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The Twentieth Thing of Rurik’s Reign – April 887 (a summary of advice from Chapter 50)
The Twentieth Thing of Rurik’s Reign – April 887 (a summary of advice from Chapter 50)
General
(Road of Queens in-joke there for those not familiar).
a lusty and stubborn stutterer
100 men had disappeared without explanation.
A week later, a letter arrived from his daughter Asa, now with her husband Nishkepaz at his father’s court in Yaroslavl. He had been appointed his father’s Diviner and was off hunting apostates of his heathen Finnish religion.
Gradimir persisted with his campaign against King Dyre during the bitter winter: Mozhaysk had been occupied and he was now besieging Bryansk, no doubt to persuade the Apostate to agree to a humiliating concession. Dyre now had a large complement of vassal allies, but they had not been observed in action: perhaps they were fighting the Poles in the west. Gradimir would be hoping that would keep them occupied for long enough for him to prosecute his own claim.
And in the south, Gradimir’s claim war proceeded well: he had occupied one of Dyre’s holdings in Bryansk and remained unthreatened as yet by any of Dyre’s troops. Meanwhile, the Apostate’s situation continued to get worse, with even more of his territory occupied by the Polish invaders in his western marches.
Hunter
I thought the passing of Rurik’s faithful old companion might strike a bit of a chord, as it did with me. Our animal companions can become very special for us and our families and it can be a hard thing when we must farewell them. I wish I could just go and get a replacement for Rurik (to perhaps warm that cold place in his heart again), but I guess I’d have to hope for another event, which I suspect is unlikely (although he is back on the hunting focus at the moment).
Ch50 Q1: Kezhevat. I’ll let the arcane Elective Gavelkind peculiarities slide by for now. My main question is, should Kezhevat meet an unfortunate accident before he can inherit the Jarldom, would that mean his sons would be (either likely or certainly) removed from or downgraded in the line of succession for the Jarldom? Elevating Nishkepaz to the top of the queue? Not to say Rurik would necessarily do that, but it could be an option. Though Kezhevat seems reasonably well disposed for now.
Stabbing is one option – or maybe Rurik (maybe Helgi by then) just lets things run if Kezhevat remains reasonably disposed, and just being happy that Nishkepaz inherits at least two Chiefdoms, meaning he will be quite powerful within the realm in comparative terms. Very few other lords control more than one county. Though that will change, of course, when elective gavelkind ruins Rurik’s current highly centralised set-up.
Will see what the game throws up as these different successions play out.
Ch50 Q2: War Terms. So can I assume that Saksa may have extracted reparations and that Dyre would have incurred a significant prestige loss for losing a Holy War? And despite having all that land occupied by Saksa, because there was no claim from Mari I suppose that meant he couldn’t claim a province by way of reparations?
Once again, thank you all for your excellent comments and informative advice. I’m sure there will be plenty of other readers gaining benefit, as well as your humble correspondent. Soon, I will return to the business of industrial-strength gold extraction from rich Mediterranean provinces (Viking style) and the rest of the realm management on the home front. Tally Ho!
General
Yes, only about my second freeloader I think. Although this one came as a family package deal – take one, get three free! No attack pugs yet, though
(Road of Queens in-joke there for those not familiar).a lusty and stubborn stutterer
I couldn’t leave her out of the narrative once I saw that! And with Alfgeir being a dwarf – but clearly a hardy soul who shrugged off a stabbing attack by a local Slav gang – it just reminded me of that bit out of Plains, Trains and Automobiles.
100 men had disappeared without explanation.
Not sure about the second part. On the distribution of these casualties, I’ll see if I can discern it via the screen shots.
A week later, a letter arrived from his daughter Asa, now with her husband Nishkepaz at his father’s court in Yaroslavl. He had been appointed his father’s Diviner and was off hunting apostates of his heathen Finnish religion.
I was hoping it might be of some marginal benefit, so included it for that reason – and because it showed the son-in-law gradually moving up in the world. Though being a Seer now in a heathen religion will make things difficult if they have a family feast day! Still, the two must co-exist in the realm, I suspect for decades or probably centuries to come.
Gradimir persisted with his campaign against King Dyre during the bitter winter: Mozhaysk had been occupied and he was now besieging Bryansk, no doubt to persuade the Apostate to agree to a humiliating concession. Dyre now had a large complement of vassal allies, but they had not been observed in action: perhaps they were fighting the Poles in the west. Gradimir would be hoping that would keep them occupied for long enough for him to prosecute his own claim.
And in the south, Gradimir’s claim war proceeded well: he had occupied one of Dyre’s holdings in Bryansk and remained unthreatened as yet by any of Dyre’s troops. Meanwhile, the Apostate’s situation continued to get worse, with even more of his territory occupied by the Polish invaders in his western marches.
I was surprised at how well he has done so far, even with those distractions, especially after the Mari war ended and Dyre recalled his vassals.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Hunter
RIP Hunter; such a faithful companion will be missed
And the most important thing that happened is the death of a dog
I thought the passing of Rurik’s faithful old companion might strike a bit of a chord, as it did with me. Our animal companions can become very special for us and our families and it can be a hard thing when we must farewell them. I wish I could just go and get a replacement for Rurik (to perhaps warm that cold place in his heart again), but I guess I’d have to hope for another event, which I suspect is unlikely (although he is back on the hunting focus at the moment).
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Ch50 Q1: Kezhevat. I’ll let the arcane Elective Gavelkind peculiarities slide by for now. My main question is, should Kezhevat meet an unfortunate accident before he can inherit the Jarldom, would that mean his sons would be (either likely or certainly) removed from or downgraded in the line of succession for the Jarldom? Elevating Nishkepaz to the top of the queue? Not to say Rurik would necessarily do that, but it could be an option. Though Kezhevat seems reasonably well disposed for now.
Damn those Karlings!
Stabbing is one option – or maybe Rurik (maybe Helgi by then) just lets things run if Kezhevat remains reasonably disposed, and just being happy that Nishkepaz inherits at least two Chiefdoms, meaning he will be quite powerful within the realm in comparative terms. Very few other lords control more than one county. Though that will change, of course, when elective gavelkind ruins Rurik’s current highly centralised set-up.I’ll bear this other path in mind, whether in this case or in the future. For now, that hard-won raiding money is probably more likely to be used for building a bit taller in the central crown lands and keeping some in reserve for emergency mercenary hire. But it’s good to know the alternatives re these pesky elections (sounds rather modern – using money to rig elections).
Nor can I!
Will see what the game throws up as these different successions play out.Interesting. I think prestige does have a fair bit to do with it, as does support of the current ruler in question. Will see what can be done to boost Nishkepaz a little. Maybe even some minor title that confers a bit of monthly presitige, next time one comes up.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Ch50 Q2: War Terms. So can I assume that Saksa may have extracted reparations and that Dyre would have incurred a significant prestige loss for losing a Holy War? And despite having all that land occupied by Saksa, because there was no claim from Mari I suppose that meant he couldn’t claim a province by way of reparations?
Yes, Saksa being the winning defender was the basis of my assumption he got no land out of it, despite occupying plenty. Happy to see those Orthodox Christians lose some moral authority, too. Rurik certainly doesn’t want them spreading, nor to become a target of one of their Holy Wars himself.
Saksa may well want to take some of Dyre's eastern counties of him – I think at least one of which is in his de jure realm.
All noted. In this case, Dyre is the top liege. It will depend on whether/for how long Saksa retains his event troops that made the victory possible.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Once again, thank you all for your excellent comments and informative advice. I’m sure there will be plenty of other readers gaining benefit, as well as your humble correspondent. Soon, I will return to the business of industrial-strength gold extraction from rich Mediterranean provinces (Viking style) and the rest of the realm management on the home front. Tally Ho!
George Pendragon had three at once (no limit to event firing). Then again, his family do nothing by half.
I must say HOI4 has a better tutorial than ckii having played both now. Mind you, theyre only 3 expansions into hoi, rsther than a dozen.
However, it doesnt explain the production system or logistics (i.e. the things that win modern wars). I'm gonna be on a steep learning curve, i think.
Here's hoping Rurik can get another dog - fingers crossed.
Good luck with HOI4. I'll be interested in your verdict on the game once you've had a chance to play it (and untainted by having played HOI3). Do let us know when your proposed AAR cranks up!
Good luck with HOI4. I'll be interested in your verdict on the game once you've had a chance to play it (and untainted by having played HOI3). Do let us know when your proposed AAR cranks up!
Well if you were to look upon my signature right now...it's the third one down
Thus far...HOI4 is quite good but annoying as well. I'm coming at it from a different viewpoint than a fan of HOI games. I'm coming in based off of all their really open world strategy sandboxes where tou can do an awful lot to cahnhe each game you play everytime you play it.
HOI is not that. Its more like a chess puzzle challange from a newspaper. Here's this scenario: solve x for y. Historical mode off probably does help but from what ive seen so fsr, the gresr powers at least are constrained by their options and resources and focus trees to basicslly do what theu did otl...which makes sense since its a very good simulation of that time period. However, that also means that little would change between play sessions.
I do think that the ai might change that when the war actually starts though? And if every country had a proper focus tree with a couple of good options the game would go off in random directions quite quickly. As of now however the novelty of the new game means this doesnt bother me too much.
The garuntee mechanic is the only thing i despise right now because it is awful. If i can find a cheesy gamey way to get around it i will, cos right now it's a game halter.
Aha, I will tune in to the new HOI4 adventure soon.
All: Chapter 51 is done, just need to publish it, should be done in the next hour or so!
Chapter 51: Weddings, Wars and Warlocks (16 April – 5 July 887)
Chapter 51: Weddings, Wars and Warlocks (16 April – 5 July 887)
Previously, on Blut und Schlacht … The latest Great Raid to the Mediterranean is in full swing; King Dyre ‘the Filthy Apostate’ has conceded his Holy War against Saksa the Monster of Mari, but still remains beset by border claim wars by greedy neighbouring chieftains; Ferverdyn the Simple still languishes in prison, his fate undetermined; and Rurik’s second son Eilif (and eldest by the current Queen), while ‘not the sharpest tool in the set’, had come of age and marriage prospects are being sought.
April 887
As the latest Þing concluded, Rurik took stock of his current position. He noted that his base levy continued to build nicely, as did his new Housecarl Retinue. The recent crushing of revolts seemed to have calmed the countryside down to a fair degree, though some hot spots of peasant unrest might still break out. He noted that his ambition of peace and prosperity for the realm had one more year to run before it came to fruition.
But after that, he planned to return to a gradual expansion of his borders: perhaps in Finland, to build on what he had so far and push Garðarikian influence further west towards the Germanic Holy Sites. That truce with Kaleva would run out in around a year too … or perhaps he could look at one of the other small Chiefdoms in that region.
And there was still the need to find a match for Eilif. Hrörekr was directed to look for likely prospects, either at or near marriageable age. And perhaps with some claim to her name that might be useful in the future, without binding them to a non-aggression pact that could prove inconvenient.
As this was looked into, another thought crossed Rurik’s mind: he noted in his journal that it might be possible to set Eilif up as a mercenary captain: it would cost some gold to establish, but then should gather revenue over time. And make a man of the lad. He asked Helgi to look into that possibility.
Chancellor Hrörekr, always prepared, returned later that night with a suggested match for young Prince Eilif.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
A week later, Prince Helgi brought some military updates on nearby conflicts. One was new and potentially of concern to Garðariki.
On 29 April, Gumarich archived a very felicitous letter received that day from King Rögnvaldr of Ostlandet: the betrothal between Eilif and Ingrid was agreed. She was nearly 16, according to a note on the letter in Gumarich’s hand: a wedding should be possible quite soon.
Meanwhile, the raiders arrived in the Gulf of Taranto on 30 April: they decided to once again raid Rhegion. The plunder should be good; it was the young Doux’s capital so he would not be able to call up his main levy; and it was far enough away from the crossing point at the Strait of Otranto (through Brendeseon) to give warning of any large force the irate Basileos was bound to send eventually to eject the raiders.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
May 887
It was a rich dress, imported from Denmark through one of the Baltic trading posts, so Rurik recorded in his personal journal.
The next to call on the King that morning was Alfgeir, the old Steward.
The raiders were fully ashore in Rhegion by 8 May and began lifting valuables immediately. The old hands even remembered previous locations - and hiding places. It took three weeks for Doux Stephanos’ other county to raise its levy – by which time half the easily-found gold was already aboard the ships. Fortunately for the Calabrians, the raiders were not interested in needless combat. This long raiding expedition would wear down their numbers through gradual attrition, if nothing else. No need to add to it. Scouts were however posted to watch Brendesion for any Byzantine relief force. They would no doubt be more heavily armed than the raiders and there was no desire to tangle with them.
Beginning on May 29 and ending on June 1, five of the Marian vassals of Saksa the Monster accepted his call to arms for the war on the Pechenegs. Similar reports were not received for Yazi’s (two) vassals, as agents had not be assigned to monitor him, an oversight that was later rectified. [Because he was a new High Chief, I had neglected to tag him yet as a character of interest.]
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
June 887
The next child of the royal family to come to early adolescence was Helgi’s eldest son (and heir apparent) Buðli. He was a promising young man, with an affectionate and curious nature. Combined, these meant he had promise as a diplomat, negotiator and – as a possible future king – leader. Rurik’s grandson would pursue a diplomatic education.
That same day, Ingrid Haraldrsdottir turned 16. The agreed betrothal had come due: Rurik wrote to Rögnvaldr immediately to propose its confirmation, confident of a positive response. Interestingly, the Queen’s ‘sources’ in the Ostlandet court reported Ingrid disdained Rögnvaldr – not just because of her claim, but also due to a matching ambition. She was also highly intelligent and accomplished and had become a formidable young woman on maturity. Were Eilif ever to sit upon a throne (whether a Jarl’s or even a King’s) she would be the power behind it. She was a great catch in that sense. She had a mildly negative opinion of Rurik, but that should change (positively, it was hoped) with familiarity.
A little later that month, Helgi came bearing a heavily annotated and quite complicated map. It covered the current situation in Könugarðr.
On 10 June 887, the rigmarole of letter exchanges was finally over and Ingrid arrived at the court in Nygarðr. The ceremony was held straight away. Even at this early stage, Ingrid had developed a decent enough relationship with her new father-in-law, despite a few ‘issues’ the young woman had with the old king [ie him being ‘gelded’ and the resultant ‘lunacy’]. In time, her relationship with her new husband would become clearer [ie I haven’t checked that yet – will do eventually]. Rurik himself enjoyed the ceremony and was quite taken with his new daughter-in-law, who was a bright, strong and generally impressive young woman.
By month’s end, things began suddenly moving in southern Italia. A fairly large and well-armed Byzantine host (with many heavy infantry, pikemen and light cavalry) had made the crossing to Brendesion and was now heading towards the raiders. A force like that (again smaller in size than the Vikings but more heavily armed) had done for the previous raid in Italia many years ago – to Rurik’s personal expense and shame. With all the easily portable gold just now plundered from Rhegion, the same mistake would not be made twice! The treasure chests were loaded and the troops followed in the next week. To Hrolfr's relief, no men had been lost to mysterious causes during this latest part of the raid.
July 887
The men were loaded back on the boats by 5 July, at which point the commanders met to plot their next move. The ships were a quarter full of treasure – but were not expected to come back completely full. The troops would be needed back home again in due course. Hrolfr, Þorsteinn and Sverker agreed to convene a meeting of the ships’ captains and the other two commanders present that evening (old Svetozar the Holy and Snorri were also along commanding two of the larger regiments) to decide whether they should make for the other small Italian independent realms, to far Tangier – or perhaps even back home.
Helgi presented Rurik another quick update on Gradimir’s campaign in early July. Tver's army (still commanded by Fedot) was now in Vyazma and heading back home to Tver, presumably to rally. A sizeable host made up of Dyre’s vassals would soon arrive in Mohaysk – whether to retake it (logical, it being the focus of the claim) or to pass through and then take the fight to Tver - was uncertain. In any case, it looked like Dyre was willing (or felt compelled, anyway) to fix his plight here, even while the west of his realm continued to suffer under the heel of enemy occupation.
Looking at the map reminded Rurik of young Grimr. His most reliable (to date) vassal had come of age a year of so back. He asked for a report on his progress.
At this point, Helgi resumed his reporting, though Hrörekr stayed to offer diplomatic advice.
Questions
A decent array of questions this time, both technical and strategic, for the Þing to consider.
Ch51 Q1: Assemble Mercenary Company. This is something I hadn’t noticed before and don’t recall seeing written up in any AAR I’ve followed. Any advice on how this tends to pan out and/or thoughts on the pros and cons in this case? Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary? Is it a reasonable earner? Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained. And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
Ch51 Q2: Ostlandet Succession. Not really a specific question, but if anyone has any knowledge or views on that serpentine Ostlandet succession mess and how the Suðreyjar connection works with Ostlandet (is it some Norwegian or Ynglyng factor?), then it would make an interesting diversion. I looked at it, thought it should make sense, but could not quite work out how!
Ch51 Q3: Raiding Options. Happy to take any views or suggestions here. The original plan was basically to next hit a few of the southern Italian minor states, before deciding whether to try for Tangier. Probably not ready to go home yet – though it would be good to have the troops back in time for the end of the ‘five-year peace plan’ in April 888. If you want a reminder of what each of the prospective targets offers, see the analysis in Chapter 49.
Ch51 Q4: Mari-Pecheneg War. Pretty much as Rurik has asked above: if Saksa looks like winning, should be just cut our losses, call off the betrothal and hope an expanded Mari realm falls apart later? Or should an intervention be seriously considered? Even before the expiry of the five year period in about ten months’ time, when the war may already be decided. Early action would probably mean a very fast carrier pigeon being despatched the the Gulf of Taranto, summoning the fleet home (which would take a few months).
Epilogue
The Oracle seems neither alive nor dead and inhabits the margin between this world and that of the Gods. Currently on a soothsaying tour of the Norse realms – appearing for one Þing only in Nygarðr.
Previously, on Blut und Schlacht … The latest Great Raid to the Mediterranean is in full swing; King Dyre ‘the Filthy Apostate’ has conceded his Holy War against Saksa the Monster of Mari, but still remains beset by border claim wars by greedy neighbouring chieftains; Ferverdyn the Simple still languishes in prison, his fate undetermined; and Rurik’s second son Eilif (and eldest by the current Queen), while ‘not the sharpest tool in the set’, had come of age and marriage prospects are being sought.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
April 887
As the latest Þing concluded, Rurik took stock of his current position. He noted that his base levy continued to build nicely, as did his new Housecarl Retinue. The recent crushing of revolts seemed to have calmed the countryside down to a fair degree, though some hot spots of peasant unrest might still break out. He noted that his ambition of peace and prosperity for the realm had one more year to run before it came to fruition.
But after that, he planned to return to a gradual expansion of his borders: perhaps in Finland, to build on what he had so far and push Garðarikian influence further west towards the Germanic Holy Sites. That truce with Kaleva would run out in around a year too … or perhaps he could look at one of the other small Chiefdoms in that region.
And there was still the need to find a match for Eilif. Hrörekr was directed to look for likely prospects, either at or near marriageable age. And perhaps with some claim to her name that might be useful in the future, without binding them to a non-aggression pact that could prove inconvenient.
Ch51 Q1: Assemble Mercenary Company. This is something I hadn’t noticed before and don’t recall seeing written up in any AAR I’ve followed. Any advice on how this tends to pan out and/or thoughts on the pros and cons in this case? Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary? Is it a reasonable earner? Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained. And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
Chancellor Hrörekr, always prepared, returned later that night with a suggested match for young Prince Eilif.
“My Liege, I have consulted my archives and have come up with someone I believe would be a good match for the Prince.”
“Do tell me, Hrörekr.”
After the excitement of the busy day, Rurik was looking somewhat melancholy again by the late evening. Hrörekr confided in Gumarich der Schreiber that he thought his ‘episodes’ had become a little more pronounced since the passing of Hunter. Possibly just a coincidence, but worrying nonetheless.
“I have in mind Ingrid Haraldrsdottir. Daughter of the former King Harald the Fair of Ostlandet, who died of scurvy around five years ago. She was the eldest of two daughters. There were no sons and Harald had no living brother when he died.”
“Do tell me, Hrörekr.”
After the excitement of the busy day, Rurik was looking somewhat melancholy again by the late evening. Hrörekr confided in Gumarich der Schreiber that he thought his ‘episodes’ had become a little more pronounced since the passing of Hunter. Possibly just a coincidence, but worrying nonetheless.
“I have in mind Ingrid Haraldrsdottir. Daughter of the former King Harald the Fair of Ostlandet, who died of scurvy around five years ago. She was the eldest of two daughters. There were no sons and Harald had no living brother when he died.”
“Harald’s father, King Halfdan III, had a brother, Olafr, who is still alive. He is Marshal to King Guðfrið of Suðreyjar, over in Scotland – the son of the Boneless himself. The current king of Ostlandet, Rögnvaldr, is this Olafr’s son. How Rögnvaldr became king and not his father is unknown – it must have been something among the electors.”
Gumarich recorded that Rurik’s eyes began to glaze a little at this point, but he manfully tried to follow the Chancellors exposition.
“And then things get even more complicated and unknowable. Rögnvaldr’s current heir is another Yngling, but one from the Suðreyjar branch, despite the fact Rögnvaldr has two sons. This Öysteinn is no relation to the Boneless – his father (a different Olafr) was Chief of Dubhlin. And he is of no known close relation to Halfdan III. Furthermore, there is a wide range of possible pretenders with support among Ostlandet’s electors, so it is not certain who would actually inherit - or what they would inherit.”
Gumarich recorded that Rurik’s eyes began to glaze a little at this point, but he manfully tried to follow the Chancellors exposition.
“And then things get even more complicated and unknowable. Rögnvaldr’s current heir is another Yngling, but one from the Suðreyjar branch, despite the fact Rögnvaldr has two sons. This Öysteinn is no relation to the Boneless – his father (a different Olafr) was Chief of Dubhlin. And he is of no known close relation to Halfdan III. Furthermore, there is a wide range of possible pretenders with support among Ostlandet’s electors, so it is not certain who would actually inherit - or what they would inherit.”
“Suffice it to say, My Liege, Ingrid brings with her a marginal claim to the throne of Ostlandet. Maybe one day, that might come in handy to us. Especially as they own one of the Holy Sites. And seem to have a very confusing succession system and current hierarchy – even stranger than ours! And in the meantime, it brings no treaty entanglements either. Leaving our hands free should something more – stringent – be required regarding Ostlandet.”
“Ah, hmm, yes, right, Hrörekr. Of course. Just make the arrangements! I will tell Eilif of his impending marriage in the morning.”
“Ah, hmm, yes, right, Hrörekr. Of course. Just make the arrangements! I will tell Eilif of his impending marriage in the morning.”
“At once, My Liege!”
Ch51 Q2: Ostlandet Succession. Not really a specific question, but if anyone has any knowledge or views on that serpentine Ostlandet succession mess and how the Suðreyjar connection works with Ostlandet (is it some Norwegian or Ynglyng factor?), then it would make an interesting diversion. I looked at it, thought it should make sense, but could not quite work out how!
“Oh, and let the jailer know that I wish to relax Ferverdyn’s conditions – officially, let us have in in house arrest. I’m still considering what should become of him.”
“Of course, My Liege.”
“Of course, My Liege.”
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
A week later, Prince Helgi brought some military updates on nearby conflicts. One was new and potentially of concern to Garðariki.
“Father, Saksa the Monster of Mari has launched a war to subjugate the Pechenegs!”
“He certainly is an expansive leader. Technically, I can admire and respect that, but practically I don’t like it at all.”
“He certainly is an expansive leader. Technically, I can admire and respect that, but practically I don’t like it at all.”
“What is the military situation?”
“Well, as we had hoped, Saksa seems to have lost his additional war bands after the peace with Dyre. He is back to a more ‘normal’ army strength – and at this stage we don’t believe he can summon any more. He hasn’t called his vassals to war yet but almost certainly will, so he will be able to field a lot more than the about 1,200 men he commands personally.”
“That is something of a relief. What of the Pechenegs? Iliana’s betrothed, young Bayça of Saray, is one of the Chiefs there now, I hear.”
“Yes, they have a new High Chief, Yazi. He has two tribal vassals, including his brother Bayça, that he can call on - which we assume he will. No mercenaries or holy warriors available, by the looks of it. And Yazi only has around 320-odd men to his name personally.”
“Well, as we had hoped, Saksa seems to have lost his additional war bands after the peace with Dyre. He is back to a more ‘normal’ army strength – and at this stage we don’t believe he can summon any more. He hasn’t called his vassals to war yet but almost certainly will, so he will be able to field a lot more than the about 1,200 men he commands personally.”
“That is something of a relief. What of the Pechenegs? Iliana’s betrothed, young Bayça of Saray, is one of the Chiefs there now, I hear.”
“Yes, they have a new High Chief, Yazi. He has two tribal vassals, including his brother Bayça, that he can call on - which we assume he will. No mercenaries or holy warriors available, by the looks of it. And Yazi only has around 320-odd men to his name personally.”
“They are going to struggle at this rate Helgi, but it may take Saksa quite some time to win this war. I hope something can be done: Bayça is, for now, Yazi’s heir. We really don’t want to see Mari get any bigger or more powerful, or Bayça made a vassal of Saksa!”
“I will keep an eye on things, father, but for now there is not a lot we can do.”
“Right. What of Könugarðr?”
“I just have a quick report on Gradimir’s claim war for Mohaysk. Dyre’s vassals are staring to appear – a small contingent is trying to retake Mohaysk while the Tverians besiege the second holding in Bryansk. And as far as I know, Dyre still does poorly in the west.”
“I will keep an eye on things, father, but for now there is not a lot we can do.”
“Right. What of Könugarðr?”
“I just have a quick report on Gradimir’s claim war for Mohaysk. Dyre’s vassals are staring to appear – a small contingent is trying to retake Mohaysk while the Tverians besiege the second holding in Bryansk. And as far as I know, Dyre still does poorly in the west.”
“So be it. Keep me informed of developments – both these wars are of direct interest to us.”
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On 29 April, Gumarich archived a very felicitous letter received that day from King Rögnvaldr of Ostlandet: the betrothal between Eilif and Ingrid was agreed. She was nearly 16, according to a note on the letter in Gumarich’s hand: a wedding should be possible quite soon.
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May 887
“Ulfhildr, you are really growing into a young woman now. Betrothed as you are to the King of Sviþjod, and given your nature, I think it wise you be educated in the ways of intrigue. These foreign courts can be viper’s nests. Learn your lessons well – you may be called upon to implement them in barely four years from now.”
“Oh, Dada, of course I will,” she replied coquettishly. “But will I have to put up with that smelly old snoop Björn the Odorous for my lessons, with Mama away?”
“I’m afraid so, my sweet. Employ a nosegay if you must! It is for the best. Now here is you birthday gift.”
“Oh, Dada, of course I will,” she replied coquettishly. “But will I have to put up with that smelly old snoop Björn the Odorous for my lessons, with Mama away?”
“I’m afraid so, my sweet. Employ a nosegay if you must! It is for the best. Now here is you birthday gift.”
It was a rich dress, imported from Denmark through one of the Baltic trading posts, so Rurik recorded in his personal journal.
“Alfgeir, I see you’ve recovered quite well from your wounds.”
“That I have, thank you. I am about my normal duties anyway if not yet fully healed – still trying to introduce our settlers into these Slavic lands.”
“Good, good. While you’re at it, I’d like you to continue the development of our core Holmgarðian counties. I want a new market village in Toropets and a weaponsmith in Ladoga.”
“I will see to it at once, My King. We have sufficient funds for the village and your prestige will attract an excellent weaponsmith to Ladoga. The current raid should replenish those monetary and reputational reserves somewhat, too.”
“That I have, thank you. I am about my normal duties anyway if not yet fully healed – still trying to introduce our settlers into these Slavic lands.”
“Good, good. While you’re at it, I’d like you to continue the development of our core Holmgarðian counties. I want a new market village in Toropets and a weaponsmith in Ladoga.”
“I will see to it at once, My King. We have sufficient funds for the village and your prestige will attract an excellent weaponsmith to Ladoga. The current raid should replenish those monetary and reputational reserves somewhat, too.”
“Excellent. I will see you at the dinner tonight I have arranged. Bring your daughter too – I haven’t forgotten about finding a match for our esteemed Court Dwarf.”
“As you say, King Rurik.” Alfgeir was about to excuse himself but hesitated “Are you quite all right, My King? You’re looking a little, ah, upset. Perhaps a bit worn out?”
“It has been a busy day of court business. I am tired.” Rurik paused to look over to where Hunter was wont to lie at his master’s feet, always ready to jump up and comfort him when he appeared lonely. Now, just an old lead hanging on a hook in the corner was all that remained of his faithful old friend.
“A few horns tonight and I’m sure I will be fine.” His brusque manner belied an inner torment. But he was determined to tamp down any melancholy or – worse – lunacy, for the good of the realm.
“As you say, King Rurik.” Alfgeir was about to excuse himself but hesitated “Are you quite all right, My King? You’re looking a little, ah, upset. Perhaps a bit worn out?”
“It has been a busy day of court business. I am tired.” Rurik paused to look over to where Hunter was wont to lie at his master’s feet, always ready to jump up and comfort him when he appeared lonely. Now, just an old lead hanging on a hook in the corner was all that remained of his faithful old friend.
“A few horns tonight and I’m sure I will be fine.” His brusque manner belied an inner torment. But he was determined to tamp down any melancholy or – worse – lunacy, for the good of the realm.
The guests were assembled and the food was abundant. Ale, mead and even stronger drink flowed freely.
Gumarich noted in his confidential diary that the King was well into his cups that night, loosening his inhibitions and – it seemed – his hard-fought control. One minute he was laughing and joking, the next he was staring out the window. At the full moon. His face fell, his teeth bared, and then …
Funds were spent this day on a market place and prestige on a weaponsmith - plus a small Goods and Lunacy Prestige Tax!
… the guests were mystified and a little put out when the King disappeared so suddenly and without explanation. A few rumours spread around, though nothing catastrophic for the King’s dignity. The guards tried to calm Rurik down and get him to bed – barring the door and battening the windows, just in case.
[Comment: I guess they call it lunacy in-game for a reason! I was worried here for a moment that he might have been turning into a werewolf, though had assumed that would only be a ‘thing’ if he had joined the Fellowship of Hel! I’m hoping there isn’t too much more of this behaviour - or worse.]
Gumarich noted in his confidential diary that the King was well into his cups that night, loosening his inhibitions and – it seemed – his hard-fought control. One minute he was laughing and joking, the next he was staring out the window. At the full moon. His face fell, his teeth bared, and then …
Funds were spent this day on a market place and prestige on a weaponsmith - plus a small Goods and Lunacy Prestige Tax!
[Comment: I guess they call it lunacy in-game for a reason! I was worried here for a moment that he might have been turning into a werewolf, though had assumed that would only be a ‘thing’ if he had joined the Fellowship of Hel! I’m hoping there isn’t too much more of this behaviour - or worse.]
The raiders were fully ashore in Rhegion by 8 May and began lifting valuables immediately. The old hands even remembered previous locations - and hiding places. It took three weeks for Doux Stephanos’ other county to raise its levy – by which time half the easily-found gold was already aboard the ships. Fortunately for the Calabrians, the raiders were not interested in needless combat. This long raiding expedition would wear down their numbers through gradual attrition, if nothing else. No need to add to it. Scouts were however posted to watch Brendesion for any Byzantine relief force. They would no doubt be more heavily armed than the raiders and there was no desire to tangle with them.
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June 887
The next child of the royal family to come to early adolescence was Helgi’s eldest son (and heir apparent) Buðli. He was a promising young man, with an affectionate and curious nature. Combined, these meant he had promise as a diplomat, negotiator and – as a possible future king – leader. Rurik’s grandson would pursue a diplomatic education.
“Father, this may look a bit ‘busy’ to start with, but I will talk you through it and leave it with you so you can study it in more detail if you wish.”
“You’re very methodical with these things Helgi – a good quality in a Marshal – and a King.”
“You’re very methodical with these things Helgi – a good quality in a Marshal – and a King.”
“Thank you,” a small word of praise from Rurik to his son was like a paean from any other. “First, closest to home: Gradimir. He has recently been defeated in battle by a somewhat larger host of Dyre’s vassals in Bryansk. But he had succeeded in besieging and occupying both holdings there before that defeat. And he still holds Mohaysk – for now, anyway. His main host is currently in a panicked retreat, heading for Vyazma. The balance of the war remains in Gradimir’s favour, but well short of what he needs to force the concession from Dyre and his luck may now have run out.”
“Next, in the west, Dyre is in a bad position – worse than before. Chief Spera of Vilnius has now launched a claim war as well and has already occupied holdings in south-western Könugarðr, including Dyre’s own keep in the capital.”
“Like a crow pecking at the wounded man on the battlefield, impatient to feed before the others have eaten the best bits!”
“Quite, father. Narvait of Latgale was the first claimant and he is doing quite well. He has a large host that includes additional adventurers, controls three counties in the north-west will be hard for Dyre to defeat, one would presume.”
“Finally, the most successful of the claimants so far is Bronislav of Peremyshl: the Pole has occupied holdings in four of Dyre’s provinces and is a long way along the path to forcing him to concede, to win his claim on Vladimir Volysnky.”
“What a mess Dyre finds himself in. He should have stayed true to the Old Gods! I have half a mind to look there myself next year. Or maybe it might fall to you in later years, Helgi. So much to do, but it all takes time and men.”
“In the meantime, we must manage our own affairs well enough not to fall into a similar vulnerable position. May Odin grant us the wisdom to steer a true path!”
“Well said, Helgi, well said!”
“Next, in the west, Dyre is in a bad position – worse than before. Chief Spera of Vilnius has now launched a claim war as well and has already occupied holdings in south-western Könugarðr, including Dyre’s own keep in the capital.”
“Like a crow pecking at the wounded man on the battlefield, impatient to feed before the others have eaten the best bits!”
“Quite, father. Narvait of Latgale was the first claimant and he is doing quite well. He has a large host that includes additional adventurers, controls three counties in the north-west will be hard for Dyre to defeat, one would presume.”
“Finally, the most successful of the claimants so far is Bronislav of Peremyshl: the Pole has occupied holdings in four of Dyre’s provinces and is a long way along the path to forcing him to concede, to win his claim on Vladimir Volysnky.”
“What a mess Dyre finds himself in. He should have stayed true to the Old Gods! I have half a mind to look there myself next year. Or maybe it might fall to you in later years, Helgi. So much to do, but it all takes time and men.”
“In the meantime, we must manage our own affairs well enough not to fall into a similar vulnerable position. May Odin grant us the wisdom to steer a true path!”
“Well said, Helgi, well said!”
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On 10 June 887, the rigmarole of letter exchanges was finally over and Ingrid arrived at the court in Nygarðr. The ceremony was held straight away. Even at this early stage, Ingrid had developed a decent enough relationship with her new father-in-law, despite a few ‘issues’ the young woman had with the old king [ie him being ‘gelded’ and the resultant ‘lunacy’]. In time, her relationship with her new husband would become clearer [ie I haven’t checked that yet – will do eventually]. Rurik himself enjoyed the ceremony and was quite taken with his new daughter-in-law, who was a bright, strong and generally impressive young woman.
Per @diskoerekto's previous question, the losses seem to have been spread among contingents and troop types. Strengths from earlier:
They look like combat related casualties to me: even though I have the commanders 'tagged' for events, maybe they just don't report those little siege sorties and raids?
They look like combat related casualties to me: even though I have the commanders 'tagged' for events, maybe they just don't report those little siege sorties and raids?
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July 887
The men were loaded back on the boats by 5 July, at which point the commanders met to plot their next move. The ships were a quarter full of treasure – but were not expected to come back completely full. The troops would be needed back home again in due course. Hrolfr, Þorsteinn and Sverker agreed to convene a meeting of the ships’ captains and the other two commanders present that evening (old Svetozar the Holy and Snorri were also along commanding two of the larger regiments) to decide whether they should make for the other small Italian independent realms, to far Tangier – or perhaps even back home.
Ch51 Q3: Raiding Options. Happy to take any views or suggestions here. The original plan was basically to next hit a few of the southern Italian minor states, before deciding whether to try for Tangier. Probably not ready to go home yet – though it would be good to have the troops back in time for the end of the ‘five-year peace plan’ in April 888. If you want a reminder of what each of the prospective targets offers, see the analysis in Chapter 49.
Helgi presented Rurik another quick update on Gradimir’s campaign in early July. Tver's army (still commanded by Fedot) was now in Vyazma and heading back home to Tver, presumably to rally. A sizeable host made up of Dyre’s vassals would soon arrive in Mohaysk – whether to retake it (logical, it being the focus of the claim) or to pass through and then take the fight to Tver - was uncertain. In any case, it looked like Dyre was willing (or felt compelled, anyway) to fix his plight here, even while the west of his realm continued to suffer under the heel of enemy occupation.
“Hmm,” replied Helgi, in a somewhat uncomfortable and non-committal manner.
“Well, out with it, son!” prompted Rurik as the silence lengthened.
“Perhaps it would be best if Hrörekr explained.”
Rurik shrugged, now getting a little uneasy. The venerable Chancellor was summoned.
“So, what is it my son does not wish to tell me himself?”
“Chief Grimr remains loyal, My Liege, but perhaps with not the same, ah, enthusiasm of old.”
“And why is that?” Chancellor Hrörekr,
“Ah, My Liege, I will put it as delicately as I can. Let me just observe that in the year since his majority, Grimr has manifested the same personal proclivities as Gradimir of Tver.”
Old Hrörekr blushed a little, so Gumarich observed in his diary: for him it was not just about who Grimr sought intimate companionship from. It was the discomfort caused by the reasons for his antipathy towards the king: his enforced castration and the ensuing ‘lunacy’ it had caused. These were deeply painful issues for Rurik, and he knew the king had been a little more prone to instability in recent weeks.
“I see. Another old affection, if not gone, then at least not what it used to be. I will not be bitter and I don’t care what he gets up to down in his own keep. But he is a lone Germanic outpost down there. I’ll not have him shirk his marital duties.”
“Indeed, My Liege. I think I might have a solution for two outstanding issues. Ingrid Alfgeirsdottir came of age recently and is desirous of a match. And despite his preferences, Grimr is likely to agree to do his duty. He still does respect you highly My Liege and Ingrid, despite her short stature, is a very suitable match. Perhaps they will learn to make it work together.”
“You’re right, by the Gods! The Court Dwarf will have her match – a landed Norse Chief, no less! Old Alfgeir will be pleased. Well, mainly. I hope.”
“Well, out with it, son!” prompted Rurik as the silence lengthened.
“Perhaps it would be best if Hrörekr explained.”
Rurik shrugged, now getting a little uneasy. The venerable Chancellor was summoned.
“So, what is it my son does not wish to tell me himself?”
“Chief Grimr remains loyal, My Liege, but perhaps with not the same, ah, enthusiasm of old.”
“And why is that?” Chancellor Hrörekr,
“Ah, My Liege, I will put it as delicately as I can. Let me just observe that in the year since his majority, Grimr has manifested the same personal proclivities as Gradimir of Tver.”
Old Hrörekr blushed a little, so Gumarich observed in his diary: for him it was not just about who Grimr sought intimate companionship from. It was the discomfort caused by the reasons for his antipathy towards the king: his enforced castration and the ensuing ‘lunacy’ it had caused. These were deeply painful issues for Rurik, and he knew the king had been a little more prone to instability in recent weeks.
“I see. Another old affection, if not gone, then at least not what it used to be. I will not be bitter and I don’t care what he gets up to down in his own keep. But he is a lone Germanic outpost down there. I’ll not have him shirk his marital duties.”
“Indeed, My Liege. I think I might have a solution for two outstanding issues. Ingrid Alfgeirsdottir came of age recently and is desirous of a match. And despite his preferences, Grimr is likely to agree to do his duty. He still does respect you highly My Liege and Ingrid, despite her short stature, is a very suitable match. Perhaps they will learn to make it work together.”
“You’re right, by the Gods! The Court Dwarf will have her match – a landed Norse Chief, no less! Old Alfgeir will be pleased. Well, mainly. I hope.”
“The Mari-Pecheneg war seems to still move slowly, father. Neither side has gained an advantage over the other as yet. Saksa has five vassal allies mustered, while Yazi has two, including young Bayça. We will continue to watch developments as best we can.”
“That Saksa is indeed a ‘Monster’. I wouldn't mind taking him down a peg or two.”
“But not yet perhaps, My Liege,” observed the Chancellor. “Perhaps later, when our period of peace and consolidation is done. Or if, Gods forbid, Mari takes a predominant position in the war. sooner than that.”
“A balancing act. When the time comes, I want advice on a possible case for war against Saksa.”
“Father, Hrörekr and I have discussed this. First, we cannot really explore any options easily as the levy is mustered for the raid and no declaration of war can be made. But we did think, when the time came, and in the absence of a better or more sweeping casus belli, a claim on one of our de jure kingdom counties Saksa controls along our border would give us sufficient reason – and reward – for a war on the Monster.”
“But not yet perhaps, My Liege,” observed the Chancellor. “Perhaps later, when our period of peace and consolidation is done. Or if, Gods forbid, Mari takes a predominant position in the war. sooner than that.”
“A balancing act. When the time comes, I want advice on a possible case for war against Saksa.”
“Father, Hrörekr and I have discussed this. First, we cannot really explore any options easily as the levy is mustered for the raid and no declaration of war can be made. But we did think, when the time came, and in the absence of a better or more sweeping casus belli, a claim on one of our de jure kingdom counties Saksa controls along our border would give us sufficient reason – and reward – for a war on the Monster.”
“Our levy base now exceeds three thousand men and, if needed, your prestige is such as to allow another tribal conquest host to be assembled. And there may be years of work for it afterwards around the periphery of the realm.”
“Good points, Helgi. This will bear watching. I’d value the views of the Þing on this question too. Not just on these longer-term musings, but also whether a quick turn for the worse in Saksa’s favour should make us consider an early intervention to help save the Pechenegs from the Monster’s tyranny - and the ruin of that proposed match with Bayça. I’d not let Iliana go to become the wife of the vassal of a heathen butcher such as Saksa!”
“Good points, Helgi. This will bear watching. I’d value the views of the Þing on this question too. Not just on these longer-term musings, but also whether a quick turn for the worse in Saksa’s favour should make us consider an early intervention to help save the Pechenegs from the Monster’s tyranny - and the ruin of that proposed match with Bayça. I’d not let Iliana go to become the wife of the vassal of a heathen butcher such as Saksa!”
Ch51 Q4: Mari-Pecheneg War. Pretty much as Rurik has asked above: if Saksa looks like winning, should be just cut our losses, call off the betrothal and hope an expanded Mari realm falls apart later? Or should an intervention be seriously considered? Even before the expiry of the five year period in about ten months’ time, when the war may already be decided. Early action would probably mean a very fast carrier pigeon being despatched the the Gulf of Taranto, summoning the fleet home (which would take a few months).
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Questions
A decent array of questions this time, both technical and strategic, for the Þing to consider.
Ch51 Q1: Assemble Mercenary Company. This is something I hadn’t noticed before and don’t recall seeing written up in any AAR I’ve followed. Any advice on how this tends to pan out and/or thoughts on the pros and cons in this case? Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary? Is it a reasonable earner? Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained. And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
Ch51 Q2: Ostlandet Succession. Not really a specific question, but if anyone has any knowledge or views on that serpentine Ostlandet succession mess and how the Suðreyjar connection works with Ostlandet (is it some Norwegian or Ynglyng factor?), then it would make an interesting diversion. I looked at it, thought it should make sense, but could not quite work out how!
Ch51 Q3: Raiding Options. Happy to take any views or suggestions here. The original plan was basically to next hit a few of the southern Italian minor states, before deciding whether to try for Tangier. Probably not ready to go home yet – though it would be good to have the troops back in time for the end of the ‘five-year peace plan’ in April 888. If you want a reminder of what each of the prospective targets offers, see the analysis in Chapter 49.
Ch51 Q4: Mari-Pecheneg War. Pretty much as Rurik has asked above: if Saksa looks like winning, should be just cut our losses, call off the betrothal and hope an expanded Mari realm falls apart later? Or should an intervention be seriously considered? Even before the expiry of the five year period in about ten months’ time, when the war may already be decided. Early action would probably mean a very fast carrier pigeon being despatched the the Gulf of Taranto, summoning the fleet home (which would take a few months).
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Epilogue
“Haukr, as Seer, can you recommend a good prophet to assist us at the next Þing as we try to ponder the imponderable future?”
“King Rurik, I have just the man – or at least, I think he’s a man – in mind for that. He has no known name but is an oracle and soothsayer of great reputation. He is currently in Nygarðr on a rare trip away from his home in Kattegat. He can speak with the Gods and answer questions about one’s future and fate – if you dare to ask or can understand his answers!”
“By all means, ask him to attend if he would honour us with his presence.”
“I will ask him. He has lived for hundreds of years and was Seer and Oracle to Ragnar himself.”
“King Rurik, I have just the man – or at least, I think he’s a man – in mind for that. He has no known name but is an oracle and soothsayer of great reputation. He is currently in Nygarðr on a rare trip away from his home in Kattegat. He can speak with the Gods and answer questions about one’s future and fate – if you dare to ask or can understand his answers!”
“By all means, ask him to attend if he would honour us with his presence.”
“I will ask him. He has lived for hundreds of years and was Seer and Oracle to Ragnar himself.”
The Oracle seems neither alive nor dead and inhabits the margin between this world and that of the Gods. Currently on a soothsaying tour of the Norse realms – appearing for one Þing only in Nygarðr.
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Since this one is several questions bundled into one, I'll try to address it point-by-point.
In general, the chief benefit of assembling a mercenary company isn't so much the extra cash it can generate, or even the extra soldiers you can hire, though those are both quite handy. Rather, its main purpose is to allow your chosen mercenary captain to gather cash and prestige more quickly than he could while just sitting in court. For hordes, it's invaluable -- clan succession is determined by prestige there, so it makes sense to set up the relative you want to become your heir as a merc captain for a while if he looks the least bit shaky. For others it's a bit situational, though the specifics will be enumerated on below.
Yes.
Depends -- the extra income is slightly offset by a rather sizable levy penalty in your demesne holdings (to reflect men going to the mercenary band rather than your own levies). If you can afford to take that hit, though, the extra cash is probably welcome, even small (in absolute terms) as it often is. It's certainly not going to replace taxes and trade as your primary breadwinner in any case, unless you get an especially large band going -- but that takes a bit of up-front investment on your part in the first place.
On a one-to-one basis he's not at any more risk than any other commander in battle, though being a mercenary probably means he'll be seeing more battles than your typical courtier in a given time, which does increase the chances of mayhem happening eventually.
You certainly can -- and you'd even get them at a discount on the per capita price relative to the "fixed" bands.
Also take note that, once hired, you can spend money to send more equipment to add troops to your merc band, or to convert troops from one type to another. It'll bring you more income in the long run since hiring and maintenance costs for the "client" are based on the band's size (which also increases your cut of the take), but again, to get the most out of them you should plan on setting aside a decent amount of cash for your initial outlay.
This is almost certainly the result of Elective Gavelkind elector shenanigans.
I'd recommend hitting the juicy soft targets in Italy at this point, then scooting away for home once you've gotten your longships' holds nicely stuffed with loot.
Hmm... This one I'm conflicted on, honestly. In your position I'd be tempted to keep the betrothal in any case to keep Mari off my flanks while I pick at the crows' feast that is Konugardr (since it seems like your prospects of expansion are much stronger in that direction, to be honest, and with the free-for-all already going on down there you'd have a decent chance to snag some choice pickings). That's as much due to my own personal distaste for breaking betrothals once set as it is due to any strategic considerations, though, so take that for what you will. In any case, Saksa himself may well break things off himself, low as his opinion of Rurik is; in that case, it might make sense to try and snipe a de jure territory off him while he's distracted once you've got your levies back home.
---
And while I'm here:
I think I may have mentioned that being a Lunatic unlocks a few interesting events at some point in the past; this is one of them
Thankfully, to my knowledge none of them have any truly dire penalties beyond prestige hits and the occasional opinion penalty, though both of those can certainly aggravate any existing fracture points in the realm's stability. Fortunately, Rurik seems to have relatively few of those to deal with at the moment And that oracle seems to be an ominous figure indeed -- a portent of things to come in a future update, perhaps?
Great stuff @Specialist290, very helpful especially on the merc band question.
Of course, looking forward to additional comments from the hive mind of the Thing.
Of course, looking forward to additional comments from the hive mind of the Thing.
Peace is boring, but now you have waited so long already, so wait it out, and furthermore I think a certain individual, now in house arrest, should be part of the next blot.
Since I don't own the DLC that unlocks this - either that or I never noticed it, but it seems strange - I have no info on this one.
The Drunk Karling goes at it again with elective Gavelkind. It's another case of electors doing whatever they want.
Just hit Southern Italy, quickly check Tangeri just in case it's really convenient and then sail back home.
I think right now Mari is better as a friend than a foe. What I would do is looking at Konugardr. You should totally take a piece of it. That would also help your vassal, potentially giving your realm a lot of extra land. Of course, if you want your vassal to remain weak, you can wait until his war is over to jump on the exhausted enemy.
What is This, a crossover episode?“I will ask him. He has lived for hundreds of years and was Seer and Oracle to Ragnar himself.”
The Oracle seems neither alive nor dead and inhabits the margin between this world and that of the Gods. Currently on a soothsaying tour of the Norse realms – appearing for one Þing only in Nygarðr.
(Obligatory joke)
Wow this gave me a headache. It sounds like a great catch though, with a very interesting claim and great stats&traits. She has 3 stats over 12 (and can easily become 5 out of 5 when her education is complete) which means good things for the children under her care (you can make her the court tutor as well) and she seems to have inheritable good traits (quick?) which might pass on to their children. This couple has my blessing!
I'm asking this the tenth time, but was it the Pechenegs who are our in-laws?
The answer has been swift
What is the prestige situation among the brothers? I think there's still chance that he succeeds to the throne one day.Oh boy
I'd arrange a bethrothal with a genius trait for him already, but that's my compulsion
I just said this minutes ago, and 5 out of 5 stats over 12! Even though her mentor was probably crap she managed. I hope they have many children.
I'm not an expert, but as far as I know this does look like combat casualties. Let's put HI aside since they have better defense, the ratio of casualty should've been more or less the same across LI and archers, and it seems so. I guess this is just how life is, although for some reason the game couldn't convince me, I'm not 100% sold yetPer @diskoerekto's previous question, the losses seem to have been spread among contingents and troop types. Strengths from earlier:
They look like combat related casualties to me: even though I have the commanders 'tagged' for events, maybe they just don't report those little siege sorties and raids?
Raid Italia is my chosen option.
I think you should be able to hire him for that integration, and by spending further money you can make them much better (HI instead of LI and some cavalry I guess). I thought this had a connection with the Varangian event chain but it seems to be unrelated.
This puzzle beats me:/
Well if it only takes a slight push yes, but no need to upend a lot of plans just to save a fiancee. While I'm all for keeping one's promises, if it would be prohibitively difficult as to put the realm in danger to help him, the world is supposed to be full of potential fiancees if this one seems to be going under the bus. Still of course we can take care of him within reasonable limits.
Sounds intriguing
They may be combat casualties - but the losses are so uniformly the same in % terms I wonder if they might be attrition related.
As for mercenary companies - I have formed one in one of my games, and I seem to recall it was a "fun" thing to do, but I never played that game through properly so don't know how it could end up. Given this AAR is entitled a Learner's Saga I would say go for it at some point
As for mercenary companies - I have formed one in one of my games, and I seem to recall it was a "fun" thing to do, but I never played that game through properly so don't know how it could end up. Given this AAR is entitled a Learner's Saga I would say go for it at some point
Ah, well put it this way. It will come up in Little Dux, but only many years down the line. So far as i can tell, it was designed for merchant republics to actually build an army for themsevles (quite hard to do otherwise), or at least thst is what i used mine for. So...hmm...okay, here's how it works.
You assign someone you trust to run it. You then ply them with as much equipment and men as you can (you can do this as an ongoing project, whenever you have some dpare gold basically) to make a custom blend of army that you control and can summon for free but can alsp hire out for cash. If you dont want them to war elsewhere, just hire them yourself (again, free for you) and use them yourself. However, i think you have to keep putting gold down on them to keep their numbers and equipment up.
Basically its retinues for empires with no manpower and a way of roleplaying mercenary armies/political intriuge a bit more.
Yes, historical 'fact' that the moon ties into phases of madness. Tie that to wolves and mystiscim and you get the beginings of the magicalisation of lycanthropy.
...call my agent?
I'm not an expert either, but you lost 82 LI, 14 AR and 2 HI both times.
I would assume combat losses to be a little more varied. So I guess it's somehow related to attrition.
I would assume combat losses to be a little more varied. So I guess it's somehow related to attrition.
Interesting, because whenever I've checked/drilled into the attrition stats on mouse-over, nothing presents and there's no attrition skull etc. You could well be right, but it is strange.
Also, the numbers should have changed if they were a percentage, as there were approx. 100 fewer troops the next time around. So maybe a fixed number, rather than %?
Well the % numbers are virtually the same.Interesting, because whenever I've checked/drilled into the attrition stats on mouse-over, nothing presents and there's no attrition skull etc. You could well be right, but it is strange.
% Loss from Dec to March
LI - 95.37%
Archer - 95.86%
HI - 98.32%
% Loss from March to Apr
LI - 95.15%
Archer - 95.68%
HI - 98.29%
Those losses just seem really uniform.
Though I suppose the events (like raids, etc) might be applied uniformly like attrition. I must confess not to know how losses from those events are calculated.
It should be mostly irrelevant anyway. Pagans have less attrition than everyone else and reinforcements should fix your losses soon enough. Only time its really a problem is long raiding and really long wars, neither of which you do now.
The Twenty-First Thing of Rurik’s Reign – July 887 (a summary of advice from Chapter 51)
The Twenty-First Thing of Rurik’s Reign – July 887 (a summary of advice from Chapter 51)
General
The next child of the royal family to come to early adolescence was Helgi’s eldest son (and heir apparent) Buðli.
She was also highly intelligent and accomplished and had become a formidable young woman on maturity.
Mystery Attrition/Losses on Raid
Unless there’s some change in how the game presents this, or I catch something I’ve been missing as it is happening, I think it will remain an arcane mystery. It hasn’t caused too many casualties on this raid, but in Brittany there were some large losses and the numbers were quite variable. What could have happened this time (if not attrition, which has never presented itself in any of the mouse-overs as being in action, but who knows it could be) was two occurrences in a row of the same event type in different locations, giving a similar result and still not being reported via the commanders (even though tagged for reports). I will just have to live with it as a cost of Viking Adventure Tourism, 9th century style!
Lunacy etc
[Comment: I guess they call it lunacy in-game for a reason! I was worried here for a moment that he might have been turning into a werewolf, though had assumed that would only be a ‘thing’ if he had joined the Fellowship of Hel! I’m hoping there isn’t too much more of this behaviour - or worse.]
The Oracle
Just a bit of Vikings illustrative fun.
Ch51 Q1: Assemble Mercenary Company. This is something I hadn’t noticed before and don’t recall seeing written up in any AAR I’ve followed. Any advice on how this tends to pan out and/or thoughts on the pros and cons in this case? Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary? Is it a reasonable earner? Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained. And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary?
Is it a reasonable earner?
Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained.
And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
Ch51 Q2: Ostlandet Succession. Not really a specific question, but if anyone has any knowledge or views on that serpentine Ostlandet succession mess and how the Suðreyjar connection works with Ostlandet (is it some Norwegian or Ynglyng factor?), then it would make an interesting diversion. I looked at it, thought it should make sense, but could not quite work out how!
Ch51 Q3: Raiding Options. Happy to take any views or suggestions here. The original plan was basically to next hit a few of the southern Italian minor states, before deciding whether to try for Tangier. Probably not ready to go home yet – though it would be good to have the troops back in time for the end of the ‘five-year peace plan’ in April 888. If you want a reminder of what each of the prospective targets offers, see the analysis in Chapter 49.
Ch51 Q4: Mari-Pecheneg War. Pretty much as Rurik has asked above: if Saksa looks like winning, should be just cut our losses, call off the betrothal and hope an expanded Mari realm falls apart later? Or should an intervention be seriously considered? Even before the expiry of the five year period in about ten months’ time, when the war may already be decided. Early action would probably mean a very fast carrier pigeon being despatched the the Gulf of Taranto, summoning the fleet home (which would take a few months).
Thank you all for that lively round of advice, comments and amusing observations. Plenty for Rurik to mull over as he contemplates his next course of action … which, due to a wedding to attend, sport etc this weekend (oh, and a semblance of other normal human interaction with others, I suppose ) it will take a few days yet for his humble chronicler to play through and then write up! As always, your comments, support and readership are greatly appreciated.
Oh, and just to change the subject completely, @loup99 has asked us to publicise the latest Quarterly AARland Choice Awards (ACAs), so here it is: Q3 ACAs for 2018
All the AuthAARs you may choose to support will thank you for it.
General
Noted re waiting out (more below). As for Ferverdyn – the Blot remains an option. Rurik might decide the most just and kind thing to do would be to offer Ferverdyn the opportunity to meet the Gods as a willing Norse devotee. Unlike those heathen rebel scum who will be sacrificed in far more savage fashion.
The next child of the royal family to come to early adolescence was Helgi’s eldest son (and heir apparent) Buðli.
You’re right, I’ll need someone good for him – hopefully also well-connected, as he is a possible future King of Garðariki.I'd arrange a bethrothal with a genius trait for him already, but that's my compulsion
She was also highly intelligent and accomplished and had become a formidable young woman on maturity.
She seems quite something! At first when I saw that, I thought she might be a bit of a waste on Eilif, but he is an outside chance of becoming king one day and will at least be a powerful Jarl to his half-brother. Someone quick to balance out his dullness may go better for the next generation.
Mystery Attrition/Losses on Raid
I'm not an expert, but as far as I know this does look like combat casualties. Let's put HI aside since they have better defense, the ratio of casualty should've been more or less the same across LI and archers, and it seems so. I guess this is just how life is, although for some reason the game couldn't convince me, I'm not 100% sold yet
Interesting, because whenever I've checked/drilled into the attrition stats on mouse-over, nothing presents and there's no attrition skull etc. You could well be right, but it is strange.
Thanks for trying guys!
Unless there’s some change in how the game presents this, or I catch something I’ve been missing as it is happening, I think it will remain an arcane mystery. It hasn’t caused too many casualties on this raid, but in Brittany there were some large losses and the numbers were quite variable. What could have happened this time (if not attrition, which has never presented itself in any of the mouse-overs as being in action, but who knows it could be) was two occurrences in a row of the same event type in different locations, giving a similar result and still not being reported via the commanders (even though tagged for reports). I will just have to live with it as a cost of Viking Adventure Tourism, 9th century style!Lunacy etc
[Comment: I guess they call it lunacy in-game for a reason! I was worried here for a moment that he might have been turning into a werewolf, though had assumed that would only be a ‘thing’ if he had joined the Fellowship of Hel! I’m hoping there isn’t too much more of this behaviour - or worse.]
I think I may have mentioned that being a Lunatic unlocks a few interesting events at some point in the past; this is one of them
Oh boy
Yes, it was a bit alarming at first (I was worried he’d dash off and devour one of the royal children or some such), but the minor prestige hit for this one was very bearable. In fact, it was a narrative bonus – especially being dog/wolf related, so very applicable to Hunter – who was an Irish Wolfhound!
The Oracle
Mainly an avatar for the assemble prophetic wit of the Þing – no specific event in mind at the time. Though he does seem to have struck a bit of a chord …
Obligatory laugh!
Just a bit of Vikings illustrative fun. Sounds intriguing
Hmm, our nameless Oracle seems to already have sparked a bit of interest and a potential following. He may have to feature again at some point in the unknowable future – Gods-willing!...call my agent?
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Ch51 Q1: Assemble Mercenary Company. This is something I hadn’t noticed before and don’t recall seeing written up in any AAR I’ve followed. Any advice on how this tends to pan out and/or thoughts on the pros and cons in this case? Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary? Is it a reasonable earner? Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained. And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
Once set up, can he be recalled whenever it is necessary?
Is it a reasonable earner?
Particularly dangerous to the son as Captain of the company? I’d not be that worried of he copped one in the neck while off fighting and would be willing to try it from the ‘learning experience’ perspective if it isn’t too hare-brained.
And could I employ him myself - a bit of medieval 'vertical integration'?
As mentioned before, so very helpful @Specialist290. I am tempted to experiment with it, mainly for the experience. And a pet bespoke mercenary band could be very useful when forces are off on raids or the main army needs a bit of supplementation.
We learn together then.
Cavalry and/or HI would be very handy given the very LI/archer centric army at present (even with that Housecarl retinue slowly building).
Good point – was thinking along those lines and your comment and the other info here encourages me more.As for mercenary companies - I have formed one in one of my games, and I seem to recall it was a "fun" thing to do, but I never played that game through properly so don't know how it could end up. Given this AAR is entitled a Learner's Saga I would say go for it at some point
Sounds like it could also be a practical benefit for a tribal/low tech kingdom as mine is at the moment to build some specialist capabilities I can’t get yet through building stuff (see above re cavalry, HI etc). I also think it would be very relevant as a story/narrative device. Just the kind of thing a good Norse warrior would do – especially one who is down the succession pecking order and whose only real decent (not outstanding) skill is martial. Rurik will think hard about this.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Ch51 Q2: Ostlandet Succession. Not really a specific question, but if anyone has any knowledge or views on that serpentine Ostlandet succession mess and how the Suðreyjar connection works with Ostlandet (is it some Norwegian or Ynglyng factor?), then it would make an interesting diversion. I looked at it, thought it should make sense, but could not quite work out how!
Indeed.
Those Karlings – good for nothing except getting blotto and championing horrible succession laws!
I think this is one of those things you nod sagely about and vaguely understand, but can never really nail down, especially from a distance. Also (as noted once a while back), the game has a persistent bug that won’t show which electors are supporting the leading candidate: whenever I’ve tried with either vassals or foreign successions it only shows the electors for the Garðarikian kingdom title instead! The subsequent ones are listed properly, just not the leading one. Quite irritating, otherwise I would have gone through who was supporting whom and it might have shed a little more light on things. I did note though that Rögnvaldr was supporting his son Olafr (though not many others were).
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Ch51 Q3: Raiding Options. Happy to take any views or suggestions here. The original plan was basically to next hit a few of the southern Italian minor states, before deciding whether to try for Tangier. Probably not ready to go home yet – though it would be good to have the troops back in time for the end of the ‘five-year peace plan’ in April 888. If you want a reminder of what each of the prospective targets offers, see the analysis in Chapter 49.
With the likely answer to the next question being ‘nah, wait a while’, it looks like the Þing advises the current plans should be maintained, with non-Byzantine southern Italia being the next target.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Ch51 Q4: Mari-Pecheneg War. Pretty much as Rurik has asked above: if Saksa looks like winning, should be just cut our losses, call off the betrothal and hope an expanded Mari realm falls apart later? Or should an intervention be seriously considered? Even before the expiry of the five year period in about ten months’ time, when the war may already be decided. Early action would probably mean a very fast carrier pigeon being despatched the the Gulf of Taranto, summoning the fleet home (which would take a few months).
Me too. I think I will keep an eye on things and either hope nothing to bad happens before the five years of peace is up or see what can be done to fix things afterwards. And I’d also prefer to keep the betrothal but may be forced to cancel if the circumstances are changed radically enough. Will see when the time comes.
Saksa will never be a friend with his disposition to Rurik, I suspect, but he can at least be avoided as an enemy while I hope he crashes and burns at some point. Könugarðr is indeed of longer-term interest – though I also want to expand further in Finland, for reasons previously explained. Both should be possible – its’s a matter of priorities and opportunities, I suppose. Will see where things are in a year or so – Gradimir’s claim war will probably be resolved by them, one way or the other, and Dyre is going to take a long time to recover from this series of debacles.
I put that in because I need to remind myself so assumed others would need a reminder too – so much to keep track of, even when it is your own game!I'm asking this the tenth time, but was it the Pechenegs who are our in-laws?
The answer has been swift
Quite. That was an early strategic decision to try to forestall exactly the kind of thing that is happening now with Mari (ie an ally next to potential enemies but not your own realm). I’d like to keep it going but not if it proves fruitless.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Thank you all for that lively round of advice, comments and amusing observations. Plenty for Rurik to mull over as he contemplates his next course of action … which, due to a wedding to attend, sport etc this weekend (oh, and a semblance of other normal human interaction with others, I suppose
) it will take a few days yet for his humble chronicler to play through and then write up! As always, your comments, support and readership are greatly appreciated.Oh, and just to change the subject completely
, @loup99 has asked us to publicise the latest Quarterly AARland Choice Awards (ACAs), so here it is: Q3 ACAs for 2018All the AuthAARs you may choose to support will thank you for it.
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