1204: The Path of The Letts

[Narvait]

THE UNDERDOG

Chieft Lamekins The Underdog

***

On the wooden bridge over a sparkling spring there was a woman sitting. She was playing with amber beads and singing an ancient melody. Someone arrived and shadowed sun. Viba raised her head.

• “Hey Viba!” kiss on cheek.
• “Hey Lamí” replied young wife: “Mm, is that honey?”
• “Yes, from Semigallia! Greetings from Viesturs. Sweet, take a comb or two!”
• “How is High Chief?” Viba asked
• “He is great! Going to war against Riga! Gonna throw them crusaders into the Sea”
• “Oh, I wish he would”
• “And I will help him!”
• “Wait, Lami!”
• “No worries, War is men business! And Perkons is my protector!”
• “Yes, but why die for HIS goals?”
• “Viba, we cant let that bishop Albert snake...”
• “Why don’t we raid Vinno’s order castle in Tukums instead?”
• “Take some cows and slaves.. hmm”
• “... and if lucky take Tukums hillfort itself”
• “But Viba, the Holy Order is strong and Semigallia needs our hand!”
• “Has he agreed to betroth Agita to our ‘puika’ yet?”
• “Well... he said he would..”
• “Should we rush our help before that?”
• “Hmm.., agreed, first betrothal, then help in war. But - I raid Tukums!”
• “Sure, Lami, you are the Chief!”
• “Viba, one more thing, I took one conc ...”
• “About Dardedze? I know, you are the Chief, you need many women. Prestige”
• “Ehhhm..”
• “I talked to her, she is a good girl. Have fun!”

***

The meadow got busy and noisy. Men were challenging each other. Fighting with wooden sticks or bare hands. Cheers, grunts and cries! An old man laughing. Dardedze was observing warriors whilst sharpening her sword. Chieftess approached her with a smile and a hug.

• “Dardedze!”
• “Yes, Viba!”
• “May Laima bless you!”
• “And may Perkons protect you!”
• “You blackeyed our man!” Viba smiled

Spoiler

• “It was a warrior initiation duel”
• “I know. Sure. Speaking of that, are you joining?”
• “The raid? yes!”
• “Stay besides Lamekins, watch his ass!”
• “Off course!”
• “No, I mean it! He is too brave, watch his ass out of trouble”
• “Understood” said young girl. Short moment of silence got broken by Viba:
• “Ehm, have you both? Has he? With you?”
• “Sex? No, you know, we are not interested in that” (they are both chaste - author remark)
• “If anyone asks, he does you two times per night, ok?” half joking, half serious asked Viba
• “Of course!” Replied Dardedze, took her sword and after careful examination put it into scabbard.

***
*Military Maneuvers of Baltic tribes against Crusaders*

On year 1204 High Chief Viesturs of Zemgale lead joint Semigall-Vanema campaign against Riga. Semigalls sieged down Riga and Curonians raided Tukums land.
Bishop Albert managed to summon Teutones Order to help Christian cause. In the great battle of Riga joined forces of Letts were victorious. About 1,000 crusaders perished.

In the last battle of Ledurga 1,400 Vanemans took on 1,700 Order brothers. A group of crusaders came for surprise attack and slaughtered Lamekin’s Guard. That enraged the young Chief. He chased down their famous commander - brother Simon, disregarding higher combat experience of the opponent. Dardedze took the battle for him. As a result they captured Simon and sacrificed him to Dievas. Curonian warriors got inspired by the event and earned a decisive victory. From this day Lamekins got known as The Underdog. Fighting and winning against the odds.

On July 1205 Riga went into hands of Semigalls, on December 1205 Tukums got conquered by Curonians.

Livonian Order got pushed back into the Sea!


***

Meat and ale, and bread, and milk, and honey. Semigallian High Chief had invited his men and Vaneman allies to celebrate. Long table was covered by food: Tervete’s bread and ale, foreign goods captured at Riga port, animals hunted by the Medeina Band.

High Chief Viesturs was sitting in the Master’s Chair recently “acquired” from Riga StPeter’s Church. Right next to him sits Lamekins, Chief of Vanema:

• “For the Underdog and his brave Vanemans!” Viesturs raised his ale.
• “For the High Chief Viesturs and our Semigall brothers!” returned Lamekins.
• “Ayyyy!” roared men on both sides of the Table.

After toasts and drinking conversations went more friendly and personal.

• “Nice ring, where did you get that?” Asked Viesturs.
• “Oh, this one. We robbed some Norse traveler,” answered Lamekins with a bit of laugh, “he said it was cursed. Was cursed for him for sure!”

• Viesturs chuckled: “But beware my friend, curses are real! You know the story of Andvar’s ring?”
• “It brings wealth and curse to the owner? I could use some wealth. And ale, a bit more ale”
• Viba joined the conversation: “Could we see our future daughter- in -law, we heard she was a beautiful young girl?”
• “But of course! Agita! Come!” Viesturs waved to daughter: “please be introduced to your future father and mother!”
• Shy 7 year old came and greeted Vanema couple: “May Laima bless you!”
• “And may Perkons protect you!” Returned Viba: “what a well raised kid you are! Noble child worthy her noble parents!”
• “Thank you Chieftess” girl replied silently.
• “Go on, play, thank you for coming,” Viba was all smiles. A perfect wife for little Dausprungas and a bond with mighty allies for the Tribe.

***
The second morning Lamekins woke up. Hands were shaking a bit, Head was heavy. A horse rode in the backyard with Vanema’s insignia, Skirmants jumped of the horse:

• “Chief, Chief, Ose, Ose..”
• “What Ose, Skirmant, my head is shaking, what is going on?”
• “Oselians!”
• “What? Don’t torture me! Tell me, I need an ale for Perkons sake!” Lamekins raised up, and sat down again.
• “Oselians declared the war on us”
• “What do they want?”
• “Tukums”
• “Ok, go gather men!”
• “Hey Underdog, if you need a hand?” Viesturs offered. How could he be so fresh the second morning?
• “All good. They aren’t much of a threat”

Lamekins requested ale and went back to bed. It did not take long. Another rider arrived:

• “Chief!?”
• “What is it today?? What??”
• “Poles!”
• “Poles? Poles are in the South, What?”
• “They are attack...”
• “If it is the Prussian Budo requesting support, our hands are busy,” Lamekins sat up and took a glass in his hands: “thank you!”
• “They are attacking us!”
• Chief’s eyes opened wide: “What do they want?”
• “Tukums, Chief”
• Viesturs laughed: “How about my hand now?”
• “Damn Velnias, what a morning! Damn!” Lamekins drunk all glass in one go: “Damn, they got like three times fighters than we have!!”

---
May Laima Bless you!

 

[Narvait]

*War for Tukums*

It was pagan Letts fighting Poles and Oesilian Ests. Chief Tushis Romuvan ruler of Selija offered his help against Polish Holy War, since giving Catholics a land so close would be dangerous to Selija’s own interests. Of course Semigalls - our reliable allies and friends were joining..

Belligerents
Lett Pagans:
Vanema (Lamekins)
Semigallia (High Chief Viesturs, troops lead by Talivaldis)
Selija (Tushis)
Total men ~ 4,600

Estonian Pagans:
Oeselia (High Chief Cake)
Laanemaa (Chief Ihavald)
Total men ~ 3,500

Poland:
Poland (King Wladislav III)
Total men ~ 7,100


Phase I:

Lett troops merged and went into Tukums. Estonians would maneuver around but avoid any battle.


Phase II:

Polish troops arrived into Tukums. Long battle started where outnumbered Letts were fighting bravely. In the skirmish phase light infantry and archers were holding their own against Poles, but during melee better armored enemies gained an upper hand. In the meantime Estonians started to siege Vanema hillfort.

Lett forces lost the Tukums battle and retreated into Zemgale, where they felt into Estonian trap. In the forest they got attacked by fresh enemies. Absence of Viesturs turned out crucial, without his forest ambusher skills Lett army had no chance. In the battle of Zemgale Estonians were victorious and returned to siege Vanema.

***
It was cold. Coat of Lamekins was wet from that “stupid small rain”. Wind was moving tree branches. Horse knew the road well, Chief did not even have to lead him: the Holy Grove of Kandava, Abava valley, forests and fields. There it was! No, not the Hillfort, it was the siege camp of Estonians near the old Hillfort.

Lamekins ordered his men to stop and waving the flag went to the Siege Camp. An older men rode to meet him:

• “Underdog?! We were waiting for ya! A bit wet don’t you find?” High Chief Cake was enjoying the moment.
• “You have won High Chief!”
• “Sorry, I could not hear ya well? Must be the rain!”
• “You won! Take Tukums, lead your men home. Enough deaths already.”
• “But I kind of like it here. Lovely castle you got! And your wife looks pretty!”
• “Don’t talk like that! Or..”
• “Or what Underdog?”
• “Tukums goes to Poles then” and Lamekins turned around.
• “Wait, wait Chief! Calm down, a little joke here or there is good for old friends. We take Tukums and are leaving” Cake turned to his men and cried out load: “Pack up men! We won, Tukums is ours!”

***

What was so great about Tukums that Estonians, Letts and Poles were fighting fiercely for that piece of land? It never let Lamekins sleep and he prepared for the next raid. He must find out!

 

[Narvait]

Part 3 Underdog - The Curse of the Ring


Lamekins was raised into rank of Veteran of the Medeina Band. In the following festival he sat next to Rimgaudas from Skalva. Word after word and new friend told him the legend of Tukums:

“My friend Varidotas, or as you say Varidots. Yes, he was a Lett. So, he served at GrandMaster Vinno’s castle. Yes, in Tukums. So, one night he woke up hearing whispers and noticed few men carrying a strange chest. He said they spoke in strange language and in that chest there were some treasures. Yes, treasures, important to their crucified God. Treasures as if belonged to a guy named Jeslem. They hid the chest near Northern Tower.”

***

A thunderstorm ravaged the sky. Lightnings and rain. Wind blew. In the wooden Chief’s hall Lamekins, Viba and their 5 years old son Dausprungis were dining. It was dark and candle light was twinkling.

• “It was a great raid. We found the chest!” Lamekins noted
• “You are right! This might help us in our deals with Christians,” Viba smiled
• “No deals with Christians!” said strictly young Chief: “hear that Dausprungis, no deals with Christians. Perkons is our protector!”
• “Yes, Peko our potecto,” said little boy
• “What a young smart boy you are!” Viba smiled: “You will grow a great man!”
• “A great Chief or maybe High Chief,” added Lamekins
• “King, my young boy you are already our king!” said happy mother.
• “Viba, on other news, the raid was a success, and Viesturs promised me support” started Chief
• “Lami, don’t tell me!”
• “Yes, our boy must be a High Chief, and I will become one, The High Chief of Oeselians”
• “But Lami, they beat us last time, are you sure?”
• “Poles beat us not those Northern hares”
• “Lami, but...”

*Campaign against Oeselia*

In the battle of Tukums due to miscommunication between Vanema soldiers and Semigall allies, Oeselians won despite being outnumbered. They first rooted Vanemans and then destroyed the arriving Semigalls.

In Zemgale few months later they met again, they thought the Romuva forests would help, but no, snow turned red from Lettish blood.

The war was lost again. Even worse: enemy had captured Viesturs young daughter.

Vaino the messenger whilst accepting the surrender told Lamekins they gonna make Viesturs daughter pregnant and send her back to help Lamekins’ son, since Lettish men can’t neither fight nor love. Such words got deep to the heart of Lamekins.
The duel would solve it. Vaino was not a great dueler and Lamekins expected an easy win. He ... but in the decisive moment sun rays mirroring from Andvari’s ring, blinded him just for a moment. Body fell to the left and head rolled to the right: “You duel as you War! Doggy!” Vaino spit on the ground and left.

***

Great fireplace was being collected. Dead chief was put on top of it, next to him shaman had cut the throat of Lamekins’ favorite horse. Two slaves got sacrificed to make sure Lamekins is served well in Aizsaule (other side of the Sun). Food and weapons, great clothes. Fire took it all. Young Dausprungis who usually was very active got thoughtful: “Mom, can I go to Aizsaule with daddy?”. “You will my son, but first you be a good boy, grow up and make your mummy and tribe proud!” Viba said: “and I will help you”.


At the long table men and women got seated according to their rank. The second best seat was reserved to Semigall High Chief Viesturs. He sat down with a grim face. A noise and chat became louder and surprised when Viba sat in the Master’s Chair. She sat as if nothing had happened and asked Dausprungis on her knees. Nobody could object to that and affirmative sounds followed.

• “Viesturs, how is Zemgale, how is Riga?” Viba asked.
• “Good, good, they are ok,” replied High Chief.
• “You are a great ruler, I expected no less”
• “Thank you!” for a tiny moment a smile appeared on Viesturs face: “Viba, you know Lamekins had always been a loyal friend, if you need anything!”
• “I realized we are small High Chief, our heart is big but lands are small...”
• “You know I want to kill that old Oeselian pig more than anyone, but we must regrow our men and coffers!”
• “Preparation is a necessity of course, and patience. I propose another target”
• “Which target?”
• “Kurzeme. It belongs to Mazheikis. He does not understand the political situation and never helps our common cause”
• “For Lamekins I will help you.” Said Viesturs and loudly roared: “For Lamekins the best of Underdogs!”
• “For Lamekins!” roared men of Vanema.

 

[Narvait]

Sun was shining bright over Venta river. Little Dausprungis was in the tree, dreaming of the lands faraway and adventures to come.
His mother arrived:

• “Dausprungis, get down, let’s meet the warriors!”
• “Mom, I will, later”
• “Now, now, don’t be an indolent brat, they conquered Kursa for you!”
• “A bit later, I am playing”
• “Dardedze will have new stories for ya, little bear!” Viba added, “come son, respect your father’s friends!”
• “Okay, okay,” Chief of Vanema and Kursa (!) got down from the tree.

War against Mazheikis was decisive and quick, since just a few years after Lamekins’ death allied Vanema and Zemgale both had recovered from unsuccessful Oeselian campaigns.
This was the last time Viesturs and Semigalls helped Bandava family in the war. Agita got abducted into concubine of old Oeselian High Chief and alliance faded. This was also the last battle where Vanemans were lead by Dardedze, concubine and friend of Lamekins. She left to Aizsaule few years after.


There were intrigues during Viba’s regency and even a plot for Dausprungis life, where his mother would not imprison the elder Taitis. Instead they would agreed that he abandoned plot. There was another unsuccessful attempt to conquer Tukums, indeed that place seemed cursed, still inhabited by Suomenusko tribals and defended well.

But all of this was overshadowed by the astonishing change in the power balance. The family moved into Kursa, chosing Ezerpils for their new capital. Both Kurzeme and Vanema got developed by raid money. Where hardly over 1,000 Vanema warriors answered Lamekins’ warhorn, about 4,500 Curonians raised to warlord Dausprungis. New power had risen in the Eastern Baltics.

POST SCRIPTUM
Calm water, soft grass, little Dausprungis is fishing for pikes. Eyes get heavy, head gets heavy, grass is truly soft. It catches. He got a pike, as soon as Dausprungis put the fish in the net, it turned into Dwarf.

• “Oh, hello, young fella!”
• “Who are you?”
• “Call me Andvaris, ha, ha”
• “Why ha ha?”
• “Joke!”
• “What is the joke?”
• “Your life is a joke, hi, hi”
• “No it is not, is not funny”
• “You will father 4 sons, but only 2 will call you dad!”
• “That can happen!”
• “You will be a king, but never rule!”
• “This is strange”
• “No, it is a joke! Hi hi!”
• “Not funny”
• “You will start a great dynasty, but nobody will remember Bandavas!”
• “Stop it! Your jokes are not funny”
• “They are, they are, you little thief of a ring!”
• “What? No! It is my father’s ring”
• “Your father’s ha! You better wake up! Wake up little bear! Wake up!”

 

[Narvait]

***
Young man leaned his head to enter the door. He was strongly built, tall. Young warrior had a well groomed beard, expensive clothes and jewelry.

• “Mom!” said young Dausprungis
• “My big bear,” Viba smiled
• “Here, look at the necklace," Dausprungis passed it to mother, and explained: "we raided Tukums again”
• “Oh! Thanks!” Viba put necklace on
• “Mom, there is one thing I should tell you. We are going on Semigalls”
• “On Semigalls?? But they are our allies!”
• “No more.. Mom, since Viesturs died, new regent.. he just does not understand, we barely talk”
• “Maybe, maybe, but we should respect what Viesturs had done for us and take care of young Sabis”
• “Don’t worry about him mom, Sabis will rule Tervete until end of times. But under my protection!”
• “Ok, son," Viba affirmed, “But Dausprungis?!”
• “Yes?”
• “You are the last of Bandavas, give me a grandson first and a heir!”
• “You got two..”

• “What?”
• “I am joking mom, me and Viba are working on that” Dausprungis kissed mother and left.

***
War with former allies was quick. Curonia and Semigallia got reunited. It was very strategic piece of land, located well to raid rich Jersika province.

***
Loud cries of a woman, screams of the newborn. The doors of sauna house were opened wide by the leg, because in his hands Dausprungis held the newborn: “It is a boy! And a heir to Kurzeme! Kerstigens!”

***
In the wooden tower of Ezerpils hillfort 3 men were sitting around the table, when Dausprungis and unknown man entered:

• “Hello everyone! Meet Nikita! We are going to conquer Tukums!”
• “High Chief, please we are old and slow,” said marshal Varidots: “could you..?
• “Tukums? Again?” Commander Gederis remembered the last time:”them Estonians appear out of nowhere and kill us!”
• “Not out of nowhere!” triumphed Dausprungis: “From Kulgrindas! Tell them Nikita”
• “Hello men,” said Nikita.
• “Hey, hi, hello,” mumbled the three commanders
• “So, I served for Tukums chief Ilmalemb, they are using kulgrindas - hidden underwater stony roads across swampy areas,” Nikita explained:"you can walk them, but cant notice that from above" (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kūlgrinda)
• “But of course,” suddenly all made sense to Varidots now, “must have learned from Zhemaitians”
• “Nikita tell them more,” asked High Chief.

FINALLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Estonian peasant revolt followed immediately, but was dealt with brutally, leader executed.


*The Northern Crusade*

Teutones Order declared war on Skalwa. It was too dangerous to let them earn the ground, so Dausprungis pledged support to Skalwian High Chief Vaisvilkas.

In Western Chronicles Dausprungis is known as Rex Dausprunge de Curonia. They say he had a power of a great bear, and under his command Lithuanian pagans earned victories against Teutones. The decisive battle took place at Selija tribe year 1225 where 10,400 pagans fought 9,500 Teutones. Dausprungis commanded the Center and Vaisvilkas of Skalwa the left flank. Light armored Letto-Lithuanians ambushed the knights, and it turned into a massacre of Christians. Several 1000s of crusaders laid down on Selija land.

Later in battle of Nalsia according ot chronicle Dausprunge had killed brother Rudolf von Habsburg among others.

Crusade got called back year two years after on 1227 with complete and undisputed Romuva victory.

***
- "Son,"
- "Yes, mother?"
- "Tell me of your next plans!"
- "Jersika, will raid them!"
- "Why not conquer them?"
- "Indeed!"

 

[Narvait]

Russian chronicles know Dausprungis as Dovsprun Lamyakovich warlord of Curonians and a menace to good Greek Christians. A pagan Chief he was believed to be a shaman, born from a man and a bear mother, for his almost inhuman strength.
Early XIII century he had vassalized the Orthodox Prince Visvaldis of Jersika and was frequently raiding Christian Polotsk and Pskov principalities. A punishment of God for Polotsk sins.

After securing Jersika and raising funds for another war via raiding, it was decided to subjugate East Estonians. They were last remaining force in Estonia to challenge Curonians. Dausprungis understood, if he was to rule Baltics he had to act! Strong army was risen - on Letts side numbering 5,000 warriors, Estonians could only field 3,000. The decisive battle happened near Riga town. In the middle of the battle Dausprungis noticed a familiar short stature. Could it be? Andvaris? For a moment he had lost attention, but that was enough.

Several Russian sources (I.e. Polotsk Old Chronicle, Staraya Povest Polotska) claim that Dovsprun Lamyakovich got killed in the battle of Riga. We know that is not true.


***
First appeared riders, then a horse wagon. Viba was looking through the window and almost feinted, her stomach felt bad. She dressed her best clothes and went outside.
Near the wagon Dausprungis wife was crying with newborn Lamekins on her hands, older son Kerstigens observed it from distance.
On the wagon the great bear of Curonia was sleeping - her majestic son.

• “He got hit on his head,” explained Commander Daumants: “he comes alive, but is unable to speak”
• “Did you win the battle, son?” Queen Mother interrupted him.
• “What, Yes, we won. Estonians surrendered.”
• “Thank you, Daumants, for victory and for bringing my son home,” said Viba and turned to Kerstigens: “my boy, your dad will be alright! We shall venerate the ancestors for his health.”

Later in her room alone Viba collapsed on the floor. Her Lami died 28 years old and now their 28 years old son was turned into a vegetable.


***
Prince Kerstigens watched young Estonian girl Are being taken out of prison and brought to stone. She was screaming and trying to break out. “It will help dad to wake up,” thought Kerstigens, “it will help dad”. She got taken to the offering stone and killed. Are's body got burned. Her beautiful face turned into ashes. Why would his ancestors enjoy such a thing? World was screwed up place.
Dad never got better.

***
Two well built men carried Dausprungis to thrown room and sat him in the chair, holding from each side, keeping his head up. Court kryve Tots arrived with an amber crown. Dausprungis got crowned the first king of Estonia under cheers of his loyal warriors.
Viba was watching proud, her son had become a king! It took few years to subjugate remaining tribes, but under her wise leadership Curonians did it. Many Baltic holds were built in the process. Curonia developed.

***
King Dausprungis died 33 years old. He was the first king of Estonia. Kerstigens was only 14, he got sent to Gotland to earn experience and business contacts. Viba continued her third regency.

 

[Narvait]

Playing outside taught Kerstigens to act quickly without unnecessary pause for thinking. In Visby he had met many interesting men and established contacts. Kerstigens had learned the civilized world and noticed how Estonians were portrayed as uneducated and somewhat dull savages, who would kill innocent girls on sacrifice stones. One of his friends there was father Bernhard, a priest from Lubeck, who promissed Kerstigens to speak with no less than Kaiser himself to help young lad bring the light of God and respect of civilized world to the lands East of Baltic Sea.

Taking the rule a year later young king subjugated the last Estonian tribe (Oeselians) and said speech to commemorate the moment: "We are a strong nation of Curonian, Estonian and Lettonian fighters. Let's become part of the Christian World and become Greater than Great Novgorod!". Most of the chiefs were not impressed.

But Kaiser was. Deeply touched by the words of father Bernhard on the heathen who had seen the light of Christ. He delegated a Prince-Bishop Manfred himself to baptise new sheep for the good shephard.

Chiefs were not impressed again. This time the level of dissatisfaction was so great, that Kerstigens was advised by his grandmother to grant more freedoms. Therefore he had established one of the first Kingdom level republics in the history - Most Serene Republic of Estonia, granting special rights to 4 other most esteemed patriarchs:
High Chief Melete of Oeselians - son of archnemesys High Chief Cake
Lord Mayor Sabis of Zemgale - son of High Chief Viesturs
Lord Mayor Alar of Tartu - Tartu chief
Lord Mayor Huvameel of Liivimaa - Liivimiaa chief

Due to all those changes Kingdom did not become stronger to put it lightly. It became weak. And it took a little time for Tartu "Lord Mayor" Alar The Cleansing Flame to notice the opportunity for strike. He declared war against Christianization of Estonia, "to clean that dirt from our ancestors land".

But father Bernhard has Kaiser's ear and heart. Kerstigens himself would have 0 chance. But 10,000 HRE soldiers had all the chance ever needed. Alar got captured and his titles revoked. Kaiser's men left the land, but Teutones Order got hired and imprisoned the rest of conspirators one by one. They all got stripped their titles and replaced by good Catholics.

Father Bernhard indeed was a man of connections, but there was one last thing. He insisted Kerstigens to pick a new name, a Christian one to truly show himself as a great Christian and enter into network of marriage agreements and trade agreements with the Christian world. Bernhard suggested Daniel as a symbol for Kerstigens struggle against lions of Suomenusko and Romuva. King accepted. He kept his pagan name as a second name, and from now on was known as Daniels Kerstigens (-s in the end of names is Latvian grammar, similar to Gothic -s, Latin -us, etc, so I might use Daniel without -s further in text, author's note).
Later impressed by cool Coat of Arms of Catholic Princes Daniel made a new change. He ordered himself a new CoA and used his pagan name as the new dynasty name.
- "Daniel, I suggest you put a lion on the CoA," suggested Bernhard, "it symbolizes your name with the lord"
- "I love it Bernhard, agreed"
- "And a cross, to symbolize your role in the history as the baptist of Estonia," continued Bernhard
- "Yes, that is a great idea, you are smart!" agreed Daniel
- "And may I suggest a key, to symbolize you are the Prince Mayor, the first of Estonian Princes?" asked Bernhard
- "Yeaaaaaah, I love it" said Daniel.
- "And may I..."
- "Just put a rose there!" asked Daniel
- "But?" asked Bernhard
- "I like roses, they look good and smell nice." replied Daniel and left the room.

From now on the history will learn of House of Kerstigens and its very first patriarch - Daniel Kerstigens

In the picture above - Holy Order of Teutones hired by Daniel (free of charge) is coming to imprison Oeselian traitor Melete.
Also with new CoA came new haircut and sexy beard, he is a Prince Mayor after all, the Confessor of Christianity in the lands of the most stubborn of pagans!

 

[Narvait]

***
The Most Serene Republic of Estonia had survived the first storm, and had become stronger. Yet it faced many challenges, mostly internal.
First, it’s military power was virtually non-existent. It had below 2,000 soldiers to rely on.
Second, towns in Kurzeme and realmwide were underdeveloped in terms of trade. Money that was so necessary was lacking. Trade in the Baltic Sea was controlled by Gotland.
Third, most of lands were still pagan and so were chiefs.
Fourth, it was not clear if House Kerstigens would keep the rule in case of succession. No prestigous heir was available.
How to proceed? What would help Republic to grow and prosper?


*The Christian World*

Daniel continued his pagan approaches to marital life. He seduced young courtiers and old courtiers, some said he slept with any moving object. Priest Bernhard was not objecting to the lewd ways of Prince Mayor. Any child of Kerstigens blood would help the right cause. His quick Polish wife Smiechna was not as forgiving, but she had a very little say. During his rule, Daniel fathered over 15 children, some to himself, some to help out brother. They got betrothed to European royal houses: England, Sweden, Denmark, Vladimir, Poland, Polotsk and even HRE itself.
Alliances got forged.

Special relationship Daniel had with the Kaiser, his Godfather. HRE offered help in many ways: sending missionaries, building churches, providing skilled German craftsmen and just donating money. Letters of Daniel to Kaiser are now a national treasure. Despite lacking intellectual depth they show devotion of young Confessor to Catholic faith and enormous gratitude to his dearest friend and godfather.

Daniel’s team did not think twice when Pope announced the Crusade for Portugal. He pledged his troops and became zealous Catholic: it was then he left the Band of Medeina and joined the Benedictines Order.
Prince Mayor’s retinues left to Portugal under Estonian banner. Daniel himself lead the troops and joined the prayers in Crusader camp together with Catholic leaders. After common prayers and first successful battle Daniel left home since “there are many lost souls in need for my attention back home and we got the best commanders stay here for Christ’s cause”. Crusade was successful and Estonia had participated in it.
Daniel left on piligrimage to Jerusalem to thank the Lord for all the blessings Catholic realms had received.

***
Grand City of Ezerpils did its best to invite rich merchants and courtiers from all around Europe. German craftsmen, Jewish money lenders. It was a fresh market to make ones name. Mostly German speaking foreigners soon made up a significant proportion in major cities and craftsmen guilds got established. Ports were built and Kerstigens Family Palace improved.


*The Gotland Affair*

A huge scandal concerning Gotland traders emerged. Merchants from Lubeck had informed Kaiser of HRE and Prince Mayor of Estonia that Visby’s traders frequently made deals with Baltic pagans, which was against the Papal decree. Daniel sent out letters both to Kaiser and Pope complaining that such an action had armed enemies of Jesus and and made Estonia’s sacred mission more difficult. He requested action in the name of Christ: “If Your Majesty let’s me control Gotland, I will make sure such crimes against our Lord stop! This will be in my best interests and help our Christian mission in Baltic lands.”

Swedish king was furious and protested, but Kaiser had made up his mind.

 

[Narvait]

***
From the (well hidden) Diary of Karl Magnusson, Patrician of Visby, Gotland:
"It was year of the lord 1260 when great sorrow and injustice was brought to Visby. That double faced eel from Ezerpils had manipulated the Christian world against us, fair business people from Visby. Yes, we had our trades, also with pagans. But himself? Where did he get his wax, fur and most of all amber from if not from Lithuanian pagans? Not from the Lord himself, did he? But the voice of reason got never heard. Instead they all followed the "Saint" Daniel.
After Kaiser's men had sieged down Visby and passed him the keys... Oh, what a show off. I am writing this down, so further generations take notice of this hypocritical bastard of the Church. Daniel dropped on his knees and thanked the God. If that was not enough, he took the bowel of water and washed feet of the nearby soldier. Was he thinking he was Jesus Christ himself? Arrogant snake! But our Catholic leaders?! Even our good King Tord after having passed Gotland to Estonia wrote: "To the Heroic Prince... May you live in harmony!" ptfuu! When shall we start using our head for thinking instead of just for wearing hat?"

***
Following war with Gotland Estonia had become a trade hegemon of the Baltic Sea. All trade went via Ezerpils, and building of Great Harbor was ordered. In next years Estonian land increased few more times - when Alexander (grandson of Visvaldis of Jersika) conquered Polotsk and when Daniel himself went into Holy War against Finnish heathen chiefs.

***
During his late years Daniel had become a conversus of Benedictines. He was a pious man acknowledged as being a True Christian Knight by Catholics near and far. Daniel had become a legend of the Church, a no compromise warrior and hero, when faith was fading. Great Harbor of Ezerpils got finished, and work started to make Ezerpils also a center for Phylosophy and Arts. Unfortunately Daniel never saw the work finished. He died 61 year old, and did not manage to leave his mark in history of arts and phylosophy.

But his mark was there for Catholic Church. For his works in spreading the faith and pious life he got canonized. Today Saint Daniel Kerstigens the Righteous is regarded as the guardian of Estonia as well as a protector of trade ships. Every year St Daniel Kerstigens day is celebrated on the 22nd of March, in the spring season when historically Northern Baltic Sea ports got freed from ice.

Son Peteris will have a real strugle to get out of his father's shaddow, and to keep the realm in tact and in hands of Kerstigens House

 

[Narvait]

Son of the Great Pagan King Dausprungis, Kerstigens took over the rule from his regent and grandmother Viba. Estonia was a cocktail of Romuva, Suomenusko tribals and Orthodox counties recently united only by the authority of Curonian sword. Fractured realm was economically undeveloped, with only 2 ducats in taxes monthly.

Daniel’s achievements list was long:

1. Christianization of Estonia;
2. Founding multiple cities;
3. Establishing of Republic;
4. Developing economy;
5. Taking over Gotland;
6. Building the Great Harbor of Ezerpils.

He also became the Conversus of Benedictines, fathered 14 children (history does not know of 2 more), conquered pagan lands in Southern Finland and became Sainted.

As a result, all Estonia’s provinces were converted Catholic and abandoned their tribal ways to more advanced Merchant or Feudal government.

Tax revenues increased from 2 to over 70 ducats monthly, levies increased to over 7,000 soldiers.

St Daniel had created a Rich and Free Republic for generations to come.

 

[Narvait]

***
Peteris looked at the keys presented to him on a pillow in a ceremony that had made him the new Prince Mayor of Estonia. Everyone was talking how Daniel was the Saint and the greatest Prince Mayor possible. He might had been the greatest, but Peteris had better cloth and would also order himself new regalia!

***
Crown of Pearls, Ruby Scepter and the finest Golden Sword - all of that was fitting and well sponsored by taxes. Peteris always found a way to earn a bit more. His greed and envy were legendary. Just like his cynical approach to the faith. Some even went as far as to claim he only joined the Crusade for extra gold.

*CRUSADE*

Crusade for Jerusalem was the topic of church and everyday city talk. The Holy Land and brave Christian knights. Peteris got Knights Hospitallers hired (“For free! They would fight for free! For Jesus... and a bit for Peteris Kerstigens too, Hah!”)

Despite cynical thoughts, Peteris joined the Crusade and actually lead his joined retinues/Hospitallers troops against heathens. They participated in major battles, such as Battle of Farama and were victorious, some claimed it was Prince Mayor’s skill in Desert fights that helped to avoid the loss in some close battles.

***
Sultanate of Rum, Silifke, Southern Coast of Anatolia, window view with palms and seaside. Matiss Dausprungis was drinking coffee with his wife Khorishah - beautiful Armenian countess (bayan). He got married to young widow of Daniel’s trade partner and had produced many children since then. Being lustful and gregarious their family life was full of pleasures.

After Turkish invasion years ago his wife’s Arzrouni clan became vassals of Rum Sultanate. Matiss’ pride made him uneasy to be just a consort in the castle and a vassal to heathens. Therefore a letter from Estonia made him happy. He would be picked as the Benefactor for Republic in the Crusade!! Matiss left the Silifke to join his brother to the Holy Land.


Crusade was successful and for Northern Republic’s contribution Matiss was granted a county of Kerak.

=======================================================================================================
Here I am taking a pause since there are two options how to move further:
1. Play as Prince Mayors of Estonia and build up the Baltic power (own Kingdom level Republic)
2. Play as Matiss Dausprungis and his heirs in the Kingdom of Jerusalem (own one county)

I have done some playing with Estonia further the line, and must say "the night/plague is long and full of terrors", but there is also a "Gothic prince who was promissed" in that reality.
I have not played in Jerusalem, but might open up for some fun interactions.

Plus for Estonia - established, solid income, solid army, did some play already, great drama ahead.
Minus for Estonia - I dont like the Republic inheritance system.

Plus for Kerak - new interactions in Near East, some interesting options in Jerusalem and nearby.
Minus for Kerak - only one county and in that reality they faced Jihad.

Anyway I am open for your suggestions. As before, let's try best of 6 votes, with my vote as a tie breaker.

 

[Narvait]

Best wax candles available in Ezerpils lit the table where Peteris was working. He was drawing movements of stars, making notes and discussing results with brother Mikelis.

He had invested a lot to build the best laboratory possible and observatory - the best in the Northern Europe. Peteris had neglected rulership and was focusing on the science. Later generations would remember Prince Mayor as a proponent or even creator of Heliocentric model, that challenged Catholic dogmas. This way Rome no more looked favorably at the new Republic.

In his late writings though Peteris (who had become an internationally recognized leader Magus of Hermetic Society) would emulate St Daniel. Texts were humble, but among the best philosophical writings of late Medieval era.

Peteris died only 43 years old of severe stress balancing Prince Mayorship, science and very difficult relations with church authorities. Rule of Estonia went into hands of Kaaren of Estonian (kohta) Muhu family. Peteris' friend, brother and apprentice Mikelis became a new Patrician of House Kerstigens.

***
A servant ran upstairs into Observatory. Mikelis was watching stars fully focused. Madis regained his breath:

• “Lord Mayor I got a message..”
• “Can it wait?”
• “War!”
• “Are we under attack?”
• “No, We are.. Prince Mayor Kaaren is.. attacking Cumans to liberate Lithuania!” servant quickly explained
• “What? but... I mean it is a noble cause.. to liberate them from Cuman hordes.. but,” mumbled Mikelis, ”a patient ruler would wait for a better moment, right? Wise man said don’t attack when outnumbered. And that man was wise.. he was!”

 

[Narvait]

***
Prince Mayor Kaaren ruled for only 1 year when he died "attending to chamber business". For unknown reasons a criminal Patrician Baisis Vidins got elected new Prince Mayor. Year later also Baisis Vidins died in the dungeons of Mikelis. This was when rule of Estonia returned to the hands of Kerstigens House.
However Vidins son would not let it slide, he gathered support for "democratic reforms" to make Council more powerful. Mikelis had no choise.

***
First foreign affairs act was to stop the war for Lithuanian Liberation. They met with Khagan near Tervete castle and agreed it was just a misunderstanding by previous Prince Mayors. White Peace ensued. Later that night however Mikelis suffered terrible night sleep. He got visited by his pagan grandfather.

- "Mikelis, eh, Mikelis," said the ghost.
- "Who are you?" asked Prince Mayor.
- "I am Dausprungis, the real king of Curonians! The only king of Estonia! What have you turned this land into?" asked Dausprungis
- "Estonian Republic is..." explained Mikelis
- "What Republic??? I built it as a glorious Kingdom! I built it for the honor of our ancestors! Of mighty Perkons!" claimed the pagan king,"I am the only rightful heir, but look what you turned it into. Men dressed up like pussies! Estonians ruling us over! Drinking mead with Khagan who enslaved our Romuva brethren! I despise you! And I will kill you, I will destroy this land and its rulers! You will see, Romuva shall rise again!"
- "pater noster qui es in caelis..." prayed Mikelis doing cross signs over and over. Dausprungis left.

***
The years passed by. Son Petros was born to a Gothic girl that Mikelis legitimized. It was his firstborn and a heir to the Republic. He was attractive young boy and stars predicted a great diplomat. Mikelis was happy and satisfied. He asked Pope to baptise Petros and name him after Mikelis' friend and mentor.

***
On year 1307 a significant event happened that changed a lot. Mikelis pressed a claim of mayor Kettil. He was of a noble house, rulers of Ostrogothia province. This was the first time Estonia gained a land West of the Baltic Sea. He also increased Estonian presence in Finland claiming Karjaa for Lord Mayor Imanta, yes, the same Lord Mayor who increased council power. Mikelis had to do a lot to satisfy his internal lords and balance the power.

***
Mikelis went on a hunt for animal parts he could use in alchemics. That was the year black death started in Estonia.
They never closed the gates because the lord was hunting outside.

Castration did not save Mikelis' life.

Keys got passed to Peteris II. The ceremony master was really nervous and tried to do it as quick as possible, hoping he would avoid what was to come. But there was no escape.

Estonia had gained a bit of territory during the rule of Mikelis, but an untimely hunt and keys got passed to Peteris II... Long live Peteris II?

 

[Narvait]

***
Peteris II died within a few years and House rule went into hands of 7 years old Gothic Prince Petros III of House Kerstigens, but Republic of Estonia into hands of Utilis (House Tontegode).

***
Next years were dark and little was known. Several Prince Mayors changed and each new Prince Mayor took a trade post or two from young Petros. Nothing could be done.

***

It was a great luck that boy had a great guarding, friend and regent all in one person - Bishop Vetseke. He told funny stories and made sure the black days would not harm young Prince.

***
But days were dark Estonia got attacked from three sides - Lithuania wanted Semigallia, a Sunni Cuman warlord went for Finnish possessions and a revolt happened in Kurzeme itself. Bishop Vetseke understood that he had to support new Prince Mayor. Of all wars they lost one - Finland was too far away to hold onto.

***
Aged 29 Serene Dodge of Estonia Petros III went into crossroads in the midnight. He held a black cat in his hands. Petros went there and spoke loudly:
"Dausprungis, I know you are there! You are the great warrior and I am happy to have your blood in me, just like I am having a blood of Hermanarich and great Gothic warlords. You are a worthy hero and a reason Estonia persists. I will prove to be a worthy heir and you will let me! Rest in Peace!"
With these words Petros released the Cat and Dausprungis was never seen again. Year 1333 - rule of Petros the Gothic Prince begun.

 

[Narvait]

***
It was hard not to notice the big smile and charming words, compliments and enthusiastic manner of speech. Peteris Kerstigens III was a Prince Mayor who could find a way to hearts. It was during his reign when the Council got stripped of its rights and even abolished. Prince Mayor could make decisions unopposed. When Pope called for a Crusade against Sultan Garsiya II of Castile, Republic answered the call, hired a Holy Order and under command of Peteris himself went to Portugal.

Did he escaped near death in the lost battle of Tarazona where over 40,000 men battled and over 7,000 perished by dressing up as poor beggar?
Did he seduced beautiful Aldonca in Lisabon bar and even brought her to Ezerpils where she gave him a son?
Did he sieged many castles and participated in the harvest parties with local population singing and dancing under name of Jose of North?
Did he really single handed killed over 1,000 of saracens?

Many tales were told on his deeds, but one was clear. Pope named him the biggest contributor of the Crusade, and since Peteris III supported Pope's candidate Gomez d'Ivrea for a king of Castille, Vatican paid well. Including Vatican's gift treasury of Republic now held over 12,000 ducats. Also Elio of Italian branch of House Kerstigens was named a duke of Castille.

**THE NORTHERN WAR**

Concept of Northern War is a modern historian invention to describe number of campaigns of Peteris Kerstigens III to enlarge his realm. Indeed despite Peteris III being remembered as a Peaceful Architect and known by nickname 'Patron of Arts', his forces were actively fighting to expand Estonia's influence.

Belligerents:
Kingdom of Denmark
Kingdom of Sweden
Kingdom of Finland
Kingdom of Norway
Teutones Order

VS
Republic of Estonia

Peteris had successfully used 'divide et impera' attacking his foes by one, and ensuring that Danish kingdom split into number of small polities he could vassalize by brute force. These are the lands earned by Estonia during the war:
Osterbotten - 1340
Narke - 1342
Stockholm - White Peace - Teutones held onto it
Helsinki - 1348
Savonia - 1349
Jylland - 1353 (taking Jylland split up Denmark in Scania, Rugen and Denmark proper)
Scania - 1354
Rugen - 1355
South Finland - 1356
Uleaborg - 1358
Vestlandet - 1360
Kallavesi - 1363
Olonets - 1365
Vastergotland - 1367
Slesvig - 1369
Skagen - 1371
Nidaros - 1371

As a result Peteris III Kerstigens claimed himself a King of Finland. Kingdoms of Sweden and Denmark got reduced to few provinces. All the Baltic Sea Catholics joined into a Defensive Pact against Republic. Only then the Holy Fury got stopped. "Vatican has created a monster," wrote bishop Karl of Sweddish Kingdom, saying that money given to Peteris III as victor of Crusade had caused killings and sufferings to Baltic Christian nations. Yet Peteris Kerstigens III responded by huge infrastructure and trade projects building prosperity and technology boost.

**THE PATRON OF ARTS**

In the Vanema province Elku (idols') Forest was located, the sacred Romuva place where ancient Curonians sacrificed to their gods. Nobody was permitted to hunt there, and nobody did. Even Christianity could not change this. However today the forest is known by name St Daniel's Forest. They kept it sacred, but they built a Great Statue of St Daniel Kerstigens at the entrance. It was a Peteris III idea to keep folk traditions and new faith united.

In the province of Tukums a Great Library (Petera Biblioteka) was built to remember the great scientist and proponent of Helio-Centric model Peteris Kerstigens I. This helped technology spread.

Great Harbor (Ezerpils Dizhosta) got stages II and III finished. Many infrastructure buildings got built to facilitate trade and taxes. Prosperity reached lands.

Also Peteris Kerstigens III was named magus of Hermetics Society, he was one of the enlightened rulers of the Republic. He wrote a book Bestiary (book that gave sex appeal to its owner, obviously he knew what to write, since evil tongues mentioned in his 50ies he was not really a grandfather of his son's children but rather a dad) and a Magnum Opus on Astrology.

**LATE YEARS**

When Peteris III was already 73 years old, another crusade was called - for Jerusalem. Muslims had taken it again. Of course Estonia participated again, but this time Europe met the strongest resistance possible. Mongol Empire joined the crusade as a defender. Many great mercenaries died for the cause, but it was all for nothing. Catholics lost. 2 years later also Peteris Kerstigens III The Hammer/ The Patron of Arts died. Apparently lost crusade did not help the old man. His sone 43 years old Andris took the rule, but only as a High Chief of Semigalls, since Toivo of Hiiumaa House took the rule as Prince Mayor.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A picture showing extent of the Most Serene Republic at death of Peteris Kerstigens III and his bloodline. It also contains a spoiler for what is to come.

 

[Narvait]

***
“If they die, they die,” said a middle aged man with fancy mustache, “We must send them to distract enemy’s main force.”
“But it is almost certain death!” protested young commander Steiguts.
“Son. When you grow up you will learn to sacrifice, this is a strategy!” replied High Chief Andris, veteran commander of Estonia.
“Easy to sacrifice someone else’s life, ha!” Steiguts would not calm.
“We will do what it takes to win them,” Andris looked at young boy:”and you will command them!”.

Steiguts lost his life in the battle of Saaremaa, but Estonia achieved another brilliant victory against separatists who revolted against Prince Mayor Toivo.

***
Earlier Andris was fighting in Lithuania. Prince Mayor Toivo had declared a Holy War against the last pagans of Europe. He chose a perfect moment fighting weakened enemy and after short campaign Lithuania got incorporated into The Most Serene Republic. Toivo was a great Prince Mayor but he had one significant problem - he was not Andris.

These were the days that brought the most important diplomatic victory. Again Vatican had favored Kerstigens family. Since King of Norway was excommunicated and Kerstigens demoted to mere High Chiefdom, an Invasion was granted to Andris. Norway was to be ruled by righteous Catholic ruler and who else would be more fitting than a descendant of St Daniel and son of Crusade hero Peteris III.

But first Andris needed to secure keys of his own Republic.

***
Born a fighter he had always solved problems with a sword. Commander to his father Peteris III, fighting Swedes and Danes and Finns and Swedes and Finns... But this time Prince Mayorship could not be won in a direct battle. Assassins! The great Order of killers that made all Europe tremble. If only Andris could become one of them. High Chief focused on Intrigue and spent many days looking for connections.

“Shia Islam? Yes, absolutely!” enthusiastically exclaimed Andris, “But I can’t convert openly... my realm would not understand, we must act clever and step by step.”
“I understand,” agreed Emir Aladdin, “we shall contact you later then!”
We? Was that? Were they?

***
Andris got invited to Headmaster’s Ilyas fortress in Syria. He got taken to the dark room, Andris noticed there was another person in there. “She is the enemy of the faith and she must die!” stated Ilyas and uncovered her face. It was Agita, shy daughter of Andris. So, that is what it takes, thought High Chief and took the dagger. He put it in the stomach of Grandmaster, closing his mouth with other hand. Andris waved Agita to stand up and they went outside. When there he commanded a nearby guard to follow him and another one to provide them the best horses for mission. They got on horses, quickly waved goodbye and rode to the port.

***
Toivo died and Valdur got elected next Prince Mayor. He would right away revoke Trade Post that belonged to Kerstigens, but no luck! Andris’ intrigue skill was high enough. Very high, in fact just couple of months after a misfortunate carriage accident happened to Prince Mayor Valdur. Everyone suspected Andris involvement due to a text written on the back of carriage: “Do not F with K”.

A man of many sins!

 

[Narvait]

***
Norway was ruled by Torstein of House Ynglings. He was not the greatest ruler of once famous and still legendary dynasty - 31 years old craven, frail, excommunicated and arbitrary. But he was holding the second most land in the North, second to Estonia. And Andris wanted it all. Therefore an Invasion previously granted by Rome was called. The military resistance was non-existant, since gold of Republic could easily pay for 9,000 mercenaries to add to 6,000 retinues. Yet in a desperate diplomatic move using allies within Estonia, Norwegians managed to make Pope excommunicate Andris.

***
Ezerpils Council. Round table.
"Pope has agreed to lift excommunication," told Chancellor, "but we must reinstate Papal Investiture."
"How much would that cost us?" asked Prince Mayor Andris.
"Your soul's immortality is priceless!" said Bishop Steiguts.
"Steigut, I was talking to Steward," explained Prince Mayor, "How much?"
"A lot, we wou..." started Jekabs the Steward.
"Enough, we are not doing it," stated Andris
"Prince Mayor," Marshall raised hand with a worry in his look.
"Yes, Bjorn?"
"We are in a middle of war with Norway, we would not be able to fight two fronts, should anyone attack" explained Bjorn the Marshall, "besides Torstein of Norway has inherited Scotland, so it may become a bit more problematic"
"OK, fair enough! See Steigut, we are saving my soul! It is priceless." concluded Andris.

***
Battle of Trondheim marked an end to the war. Torstein surrendered and all of Norway became part of all of Estonia. Every Christian lord suddenly felt endangered by growing power of the Republic and joined in a Defensive Pact. And yet it was not enough. Pope and other lords would still not recognize Andris as an Emperor of Winterfell. A long wait started. Some historians say that Andris' rule was a terror, but that is far from truth. Yes, several Patricians died:
Toiv (carriage)
Hoimulemb (snake)
Tambet (excommunicated, imprisoned, beheaded)
Raho (wine)
Ihar (first intimidated, then explosion)
Ahas (balcony)
But only a mad man would consider Andris responsible for all of them. Surely those were done by foreigners to destabilize situation in the Republic. Estonia was surrounded by enemies and only a good Christian godfather Andris could save it.

***
Born under auspicious stars! His wife gave birth to Pavels Kerstigens. And even more luck heading our way with old cursed ring Andvaranaut destroyed.
Now we need to survive for Emperorship or else little Pavels would have to finish his father's work.

 

[Narvait]

**TAVERN UNDER THE OAK**

Tavern "Under The Oak" near Kuldiga town was a familiar place to hunters of Kurzeme region. It was located next to forests rich with game, and many hunters before or after the hunt were spending hours drinking mead and beer in a good company.
A rider approached the tavern. He jumped from a horse, threw some coins to a boy to take care of his horse and entered the tavern. It was his lucky day, Prince Mayor's table was occupied and merry, Andris himself was drinking celebrating a great hunt - deer with huge antlers.
"Bjorn, my dear Marshall!" Andris invited the rider to join the table and shout to the waitress, "beer for my boy Bjorn!"
"Good news Prince Mayor! Dyre has left the defensive pact," Bjorn explained his visit.
"Sweden is at our mercy then. Declare the war!" commanded Prince Mayor, "not today, no rush; today we drink, look at those antlers, what a male! Tomorrow.. go tomorrow, declare war, prepare them Swiss boys for campaign!"

***
Casus Belli was a good one - Andris' vassal count Torstein would make a better duke of Smaland than his cousin vassal of Dyre. Military wise, pockets of Republic were so deep that no country near Baltics had a chance alone. King Dyre of Sweden got crushed decisively.
In a great ceremony Andris was crowned a Grand Prince of new Principality. Ziemgale - Latvian for Winterfell. With help of the Vatican and under guidance of House Kerstigens a Catholic Empire was created in North. Branches of Kerstigens got installed as hereditary kings of Lapland and Finland. Crowns of Norway, Estonia and Lithuania stayed with Grand Republic.

***
With the success of Ziemgale and Kerstigens there were no doubts St Daniel indeed was a Saint. Piligrims from near and far visited Ezerpils where remains of St Daniel were, and also Vanema where St Daniel's statue was built. In Vanema a new camp was created that would turn into a city (new holding slot).

***
The future seemed bright but the heir. Young Pavels was a major headache to Grand Prince. Bastard from an unknown girl? Nah, that was alright, Kerstigens were all lustful and made sex to all things moving. Be them their own wives or wives of their dynasts. No, the problem was of religious character.
Pavels showed no interest in Bible. Holy See had helped House Kerstigens so much, and Kerstigens had helped the See. But Pavels seemed to show no respect. Growing up as a Grey Eminence he found a way to other people, and even managed to marry a princess of Lithuania - Laima Palemonaite ("Dad, this way we legitimize our rule as kings of Lithuania"). With one small nuance - Laima was a Romuva believer. She would sacrifice animals in important occassions ("She is just showing interest in cooking like any good wife should") or bring a burning wood three times around Kerstigens Palace on Christmas ("She is just burning sins so we all become better Christians!"). Pavels could explain away everything. Locally. But what would a Pope say? Sometimes Andris wished he could take his newly created Mace named Foe Hummer and beat them both away from Palace. Few words with Pavels and he calmed down again.

He left for Heaven aged 81. Andris was a sinful person, yet a good Catholic and Godfather of Ziemgale.

Grand Prince is dead, long live Grand Prince!

 

[Narvait]

*CONSPIRACY*

Men in hoods arrived into chamber under St Daniel's Church in Riga. "When shall we do the job?" whispered older voice. "19th of March," answered younger man with Estonian accent, "two years anniversary of that ambitious cynic rule.". "Will do," replied older voice. Younger man shaked hands: "Best of luck! Ziemgale's destiny is in your hands,"

In the very first year in position of Grand Prince, Pavels had declared war against Denmark to help Dyre of Sweden to take back his Crown. That day he visited Ezerpils training camp to show support to Ziemgale's soldiers, but...

Rule of Ziemgale went into hands of Leetoiv "The Monster" of House Turaida. Cruel and ambitious 31 years old Flamboyant Schemer. Also Gregarious, Just and Diligent. He was well posited for a successful rule of the Grand Republic of the North. Both internally and externally. Energetic ruler who would win wars and destroy inner kingdom level titles to centralize power. But Kerstigens House was inherited by Raineri (Rainers) of Italian Branch of Kerstigens.


*NOT PROPER KERSTIGENS*

...long time ago there was a great pagan king Dausprungis of Curonia (aka Dausprunge Rex, Доуспрунг Ламякинович, The Pagan King). Man who had stopped Teutones from Lithuania, menace raider of Ruthenian cities and conqueror of Estonia. Dausprungis had two sons. Oldest son Kerstigens and his youngest brother Lamekins. Kerstigens would Christianize Estonia and become known as Saint Daniel. He would start House Kerstigens who produced many great rulers of future Ziemgale.
Lamekins would also take brother's pagan name as his family name Kerstigens and be married to Countess of Lecce. His son Karlis would become Italian, change his name to Carlo and start the long line of Italian Kerstigens - counts of Lecce, beautiful Mediterranean provice. Technically though they were not descendants of Kerstigens (Daniel).

Rainers was not a direct descendant of Saint Daniel or his descendants who had built the Republic. He was descended directly (even if matrilinearily) only to tribal pagan rulers of Curonia. Patrilineally he was of von Hohenstaufen House, a member of legendary Frederik Barbarossa's bloodline.

Rainers got invited to Ziemgale Court when he was 21. Landless Lamekinids would frequently join Ziemgale court in hope for nice jobs or possibly titles within Grand Republic. Few times they would be considered heirs for Ziemgale until sons of Daniel's line reached adulthood. This time he got lucky. Except he was only Prince of Smaland and Semigallia, not Grand Prince, but time would come. Rainers was interested in his family history and also married Lithuanian girl of Romuva faith.

*IN THE WOODS*

"Young wolves are you ready?" shouted Lithuanian Jaunutis. It was a pagan tradition that young boys would be initiated into men (or proper wolves - hounds of God) via a ceremony in the forests. "Yes, we are," replied youngsters and among them one adult man. They were split into pairs and had to duel to prove themselves. Rainers passed the test and was invited into the Band of Medeina - a union of Romuva sympathizing nobles and fighters.

Rainers despite his Stewardship education was a great warrior.

 

[Narvait]

***
“For Ziemgale!” cried commander on his rearing horse and waved the Perkons’ Mace. Men ran at the opponent and battle started. Rainers was always there, on the frontline of the battle on the back of his horse using his mace for bone crushing purposes. He was a commander of Ziemgale, respected by his men, feared by enemies.

Once when fighting back Cuman raiders, Rainers had challenged their Khagan Tugor to the duel. His opponent lost weapon during the battle and ran away cowardly. Rainers laughed out load: “Nomad men are such pussies, wetting their pants in front of Romuva fighter!”. Maybe not the most innovative of rants, Rainers being more of a fighter than a poet. Yet it hit hearts of nomads and soon many duels for blood between Medeina Band and Sky Riders followed. Khan Aepak, a vassal of Tugor, would battle Rainers next.. and die from an injury caused by Perkons’ mace.


***
Leetoiv the Grand Prince of Ziemgale conquered Denmark and Rainers got commanded to Russian front. Ziemgale would help out Vladimir in their battles against different nomads.

“Crusshh!” was the sound of mace against a skull of a Mongol. “Yiihaa,” was the sound of Rainers turning his horse over. “What the feather?” was the sound of his brain when he saw a Mongol rider in rainbow cloth riding to him. Strange, strange robe. Move to avoid attacked, turn the horse, hit with mace, hit, hit, hit! Until that Mongol falls to the ground. Rainers jumped from the horse. “Who are you?” asked Khan Uzur. “I am doing you kindness,” replied Commander and stabbed poor Khan very carefully, to not damage the robe.

A strange letter was received at the Chancelry of Vanema. Mongol Khagan Jebe requested Rainers to return a Ceremonial Robe he gifted to Uzur. Lord Mayor replied:

“Thou art a mongol imp, the damned devil's brother and friend, and a secretary to Lucifer himself. What the devil kind of knight art thou that cannot slay a hedgehog with your naked arse? The devil shits, and your army eats. Thou a son of a b*** wilt not ever take robe from Romuva sons; we have no fear of your army, by land and by sea we will battle with thee, go f*** thy mother. Thou art the fool of all the world and underworld, a fool before our Gods, a grandson of the Serpent, and the crick in our d***. Pig's snout, mare's arse, slaughterhouse cur, screw thine own mother! So the Romuvans declare, you lowlife. Thou wilt not even be herding Romuva pigs. Now we shall conclude, for we don't know the date and don't have a calendar; the moon's in the sky, the year in the book, the day's the same over here as it is over there; for this kiss our arse!”
(author's note: I had somewhat adapted an actual historical letter for this, bonus points to the ones who recognized the original)


Mongol Khagan Jebe got pissed off and challenged Rainers to duel. Here they were: a ruler of the mightiest Empire on Earth (Mongols) and Ziemgale’s commander with Perkons’ Mace in his hands. Jebe got killed mercilessly.

To celebrate the victory in the duel a Monument of Perkunas was built in Vanema right next to Daniel’s Forest. Catholic Church was angry, but powerless here under Curonian oaks in the lands of Khagan Slayer.


***
“Leetoiv died and it seems you gonna win elections,” said Gunvaldis the Chancellor of Smaland.
“I don’t want this. I belong here,” replied Rainers.
“And yet you are the most respected of all candidates and must honor the choice of the voters,” replied Gunvaldis.

Legend of Rainers grew. When Leetoiv died, against all odds Romuvan Lord Mayor got elected the Grand Prince of Catholic Grand Republic. He was the first Romuvan ever to rule the Republic.

He also got chosen leader of Medeina Band, a title Rainers appreciated more. His son Kristaps Dausprungis has also joined the Band despite him being a Catholic. Father war real proud. He gathered all the heroes and announced they would leave for the Holy Roman Empire on a legendary journey “...to show them Germans the greatest warriors since Frederic Barbarossa!”