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Thanks dear readers for taking the AAR past the 50k view mark! Whatever that actually measures . I might be able to get the next ep our in the next week (depends how much it rains this week at the beach ), otherwise in 8-9 days.
I will just make this a short response post rather than a fully-fledged Thing, as I have found some time (murky weather, surf flat) on holiday to write up the second part of the last play session, so stay tuned for that.
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Ch58 Q1: Medium Tribal Organisation. I’m presuming here that these new title Revocation and Grant Committees mean needing to get Council support for any such decisions, putting a further crimp on a tribal king’s prerogatives. Any thoughts about taking this to the next step – sooner or later? Are those committees a significant imposition, or just largely business as usual?
Your presumptions are correct. As for the back half of the question: Well, that rather depends on how well your King maintains good relations with his councilors (Yes, that's a bit coy, but it's also the truth. Effective council management is an art unto itself.)
I may as well - this AAR is all about the learning experience. No matter how painful or irritating!
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Chap 58 Q2: Centralisation and Religious Control.Yes, these have been discussed before and this is more a reconsideration now the circumstances for imposing reform are on the front burner. I see no real reason not to increase centralisation to at least Low, possibly keep going to Medium after that (after having jacked up Tribal Organisation to enable it. And perhaps, while at it, go for the religious revocation ability as well – unless there are little caveats that might make it either redundant or ill-advised under the current specific game circumstances. I also assume that now, with the Council empowered, these would all require votes to pass without tyrant penalties?
Pretty much seconding your proposed plan. And indeed, now that your council is empowered, you will need their assent to pass any further laws of the realm -- which means that your councilors' stances become important to pay attention to.
Looking forward to it - in a self-flagellating kind of way!
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Chap 58 Q3: Uncalled for Summonses.In the past, when wars have been initiated, I’ve chosen specific vassals and asked them to join. Often only when I thought I needed them, so as not to share the glory in an easier conquest. Unless I inadvertently clicked (or didn’t click) some box when calling the levies out, either the change to a council system somehow initiated an automatic call, or some other mechanic was in play. If anyone has any ideas of possible explanations, it would be of interest.
Allies (of which tribal vassals are a subset) always have a chance to join a war of their own volition. (Non-tribal vassals technically have the option, too, but I've never seen the AI take it in those circumstances.) I imagine that the "usual suspects" (relationship with you vs. relationship with the target, levy size, political and religious considerations, etc.) are in play, though I couldn't give you an exact breakdown of how they each make the decision.
the gameplay implications aside, this is really tragic. no parent should be saying farewell to their children like this. My condolences to Rurik.
his last sage and loyal advice
so is this playful, erudite and temperate Dyre or the affectionate, indolent and quick Buthli? Maybe you can support the latter provided he already has a supporter base? I wonder how they'll turn out from their educations and I hope they have good relations.
Uusimaa it should've been
About the questions, unfortunately all were out of areas that I know :/
Yes, sad given Helgi had been there from the beginning, had good skills and sons with good skills, groomed etc - ah well, such is life in CK2, I guess! And wait till you see what happens next!
Dyre and Buthli both look potentially formidable even before they come of age, but hard to see how much better either will get. Things become a little clearer on future succession and relations in the next chapter.
Yep, Uusimaa would have been the better bet. Or just wait for a month!
Chapter 59: A River Runs Red (October – December 889)
Previously, on Blut und Schlacht … the armies of Tuure of Karelia and Rurik gathered for a great battle in Ingria; Rurik continued to mourn the loss of his first-born as he watched his plans to conquer Savo turned on their head; the troubles of Konugarðr had been put out of mind for now as the realm focused on the suddenly large threat to its north; Rurik’s remaining sons maintained their fierce and jealous rivalry; and the old King carried on as best he could, though each year seemed to take a little more light out of his life as he contemplated his approaching 60th birthday.
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October – November 889
October was spent positioning for the coming great battle in Ingria. Tuure’s host, including his allies, continued to cross the river. Rurik meantime believed he had the enemy exactly where he wanted them. His demesne levies and the closest of his allied vassal regiments had massed in Ingria by 19 October. Only the Vladimiran regiment had yet to join, having marched all the way from Konugarðr and still only in Torzhok. The two wings were boosted with levy troops, as the centre division would be augmented by the two allied contingents already in Ingria.
The latest Battle of Ingria started on 5 November, 889AD. Over five thousand warriors lined up on either side and began the traditional initial skirmishing. The first surprise was that, for some unclear reason, Captain Dravenis, the mercenary military genius and centre specialist, was nowhere to be seen. Instead, Chief Grimr of Smaleskja had taken command! While he was a thoroughly competent commander, this was not what had been planned.
At least Rurik’s commanders looked greatly superior to the enemy’s. The opening exchanges were roughly even. It soon became clear that the Karelians had stacked their two flanks, with the centre only lightly held. They also had a clear preponderance in heavy infantry, plus a modest advantage in archers and light cavalry, while Rurik’s army of course had many more light infantry. Quality of troops was on the Karelian side; overall numbers and generalship plus the advantage of defending behind a river was in favour of the Garðarikians.
After eight days of skirmishing, the enemy’s centre was clearly in trouble. The Gardarikian right was holding its own in an even battle, but Hrolfr was heavily outnumbered on the left and was losing ground quickly. Total casualties remained even on both sides. Four days later, the centre and right were in melee combat with their Karelian counterparts, with Grimr prosecuting a successful attack on the enemy’s weak central division. Þorsteinn was gradually getting the better of his opponent, but Hrolfr on the left was weakening quickly in a continued exchange of archery volleys. Rurik’s men still maintained a slight overall edge so far.
The 19th of November brought sad news: old Chief Svetozar had been personally commanding his regiment and had been slain in the fighting. Svetozar the Holy was dead at age 55. One of the last of the original Holmgarðian chieftains had passed into the next world. Originally a thorn in Rurik’s side, he had shown his loyalty over time and had now made the ultimate sacrifice for the kingdom. Rurik hoped he found his way to the halls of his fathers in whatever place the heathen Slavs gathered in the afterlife. And this put him a little further into the despond he had been in since Helgi’s death. The wider battle continued much as it had for the last two weeks, with the Karelians suffering a slightly higher rate of casualties than the Garðarikians.
Two days later, all had broken open. The enemy’s centre had fled in disarray, but so too had Hrolfr’s more numerous contingent on the left. This was a blow, as it deprived Grimr the opportunity to fall upon the enemy’s strong right flank in combination with the Chief of Vladimir. The enemy's right and Garðarikian centre now joined in fierce combat, with Grimr outnumbered and the enemy generating significant combat power. Þorsteinn continued to gradually press his opponent back, but too slowly it seemed to be able to come to Grimr’s aid any time soon. The battle hung on a knife’s edge.
For the next twelve days, Rurik received no news of events in Ingria. The battle had continued along similar lines for some time, but suddenly everything was decided on 3 December: the enemy’s left had broken, but Garðariki’s centre had broken first and, despite driving off his opposite number, Þorsteinn almost immediately succumbed to the enemy’s victorious right wing. Tuure was triumphant and the battle was essentially lost, with Þorsteinn’s division suffering heavy casualties in the pursuit. Gumarich recorded that the news was poorly received by the King, who retreated to his chamber – suddenly looking a very old man.
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December 889
Before he could receive the final report of the battle – and the heavy butcher’s bill incurred – it seems Rurik’s health was finally broken, along with his spirit. As one of his thralls came to bring him his lunch on a cold December day, he found the great King Rurik the Just even colder than the unheated meeting hall outside. The great man was dead at the age of 59. His realm, already now in difficult straits due to the failed gambit to conquer Savo, would now need to grapple with a succession.
The new king was duly elected: Eilif – considered by most contemporary observers to be the least of Rurik’s sons and grandsons – would now have to guide the realm in these difficult times. This also meant the fierce rivalry with his brother Dyre would now take on far more immediate significance as Rurik’s inheritance was divided among three heirs.
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Succession Issues
The first key question was would Dyre – now Eilif’s heir to the crown of Garðariki – stay within the realm or try to split away? His eldest nephew Buðli Helgisson, faced a similar choice. But first, Eilif had to take up his own inheritance and make a few decisions. In this, he had the assistance of his father’s faithful scribe and secretary Gumarich. As expected, he now ruled the powerful Jarldom of Holmgarðr and all four of its constituent counties. But he did not inherit the recently fabricated claim on Naumadal, which would have to be won over again.
Unlike Helgi, Eilif had little prestige to his name and would have to build that the hard way. The treasury was also almost empty, meaning the remaining mercenaries could no longer be afforded without risking debt – and perhaps the wrath of those men, who may turn to freebooting to make their money.
Eilif already had already been pursuing an ambition to become a paragon of virtue - a distant prospect at that time due to his sparse reputation for piety. Though he did have age on his side, being only 18 years old on succession, and none of his male family competitors were yet of age themselves.
He set the crown focus on Toropets. And, after discussing the options with Gumarich, Eilif decided he would focus on becoming a better ruler, boosting his stewardship. This was particularly important with the realm’s dire financial straits, with the prospect of revenue from a raid now far off. [With no boats to his name – Rurik’s event fleet had departed on his death and Dyre had inherited all the shipyards – and deep in a failing war with the Karelians, decent raiding would be hard to conduct.]
“There is one more thing, King Eilif,” said Gumarich, as he unlocked a stout chest and brought out a large and carefully wrapped bundle. He handed it reverently to the new King.
“Halsbitr!” exclaimed Eilif in awe, as he held the old King’s famed ‘Neckbiter’ battleaxe in his hands and admired its intricate artwork and razor sharp edge. Eilif’s one real skill was in combat and this would aid him in that, especially if he chose to go into battle personally.
First, Rurik was sent off as a great King should be - in a (literal) blaze of glory. Despite the recent setbacks, his reign had seen the realm expand greatly to become an important regional power. Its future may now be in doubt, but he had done his best to set the Rurikid dynasty onto the path to greatness.
A later painting of the ‘Funeral of King Rurik’.
That night, Eilif met with his brother Dyre and nephew Buðli. He first sought a pledge of allegiance from Dyre, whose holdings would be administered by a regent until he came of age – which would be within a year. He had few troops ready in his demesne yet and stood to inherit the realm until Eilif might produce an heir. Their personal rivalry was unabated, but Dyre undertook to remain within the realm – for now, anyway.
Buðli had even fewer levies he could muster from his two counties personally held in the Jarldom of Belo Ozero. He also disliked his uncle the new King, but without the personal animus between the two royal brothers. Buðli was 14 at the time, so would also have a regent appointed. He too currently remained in the realm, under Eilif’s nominal lordship.
Ch59 Q1: Succession Secession.Is this a decision either could take again once they are of age? Or having missed the point of succession, would they have to go through the independence faction route to now break free? And is that something Dyre can or would be likely to do given he is the current heir (while he still is)?
The next order of business was for Eilif to fill empty Council positions. On succession, Jarl Tyueykezhut had remained in place as Chancellor and Grimr as Advisor. [Perhaps because they were landed vassals, while none of the others were?] Eilif saw no need to change those appointments – and could probably not risk doing so anyway. For the rest, he mainly retained his father’s appointees, as they were generally the best at their jobs in the realm – and were largely loyal [well, somewhat, at least compared to the main alternatives]. As a whole, the council was considered 'discontented' and would likely remain so for at least the first two years of Eilif’s reign.
His mother – the now Dowager Queen and Queen Mother – remained as Spymaster. Old Alfgeir stayed as Steward – though he appeared to now be a malcontent in the Council. The talented (if erratic) Þorfinn was reappointed as Marshal. But a new Seer was required, as the previous appointee (Godi Haukr, also former Court Physician) was now a vassal of Dyre and no longer available. Looking at the list of the most talented candidates, Eilif’s wife Ingrid stood out as the best and was made the new Seeress. [Readers may recall she was the match made a few years ago that might help boost Eilif’s mediocre stats: a propitious arrangement as things have turned out. She is a real star.] In those difficult times, the young King sought to surround himself with family he could trust. Alas, his brother was not one of those.
Eilif's first Council was certainly talented, if not universally loyal – as yet, anyway. He made sure they were at least busy. The Chancellor remained in Naumadal and could not return for another month or so in any case. If he did succeed in fabricating a new claim on that place, Eilif would very likely be unable to afford to pay for it, unfortunately. The Chancellor’s mission would be reviewed in January. The rest were basically confirmed in the same or similar missions which they or their predecessor had been undertaking previously.
Of those vassals not already summoned to the war, the new King sought to bring the most important – Jarl Tyueykezhut – into the conflict. His aid could help Garðariki regroup against what was now a Karelian invasion force. It was only an outside chance, but a messenger was sent anyway.
The next order of business was to make appointments to many vacant minor titles of the realm. These would help shore up Eilif’s relationships with key vassals and council members. Alas, no one with the right qualifications could be found within the realm to become the new Court Physician. Perhaps a recruiting effort could be conducted later. Of those available, first Buðli was appointed Cupbearer.
Alfgeir was given the prestigious Court Dwarf appointment, which did go some way to mollifying the old bureaucrat. He was also made Merkismaðr. Grimr’s loyalty was bolstered by appointing him to one of the vacant Hirdsman positions and as a Commander. Marshal Þorfinn was also made a Hirdsman. Jarl Tyueykezhut was made a Commander of the Realm as well, to complete the first round of new appointments.
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Just five days into his new reign, it fell to Eilif to read the despatch his father never lived to see. The disaster of Ingria was now revealed in all its magnitude. In the chaotic pursuit, Garðariki’s leading commander, Þorsteinn, had been captured and imprisoned by Tuure. Casualties had ended up ballooning during the retreat. The army was now in rout, heading south-east towards distant Sursdalar. Nuyanza’s holding in Ingria (as so often had been the case in the past) was under siege and the war in general went badly.
Captain Dravenis was nowhere to be seen and the Lithuanian Band was now led by a Captain Jovirdas [I didn’t bother searching for Dravenis or trying to find out what had happened to him – the horse had bolted by then]. On advice from his Marshal and Steward, the new (and destitute) King dismissed the mercenary band: no point paying them for retreating over the next days then risking them turning on his own lands when he couldn’t afford to pay them at the end of their march!
In keeping with these dark days, on 16 December the new Jarl Buðli [opinion of Eilif now ‘improved’ to -24]sent a note (though unbidden) that he would not be sending any troops to aid the defence. Not that he had many to his name as yet. The note was sent under the signature of none other than the dubious Chief Ladimir of Belo Ozero [opinion of Eilif -45], who had managed to get himself appointed as Buðli’s regent! The next day, more bad news arrived: Jarl Tyuey [opinion of Eilif now -21] advised by letter he could “unfortunately not join your wars at this time”.
As Eilif flailed around for what he might do next to stem the flow of blood from the gaping wound his father had opened in the realm's flank, he received official advice on the new succession arrangements (as far as they could be predicted) for the realm. Dyre – curse his foul bowels, thought Eilif – had the most support by far, with nine votes. This included (by default) that of Eilif himself; which had somewhat moderated the terrible opinion Dyre had of him; so he decided to leave things as they were. Interestingly, the slippery Chief Ladimir was supporting Dyre, even though he was his liege Buðli’s recently appointed regent and educator! Typical of the snake, though Eilif to himself. Buðli had his own vote – and that of the even more slippery and odious Chief Gradimir of Tver – one of Dyre’s vassals. The two most notorious chiefs in the realm were living up to their reputations!
As the tragic, disastrous and miserable month of December ended, it was noticed that the Vladimiran detachment –which had [for whatever reason - maybe they became unattached when Rurik died? I'll need to check next time]not joined the general rout, had instead headed towards occupied Kexholm. Which may actually have been useful had not a fresh (and somewhat larger) Karelian detachment not been due to arrive there just one day before the Vladimirans would! Meaning of course they would now be caught fording a major river as they blundered into the enemy force. That’d be right, muttered Eilif as he angrily crumpled the note and threw it into the fire. He had murmured just loudly enough for Gumarich to hear and record the event and the king’s response in his confidential journal.
The situation in the realm at the end of the year – less than a month into Eilif’s reign – was set out by Gumarich in a compendium of information recording the estimated base and current troop strengths of the King’s direct vassals, plus their assessed opinion of the new King. Of the major troop-holding vassals, only Hrolfr and Grimr (the latter by a small margin) were positively disposed. The opinions of most other vassals and their subordinates (apart from the two Godis) ranged from dislike to open disdain or even trenchant hatred.
“Gumarich, by Thor’s throbbing haemorrhoids, this is a right pain in the arse!” exclaimed the young King Eilif as he contemplated the mess he had been left with.
“Convene a Þing straight away. My initial thought is to allow this rout to run its course, regroup the army, and head for Tuure’s own lands and see if I can take some of them, or at least force his army to break from ravaging our lands and head back to rescue his own. Otherwise, I’m likely to be forced into a humiliating peace I cannot afford to sustain. Though that may be unavoidable no matter what I do.”
“Yes, it is a pretty pickle, King Eilif. I will have Hrörekr gather the Þing and see if there are any more ideas out there that may help.”
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Questions
The sorely beset Eilif – nearly bankrupt, army defeated, no boats and with little prestige or piety to his name yet – could use any assistance the wisdom of the Þing may be able to provide.
Ch59 Q1: Succession Secession.Is this a decision either could take again once they are of age? Or having missed the point of succession, would they have to go through the independence faction route to now break free? And is that something Dyre can or would be likely to do given he is the current heir (while he still is)?
Ch59 Q2: General Question.As Eilif looks to try to regroup, I invite any general comments on what has transpired in these tumultuous three months or suggestions for future actions (especially in the short term) that anyone may have. Should he sue for peace now and take his lumps? Or pursue the indirect approach he is thinking of attempting?
Ch59 Q3: In the Fullness of Time.Longer term strategies will be contemplated once the immediate emergency is over and the situation stabilised. Eilif needs money and prestige. Getting his own boats in sufficient quantities to generate a decent raiding party may be one avenue, as the cross-border raiding opportunities in the immediate border regions are unlikely to be very lucrative. And will anger neighbours when Garðariki's capacity is at a low ebb.
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The Battle of Ingria did indeed provide a great feast for the crows and much work for the Valkyries. Many Garðarikian warriors have been carried off to the halls of Valhalla.
you're trying to make this eilif likeable for me, right? well his wife and the possibilty of him having capable hairs by her makes the situation a little bit bearable.
Ch59 Q2: General Question.As Eilif looks to try to regroup, I invite any general comments on what has transpired in these tumultuous three months or suggestions for future actions (especially in the short term) that anyone may have. Should he sue for peace now and take his lumps? Or pursue the indirect approach he is thinking of attempting?
Well, a battle lost, a Realm split up, and nobody wants to join in the current war.
Do you know what you need?
You need Attack Pugs! As you know Attack Pugs are man's best friend and your enemy's worst nightmare! They are easy to carry, cheap to fed, and strike fear in the hearts of most Europeans. Mostly because of how vicious they are on the battlefield. And because they always go for the ankles or the crotches.
Come in white, black, and combat. Order yours today!
Ch59 Q1: Succession Secession.Is this a decision either could take again once they are of age? Or having missed the point of succession, would they have to go through the independence faction route to now break free? And is that something Dyre can or would be likely to do given he is the current heir (while he still is)?
It's a one-time opportunity, and it seems you've been lucky. In my experience, your current heir never rebels against you unless provoked (though they might try to expedite your demise).
Ch59 Q2: General Question.As Eilif looks to try to regroup, I invite any general comments on what has transpired in these tumultuous three months or suggestions for future actions (especially in the short term) that anyone may have. Should he sue for peace now and take his lumps? Or pursue the indirect approach he is thinking of attempting?
Since your domestic situation is somewhat strained, and the Karelians are far from beaten, I'd try to make peace and work on stabilizing your realm for a while. You could maybe win if you kept going, but your forces would be too depleted to combat any rebellions.
Ch59 Q3: In the Fullness of Time.Longer term strategies will be contemplated once the immediate emergency is over and the situation stabilised. Eilif needs money and prestige. Getting his own boats in sufficient quantities to generate a decent raiding party may be one avenue, as the cross-border raiding opportunities in the immediate border regions are unlikely to be very lucrative. And will anger neighbours when Garðariki's capacity is at a low ebb.
you're trying to make this eilif likeable for me, right? well his wife and the possibilty of him having capable hairs by her makes the situation a little bit bearable.
Yes, he's not my first choice, but there you go. If Helgi had just lasted a few months longer before dying, perhaps his own son Buthli might have inherited (not sure with elective gavelkind and I'm certainly no expert) and he looks like he may be quite a strong character. But we must go with what we have ...
Well, a battle lost, a Realm split up, and nobody wants to join in the current war.
Do you know what you need?
You need Attack Pugs! As you know Attack Pugs are man's best friend and your enemy's worst nightmare! They are easy to carry, cheap to fed, and strike fear in the hearts of most Europeans. Mostly because of how vicious they are on the battlefield. And because they always go for the ankles or the crotches.
Come in white, black, and combat. Order yours today!
Since your domestic situation is somewhat strained, and the Karelians are far from beaten, I'd try to make peace and work on stabilizing your realm for a while. You could maybe win if you kept going, but your forces would be too depleted to combat any rebellions.
This does sound logical - I just wonder (and am not experienced enough to know instinctively) whether a losing peace so early on might not also foment trouble at home.
This is my worry - the balance to the alpha Norse "how dare they resist us, we must crush them" reaction. More practically, there is the loss of prestige et al in suing for peace to consider, which I will when I sit down and review the options.
The Specific Question
Ch59 Q1: Succession Secession.Is this a decision either could take again once they are of age? Or having missed the point of succession, would they have to go through the independence faction route to now break free? And is that something Dyre can or would be likely to do given he is the current heir (while he still is)?
It's a one-time opportunity, and it seems you've been lucky. In my experience, your current heir never rebels against you unless provoked (though they might try to expedite your demise).
Chapter 60: Just in Time? (January – September 890)
Previously, on Blut und Schlacht … With the passing of Rurik in the wake of the defeat in Ingria against the High Chief Tuure of Karelia, young King Eilif has inherited a difficult position; his domestic position has been compromised by the succession, debt, defeat and the usual uncertainty of a new reign, where respect must be built and maintained; King Dyre of Könugarðr continues to suffer from the pecking of circling vultures; and Eilif must decide whether to continue the fight against the Karelians or suffer the bitter taste of the defeat his father brought on but son must deal with.
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January 890
Gumarich’s scroll trove included a summary from the Garðarikian Royal Chancellery, produced on the last day of 889 AD (by the Christian reckoning of years), of the options available for peace with Karelia. The news was not good.
“I am sorry, King Eilif, but the advice is that Tuure will consider his position too strong now to accept anything less than a surrender. The implications of that for your prestige would be grievous, it would cost money the treasury does not have and the failure of your father’s invasion would impact adversely on the moral authority of the Germanic faith for decades.”
“As those Christians might say, Gumarich, the sins of the father are being visited upon the son!”
“That is no doubt an apposite observation, My King.” Gumarich can only agree – the position is an invidious one.
“This is too bitter a brew to swallow so early in my reign. I cannot bring myself to do it!"
And so the retreat from Ingria continued as Eilif sought some way out of his predicament. After two weeks of bitter winter weather, the situation of the realm’s main host and summoned vassal allies became clearer. Some small Tverian contingents had been recently mobilised, but these would be of little use. The Vladimiran regiment was still doomed to clash with a larger Karelian force in poor tactical circumstances in Kexholm. It did not look like Eilif, with his reduced demesne compared to Rurik, would be able to muster significant numbers any time soon.
By 21 January, the battle in Kexholm had begun and the Karelian siege in Ingria had progressed significantly.
While these events transpired, Eilif was presented with a seemingly more mundane issue.
“King Eilif, this murderous swine has butchered his family. We have prepared a public execution – some are suggesting the Blood Eagle. But we are civilised here: a hanging should do!” A local lordling threw an unfortunate farmer, bloodied from beatings on his way to the King's justice, at the young ruler’s feet.
“My lord king, it was not me! I came home to discover some fiend had killed my family and robbed my poor hut of its few valuables. Have mercy! Please find the real killer!” The man collapsed into uncontrollable sobbing.
Eilif considered the case carefully. He had no head for skulduggery, but though considered a bit ‘slow’ by some, his diplomatic skills and learning were not bad. And importantly, his wife Ingrid – now also his Seer – was by his side and provided excellent counsel. He conferred quietly with her, then looked up again, his mind made up.
“Throw this man in the dungeon! There is some evidence against him, but it is not conclusive. Perhaps time will tell more. I will not condemn a possible innocent man, but nor shall I let him walk away. The Gods may have something to say on this in due course.”
While some of the mob present were visibly disappointed, there was some surprised and grudging respect in the firmness and logic shown by their new young king. Some even commented on a more than passing resemblance in this respect to his revered father, Rurik.
In fact, word of Eilif’s wise judgement in the matter soon spread. As his father before him, the people were soon referring to him as Eilif ‘the Just’! It seems it was not just the sins of the father that were visited on the son! A reputation it had taken Rurik years to earn was Eilif’s in mere weeks since his succession – known as Just in very quick time. It would help both with his governance and relationships with key vassals. Perhaps young Eilif may begin to thrive in adversity, Gumarich remarked in his private journal.
At this point, it may be instructive to take a close look at the attributes of the new Queen, Ingrid Yngling, Seer of Garðariki. Her reputation as one of the most brilliant women of her era was well deserved, by all reports. She even brought a weak claim on the throne of Ostlandet with her, although it could only be prosecuted under limited circumstances. But, one never knew what could happen. The only drawback for the young King in all of Ingrid’s sterling attributes was that her chaste nature could make the production of an heir a little problematic.
And as the King and Queen sat together and contemplated their situation, it seems her wise and patient counsel helped Eilif to come the to the decision he knew he had to make, however hard it was for him.
“Husband, we are increasingly in debt, a little more every month while we have to maintain our levy and retinue both. Our prospects of defeating and evicting Tuure look poor. Poor Hrolfr’s Valdimirans – one of the few large and loyal vassal levies we can call on - are dying needlessly in Kexholm. The enemy will surely complete their siege soon in Ingria – and then what? They may march on Nygarðr itself, with no one there to stop them. You know what we must do.”
“You are right, Ingrid. Loki played this last trick on father and I must pay for it. But this must stop – we must recover. I will send an emissary to Tuure today.”
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
February 890
It took another nine days for Tuure to reply, but the peace offer was accepted. Of course.
Perhaps unfairly, it was Eilif’s reputation that was shredded, he was subject to a significant debt and was without ships to his name to commence a major and lucrative raid, as his father would have done, to help recover the lost ground.
Eilif’s demesne and (few, temple) vassal levies were dismissed, saving some monthly gold outlay. The retinue would have to continue to be paid for, but the recent conflict showed how much they were needed - at full strength.
Some days later, the realm’s foremost commander, Þorsteinn af Nöteborg, wandered into the court in Nygarðr, having been released from Tuure’s prison. But the reason he had been captured in Ingria soon became apparent: he must have been badly wounded in the battle. The new eye-patch might give him some cachet, but he was not a well man. Another sad outcome of the disastrous war. And the illustrious warrior seemed to resent Eilif somewhat for his situation, even though the young king welcomed him back warmly enough. Or perhaps it was the fact he simply wasn't Rurik.
In these grim days, as Eilif tried to gradually build his own position and the realm’s fortunes, some reasonable news was received.
Ch60 Q1. County Military Organisation.OK, I can never seem to figure this out or remember, but will this have a practical effect (quality or quantity) on troops called up from Ladoga?
The predicament that was coming to be known as “Dyre’s Curse” was apparent during that cold February. In fact, it was in part fear of coming to this fate that had prompted Eilif to call an end to the war against Karelia lest the same happened to Garðariki. It seemed neither Dyre nor his vassals controlled any county within his kingdom! And four out of the six seeking to take his land were vassals of Eilif, so the conflict had relevance for him.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
March 890
By the beginning of March, the state of Eilif’s treasury and demesne levy resources was clearer. At this rate, it could take three or so years to overcome the debt he now found himself in after paying reparations to Tuure.
Only now had the Royal Retinue finished its rout and was sent back to Holmgarðr to build its strength.
Chief Gradimir of Tver had taken his by now very small levy in a pathetic attempt to besiege Mozhaysk, currently held by Jarl Tyueykezhut of Yaroslavl in their joint claim on the county, which had brought the two into a ‘collateral’ side-conflict as they both tried to claim it from King Dyre. Gradimir could not even raise half the troops to take on a garrison of only 186 men.
It was around this time that Chief Tihomir of Luki (old Svetozar’s successor) founded a faction to lower the level of tribal organisation that Rurik had implemented in the final days of his reign. So far, the faction did not have much support – or indeed any, other than that of Tihomir himself. But the cause might become more popular and Eilif would look for opportunities to shut it down. And it was clear that any good will that Svetozar had carried with him for Rurik did not transfer to their respective sons. This Timhomir was a typical Slovensky – troublesome and an expert back-stabber!
But there was progress as well, with an economic advance made possible in castle infrastructure.
As hints of the spring thaw became apparent, some strange news was brought to Eilif. It seemed the behaviour of Saksa of Mari was becoming more bizarre by the year. But his flamboyant nastiness had apparently come at a personal cost: the Queen Mother’s agents reported he was greatly stressed and had taken to potent spirits to seek solace – in the process gaining a reputation as a drunken sot!
But the month ended with some good news: the training grounds his father had commissioned in Holmgarðr were completed. And Eilif certainly needed all the troops for his demesne levy he could muster!
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April 890
Eilif’s niece Yngvild turned 12 at the beginning of April. She was (astute readers may recall) betrothed in an important match to the heir to the Danish throne. Given her character and the role she was destined for, Eilif (taking good advice from his wife in such a matter) selected a diplomatic education for her.
The same day, word came that an old adversary of the Rurikids, Chief Miemo of Vologda, had died in an ‘accident’. There was no obvious evidence of foul play or even a well-founded suspicion of such. And his son, who succeeded him, wasn’t a Slovensky ... so perhaps it was an innocent event after all! In any case, Ukko was better disposed to Eilif than his father had been to Rurik – though he was still no good friend of the ruling family. But maybe there was something to work on there. And Ukko was a very learned man ...
... so learned that he was qualified to occupy the position of Court Physician, which had been vacant since Rurik’s death for lack of a qualified replacement. The monthly salary was quite expensive at such a time of tight finances, but the position was important and would improve the disposition of Eilif’s new vassal. The appointment was made.
And Eilif’s brother (and fierce rival) Dyre, who had just come of age, was now agitating to be appointed to the King’s Council. Without such an appointment, any incipient good will between the two quickly vanished. [And as it happened, Dyre turned out not to be the star he might have been on reaching maturity. In fact, despite being a little slow, Eilif may now even be his superior in net terms. Stewardship was his best attribute but he would not make a brilliant Steward should Eilif want to mollify him by appointing him to his Council at some point.]
Soon after, another (the last, unfortunately) of Rurik’s building projects was completed in Ladoga.
On 24 April, King Dyre finally accepted the terms of Chief Spera, surrendering Minsk to the Chief of Vilnius. Apart from getting Spera off his back at last, this had the added benefit to Dyre of seeing off the conflicting Curonian attempt to claim Minsk, in pursuit of which they had occupied large swathes of southern Könugarðr. Perhaps this might allow Dyre to start recovering in time? But he remained in a sorry position.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
May-July 890
In early May, Prince Dyre’s holdings in Austerbotn were raided by the Finnish Chieftess Vanamo of Kemi. While she was just eight troops short of being able to besiege the main holding, her men busily ferried what loot was available in the countryside into the boats waiting off shore. Eilif’s sense of justice was sometimes quite rough: he didn’t lift a finger to assist his brother, who was left to fend for himself (and had not the means to do so, as the King well knew).
By mid-May Yaroslavl and Chernigov both had sizeable forces moving against King Dyre who, despite regaining some of his holdings, had only been able to muster a small force to contest with his remaining enemies. Of these claims, Tyueykezhut’s was the most strongly held. And Dyre’s health was not the best these days, though his personal skills remained great.
Nothing of note was recorded as happening in June, but some excellent news was received in early July. Queen and Seer Ingrid had succeeded in converting Torzhok to the Germanic faith! Now all four of the ‘core’ royal counties were of the True Faith – although so far, only Holmgarðr itself had also converted to the Norse culture.
Suomenusko practice remained predominant in the wider realm, but now Germanic and Slavic worship were on equal footing among the realm’s counties.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
August-September 890
After a quiet August of harvest and rebuilding in the realm, the uncontested Finnish raid of Austerbotn finished, all available wealth having been loaded up on their boats.
At this time, Eilif was able to look into his own mind and examine his life’s priorities. His initial youthful desire to become a paragon of virtue not only seemed a distant prospect, but also a little immature. It had been selected not only before he had became King, but before he was even the heir: he had just been the care-free Captain of the Novgorodian Band. While he confided in Gumarich that he seriously contemplated seeking to produce and groom an heir, he finally settled on working to see the realm prosper. It surely needed it. And his frank assessment was that he did not have good prospects of launching any wars of conquest for some time anyway, given the significant debt he still laboured under thanks to his father’s folly over Savo. It would also complement his focus on stewardship. And would not prevent some raiding for money and prestige – if he could think of a good plan to prosecuting that.
With Torzhok converted and the Chancellor available again for reassignment, Council missions were reviewed. Tyueykezhut was brought back from Naumadal (there was little point fabricating a new claim there at this point – Eilif could not afford it even if the Chancellor was successful). He was sent to Zaozerye to see if he could perhaps bring the King’s nephew, Jarl Buðli, to a more favourable disposition.
The Marshal was left in Holmgarðr to help rebuild the levy. And Steward Alfgeir still toiled away in Ladoga, trying to settle a Norse tribe there. The Queen Mother stayed in Constantinople, as she had done now for many years, prying secrets from the Byzantines. And Ingrid, fresh from her success in Torzhok, was also sent to Zaozerye, to proselytise the Germanic faith there.
Only five days later, another cache of documents was received from Queen Mother Ingjerðr. They contained new information on how to promote cultural development in the realm. Eilif’s first thought was to use this knowledge to promote the majesty of the crown – his new reign and low prestige following the ignominious surrender to Karelia could certainly benefit from that.
“Hrörekr, could you please summon the Þing and seek some advice on where we should devote our efforts to advance Garðarikian culture? I have my views, but would seek their wisdom before making a final decision.”
“Of course, My Liege,” answered the wizened old Lawspeaker. He was actually glad to have been retained in the position by the new king and not put out to pasture.
Ch60 Q2. Cultural Advance.So, I’m thinking Majesty here for fairly plain reasons. Tolerance could be another option, which would assist with the cultural and religious antipathy in this still largely non-Norse/Germanic realm. If there are any other views of the immediate priority, I’d be glad to hear them.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
Questions
Only a couple of specific gameplay questions this time and one extra strategic one. As always, general comments and advice are welcome on any aspect. I won’t always know enough to even ask the right questions!
Ch60 Q1. County Military Organisation.OK, I can never seem to figure this out or remember, but will this have a practical effect (quality or quantity) on troops called up from Ladoga?
Ch60 Q2. Cultural Advance.So, I’m thinking Majesty here for fairly plain reasons. Tolerance could be another option, which would assist with the cultural and religious antipathy in this still largely non-Norse/Germanic realm. If there are any other views of the immediate priority, I’d be glad to hear them.
Ch60 Q3. Raiding Options.As I understand it, without ships Eilif is limited to raiding bordering provinces (no way to get the treasure back if I raid further afield). So, for example a long land trek to raid further to the west or south would be pointless (where it is more lucrative), as I can’t store the dosh. Other than (once again) trying to find ways to get ship access (Dyre got all the shipyards on succession, so I guess trying to oust him if possible would be an option, but I don’t like it much even if it is legal), any thoughts about how to rebuild the treasury and prestige more quickly? Or will I need to start trying to conquer more coastal provinces in the Baltic in due course? I can break the prosperity ambition if I really need to. I feel I’m really treading water at the moment strategically and would like some mid-term objectives set, even if I must lick my wounds for a while yet.
ᚔ ᚱᚢᚱᛁᚲᛁᛞ ᚔ
At the end of these months of shame and slow regeneration, here is the position of Eilif (still in debt and negative prestige, but reduced somewhat now) within the surrounding region.
This will be our starting point for the next chapter, whether Eilif must start to look to the future again. If only he could access the legendary Mímisbrunnr!
Another good and interesting chapter. Have a chaste wife is good and also problematic for produce a heir so fast. I know as Norse portraits were unrealistically but this thing makes me laughs always when I see
Breaking in a new leader is always so hard to do. At least he survived the war. Too bad about the debt and negative prestige. At least he isn't near any of the Big Boys of the game. That could be a problem.
1) You should be able to hover over the proper square on the tech screen for the details. But no improved troops from that, just better attrition and higher retinue cap.
2) I'd agree with majesty. If going to higher levels, tolerance is nice because you can start giving women power, but not yet.
3) That's always been the sticking point on tribal games for me. I've no clue how to make it more interesting.
Majesty is very good opinion buff later on and tolerance is required for many interesting laws, much like legalism is (legalism is still first priority followed by majesty).
County organisation is good but as said above, more a mid to long term buff so long as you keep it.
And yeah...few raiding options without boats. Can always walk over to the border, switch raid on, go over, take one thing then run away. Rinse repeat on another border and keel going forever.
Whatever that actually measures
