to Remu's side at the last minute, and so was chosen by Remu to be the new monarch of the kingdom. Nkore was forced to sign a treaty by Remu, recognizing the new borders and paying annual tribute to the Xerans ever since. In the north, Xaren's navy of 30 warships and 80 smaller ships were led under the command of General Joab, in addition to an infantry command of 30,000 soldiers. They offer to aid Syres to declare war on the Kingdom of Darna, and help Syres recapture the island they had lost from Darna for so many years, and along the way exact enough tribute to compensate for Darna's attacks on the Ashe River.
 * Northern Saemonites: The ascension of Naditabirus to the status of King has prompted some general discontent due to his more hardline ruling style and military training. He begins his reign by stating that the Northern Realm will return to its superiority in the continent to please the goddess's Anatu and Humusi and to end the Era of Decline. This gains him much large support within the nation. He follows this statement with the raising of taxes to comfort areas of increased trade and society, with more developed regions with higher populations paying more while regions without development and primarily farm-filled are kept at a base fare of two-hundred. This also re-organizes the realm into numerous districts. Following this re-assortment, military conscription is imposed as prepare for large war against the realm's enemies and former tributaries. With the successful invasion on Herati, the war continues onward as the soldiers march into the capital and start besieging the city [currently 54,400 attacking] (Mod response on siege). The declaration of war from Hythia invokes both higher national morality for the war and discontent, with many seeing the large war as the returning to the Golden Era of the Saemonites while others consider it to be costly and unwinnable. The Mangonel is created, and begins being produced in 473, and will be used during the expected final years of the war as secondary help on the front. The slavery number reaches 175,000, and after some speculation, it is decided for a minimum of 90,000 slaves to be recruited in the military. To actually get their support and full moral in the war effort, freedom and land is offered in return for their efforts. They are armed with spears and shields, as well as much of the battle armor and protection used by most lower class military divisions that are cheap to produce. They remain on standby, waiting for the next declaration of war from our neighboring enemies. Offers for vassalized states are sent to the already sieged down Herati and its friend Hythia, as well as the state of Kaughn (Mod/Player Responses).
 * Mesallian Culture: The conflict between the Water Merchants and the Cult of Lementer had been an ancient feud, but in the third year of the 67th Jafiad (Year 470), a full scale war broke out as a result of their animosity. Both organizations had risen considerably during the period of Ioxemander and his successors. The Water Merchants had crushed their hated adversary of Karissa, establishing a presence in the Melopenes once more, but also had benefited by the fall of Usinilago and other obstacles in the south, allowing them to become the premiere traders across the Chatnan Empire, and its successor states. Despite their close proximity and similarities to the Mesallians, the people of Usinilago had retained their unique culture and religion, and as a result had historically resisted the Cult of Lementer from permeating its borders. Despite also initially rejecting the Water Merchants and invading the Umhlaba Confederacy on numerous occasions, after Ioxemander forcefully opened Usinilago to the Mesallian world they came to accept them, with many texts of the period finding parallels between the god Caniphon of Cania and the Iouneosasan (nation of Usinilago) god of the sea, Crascituno. No longer on opposite sides of an international border, the Water Merchants established trade routes linking Isono and Ajayiba to Usinilago and other Iouneosasan cities. Years prior, as the civil war in Edom was waged, the Water Merchants had experienced their own upheaval as well. After decades of conflict between the Azozian-appointed line of High Tyrants in Isono and the mysterious underground council of Umhlaba, the council emerged from the shadows and successfully led a takeover of much of the confederacy. Parallel to the larger fighting around Edom, a smaller, lesser known conflict took place, and by the ascension of the Xaren Dynasty in Azoz, Isono itself had fallen to the councilmen. According to one legend, the Cult of Lementer partially infiltrated the council, as the Lementarians were able to influence the fragile government while in hiding in Edom. The Umhlaban writer Aldracod states that this would be the most disastrous year in the history of the Water Merchants, nearly destroying the organization entirely. One by one the members of the council turned on each other out of paranoia and mistrust. One of its allies, Ghis Ra Atun, seized control over Isono and instigated a purge of much of the remaining council. He would step down and allow for a new election, which selected Lisnaro Basus as new High Tyrant, while Ghis Ra Atun remained an enforcer of his reign and trusted advisor. Together they reunited the confederacy, but the confederacy had become a shell of its former self. They would found a new stronghold in the center of the confederacy, known simply as The Hub. In the far west Azozian officials had taken over much of the confederacy’s branches, with many Water Tyrants of the mountains and the Asamdah having converted to Ulmism. The High Tyrant was a vassal of the governor in Usinilago, and in the east, found itself contending with a renewed Edomite and Lementarian presence. Specifically, the Lementarians had extended their secret network all along the Meran River, by taking a keen interest in the construction of new settlements along its banks. The southern of Edom is where the Lementarians would build one of their largest strongholds, the Necropolis of Lementer, a city of the dead. Here they build colossal statues that stood towering over the endless sands, labyrinths of ancient tombs from centuries of interred Edomite bodies, and long tunnels and mines. These structures would become the center of the Lementarian advance into the deserts of the south and west, disrupting the main vestige of Water Merchant control. Under this pretext the great war between the two seemed inevitable, but now both sides had the backing of various nation states and powerful benefactors. The war began when the Lementarians persuaded the city guard of Edom to raid the Water Merchant quarter. Edomite soldiers cracked down on them, scattering the Water Merchants from one of their most profitable outposts. After this profitable raid the officer in charge, Sanandenun, was promoted to governor of Iskandria, supposedly with through the corruption of the Lementarians. As it turned out, Sanandenun was one of the descendants of the tyrants of Agira, when the city had been conquered by Karissa. The Water Merchants were able to persuade the Agirans to take action, as the Lementarians had not only attacked their ally, but had promoted one of the city’s hated outlaws. Additionally, the local government in Iskandria had taken numerous loans from the city of Agira, which the Agirans needed to recoup. Agira responded by sending Euxenus and 2,200 soldiers to the city. When Euxenus arrived he was greeted as an honored guest, and told that Sanandenun had been betrayed and killed. Euxenus responded by bringing his soldiers ashore, and led them through the city to intimidate the Lementarians. The Iskandrians, disgusted by this arrogant act, began to protest and riot, and Euxenus fled to the city’s small royal quarter. The collection of government buildings in the north of the city became barricaded by the Agirans, and they discovered that they had accidentally taken many of the Lementarian high priests into custody by doing so, as they were trapped within the fortified royal quarter. Euxenus tried to negotiate with the captives to have the Agiran debts repaid, but this failed, and elsewhere the riots in the city continued, most likely encouraged by the high priests. As holder of the royal quarter, Euxenus decided to appoint a new governor over the city, named Cimon, who was also a relative of the Edomite royal family. In response 10,000 Iskandrians took up arms with support of the military and the Lementarians, with a still alive Sanandenun reappearing to led the siege of the royal quarter. Euxenus sent messages out of the city calling for aid, but soon Sanandenun prevented any word from getting in or out of the city. Euxenus ordered some of his men to break out to the north and take the royal harbor, and they successfully fought back the Iskandrians and set fire to part of their fleet. According to one legend this fire spread to engulf the Library of Iskandria, but this is considered by historians to be a later invention, as it is known that library continued to operate after this event. The newly captured territory within the city was fortified and closed off, with intense fighting taking place in the streets. Later historians would consider the battle one of the most vicious campaigns of urban warfare in the ancient world, although in the first several days neither side made any significant progress. All the while the Lementarians controlled the flow of information out of the city, convincing the royal family in Edom that a small protest was being taken care of. The siege within the city continued for weeks, with that section of the city becoming walled off with fortifications and the center of constant attacks. Meanwhile, the Lementarians supported the creation of a new fleet for the city, according to some accounts even uprooting buildings for materials. Fearing being outnumbered at sea, Euxenus took 400 men and set sail for the other side of the harbor, in the hopes of closing it off to the new enemy ships. The Iskandrians reacted by sending men there as well, causing a violent clash. A few of the Iskandrian ships deployed soldiers behind this Agiran group as well, and Euxenus ordered a retreat. The general himself would fall from a ship and be forced to swim all the way back to the royal quarter alone. After weeks of siege, the Iskandrians sent a messenger claiming to want to negotiate peace if the high priests were released. Desperate, Euxenus agreed, but instead as soon as the high priests were freed they instead ordered an all out attack on Euxenus. When it seemed like all was lost, Euxenus then received a letter from Niconus of Democratos, stating that he had just arrived in Edom with a few thousand soldiers. Euxenus loaded most of his men onto his ships, leaving only a small garrison, and sailed for Niconus’ position. The Iskandrians caught word of this approaching army, and Sanandenun marched east to meet them. The Iskandrians positioned themselves on a small branch of the Meran, with most of their soldiers on a small hill. Light soldiers also guarded the river to harass any crossers, but Euxenus dispatched his cavalry to secretly cross the river farther upstream, and then come around and outflank these defenders. In the meantime, the rest of his army crossed by creating small bridges from tree trunks. Instead of immediately attacking the hill the Agirans raided a nearby town, but this failed to lure the defenders from their hill position. The next day the Agirans finally began an attack up the hill from the west, while Euxenus also instructed a small number of soldiers to sneak to the east area between the hill and the river, and then attack the defenders from the rear. Ultimately this small force failed to make any progress, and suffered heavy casualties, while the main attack also made little progress. Euxenus noticed that the eager Iskandrians had shifted to the side during their attack down the hill, and a small number of Agirans were ordered through this gap. They managed to sneak onto the hill top and attack the main Iskandrian army from the rear, causing a panic. A retreat was ordered, with Sanandenun dying when his boat capsized. Euxenus returned to Iskandria and the remaining besiegers surrendered, with Cimon becoming governor of the city. The entire event largely occurred outside the knowledge of the government in Edom, and the Agirans became extremely lucky when the Queen of Edom decided to confirm Cimon’s governorship and ignore the pleading from her Lementarian advisors. Euxenus returned to Agira in the later half of that year, receiving word that the Lementarians had next attempted to army the Phydinians to cut off trade into the Melopenes. This sparked another year of campaigning in the south, with the Agirans managing to retain control over the region. The Lementarians would get their revenge against Democatos when they persuaded the ruler of Sephimora, the elderly Erisander I Levian, to “restore order” in the city, which resulted in Niconus’ death. After this early action in the north the rest of the far primarily focused in the south. In the region of the south, both sides appealed to various nomadic Vomasian and Apirun tribes to fight a proxy war in the region. Most of the fantastical depictions of wars in the desert were thought to be mostly legend, until the discovery of the Esdem site in modern times, where a mass grave of several hundred people was discovered. The discovery is believed to be the site of the infamous Esdem Massacre, where Aldracod claims the Lementarians massacred thousands of tribesmen in a fierce battle. The next battle of note came over a year later, when the Lementarians launched a full scale attack on the oasis of Ajayiba. The battle would not be fought by the Water Merchants alone, however, as the Cult of Soronis, disgruntled by the Lementarian monopoly over Edom, contributed forces as well. One of the most pivotal battles of the war would result in a victory for the Water Merchants, preserving their control over the confederacy for the time being. (More to come)
 * Vytia Culture: Within the city of Vynos, Maz Div Kynr Birtyzi continues to expand his power. He is subsequently declared Maz Div for life by the general assembly. However, this angers many nobles within the Archon assembly and a year later Kynr is assassinated by a group of Archons. This action causes great anger among the general populace and military with whom Kynr was very popular with. This leads to the rise of his son Tita Birtyzi who is seen as Kynr's heir, he begins a civil war against the Archons who assassinated his father and rose to power. By the end of five years, he has managed to capture all the archons who assassinated him, and all those who are too powerful and would oppose him and executed and confiscated their lands. He redistributes to many of his loyal commanders and supporters cementing their loyalty and his power base and is declared Maz Div for life. He announces his desire to unite the Vyt into one "Glorious Empire" and begins increasing production of iron weapons, and recruitment of soldiers into the army. This news spreads to Daima who despite being wary are overconfident in their ability to defend themselves, they still increase their defenses moderately, however, and continue their expansion of farmland by 20 px. While in Kygras and Milor they continue their expansion of their own farmland by about 15 px and begin to produce a new red intoxicating drink called Ven from grapes. Nis continues to build up their economy trading with Xinaben and sending explorers farther north into the Mangi rivers, they also send explorers farther west into the great desert. Maz Div Tita Birtyzi is intrigued by the strange offer of the Benysira and while not accepting, does send diplomats and explorers to meet with the Benysirans and follow their route on the desert back to Benysira. Also, Kygras sends explorer farther east of Daukani continuing the proud tradition of the Vyt. We also ask the Daukani if they would be inclined to share maps between the two of us for finding further trade routes MOD RESPONSE. 
 * Qera: Yller II is happy when he receives the message from the Dholbalan that they would like to join an alliance with Qera. Since they don't know who and where Exhula exactly is, another separate alliance is proposes (MOD RESPONSE, PLEASE). Trade with the south continues and the colony of Uotahtzija continues to grow in population. The population of Qera itself rises steady, the average woman gives birth to five or six children. The standing army has now a size of 35,000 men, as the armed forces of the vassals are counted as Qeras military too. An attempt is started to connect the colonies of Uotahtzija and Cyrpetzijavia land and the land is discovered farther inland (DISCOVER 50 px to the northeast of the Uotahtzija colony, claim said territorry). In the land to the west, a small deposit of jade is found. The Qerans don't value it that much for themselves but they learn about the love of the Sillans for the material. This maxes it a high demanded and is sold for huge amounts of money. The alchemists of Yller IIs yourt start experimenting with various poisons. One is made from rhubarb leaves and leads to a painful and slow death, including bloody urine, vomiting and eye pain after wich the victim dies from a heart attack. It can't be produced in large quantities though, as rhubarb has to be imported from Exhula and Sillas. The other assassination method is way easier to acquire, since it just is undercooked kidney beans. When these beans are cooked under the boiling point just a single bean can trigger vomiting blood and diarrhea. After a complete plate the victim usually dies from a dehydration and blood loss. The Hcctaal preachers are not quite welcomed by Yller II, yet he allows them to stay in the empire. The preachers are limited to the cities they arrived to, leaving them but for Exhula is strictly prohibited. The Qerans themselves are quite suspicious but they largely tolerate other religions. A grand temple is build in Rollver to honor the goddess of wisdom and portrays a large harpy-eagle statue made out of copper. The temple is built as a square pyramid, but it is larger than any of its kind before. When the decade ends, just the first three storages are done, 11 more have to be built.
 * Yannis Empire: In the ruins of the Thalutite/Thotite Empire the last remaining hope of humanity in the desolate land, the Holy Men who have infiltrated the south, found The O, a mysterious organization based on infinity, and symbolized by a serpent eating its own tail. In the city of Edom they enact a “Killing of the Thots”, when a group of Yannians massacre a group of Azozians. The order disappears into the shadows after the Thots fight back and attempt to destroy Yannian culture and religion in the city. In response numerous people launch a “People’s Crusade” into the Yannian heartland, with inpromptu preachers and Holy Men spreading the righteous and just religion of Yannis. On the coast the crusaders drop giant stone O’s all along the coastline, as a reminder of the great Anointed One’s watchful eyes over the land. In the Holy City of Yagothna-vis the House of Knowledge is founded as a new library and center of discussion for natural philosophers. Many innovations in math and physics are discovered. The navy continues to see growth with new ships being made. The great cities of civilization now have large walls and new aqueducts, and slowly every population center is improved to Yannian standards.
 * Qaryaat: King Najrim III dies, and his son, Midhet, ascends the throne. Immediately after his coronation ceremony, King Midhet prays to the chief god of Qaryaat, Elmekah, that Qaryaat may prosper and triumph against the nation's enemies. The colony of Maqiri expands to cover the whole northern half of the Maqiri Peninsula, plus the Ghiqir Peninsula. Meanwhile, the main territory continues to expand along the western coast. In both locations, settlers are sent to loosely-claimed areas of the empire in order to consolidate control over said areas. A new calendar is developed, similar to the OTL ancient Egyptian calendar. The beginning year of the Qaryaati calendar is set to the foundation of Qaryaat by the legendary King Muhirat, around 1,180 years ago. The vast irrigation system on the main territory spreads to new areas of the empire. In Makra, the architecture becomes a mix of native Qaryaati elements, Mohejaran elements (from earlier influence), Irian elements, and Benyisran elements. The mathematician Mazim comes up a theorem involving the equation for the hypotenuse of a right triangle, independently of the Azozian mathematician Gandai nearly three centuries prior. A census is officially carried out. (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED)
 * Hythia: Years 178-187 Since the Return of Hythus. Under the leadership of Meunarchs Lythanius and Tystius, both veteran military men themselves, the war with the Saemonites is expected to cost Hythia greatly, but also enable the future peace of the people of Hythus. The greatest Unar ever to grace the lands of Hythia is raised. With 4,000 heavy cavalrymen, 6,000 light cavalrymen, 6,000 spearmen, 4,000 archers, and 2,000 Bysula and Hytoriy the force is larger than any previously raised. It is supplemented by a host of vassal and allied armies, swelling the Great Unar to 30,000. This force marches north to face the Saemonites. With the Saemonite supply column stretching for hundreds of septons, it is vulnerable to hit and run attacks by expert Herati light horsemen, and the Saemonite combat forces are all vulnerable to mounted archers as the spearmen are seemingly equipped with little more than long daggers on sticks. These probing raids sap Saemonite morale and strength. Meanwhile, Hythian military experience is put to use, greatly improve the discipline and fighting spirit of the Unar. The strategy for this battle shall be one of feints and withdrawals. Hythia commands a vastly more mobile force with its greater use of cavalry and more developed knowledge of the terrain thanks to Herati scouts, and it is this knowledge which must be used to win the day. The goal is to draw the Saemonite infantry horde deep into Herati territory, an easily accomplished feat, where it might be trapped without water, encircled, and obliterated. Thus, the allied Unar stages strategic withdrawal after strategic withdrawal, pulling the horde to a large plain known to have only one source of water. It is as this source of water that the Hythian army intends to meet the Saemonite horde. Reinforced by the Herati Army, the Hythian Unar awaits the enemy. Upon the arrival of the Saemonites at the chosen battlefield, 20,000 Hythian and allied spear infantry, bolstered by the fanatic Bysula and Hytoriy, close to within charging distance of the Saemonites with support from 12,000 archers. After taunting and jeering the force braces for a Saemonite charge hoping to engage the majority of the Saemonite force. Then, while the Saemonites are distracted by the infantry, the Hythian and allied light cavalry will sally forth and draw off the Saemonite cavalry escort with a bombardment of javelins, arrows, and bolts. This accomplished, the professional heavy cavalry, drafted from the largest and most dangerous of men will ride out from the rear and execute repeated charges into the Saemonite rear and flanks. Eventually, the Hythian light cavalry will join them in finishing-off the routing Saemonites. This is the plan to destroy the Saemonite invasion, and great pains are taken to prepare, not only the advance scouting of the battlefield, but also training in the small scale tactics that will be used. Hythian units are broken into bands of 10 men, who will fight, live, die, and survive together. These small units, called Dymuens, then comprise larger units of 100 named, Mymuens. With these more flexible tactics the infantry component of the Unar is more mobile and more effective in combat. The domestic programs of the last decade are put on hold as all efforts are directed toward feeding and equipping the Unar. Slaves are retasked to harvesting and the sum excess of labor used in peaceful years is redirected to producing the means of war, food, weapons, and armor. Trade with the Irians is conducted on the newly constructed road network as a means of supplying yet more critical food. Fortunately, most of the Hythian diet is comprised of easily stored grains, legumes, and root vegetables, allowing the easy transport of at least staple nutrients. All foreign explorers and missionaries are recalled to serve in the Unar as healers, soldiers, and, if talented, as commanders. The Mythadian host that invaded the Saemonites early in the decade continues to lay siege to the coastal cities of the Saemonites. The main force of their army maintains a tenuous frontier in an effort to prevent invasion by the North Saemonites, but its commanders attempt to avoid any true battles in an effort to protect their forces.
 * Darna: At this time a great Darnan creates the Darnan alphabet, and writes a series of texts about Darnan history and culture. His most famous epic, the Darnan, begins with the famous passage, “गեकաe-նσ’ወ d͡ʒजuك يΦʒ-& म/jɛtʃʰ/ %तʔةги W’रa-խե ပါΨᠡ ʊթशሴख ቾ, ﻱ-ডᚉჰ ⵙⵇzכㅉu ठo0( զ-ጐጪש, ⵓll!” A great new palace is constructed in the city of Darna, with the king’s name carved into the front; “ლЛoमž”. Many Darnans are dispatched to fight against the Thot invasion, with 5,000 men raised on our southern island, and a similar number raised along our coastal colonies. A Darnan discovers the cruel Ulmite practice of child sacrifice and cannibalism, and spreads this truth across the ancient world through our trade routes. It is revealed that Nolrom the Infidel was a bloodthirsty monster, who consumed the souls of children through his harsh torture. Sure enough, it is recorded that the Darnan slavers witnessed the mongrel Ulmite slaves taking part in this cannibalistic practice after they left a slave cage unattended for some time. One of the greatest scientists of the day, նጌուㅔ, hypothesizes that the Ulmites are in such a primitive state of cognition that they revert to animalistic tendencies when left alone. The Darnan king orders that primitive children from the Ulmite dens are to be trained as pack animals, and they are used in the deep mines pulling carts of ore to the surface.
 * Exhulan Empire: In Teninukal, Nyccias advance stops as she receives news of the failure of Lorgar and Myyoram’s advances. Instead, she orders the mass withdrawl of all forces from Teninukal and instead moves to defend Kaloma against The Sillian Traitors and invaders, loudly condemning them as treacherous imperialists with no principles beyond blind expansionism, and mass recruiting as much of the population from Kaloma as possible. Meanwhile, in the rest of the Empire the colonization Of the northeast areas continues as the new methods of crop rotation are implemented more and more after large scale success by those who implemented them during the last turn, many thousands of colonists continue to come to the area, resulting in an expansion by 40 px. The colony next to Irrosia has by now become one of the Empires most populous regions, and as a result the region is expanded by 20 px while seven new cities are founded. Meanwhile, trade continues with Ouyai, Yannis, Qera, and Sayalen while Irrosia elects a new king, named Bergan. An expedition is also sent to explore 60 px northeast of the farthest Northeast island, through the large amount of open water Mod Response needed.
 * Sillan Republic: '''Cabeza Yanzen dies, and is replaced by her niece, Qianlana. Qianlana abandons the pacifist foreign policy championed by Cabeza Yanzen – reverting back to the expansionist policy of Cabeza Sanza and her immediate successor Cabeza Canxi. Seeing Teninkual's offer as an opportunity to drive the Exhulans off the mainland, as well as seize control over large swathes of potentially-valuable territory and resources (while minimizing casualties from warfare), Qianlana quickly accepts the offer, but continues the occupation of southeast Teninkual (by a skeleton force of ~5,000) until the expulsion of the Exhulans from Kaloman peninsula is completed. Meanwhile, the remainder of Teninkual is converted into a fiefdom of the Sillan Empire, with the native ruler and nobility retaining all their respective rights and privileges. The Fief, however, loses control over foreign and military affairs – both of which is overseen by the centrally-appointed Governor–General and the Provincial Court (which acts as the executive, legislative, and judicial bodies). In addition to representing Sillan interests within Teninkual, they also serve as advisory bodies to the Fief. Meanwhile, an army of 20,000 troops (6,000 cavalrymen, 1,000 crossbowmen, and 13,000 infantrymen) divided into four divisions is withdrawn from Teninkual and sent into Exhula's mainland colonies. To minimize casualties and to maintain a rapid advance to the colonial capital, any encountered fortifications or walled settlements are encircled (in order to limit the inflow of goods or reinforcements) and razed with heavy crossbows firing both crossbow bolts and incendiary arrows. The surrounding farmlands are also seized of any utilisable grain or produce (including those that can be used as fodder), and then burnt to deprive any defending garrison of potential supplies – thus dooming them to starvation unless they move (thus overwhelming and destabilizing the unaffected towns and villages they choose to resettle in). After a period of three days to a week (depending on the size of the settlement and the number of inhabitants), Sillan forces then move on. Auxiliaries are used as reconnaisance, determing the location and the activities of the Exhulan militias. For encountered field armies, traditional tactics are used. One army group (to feign numerical inferiority, and thus lure and embolden Exhulan forces) attacks from the front of the enemy formation; inflicting attrition with their bows then feigning retreat (but also spending time to recuperate and switch weapons and armor). They also receive support from crossbowmen. Then, two army groups then attack the flanks (with their bows – further inflicting attrition) as well as encircle them – thus preventing them from gathering reinforcements or spreading information to their army command. Once this is achieved, the two other army divisions arrive and charges into Exhulan forces; using lances as a shock weapon (thus further deteriorating enemy lines), though their primary weapon remains the saber (which is more efficient in close combat than either lances or thrusting-spears). Upon reaching the colonial capital, a siege from four directions is staged to overwhelm the defending garrison and inflict a swift, decisive victory. Using heavy crossbows, the fortifications of the colonial capital are destroyed with both crossbow bolts and incendiary arrows. In addition, mounted cavalry charges any enemy forces outside the fortifications – thus confining them to a small, concentrated area (limiting their ability to coordinate and their mobility). In addition, using their bows, they target people in defensive towers, further inhibiting their ability to maintain and operate their defenses. The infantrymen use siege engines (the ram) to create two or three breaches into enemy fortifications; and then from two or three directions, they rush into the inner city and use melee weapons (halberds for infantry, sabers for cavalry) to finish off the remaining defenders.''' All city walls (consisting of rammed earth cores and brick exteriors) are annually maintained and reinforced, while an intricate system of canals and flattened dirt-roads are constructed to facilitate transport. As part of a public health and sanitation campaign, extensive sewer and plumbing systems, latrines, and communal baths (accompanied by evaporative coolers) are built in all major settlements – with water being supplied by a comprehensive system of aqueducts and minor water channels. Meanwhile, irrigation channels and groundwater-wells are built in agricultural lands to provide an ample supply of water and fertilizer (in the form of fish paste or bovine manure) to crops; thus resulting in high agricultural productivity. Excess produce is either sold to the market or is stored within town granaries to ensure food security. With heightened demand for consumer goods (both for domestic consumption and for export), many bloomeries and workshops are built – manufacturing a high quantity of textiles (silk and muslin cloth), ceramics (porcelaneous wares), luxury goods (jewelry), farm tools, and military arms (reflex bows, swords, polearms, and arrows). Regional economic specialization continues. Within Silla proper, rice and plantains are cultivated as staples; however, various exotic fruits, vegetables (turnips, radishes, cabbages, aquatic plants, soybeans), root crops (taro, yams, sweet potatoes) are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include tea, ginseng, hemp, and abaca; while other major industries include sericulture and beekeeping (to acquire honey and wax). The main diet in the Makuku region is similar. Economically, however, it specializes in the farming of ratites (specifically ostriches and rheas), and hunting of wild crocodiles and snake – all for the purpose of acquiring an alternative source of leather. Cash crops include various spices, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco. Within the Olmac region, the staples are radically different, consisting of millet, wheat, and maize (though the latter is more used as fodder). In addition, various berries and nuts, lentils, chickpeas, various beans, various gourds and squashes, and true potatoes are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include coffee, cotton, opiates and natural dyes (indigo and henna). Within marshes or near bodies of water, artificial islands are built and are planted with maize, squash, and beans – intercropped together to maximize agricultural yield. While each plot of land is small (less than one-tenth of the hectare), it is capable of yielding seven harvests annually – enough to support a single household (assuming they utilize all produce for human consumption). In lower depths of water, however, deep-water rice varieties are cultivated. Finally, the areas of the lowest depths are reserved for farms raising fresh-water fish, mollusks (snails, clams), and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, and crabs). In order to facilitate population growth, rapid southward expansion continues to acquire more arable land, raw materials, and to spread the gifts the civility through the assimilation of the barbarians.

481-490
'The Azozian attack on the Darnan island is successful, with the island being captured. The Azozians suffer 2,300 casualties, while the Darnans suffer 4,100, and also have many more people captured.'

'At the Battle of Khoras in the heart of Herati, a decisive battle is fought between the Saemonites and the Herati, Hythians, and their allies. The battle results in a Saemonite defeat, with the Saemonites suffering 17,300 casualties, the Hythians suffering 2,900, the Herati suffering 4,100, and Hythia’s allies suffering a combined 2,000 casualties.'

'In the Janter mines of Darna’s coastal colonies, a slave revolt begins led by an Ulmian named Jacaras. Having been an entertainer employed in the art of sleight-of-hand magic and firebreathing, Jacaras becomes a self-proclaimed prophet, foretelling the fall of Darna and his ascension as king.'

Many of the ships sent by the nation of Vynos east past Daukani do not return, and it is believed that the sea in that region is highly dangerous.

'The Exhulan attack on Teninukal results in a narrow defeat, owing in part to a famed Teninukalan general named Yecacedal. The Exhulans suffer 4,210 casualties, inflicting about as many on the defenders as well.'

'Arsamesneqem converts to the Ulm religion, as do many other Tabornites. He wages a successful campaign that expands Azoz’s borders south, and pacifies or otherwise enacts tribute from numerous other tribes.'

'The Mithadians successfully capture part of the Saemonite coast, while Nesaranasser IV attacks the Saemonite capital itself, demanding its surrender. The Kingdom of Kaughn, one of the enemies of the Saemonites, rejects their offer of vassalage.'

The nation of Dholbalan accepts the offer of an alliance with Qera, and expresses interest in further trade and cooperation between the two nations.

'The Benyisran king, Davim son of Jesondem, creates the first written accounts of the ancient Benyisran scripture, and supports the spread of the religion along the southern desert trade routes. A new temple is built in the Holy City of Ebracomon after the Drakan occupation, which houses the holy altar of the Prophjet Solaram, containing his original tablets entrusted to him by their god.'

The Sillan attack on Exhula is successful, with Exhula suffering 2,800 casualties and Sillas suffering 2,000 casualties.

'The Sillan garrison of 5,000 men in southern Teninukal is mysteriously attacked, seemingly by a mercenary band from Makuku that had gone unpaid. The garrison is killed or captured, with a small number escaping to relay the events.'

'In the Bangor region the Anglenites are the most receptive to Azozian culture and trade. The Yannian nations of the island are more hesitant to accept them, firmly rejecting their religious proposal.'
 * Xeran Empire: Culture and scientific growth continue throughout the empire, in spite of the occasional internal disputes such as the tragic Lemantarian War. A new wave of artistic devleopment was stimulated in both Azoz and abroad, creating a more stylized, metaphorical representation on media such as mosaics and glassware. True perspective of the Chatna Dynasty has started to be phased out, and replaced with a more universal pattern of false perspective. Occam of Iskandaria further develops his theories of the motions of planets in the universe, taking the "Sandreckoner" of previous studies and comes to the conclusion that the all the planets and stars revolve around the sun. Some years later, Occam also concludes that the universe must be finite in size, arguing that otherwise the entire sky would be filled by stars in every direction. The native Edomite religion, in its orthodox practice before the advent of Ulm, completely disappears from historical record around this time, only to be preserved in a few underground mystery cults for specific gods. In fact, it wasn't until the 20th century AR that native Edomite religous rites were rediscovered. Xarenvarus favored his wife's address toward the events in Iskandaria, and called together a council of his advisors to discuss the matter in Edom. He came to the conclusion that the Lemantarians had grown too corrupt and influential, and thus worked to began to systematically limit the Lemantarian influence over politics in the region. Instead, the Apocist branch of Ulm became greatly promoted in the kingdom, and rose to prominence to replace Lemantarians in most public offices. It is believed that the "Shemona Library" was buried at this time, being an archaeological treasure trove of Apocist apocryphal scripture. As the island of 'At some Point' [placeholder because I can't find the name] has been taken from Darna, it is given control officially to our ally Syres. Syres is now tasked to guard the narrow straight using this more strategic position, and prevent Darnan Pirates from entering the Gabatrian Sea. A sizable navy is kept at the island to help defend it in the meantime. Continuing farther east, the naval expedition of Cyris reaches the Island of Phorintheon. Cyris offers trade and diplomatic relations to the natives of Phorintheon on behalf of the Xeran Empire, and offers to sell them minerals, exotic foods, technology, and Ulm. In order to find out where the Valun ultimately come from, the western expedition fleet is sent north along the coast to explore more of the continent.
 * Qaryaat: King Midhet declares war on Gomis, looking to colonize the city-state. He requests Solcia (IRIAN RESPONSE NEEDED), Benyisra, and Kepitis to aid his war efforts and for Avsylann to send mercenaries. (MOD RESPONSE NEEDED) He sends a navy of about 20,000 troops on 13 small ships and seven large ships to seize the port of Gomis to fight the Gomis navy, looking to besiege the city afterward. (ALGO NEEDED) Meanwhile, expansion into unclaimed lands is also carried out. The colony of Maqiri expands to cover the entire southern half of the Maqiri Peninsula. The main territory expands along the southern coast of the Bay of Ghasir. In both areas, settlers are sent to loosely-claimed areas of the empire to consolidate control. The mathematician Mazim dedicates himself to solving the Three Classical Problems, three geometric problems that are to be solved by purely geometric means (squaring the circle, doubling the cube, and trisecting an angle). His contribution to the "squaring the circle" problem is called the Mazim's Crescent. At this time, he also compiles a book of geometry known as The Pillars of Arithmetics. The walls surrounding Makra are annually maintained and reinforced. Former cultural exchange with Mohejaro brought along sanitation ideas as well, and thus, sanitation reforms are done through the building of latrines and communal baths accompanied by evaporative coolers. A breakthrough in agriculture is made when it is discovered that adding crushed-up sea shells to manure before using it in their fields causes crops to grow healthier and stronger, increasing overall agricultural output. Besides the staple crops of wheat and barley, vegetables such as eggplants, onions, radishes, beans, lettuce, and sesame seeds (which were first brought to Qaryaat from the trade with Mohejaro) and fruits such as grapes, figs, melons and apples are grown in the Muyadi region, around Lake Al'Muyadi and the Muyadi River. Sheep, cows, and goats are raised as livestock.
 * Solcian Response: Solcia, already embroiled in a war against the southern Cledesian tribes, does not wish to involve itself with Qaryaat's piratical endeavors.
 * Draka: King Baldric II is killed by a lone assassin. His son, Gondre III takes the throne. He announces other 'deceptive' nations might have had a role in his fathers death. Military reforms begin, from a largely unprofessional warrior society, a standing army is created. Quickly an expedition is created to subdue Northern tribes, in order to get us a border with that red nation near us. When passing the river, a Tribal encampment is sacked and renamed "Gondreium." The military reforms proves effective. A diplomatic mission is sent to the red nation Draka seeks borders with, offering gifts and such (MOD RESPONSE). The navy meanwhile, is scaled down and meant to play a more defensive role, with infantry being emphasized.
 * Vytia Culture: Within the Nation of Vytia, the peace and tranquility is shattered when the Maz Div of Vynos, Tita Birtyzi sends his troops into the Kingdom of Daima in order to conquer and unify the lands of the Til River. This campaign is initially meant with success at the Battles of Korta's Bridge, and Silma Stream, but is eventually stalled by a defeat at the Battle of Nyrta Field. The war continues to become less and less successful with defeats being stalled. While in Vynos some merchants start to convert to Solaramism in order to secure better trade agreements with the Benyisrans. This lead to the diffusion of Solaramism in Vynos and neighboring Vyt lands, from this Maz Div Tita Birtyzi eventually Hears about the religion. During the 6th year of the difficult and drawn out campaign against the Daima Kingdom, Tita Birtyzi is said to receive a vision from Shobah himself describing what he must do in order to win the battle against Daima. During the Battle of the Til crossing he secures a crushing defeat of the Daima forces managing to capture their king and crown prince. He begins to attributes this massive victory, and the ensuing string of victories to the god Shobah and him being chosen by him, because of this many soldiers begin to convert to Soloramism. He then captures the city of Daima bringing it under Vynos control. Following this he is confirmed into Solaramism through the Blessings by Oil under a traveling priest from Benyisra. He is then proclaimed by the Assembly, Timoi of All Vyts, and the Most Glorious Empire of Vytia is founded. He begins to land many of the converted soldiers within various captured lands. However, his new religion doesn't play a major role within politics with citizen being allowed to maintain their faith for a tax to support finances of the state. In order to incorporate the city of Daima into the empire he makes a standardized dialect of Vyt for communication, and sponsors conversions within the city offering land and positions of power to poor and disenfranchised within the city as long as they convert to Solaramism, and secretly assassinates the various key power holders within the Kingdom. He also sponsors the idea that he was divinely chosen to be Timoi by the god Shobah. In order to further cement his conversion to Solaramism he sends a Messenger to the Kingdom of Benyisra to marry the daughter of King Davem to his eldest son Jor (MOD RESPONSE). He begins to utilize Daima as a launching point to invade Kygras secretly and quickly. Kygras, however, does not take note of this and celebrates the destruction of the hated Daima with festivals throughout the city. They continue exploration east of Daukani, and in Nis they send explorers north of Xinaben and Mang. While several merchants traveling to Ebracon continue their travels north, east, and west of Benyisra in hopes of finding more trade routes. 
 * Irian Culture: Countless seasons have passed since we last looked at Iria. In the century that is now behind us, this civilization has grown internally with the help of strong leaders who guided their people in the ways of wisdom. Because of their efforts, and the achievements of the men of science and the arts — which, in the interest of condensing history, may go unrecorded — the Irians have become the most influential civilization to ever inhabit this corner of the great world river. It is in the penultimate decade of the fifth century that Time permits me to resume my work. Picture the parts of the Irian world: The summer-green coasts of Solcia and Sadaium are peppered with merchant ships that sail between the island ports of Pyrgeiros, weaving a web of trade from the Casphiron. The women of Ceta export their fabrics far and wide, while their men wage wars for the sake of petty lords. Irian culture has by now spread throughout the whole island, resulting in a complex system of clans and spawning thirteen new states, all under the suzerainty of a high king who rules centrally at Massaion. In Nolossia, the Dardasian colonies have grown tremendously, with important population centers at Kyras, Pelini and Beiodorum. And the palatial states of the west are recovering from the dying embers of an ill-remembered war. Any historical record of this period would be incomplete without mentioning the Kingdom of Lomia, the Cledesians, or the Opal League. Fortunately for us, their paths converge in this decade. For most of the century, the Ludo-Irian kingdoms were harried by the Cledesians, a nomadic tribe of the east. In the 460s, after being repelled by the Hythians, various Cledesian tribes invaded en masse, subjugated Hecyra and Ludia, conquered a large portion of Corenia and Solcia, and continued to threaten the stability of the region with their raids. The Opal League was one political entity that sprang from that discord. Named after the precious minerals worn by the rulers of Solcia, Corenia and Nolossia, it was an alliance of these three great kingdoms. Its influence was not limited to the east, but also included vast swathes of land around the Hecis Valley that had been absorbed by Corenia and Nolossia in earlier conquests. The Opal League reached the height of its power in the 480s, during the hegemony of Corenian king Asymagos IV. That brings us to the present part of Irian history, where the might of civilization is continually eroding and receding, being replaced by barbarian rule that is opposed only by this alliance. In the year 485, Asymagos IV is ready to strike back at the Cledesians with an army numbering 10,000 or more. He crosses the Cebrion, supported by a smaller Solcian force of 6,000, and meets a tribal army at Canasthae. It is a bloody engagement without triumph for either side. Asymagos makes good use of a contingent of charioteers to break through the enemy lines, but ultimately the battle is indecisive. Over the next few years, more battles occur at Marum (486), Harasi (487), Heturra (487), Tigha (488-489), and the Ludian Plain (489). [Mod Response for the outcome of the war]
 * Kingdom of Lomia: Another state to rise out of the turmoil of the Cledesian invasions was Lomia, a northern kingdom founded by a minor Hecis warlord named Vigall. Lomia exists near the source of the Hecis, beyond the lands of the Sarpedes. The cult of Phythos is prevalent here due to its proximity to Hythia. The language spoken is a harsh variety of Ludo-Irian. Ruban is the capital, a mountain city surrounded by mining towns, and the gateway to the north. Its inhabitants are poorer than most cities because the land here is relatively barren and unsuitable for planting. Most food, with the exception of wild cabbage and berries, is imported from other places via the rocky, winding caravan routes through the mountains. Lomia is loosely allied with Corenia and by extension the Opal League.
 * Mesallian Culture: After the construction of the titular Necropolis in the deserts of Edom, similar structures spread across the southern desert. Notably a necropolis would be constructed at the site of the Battle of Dashen, with archaeologists finding evidence of an immense monument and tomb system. Additionally each site would typically feature an immense well in the center of the complex as a “portal” to the underworld. At Dashen this consisted of a stone-lined circular hole about five meters in diameter, and about twenty meters deep, which would connect to a central atrium in the underground tomb section of the complex. A partially restored fresco seems to indicate that the Lementarians would christen fallen warriors as a form of vicarious baptism, which seems to have been the subject of a highly critical Ulmian document from Sundenun of Edom, a fifth century AR theologian. Whatever the case, it is clear several decades after the construction of the Dashen site the ruler of Edom or possibly even the Azozian emperor had the holy site pillaged and completely razed, nearly erasing the site from history completely. According to another legend, there was a confrontation between the Water Merchants’ Mesallian allies and a contingent of Lementarians, called the Battle of Disganes. The Lementarians consisted of a band of people dressed in black, arranged in a mob, with a line of women in front carrying torches. The mob chanted and screamed incantations, stunning the Mesallians, but they eventually charged and slaughtered the mob. To their astonishment, they discovered that the mob had been standing on a ritualistic funeral pyre, with one of the last surviving women lighting the mob on fire as the battle ended. The event had been no battle, but a mass human sacrifice, christening the site of a new necropolis, and the Mesallians had inadvertently participated in the ritual. Heavily superstitious, the Mesallians became terrified of the region, fearing whatever magical bewitchment they had placed upon themselves. A precarious situation began in the city of Edom itself, where the Lementarians possessed a centuries-old temple that rivaled the palaces and temples of the Edom monarchy itself. The complex also housed an impressive library and center of the arts and sciences, and its fall would later contribute to the rise of Iskandria’s library, at the expense of countless ancient texts that would be destroyed in the process. But evidently the Lementarian temple would not fall at this time, but several decades later when a mob of Ulmian protesters finally raided the complex. In the meantime, the temple remained an important part of Edomite political life, albeit in a slowly diminishing capacity. At this time the ruler of Edom was Queen Evanematra, but power was often entrusted to her lead advisor and regent Eylamudnun, who ruled the country during times of the queen’s absence in Azoz. The edicts of Xarenvarus were slow to be enforced in Edom, partially due to Eylamudnun’s careful sabotage of Ulmian and Azozian rule of law. Finally, Evanematra became convinced that Eylamudnun would have to be removed, but when she ordered a contingent of soldiers to remove him, she discovered that Eylamudnun had taken her oldest son and daughter captive. He stated that if the queen attempted to inform the emperor of what had occurred, or acted against him in any way, they would be killed. According to legend the queen slapped him, and later that day the oldest son of Xarenvarus was discovered dead, supposedly of sickness. The queen fled to the palace city of Thema, located several miles south of Edom, where she would remain for most of her life. For the next few years Eylamudnun ruled the city of Edom, although he contented with an increasing number of Azozian officials. He would ultimately be forced to allow the Ulmian faith to grow in the city, although he managed to delay any retaliation against the Lementarians for a time through misdirection. All the while, Xarenvarus’ second oldest child remained hidden, with the Edomites routinely reassuring the Azozian emperor that she was simply attending schooling and tutoring abroad. But the ruse would not last forever, and Eylamudnun carefully took steps to blame the Edomite cult of Zez, using his authority as regent to order an “investigation”, which uncovered evidence of kidnapping in their temple. The result was the Azozian crackdown on the Edomite religion, which saw dozens of temples and other structures demolished, and Edomite worshippers massacred. Eylamudnun then claimed to have rescued the queen’s daughter, satisfying the skeptical Azozian officers that he was genuine. Soon after, according to legend Eylamudnun was killed by an Edomite named Dema the Mage, who attacked him for his anti-Edomite policies. The primary sources for the events of Eylamudnun’s reign would ultimately be written by Ulmian writers after the fact, leading some to question if the entire story was simply made up. Possibly, Xarenvarus’ child did naturally die, and the Lementarians were innocent, but their enemies fabricated the story as part of the eventual witch hunt against the Lementarians that would occur a generation later. (More to come)
 * Hythia: Years 188-197 Since the Return of Hythus. It is early in the decade when Meunarch Lythanius perishes of fever. He is followed by Meunarch Pycitus, one of his Mepartechs from the war with the Saemonites. Tystius, now an exceedingly old man, also resigns a few years after Lythanius’ death and cedes his position to his son, Qyntine. The transition of power fortunately occurs before the Saemonites have time to truly regroup following their major defeat at the Battle of Khoras. The Saemonite army, which lost a large portion of its cavalry escort battle, is hounded by Hythian cavalry the entire way back to the border. Unable to outpace the Hythian light or heavy cavalry, a constant rain of arrows, bolts, and javelins assails the retreating columns of Saemonite infantry. Hythian generals estimate that at least another 5,000 casualties are inflicted by these attacks, and Saemonite morale must be extremely low. The Hythian commanders decide to press the attack and engage the Saemonite forces before they can retreat to their homeland. Thus, Hythian cavalry units attack the lead units of the Saemonite column, while Hythian infantry move in from the rear. The envelopment is completed by skirmishers and assorted light infantry units supplied by the Herati and Hythia’s allies. In total the force consists of 5,000 heavy cavalry, 7,000 light cavalry, 16,000 spearmen, and 11,000 archers and skirmishers. The goal is to capture or otherwise destroy the entirety of the Saemonite main column, some 33,000 soldiers. With the enemy forces enveloped by the more maneuverable Hythian Unar the battle becomes a slaughter as the Saemonite forces are surrounded and under a constant bombardment from the archers and light cavalry forces. The domestic developments of the last decade are put on hold as all efforts are directed toward feeding and equipping the Unar. Slaves are retasked to harvesting and the sum excess of labor used in peaceful years is redirected to producing the means of war, food, weapons, and armor. A trade proposal is sent to several of the Irian city-states to the south and the Drakans looking to secure more sources of food for the nation. Trade with the Irians is conducted on the newly constructed road network as a means of supplying yet more critical food. Fortunately, most of the Hythian diet is comprised of easily stored grains, legumes, and root vegetables, allowing the easy transport of at least staple nutrients. All foreign explorers and missionaries are recalled to serve in the Unar as healers, soldiers, and, if talented, as commanders. The Mythadian host continues its invasion of the coastal Saemonite cities and launches a series of raids by small light cavalry units to burn Saemonite crops and force them to surrender.
 * Exhulan Empire: With the narrow defeat of our forces in Teninukal and the news of a successful Sillian attack into Amyirth, Empress Nyccia decides to mostly withdraw from Teninukal, we then raise 8,000 more troops to fight Sillas and Teninukal and launch a massive lighting attack on Sillian forces to the South, launching a massive attack led by cavalry on Sillian forces led by experienced cavalry on horses armed with long iron lances to drive into the Sillian forces, while infantry armed with shields and short swords allow them to cut down the remaining Sillian forces. If this attack is successful we then move around to attack the Sillian forces besieging our colonial capital and a sortie is led out of the city simultaneously by Exhulan forces inside to try to drive off the Sillians. Meanwhile, in the colony West of Irrosia we continue to expand as many colonists are attracted to the region and it continues to grow immensely, as several more (six) cities are founded and expansion by 30 px occurs. Peace is offered to Teninukal, if they agree not to attempt to take any of our territory and agree to a non-aggression pact. (Mod Response needed) In the northeast colonization Of the area continues, as we expand by 40 px when thousands of colonists come to the region, founding six more settlements, with one, the city of Ettana, later becoming the region’s capital and most populated city. Trade continues to increase with Qera, Ouyai, Yannis, Sayalen, Beraba, Gahren, and other nations, although as a result of the attacks all trade with Sillas is banned. This also results in the Irrulmians ceasing attempts to enter Sillas, seeing it as not worth the trouble to get past the ban, with them instead focusing on areas such as Qera, diffrent regions of Exhula, and Sayalen. In Siccarius Lorgar has failed to father any more children due to taking a serious injury to the groin, and he does in 484, leaving no heir but his daughter. The bastard prince Raccim Cyithrys takes advantage of this by marrying his niece and thus becomes the heir to the throne himself, passing over his older brother. He fathers three sons, named Rttagan, Brytin, and Lorgar during the rest of the turn, thus securing his claim on the throne. In culture, the art of theaters experiences a resurgence during this time as Lorgar was known to be quite fond of the arts but especially Poetry and Theatere, and thus lavished money on his favorite playwrites and poets, leading to a large resurgence in the genre and the construction of dozens of new theaters. After he dies Raccim continues this, and also expands it, encouraging and funding a number of poets and playwrights himself. During this time The epic “Tales Of Erytor” play is first written by the famous Playwrite Rittuys Porihs, and it would later have a major influence on Exhulan plays, borrowing heavily from the style began by the playwrite prince and combining it with many ideas from Qeran theatere and his own ideas, which also results in a new trend of stories detailing talking animals as characters rather than humans to tell complex tales and, often, to criticize powerful figures in ways that they cannot reasonably stop due to the nature of it being animals rather than humans, and thus easier to disguise as something other than criticism or satire. The idea of women as warriors also becomes more accepted due to the well-known martial prowess and proud status as a warrior of the current Empress, and the encouragement of her sons, and thus the roles of the female deities in the Hcctaal Pantheon, specifically in the stories of the gods many fights and wars and especially in the war in heaven, become much more emphasizes and expanded upon, and many of these tales are reaxamened and expanded upon. In addition, the first of a complex system of sewers is built in Siccarius in this time, due to Raccim being disgusted by the filth in the streets and feeling like there should be more clean streets in the largest and most important city of the Empire.
 * Sillan Diplomacy: Teninukal is a fiefdom of the Sillan Empire, and thus foreign and military affairs are directly administered by the Sillan central government.
 * Exhula Response: You have invaded us and thus we are at war, and we were already at war with Teninukal, therefore this does not matter and we will be at war with you both until you make peace or withdraw from our territory.
 * Sillan Republic: The Makuku mercenaries are sent back to Makuku after being paid, though those unmarried or those who have already formed relationships with Sillan women are allowed to settle in Sillan territory and attain citizenship (with many even partaking in imperial examinations to pursue a professional military career). The Teninukual garrison is replenished by 1,000 military nobles and 3,000 Teninukualese troops. Meanwhile, about 13,500 troops (two-thirds of whom are horsemen, with the remainder fulfilling auxiliary roles) are sent to intercept the Exhulan counterattack. They are divided into three army divisions. While they are lightly-armored (however, given the need for greater speed and agility, this is rather appropriate), they possess far more superior weaponry consisting of iron-tipped lances (which are easily-produced), sabers, and reflex composite bows (which, due to their ability to store more energy and withstand such pressure, can shoot arrows from an effective distance of 350–400 yards). In addition, due to their status as military nobility, and thus, their subjection to rigorous instruction and training, they are far more experienced and well-versed in military strategy than their Exhulan counterparts. Upon approaching Exhulan enemy forces, one group attacks the front and after afflicting sufficient attrition with their bows (exploiting Exhulan horsemen's overreliance on cumbersome and clumsy melee weapons), proceed to feign retreat – thus emboldening enemy forces and encouraging them to disengage (thus leaving them to disorganize upon the arrival of Sillan reinforcements). After this, two army divisions then arrive in a surprise engagement and bombard the enemy formation's rear and flanks with arrows and other projectiles. The third army division then turns around and proceeds to charge into the enemy formation, with the first few lines being armed with lances (as a shock weapon) and then the remainder utilizing sabers, as the latter is more effective in close combat. The remaining forces – if they refuse to capitulate – are then killed with pikemen organized into a phalanx position, with horsemen encircling enemy forces in order to prevent any from escaping. The sheer length of the pikes themselves and the ability of pikemen to organize into multiple layers of spearheads are able to nullify any protection offered by shields, as well as proves superior to the short-swords given to Exhulan infantrymen. The siege of the Exhulan colonial capital continues with 20,000 troops (of which one-fourth are horsemen), with the policy of encirclement being pursued; thus depriving the defending garrison of any military supplies or basic goods; dooming them to starvation unless they surrender. Heavy crossbows firing both crossbow bolts and incendiary arrows are used to damage the fortifications and as tactical weapons, while groups of 1,000 or so infantrymen try to establish several large breaches into enemy fortifications – from there, they will proceed to enter the breach en masse in at least three separate directions; thus overwhelming the weakened and starving defending garrison, thus leading to victory. To incentivize assimilation, Hcctaal temples are built and all inhabitants of occupied territories are given limited citizenship (until the formal handover of the territory) in which they are subjected to all the rights and protections exercised by Sillan citizens with the exception of suffrage (though they can hold political posts if they succeed in imperial examinations). In addition, prisoners of war are fairly-treated and are offered full citizenship and aristocratic titles (and Sillan brides or grooms) should they defect and offer Sillans valuable information.''' All city walls (consisting of rammed earth cores and brick exteriors) are annually maintained and reinforced, while an intricate system of canals and flattened dirt-roads are constructed to facilitate transport. As part of a public health and sanitation campaign, extensive sewer and plumbing systems, latrines, and public baths (accompanied by evaporative coolers) are built in all major settlements – with water being supplied by a comprehensive system of aqueducts and minor water channels. Meanwhile, irrigation channels and groundwater-wells are built in agricultural lands to provide an ample supply of water and fertilizer (in the form of fish paste or bovine manure) to crops; thus resulting in high agricultural productivity. Excess produce is either sold to the market or is stored within town granaries to ensure food security. With heightened demand for consumer goods (both for domestic consumption and for export), many bloomeries and workshops are built – manufacturing a high quantity of textiles (silk and muslin cloth), ceramics (porcelaneous wares), luxury goods (jewelry), farm tools, and military arms (reflex bows, swords, polearms, and arrows). Regional economic specialization continues. Within Silla proper, rice and plantains are cultivated as staples; however, various exotic fruits, vegetables (turnips, radishes, cabbages, aquatic plants, soybeans), root crops (taro, yams, sweet potatoes) are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include tea, ginseng, hemp, and abaca; while other major industries include sericulture and beekeeping (to acquire honey and wax). The main diet in the Makuku region is similar. Economically, however, it specializes in the farming of ratites (specifically ostriches and rheas), and hunting of wild crocodiles and snake – all for the purpose of acquiring an alternative source of leather. Cash crops include various spices, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco. Within the Olmac region, the staples are radically different, consisting of millet, wheat, and maize (though the latter is more used as fodder). In addition, various berries and nuts, lentils, chickpeas, various beans, various gourds and squashes, and true potatoes are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include coffee, cotton, opiates and natural dyes (indigo and henna). Within marshes or near bodies of water, artificial islands are built and are planted with maize, squash, and beans – intercropped together to maximize agricultural yield. While each plot of land is small (less than one-tenth of the hectare), it is capable of yielding seven harvests annually – enough to support a single household (assuming they utilize all produce for human consumption). In lower depths of water, however, deep-water rice varieties are cultivated. Finally, the areas of the lowest depths are reserved for farms raising fresh-water fish, mollusks (snails, clams), and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, and crabs). '''In order to facilitate population growth, rapid southward expansion continues to acquire more arable land, raw materials, and to spread the gifts the civility through the assimilation of the barbarians.
 * Qera: The court is concerned about the current developments between the old Qeran ally Exhula and the kingdoms to the east. Even though Sillas has a huge market to exploit, Prince Yller II decides to support Exhula in the crisis by actively supporting the Exhulans with weaponry and troops. Around the same time at the end of 482 the last harvest is made in Cyrphetzija and a plan is drawn to evacuate the colony before it falls in Sillan hands. Only some 3,000 soldiers and five advisors are left there along with a few rural peasants. (Secret) To execute the plan, we reach out to our Exhulan allies from which we ask for help to evacuate the colony (EXHULA RESPONSE, PLEASE) (Secret end). The refugees will be resettled in a less densely populated area of the southwest. Yller II's brother Ycas of Tortla and grand general of the army is called to prepare for war with Sillas. Other generals of the vassals are called too to help with the war effort. The generals consist of the Ualjak special forces under General Vamwor, the smaller Ollean forces under the leadership of Ûbeness and the Koloman forces under count Uektor. combined with Ycas' forces and some 4,000 raised men from the Qeran peasantry the Qeran army are around 40.000 men. After all preperations are finished the generals meet to discuss the situation and tactics that will be used in the upcoming war. The generals set on a more psychological warfare doctrine if needed but they are unsure if the Exhulans are willing to cooperate when the Qerans are involved in these atrocities. Thus the first battles will be fought in a more civilized manner. In the year 485 war is officially declared of Sillas. The navy is increased by ten armored "turtle ships". The ships are rowing boats constructed for naval blockades, as the boats have an armored roof, holes in the sides to shoot arrows to the enemy and two catapults can be attached to the roof if needed. (Secret) A naval blockade toward Sillas is proposed to the Exhulans to weaken Sillas significantly (EXHULAN RESPONSE, PLEASE) (End secret). Trade with Beraba, Exhula and Dholbalan deepens. Because of the good relations with Dholbalan their merchants are lifted from most tariffs except one. The merchants have to pay a two percent tariff to the city government when their goods are sold.
 * Exhula Response: We thank our Qeran allies for their support and agree to help them evacuate their colony, although we are unable to contribute many military forces to it due to being busy defending our own territory. However, we nonetheless do our best to help them and agree to the plan to navally blockade Sillas, and begin dedicating much of our Nagy to this endeavor. We also ensure the Qerans that our soldiers have strong stomachs and are perfectly used to some atrocities, and will be able to handle Qeran Psychological Warfare doctrine.
 * Yannis Empire: We continue to order the construction of new cities and towns, as Yannian colonies in our vast empire. These new cities are created with a specially designed grid, with temples, marketplaces, and government buildings in the center of the city, and many stone apartments and buildings. These cities are built with sewers and aqueducts in some of the larger settlements, providing basic sanitation to its population. New land is cleared for farming, with crops being rotated and manure from cows being used to increase crop yields. In the east the great highway is expanded to new, major settlements, with its system of runners and messengers for fast communication. The navy sees expansion as new ships are created with new innovations. A ship with seven banks of oars is also created for the first time, as the new flagship of the imperial fleet.
 * Beraba: Beraba continues to expand in the southwest on the Mikutek Peninsula, as well as to the east past the mouths of the rivers. Tribes in the north are contacted and presented gifts, shown as some of the benefits of becoming part of the Beraban nation. The textile industry grows, with members of the Tangakwunu and other middle classes now able to afford high-quality fabrics and garments at relatively inexpensive prices. More trade is poured into Cazekorom, with respectful intentions toward Beraba’s southern neighbor. Otekah of House Rhethlune, Crown Prince of Ngaoudera, dies and leaves her crown to her daughter, Zipacna, an unprecedented move in the patriarchal society that is prevalent in Beraba, especially in the Great Houses. Some members of the other Great Houses are dissatisfied with this occurrence. More exploration north and east of Gahren occurs, with traders looking for new markets to open up to the nation.

491-500
'In retaliation for the state-sponsored closure of their temples in Edom, an Edomite pagan mob raids one of the chief basilicas in the city, killing the Patra of Edom and many Ulmians. The rioting turns into a full scale revolt in the city, with the pagans rallying behind a cousin of the queen, Leneba.'

'The city of Gomis falls to the Qaryaat invasion, with the Qaryaat army suffering a total of 6,100 casualties in the process. In the same region the Drakan campaign subdues the area upto Gomis, and the Ten Cities accept the diplomatic mission from Draka.'

'King Davim accepts the offer from Vynos to have his daughter, Rasmel, to Prince Jor. The Benyisrans launch a number of expeditions to further control the trade routes running to the Vynos area.'

'The Hythians achieve a victory in the southwest regions of the Saemonite Empire, when the Saemonite general is killed. The Saemonites suffer 7,100 casualties, the Hythians suffer 3,000, and Herati suffers 1,050.'

'Nesaranasser IV successfully breaches the Saemonite capital and has himself crowned as monarch of both realms. He consolidates power in the city by purging the old king and his royal family, before launching a military campaign against the Mithadians. An important victory is achieved which sees the Mithadians pushed back, with the king dedicating 60,000 men toward securing the status quo against Mithadia, and 70,000 men toward repulsing the Hythians.'

'The nation of Teninukal accepts the peace offer from Exhula and a non-aggression pact, pledging to not claim any Exhulan territory. The Sillans successfully defeat the Exhulans near their colonial capital, suffering 3,400 casualties, while Exhula suffers 5,000. However, during this campaign it is revealed that Yecacedal has secretly orchestrated a trap. The remaining Sillan army is turned on by Teninukal, killing or capturing some 12,000 men at the ambush at Semecituc Forest. Elsewhere, the rest of the nation’s forces assault the Sillan presence in Teninukal proper, pushing them back in a more costly battle. From this position Teninukal offers Sillas a white peace, in exchange for paying tribute and slaves.'

'The arrival of Qera’s forces results in an Exhulan-Qeran victory against Sillas, with Sillas suffering the loss of the remainder of its army in Kaloma. This also prompts Teninukal to ask for an alliance with Qera.'
 * Hythia: Years 198-207 Since the Return of Hythus. Meunarch Pycitus and Qyntine, determined to end the war, offer King Nesaranasser IV of the Saemonites a peace deal under which his claim to the modern lands of both the Northern and Southern Saemonite Kingdoms will be respected by Hythia and its allies with a return to territorial status quo ante bellum. Under the terms the Herati will remain a Hythian Vassal but no territory will change sides. [Mod Response] As a sign of goodwill the Hythian Unar falls back to Herati territory and repairs and expands the fortifications of the Herati capital, including a large earthen and stone wall, trenches, sharpened wood stakes, and an array of newly developed Eyscurpieron, bolt throwers, essentially large crossbows mounted to the towers. Many Herati, estimated at 30,000 civilians, have fled south into Hythian lands since the beginning of the conflict with most of them contracted in the Gyt and other northern cities. The domestic developments of the last decade are put on hold as all efforts are directed toward feeding and equipping the Unar. Slaves are re-tasked to harvesting and the sum excess of labor used in peaceful years is redirected to producing the means of war, food, weapons, and armor. A trade proposal is sent to several of the Irian city states to the south and the Drakans looking to secure more sources of food for the nation. [Players Response] Trade with the Irians is conducted on the newly constructed road network as a means of supplying yet more critical food. Fortunately, most of the Hythian diet is comprised of easily stored grains, legumes, and root vegetables, allowing the easy transport of at least staple nutrients. All foreign explorers and missionaries are recalled to serve in the Unar as healers, soldiers, and, if talented, as commanders. The Mythadian host retreats after news of the superior Saemonite Unar approaching and prepares to defend the border.
 * The Kingdom of Otan Takat: The first act of the new kingdom is to perform a census. This will be of considerable cost in both manpower and in gold. The King prepares it to be very well-funded and using the most advanced technology the Kingdom can offer using the technologies of Advanced Mathematics and Writing as the biggest tools. Along with this, the results of the census will be stored in the Library. With the vast resources of both tin and copper at the Kingdom’s disposal the use of these minerals along with the knowledge of Bronze working will be used to develop the Kingdom’s population. Along with this the knowledge of the calendar will better helped to establish proper farming seasons. The King has decreed that a portion of the grain produced will be sent to communal grain silos in every town, this will help crackdown on the possibilities of starvation. These grain silos will also serve as payments to the serfs who are owned by the crown. The King has also sent explorers to the North, East, and South to search for more valuable farm and trading resources. Instead of colonizing further lands, it had been decided that the Kingdom should be focused on expanding the control of the lands already under loose control. Specifically focusing on the areas on the river, the King has decided that with the implements of better agricultural techniques that these areas should grow as there will be more food. A town guard/militia has been formed from 20 or so members of the nobility and around 200 or so citizens to keep order in the Urban section of the Kingdom. The religion of the Kingdom is a mix of polytheistic and monotheistic beliefs with the belief of many different gods and goddesses representing different aspects of one all-knowing, all-powerful god.
 * Mesallian Culture: At this time the Edomite religion, that had lasted some 1,500 years (or more) had come under siege from the forces of Ulmism and other foreign influences. Despite having an impact on the outside world still, as evidenced by the religion’s appearance in parts of Mesallas, in its native city of Edom the Edomites had come under siege. Traditionally the Maleka of Edom traced its lineage directly to Shashimra, the mother of the Meran River and the giver of life. Within the city the Temple of Shashimra served as a government building and meeting place, and remained in use for several decades after the fall of the religion from favor. Additionally, religion made up a large part of daily life, dictating societal roles and practices, e.g., the Edomite bureaucracy worked on a strict system of dividing all land along the Meran to specific gods and goddesses, which government officials would “rent” to citizens. Farmers were expected to pay back everything to their respective temples, from crops, seeds, beer, and any other products produced. This system would be one of the last to break down during the Ulmian upheaval, as evidence suggests that most farmers continued the traditional offering and prayers to the Edomite deities surrounding every step of the harvest, even if just out of habit. During the later reign of Queen Evanematra this system began to break down, as most temples were demolished. Many high priests transitioned to a form similar to that of a landlord, the temple being replaced by the feudal manor in the hierarchy of Edomite society. To curb the influence of pagan “feudal lords” a decree would be passed that mandated landowners to convert formally to the Ulm religion, leading to a massive increase in Ulmian participation from the nobility. There were also several forms of resistance to the decline of the religion. The first would be the uprising of Leneba, a high priestess and relative of the queen. Leneba rose to prominence after successfully leading a counter raid against Ulmians in the city of Edom, which saw the city’s basilica destroyed. The short civil war that followed saw numerous acts of violence and vandalism on both sides, with temples and places of worship being destroyed. Ultimately Leneba would be outnumbered, and in a formal battle between a zealous Edomite army and an imperial army, she would be defeated. Similarly, a cult arose at this time based around the ancient Edomite deity of Zama, the sun goddess, known as the Zamists The religion is believed to have arisen through the cultural exchange and influence of religions such as Ulm on the Edomite faith, resulting in a henotheistic, and later monotheistic, branch of the Edomite religion that solely focused on the worship of Zama. The religion would enter notability under the leadership of Omnuna, a former high priest turned to royal advisor, after the Temple of Zama-Thema supposedly aided Maleka Evanematra back to power in the city of Edom. Omnuna began to serve the role of regent, replacing the vacuum left by the death of Eylamudnun. Under her leadership the Zamists would become formally supported by the state, with Omnuna linking Zama to the royal family by calling Evanematra the daughter of Zama. Ultimately the Zamists would not please traditionalist elements on either side of the religious debate, but it grew to become a primary form of Edomite worship, even after the traditional polytheistic religion declined. In the year of the 72nd Jafiad (Year 488) the great war between the Lementarians and Water Merchants culminated in a major battle at the mountainous Aposic outpost of Seslenom. A contingent of Water Merchants became trapped in the outpost’s ancient tunnels, which consisted of thousands of meters of storerooms, copying rooms, temples, and corridors, which had been used to hide the worship of Ulm centuries earlier. The Lementerians assembled an army, primarily consisting of several thousand Apirun desert warriors, led by Arum-Sa-Iyll. Soon a siege developed, with the attackers breaking into the labyrinth of tunnels below to undermine the outpost’s defenses. Fierce fighting occurred within the tunnels, and for weeks it is said that guerrilla fights stalked the chasms of the fortress searching in the dark for enemies. The Apiruns employed mountain lions and other wild animals, in the hopes that it would disrupt the defenders in the tunnels below, and this, too, cost numerous casualties. According to legend, a small group had been assembled in the north that sought to relieve the defenders, but had been lost searching for the site of the battle. Then, the True God opened up the sky and illuminated a path to Seslenom, allowing them to break the siege. Elsewhere, in Semphimora the son of Erisander I Levian, Erenus III, continued to support the Lemenetarian side for the benefit of the kingdom, however, this led to heavy resentment from the population, who were more sympathetic and religiously similar to the Water Merchants. A religious leader of the Enulmians called Ichabon II would lead a popular movement to replace the king, prompting the Erenus III to raise a major force in Nerimos with Lementarian support. The king then marched south, stopping first at Leviea. He discovered that the fortress refused him entry, and a siege began. Over the next few months Erenus suffered many losses from a lack of supplies in the desert, which forced him to dedicate even more resources toward creating a caravan to his location to support himself. His army was constantly harassed by arrows and projectiles, further withering away his army. Finally he ordered an assault, confidence in success due to having, according to one source, more than twenty times more soldiers than the defenders. Instead the attack horribly failed, and Erenus would be killed. The Lementarians had lost two of their most important allies, Sephimora and Edom, and finally the war was ended. It is said that both sides sent a delegation to the neutral town of Mesonda, located on the Upper Meran, and agreed to a peace. The terms would be carved about ten meters in the air on a massive cliff face, creating a new boundary for the two factions. The Lementarians would withdraw from the countryside of Edom (at least publically), although the public also did not afford them much choice, forcing them back into hiding. Ultimately they would be forced out of the city of Edom as well when the Ulmian government came for their great temple, but that would not come immediately. In some sense the return to their natural state of intrigue and covertness may have helped the Cult of Lementer recover, but also the Water Merchants found new found success and growth all across the nation.
 * Xeran Empire: Tragedy began to strike late in the reign of Xarenvarus. The death of his eldest son, Ashkenaz, is carefully noted in contemporary chronicles, describing the sobering affect it had on the kingdom as well as the Emperor's personal health. However, the exact circumstances of how his death came about isn't given until the Parallel Lives of Azoz and Mesallia, which was written over 100 years after the fact. So in spite of the dramatization by later playwrites, we cannot draw for certain this death was unnatural. His second eldest son, Taulot, had entered the city of Edom to inturn his older brother, when Leneba's revolt took place. Taulot reached out to a nearby contingent of imperial forces, who sent 3,000 men to occupy the city and put down the revolt. Leneba's revolt is often seen as a reactionary effect of the decline of Edomite paganism, which had all but disappeared from the historical record at this point. Leneba fled from the city and was later imprisoned by Xarenvarus for some time, but didn't ultimately face any repercussions. Taulot would continue on to fight many other battles in the Lemantarian Wars, supporting the Apocist faction to ultimately force the Lemantarians into the countriside. The Xeran military heavily evolved, largely as a result of smoothly marrying military tactics of Azoz and Edom together, with heavy influences from Eskaladun. A sizable camel cavalry, almost entirely female run, evolved as a unit largely based in Upper Edom. They would likewise be deployed for protecting military outposts and caravan trade along the desert south of Usilinago. Old short swords used by the Xeran hoplites were completely replaced with the Edomite khopesh, a sword far more superior in effectiveness. Balistas and catapults were added to the military at this time as well, although entirely used for city sieges. The navy based in Neum constructed some of the first octerimes, although extremely rare in number. As the road system throughout the empire was completed, a full sewage system was also needed. The Xeran empire was the first to pioneer a complete plumbing system, utilizing gravity and vaccuums to run water from the Ashe River into public baths and outhouses. This was used primarily with copper pipes, but a cheaper version was also used with alumite minerals. Poorer regions of the city had outhouses situated directly over the river itself, which was then redirected to help fertilize the farmlands. The Castilean Wall was also completed, being a wonder of the world itself, as it was thick enough in its prime to ride two horses on top of it. In the far west, the Fotashe Kingdom extended its borders north to meet the newly-discovered river, known as the Garan River. The Tabornites were aided by Xeran military technology to settle farther south, now ruling from the capital in Frasnoq, to expand the empire farther along the coast. The Garian Fleet opens diplomatic relations with Jasmira, presumed to be the original homeland of the Valun, where trade is extended to buy products with silver and gold, as well as offering the Gospel of Nelrim. In the Far East, the fleet of Cyris reaches the homeland of Exhula, as well as touring around the islands of Irrosia. Cyris opens close relations with the Irrosians, seeing them as Ulmist brethren, and also asks to open trade with Exhula itself. Cyris tells the king of Exhula all the wonders and arts that exist back in Azoz, including the Great Library of Iskandaria. Cyris asks the king to send his finest scholars and geographers back home with him to Iskandaria, and add Exhula's maps of the world into the growing Hall of Geographica. 
 * Yannis Empire: The city of Izambeqem is founded on the northern river, and it becomes the center of trade with nations such as Aurelia, as well as exploration to the north. Many tribes in the north are encountered, with goods being given in exchange for the acceptance of Yannian Holy Men. The northern colony expands until it reaches the land of the Niani Empire. In the east the provinces meet the Aurelians in the center of the peninsula. These eastern provinces trade heavily with the allied nation of Ouayi, with many Holy Men arriving in its borders to spread the Yannian faith and aid the small nation. The nation also begins to have closer ties to the Niani Empire, hoping to protect the northern border. To this end the Anointed One’s daughter would be wed to the new Niani emperor, after he converted to the Yannian faith. In 493, the Anointed One and his son both died, and with no clear heir this same Niani Emperor would invade and claim the nation, ushering in a new dynasty and period in Yannian history. A war would commence across the nation, as the new emperor established control over the nation. In the south the kingdoms of Tik’akna, Temayal, Ometoc-vis, Quamocten, and Tohatia would become independent of the Yannian empire, with their own local governments succeeding in establishing a new government. The new emperor would attempt to connect the two realms, ordering that the Yannian style highways be expanded into Niani, and that Yannian culture be intermixed into Niani life.
 * Beraba: Supply ships are sent south to both congratulate and aid Teninukal and the Makuku states on their recent conflict with Sillas. The debate over the legality of Otekah of House Rhethlume passing the title of Crown Prince to her daughter Xipacna comes to a head, and the delegates from Damatura, Kitsura, Cohibos walk out in protest. These delegates had been in secret negotiations and had created a plan in the case that Xipacna was allowed to keep her title. The delegation from Damatura returns to Ngaoudera and, under the pretenses of being willing to negotiate, takes Xipacna hostage and barricade themselves inside the Royal Palace as soldiers from Ngaoudera are forced to allow the Damaturain army inside the walls of the city. Armies from Kitsura and Cohibos travel down the Cinhoedl River and reinforce the occupation of Ngaoudera, taking up defensive positions in case of retaliation. In response, loyalist forces muster armies, one marching south from Ibramos and Allsid, and the other marching north from Eiros and Doulaba. The Northern Coalition of Ibramos and Allsid lays siege to Damatura, which is left relatively undefended. The Damaturan army withdraws most of its troops from Ngaoudera to retake Damatura. Meanwhile, the armies of the Southern Coalition of Doulaba and Eiros march north and skirmish with the armies of the Eastern Coalition of Kitsura and Cohibos. A group of specially trained soldiers infiltrate Ngaoudera under the cover of night and rescue Xipacna and escort her out of the city. No longer held back by the hostage situation, the Southern Coalition wins a decisive victory and liberates Ngaoudera. The loyalist faction demands that the separatist forces yield. The armies of Damatura and Kitsura do, but the Cohibosian army retreats back up the Cinhoedl River to Cohibos and declare independence as “the Kingdom of the Lake”. Armies of the Northern and Southern Coalitions lay siege to the city and force its capitulation. Xipacna is re-crowned as Crown Princess of Ngaoudera in her own right following an official law that is set in place that states that women are legally allowed to hold the title of “Crown Princess” and are equal to men of the title “Crown Prince”. As part of war reparations, marriages are arranged between the victorious houses and the defeated houses. However, the male heirs from Houses Hjadra, Hjadra-Xun, and Kitsur are married to women from houses Vingod, Eshashti, and Rihen, respectfully. These women take the title of Crown Princess, and their husbands are given the status Prince Consort. The Princely Council at the end of the year 500 is made up of Crown Princess Xipacna of House Rhethlune representing Ngaoudera, Crown Prince Honovi of House Tayanita representing Doulaba, Crown Princess Wicasa of House Hjadra (née Vingod) representing Damatura, Crown Prince Makkapitew of House Rihen representing Allsid, Crown Prince Atohi of House Vingod representing Ibramos, Crown Prince Chayton of House Eshashti representing Eiros, Crown Princess Tokala of House Kitsur (née Rihen) representing Kitsura, and Crown Princess Wanikiya of House Hjadra-Xun (née Eshashti) representing Cohibos.
 * Vytia Culture: Timoi Tita I continues his unification of the great lands of Vytia. During the beginning of the new decade, he launches his troops to take the city of Kygras by surprise and quickly conquer. The troops managed to take Kygras completely by surprise and in less than six months the city is conquered and put under Vyt governance. He continues with this strategy to conquer Milor with the same amount of success, clearly showing how this is blessed by Shobah to unify and bring peace to the lands of Vyt. Attributing these successes to Shobah and how they were divinely chosen, many soldiers continue to convert to Solaramism. He begins a strategy of installing various governors from the cities but utilizes spies to make sure they stay loyal and if they show disloyalty then.. Timoi Tita I also continues his expansion of farmlands chopping down trees and expanding them by 25 px. Also, increased migration to Vynos increases the size of the city by 2 px. 'Meanwhile, traders who have discovered Draka to the north follow the Drakan trade routes in order to find further rich land while they continue their exploration westward of Benyisra, and explorers are launched farther east of Daukani into the lands unknown. Meanwhile, farming of nutmeg continues with them exchanging in market for Benyisran traded goods from the west. This results in new residents being built and wealth flowing into Vynos and Nis. Within the city of Vynos, Crown Prince Jor and Princess Jasmel give birth to their first son under the lights of the winter which signals greatness within Vyt culture, the son is named after his maternal grandfather Davon.
 * Saemonites: King Nesaranasser IV denies the peace offer from the Hythians, and uses the combined forces of the Southern and Northern Armies to their full usage as a means of defeating the neighboring enemies. With the Hythians, the full force of 70,000 troops invading through the top of the nation are assisted by Mangonels. In the war against the Mithadians, 60,000 soldiers are sent to retake regions and effectively push them out of the nation. 90,000 slave soldiers recruited off of promises of freedom and land, are divided into two regiments and are moved into the former Southern regions. 45,000 slave soldiers, armed with spears, low-level armor, and shields, are sent into Hythia as a means of launching an invasion into their homelands while the primary military forces are not at home.
 * Hythian and Allied Response: Seeing that King Nesaranasser IV cannot be trusted defenses are set to protect against his renewed attack. Hythian and Mythadian agents are dispatched to sow discontent among the slave-soldiers who are promised lands, true freedom, and recognition of statue if they turn against their slave-drivers. These soldiers are asked if they truly believe that a king who would betray his allies will not betray his slaves once he has defeated his enemies. More raiding parties are dispatched into the South Saemonite Lands to burn crops and generally disrupt production of food. These raids work quickly to avoid capture or combat. An emergency force of another 6,000 infantry is raised in Hythia, which marches north to support the army. These men are equipped with long 12 ft spears, wooden shields, and a mixture of light and heavy armor. Another force of 2,000 light cavalry is also raised equipped in a similar manner. The constant state of war has led to marked development of military technology and cavalry spears have continued to lengthen and require more of a seated lance-like hold. This change has accompanied the development of war-saddles, (no stirups yet) which provide greater support to the lower back when charging (higher cantles), and  it also incorporates a solid saddle tree which improves comfort for the horse and rider. Meanwhile, Hythian infantry tactics have adapted to include large javelins designed to de-shield an opponent (like a pilum). In addition to the organizational reforms the war industry of the last fifty years has led to the proliferation of iron lamellar armor, iron helms, war axes, and boss-ed shield to the average Hythian infantry soldier. This state has been improved by the capture of armor and weapons from the defeated Saemonites in the previous battles of the war.
 * Saemonite Response: After learning of the raids on agricultural lands, 10,000 troops are sent into the primary lands, split up into 50 divisions of 200, and tasked with specifically overwatching large agricultural farms. Trained to be efficient with bow + arrows and hand-to-hand combat, they are armed with bows, arrows, eight ft spears, and light armor. They are specifically tasked with engaging the enemy, killing all that attack, and looting the corpses for possibly new gear. Due to many of the slave-soldiers being led by numerous standard Saemonite leaders and general troops, anybody known to be specifically attempting to persuade a fellow slave-soldier's opinion is properly flayed and put on display all throughout the lands, and if in the middle of conflict, they are simply killed and later flayed. By 499, 3,000 being were flayed and put up on display, while the Saemonites continue to march onward.
 * Darna: There is a valiant defense of the island against the Azozian heathens, but ultimately Darna decides to withdraw back to their home islands and other territories. But many remain and perpetually harass the Azozians and their ships. Their supply lines are strained and raided, and many are killed in and around the island. The small number of slaves on the island, which cannot be transported away, the Darnans slaughter like sacrificial animals and leave rotting in their cages for the Azozians to find. The ships are all taken away, and much of the island is destroyed in the process of the war. On the islands many new projects are built and repaired. The navy sees great expansion to counter the aggression of the southern heathens.
 * Exhulan Empire: The war against Sillas technically continues In the beginning of the turn, but peace is heavily desired, even after we prepare heavy defenses in deep armored formations of pikemen with long spears and piles and shields based throughout various various minor fortifications not destroyed by the Sillian invasion. In this however we still seek peace, and decide to offer Sillas a white peace and a non-aggression pact in exchange for the end of the war, where neither of us will continue fighting and invading each other’s territory. (Sillas Response needed). We still prepare though, moving all of our remaining troops in the area into Amyirth and doing our beginning to rebuild all of our various fortifications in the region, although this is a slow process and we constantly fight off raids in the process. Meanwhile, The Empress Nyccia finally removes herself from the region during this turn and reclaims her rule in Siccarius, increasingly pushing her bastard son into a subordinate role as a major administrator for her in the Exhulan government and a major diplomatic presence in process of making peace with Sillas (or attempting too if it isn’t accepted) and in negotiating with The Xeran Empire and Cyrius when contact is made with them for the first time in 494, which goes incredibly and surprisingly well. We do actully genuinely end up with good relations in our negotiations and Cyrius and Nyccia in personal negotiations even form a bizzare sort of friendship, which also majorly contributes to the majorly overwhelming success in establishing trade routes and relations with The Xerans, also linking us for the first time into the wider massive trade network throughout the massive sections of land east of us in the major seas and such. Nyccia eventully agrees to send many scholars and diplomats to the Xeran region as the beginning of the latter famed “Xeran-Exhulan Cultural exchange” and, in a completely suprising move to many that completely entirley baffles thousands in both the Xerans latter and in Exhula itself, Nyccia, now in her middle age, decides to abdictate in her role as Empress and come with Cyrius herself to Facilitate negotiations, but really in a search for adventure and wanderlust that has charecterized her for her entire life, and that has rarely had the opportunity to show itself before now, naming her bastard son as the new emperor. We also agree to trade maps with the Xerans and add our vast knowledge to the library of Iskandaria. (Xeran Response needed). This means that when Cyrius departs during the next turn, her bastard son Raccim will becomes the new Emperor, and also results in the Aurelian dynasty being replaced by the Cyithryian dynasty, as the new rulers of The Empire. Meanwhile, the new contact with the mainstream Ulmian church results in Irrulmism beginning to re-eastablish relations with mainstream Ulm for the first time in an extremely long time, and although many might have expected religious strife to result, it instead results in many friendships forming and many philosophical and theological debates between the Irrulmians and the followers of the mainstream form of Ulm followed by Azoz, and even hundreds of Irrulmian scholars deciding to head to Azoz with Cyrius when he returns to continue their debates and study in there, while many Ulmian scholars decide to stay in Irrosia and Exhula themselves, winning many coverts among the population although Hcctaal obviously stays mainstream and Irrulmism maintains a larger following for now. This also results in much new economic activity and trade, and will result in a flourishing of both economies in the future, although not yet. Relations and trade with Qera also continue to increase.
 * Xeran agrees to exchange maps with the scholars who come to the Library of Iskandaria
 * Sillan Republic: The expulsion of the Sillans from both Teninukal and peninsular Exhula (after an initially successful campaign) surprises Cabeza Qianlana and the Imperial Court, who have long been convinced of the Silla's innate military superiority. As a result, Cabeza Qianlana reluctantly agrees to a white peace. Cabeza Qianlana begins to implement a policy of literary inquisition (particularly repressing any criticism of the Cabeza) the mounting opposition within the bureaucracy. Meanwhile, the Irrulmians who have settled in Silla sent a petition to Daqing, requesting that their religion receives legal recognition and that their deities are added to the Grand Pantheon. The authorities agree, despite being aware of the strict monolatrism that the religion – which is mistakenly referred to as the "Cult of the Talking Cow" depends upon its followers. '''All city walls (consisting of rammed earth cores and brick exteriors) are annually maintained and reinforced, while an intricate system of canals and flattened dirt roads are constructed to facilitate transport. As part of a public health and sanitation campaign, extensive sewer and plumbing systems, latrines, and public baths (accompanied by evaporative coolers) are built in all major settlements – with water being supplied by a comprehensive system of aqueducts and minor water channels. Meanwhile, irrigation channels and groundwater-wells are built in agricultural lands to provide an ample supply of water and fertilizer (in the form of fish paste or bovine manure) to crops; thus resulting in high agricultural productivity. Excess produce is either sold to the market or is stored within town granaries to ensure food security. With heightened demand for consumer goods (both for domestic consumption and for export), many bloomeries and workshops are built – manufacturing a high quantity of textiles (silk and muslin cloth), ceramics (porcelain wares), luxury goods (jewelry), farm tools, and military arms (reflex bows, swords, polearms, and arrows). Regional economic specialization continues. Within Silla proper, rice and plantains are cultivated as staples; however, various exotic fruits, vegetables (turnips, radishes, cabbages, aquatic plants, soybeans), root crops (taro, yams, sweet potatoes) are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include tea, ginseng, hemp, and abaca; while other major industries include sericulture and beekeeping (to acquire honey and wax). The main diet in the Makuku region is similar. Economically, however, it specializes in the farming of ratites (specifically ostriches and rheas), and hunting of wild crocodiles and snake – all for the purpose of acquiring an alternative source of leather. Cash crops include various spices, sugarcane, cocoa, and tobacco. Within the Olmac region, the staples are radically different, consisting of millet, wheat, and maize (though the latter is more used as fodder). In addition, various berries and nuts, lentils, chickpeas, various beans, various gourds and squashes, and true potatoes are also cultivated and consumed. Cash crops include coffee, cotton, opiates and natural dyes (indigo and henna). Within marshes or near bodies of water, artificial islands are built and are planted with maize, squash, and beans – intercropped together to maximize agricultural yield. While each plot of land is small (less than a tenth of the hectare), it is capable of yielding seven harvests annually – enough to support a single household (assuming they utilize all produce for human consumption). In lower depths of water, however, deep-water rice varieties are cultivated. Finally, the areas of the lowest depths are reserved for farms raising fresh-water fish, mollusks (snails, clams), and crustaceans (shrimp, prawns, and crabs). In order to facilitate population growth, rapid southward expansion continues to acquire more arable land, raw materials, and to spread the gifts the civility through the assimilation of the barbarians.'''
 * Ri'Kiva: The fortress of Sud'Kivja continues to be expanded, with the state's resources being poured into making Sud'Kivja as difficult to siege as possible. A net-gate system is laid down, with iron netting blocking the river on command from the fort. More forts are built along the river, and supply caches are built inside the fortress. Evacuation infrastructure is also expanded, and grain is preserved in Ri'Kiva's citadel. Expansion continues in the peninsula, and colonies continue to expand, especially on So'dor and Kjv'arn. Exploration continues near Gahren and Kjv'arn. The strip of land between Ri'Kiva, Nithadia, and the Saemonites is settled.
 * Qaryaat: The newly captured colony of Gomis is renamed to its transliteration in the Qaryaati language, Kumiz. Reparations of the city begin after the war, and new sanitation systems initially built in Makra are also built there, as well as in Maqiri. Kumiz is subsequently subsequently transformed into a trading post in the trade with Solcia, Draka, and Benyisra. Scale armor is adopted, inspired by Kledesian armor. King Midhet sends an envoy through the Kledesian vassal kingdoms under Hythia to the Hythian kingdom declaring that he respects Hythia's rights in Kumiz as established by the older Gomis government. (HYTHIA RESPONSE NEEDED) Meanwhile, expansion in the other two territories is carried out as well. The colony of Maqiri expands southward to the boundary between the Mediterranean climate lands and the vast southern desert, and the main territory continues expanding along the southern coast of the Bay of Ghasir and begins expanding along the main trade route between Avsylann and Qaryaat. In both areas, settlers are sent to loosely-claimed territory to consolidate control over said territory. A colony is founded on the mouth of the Bizafir River. Meanwhile, exploration is done both along the coast north of the new colony of Bizafir and the strait/bay/whatever west of Nolossia (the southernmost of the Straits of Ceta?). A fortress is built on the tip of the Ghiqir Peninsula in case of Mohejaran raids. The new fortress is named Hisni-Mawan. Citrus fruits and sugarcane are increasingly cultivated in the mediterranean climate areas of Qaryaat, especially in the colonies of Kumiz, Maqiri, and Bizafir.
 * Hythian Response: We thank the Qyriaati for their generosity, but owing to the current state of war Hythia faces, no further contact is pursued for now.
 * Irian Culture: The Opal League is victorious in most of its engagements. Fighting on nearly flat terrain, Asymagos IV is able to match the Cledesians' cavalry ability at the decisive Battle of the Ludian Plain in 489. Following the battle, Corenia and Solcia recover their eastern territories and most of the Cledesians flee to Joredesh. Once the threat is removed, however, the three realms start bickering again.