Behold the Pale Horsemen

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Behold the Pale Horsemen​

-CKDV lastest patch install
-My first CKDV AAR
-I plan to hopefully make this a megacampagin lasting until 1960, hopefully I can make it to the second update whcih is were most my AAR's end
-I will included gameplay pictures and hopefully a decent story
-Any comments and advice would be great.
-By the way, I am not a good writer and I dont know alot of details about Medevil life

Chapter list​

Chapter 1: Clam After the Storm​

Chapter 2: Power​

Chapter 3: The Spell of Diocletian​

Chapter 4: Few to Fight​

Chapter 5: Beyond the Crusade​

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Chapter 1: Clam After the Storm​

Dragija Subic, a newly made knight in the kingdom of Croatia awoke to a powerful wind late at night. His home which he built near the city of Split had collaspe but he was able to get out just in time. He could not even stand straight as the wind pushed him over. A sudden feeling of death had overcome. He fell to the ground as the wind stop blowing. An old man approached him but kept his face hidden in the dark.

Dragija-Who are you?
Old Man-St.Michael the Arkangel, can you not tell?
Dragija-You think me a fool old man, perhaps I should kill you.........nevermind...you would be a waste time, you must be some crazed old fool looking for an excuse to die
Old Man-Would a fool such as myself claim to be angel and not give proof?
Dragija looked confused
Old Man-Of course not you basterd. Dragija is your name, you are seventeen years old, a knight for the Kingdom of Croatia, born in Zadar and did I mention your a basterd ..son.
Dragija rose off the ground
Dragija-Proof? Anyone asking around the local village or Split could have found that out, you insult your own intelligence you idiot!
Old Man-But yet you forget that no one besides you and your long death parents know you are a basterd. Your father who gave you your surname Subic killed your mother after learning of an affair and committed himself to hell infront of your eye's when you were just ten years old. You were then raised by a priest in Zadar were you soon also learned some combat skills fighting off Arab pirates. Soon afterwards you became a Knight because your father, or should I say Subic was once a knight himself. shall I go on?
Dragija-Are you as you say you are...an angel?
Old Man-Perhaps, or perhaps not. What if I was a Witch or Demon, would you still want my help and become more then just a man, a great man?
Dragija-A great man?
Old Man-Founder of a great Empire centered in the Holy Land which will last thousands upon thousands of years.....until the end of days of course. You and your son's and your son's son's shall rule a great many people and you shall control your own destiny, not even.......God.....would be able to stop you!
Dragija-You speak of unholy things, but I still feel the urge to listen to you.
Old Man-Good, now know that I am your teacher and guide until you no longer need me and that I shall teach you the simple ways such as charisma to running a sizable Kingdom. But first, you will find on the beach an old shipwreak that should have stayed in the sea, make haste and your adventure begin.
Dragija-I will go, but when I return I need answers! And were should I look for you.....teacher, upon my return?
Old Man-I shall be in Zagreb, at the royal tournoment.

Dragija Subic walked throughout the cold dark night to reach the beach nearby. Once their he gasped at what he saw, a large vessel, ship of a design he had seen in a picture monks drew. It was a late Roman ship. Imperial markings were visable all over. He walked this beach many times before and had not noticed such a ship, another question that needed to be answered was how the ship seemed to have major battle damage but lacked any water damage. Dragija entered the ship through a large hole near the bottom decks, he slowly made his way through the decks were he saw the dead body of a young man dressed in the Imperial Purple. Next to the man was a journal written in Latin.

Dragija started to learned Latin when the priest's of Zadar were tasked to raise him after his "father's" death. Although he was a good student and he admired Roman history, he could not translate all Latin into his native Croatian. Dragija started to translate the first page.

Journal of Romulus Augustus, Last Emperor of Rome, Guardian of the History of Rome and Christ, the King of Israel

 

[phargle]

I'm sorry, I . . . I can't. I tried to read it, but every time I got to the chapter title I just started snickering and couldn't go on.

- - -

I hope that didn't come across as mean. I do wish you the best with your AAR, whatever clams may come. I'll be following it for sure.

 

[Lord Valentine]

Another Mega-campaign! Always glad to see more of those around, especially since your approach sounds very interesting. A lowly bastard knight in alliance with higher powers? All I can say there is *subscribed*.

~Lord Valentine~

 

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Behold the Pale Horsemen​

phargle-advice on how to make you read my AAR would be nice but I was never a good writer. By Chapter 3 or 4 it will just be gameplay with little writing.
Lord Valentine-thank you for the comment, I wonder if I can even get through 50 years let alone 4 games.

Chapter 2: Power​

Dragija woke up in the back of a wagon train filled with boxes which he saw in the ship. Dragija had no idea of what happen after he started reading the Latin journal. He had passed out and now had found himself outside a tavern in Zagerb. Dragija lept out of the wagon and saw the Old Man.

Old Man-did you find what you were looking for?
Dragija-All I have is this journal, it belongs to the last Emperor of the Western Roman Empire
Old Man-Hold on to that journal with your life because that will help you create your kingdom in the holy land.. It appears that is not the only thing you found.

The Old man reached over to one of the many large boxes and chests he saw in the wagon. As it opened, a bright light appear, the box was filled with gold and silver. Then Dragija reached for another box and found books, they appeared to be old Roman poems and history books. Then Dragija reached for another and found paintings, priceless works of art. The Old man closed all of the boxes and chests and directed his servants to bring them to his room above the tavern. Dragija followed him inside hoping for answers.

Dragija-Who are you and how did you know about this ship!
Old Man-My name is Saul, I have lived a great many years and this........what you have found will bring you one step closer to becoming a great man.
Saul stopped talking for a moment and sat down, he noticed how telling Dragija how he could become powerful always had his attention.
Saul-Many Dukes, counts and Barons are here in Zagreb to see the king at a royal fair and tournoment. We shall show him this gold and such and be thankful for whatever he grants us in return.
Dragija-Shall I show him the journal of Romulus Augustus?
Saul-No, only us two must know about it, besides, it will only become useful once we are in the holy land.

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Dragija and Saul entered the kings palace and stood in the backroom. The King was trying to decide who he shall make the Duke of Dalmatia. Everyone one from knights to Dukes could not get the King to give them the title. Soon enough 2 knights began to battle each other in front of the court. Dragija could not help but notice Radica, a young noble women in the Kings court.
Saul gave Dragija a firm slap and told him this is his chance to become the Duke of Dalmatia. Dragija walked passed the dueling knights with Sauls servants carrying some of the Gold and art they found.

Dragija-Most noble king of all Croats. I come bearing gifts of gold and works of art.
King-What is your name young man?
Dragija-Dragija Subic, Knight of Split, born and raised in Zadar
King-You come wishing to be the Duke of your homelands so you bring me vast amounts of gold. I must say this is the best offer yet. I have a good feeling about you young Subic, take the title of Duke so the others may leave my court and let me be in peace
Dragija-Your highness, you shall not regret this.

Dragija walked out of the palace and Saul followed next to him.
Dragija-What now?
Saul-We build the us an Empire

Dragija Subic is now Duke of Dalmatia​

 

[phargle]

Bribes and beginnings. Very nice.

I was too subtle - I meant that your title misspells the word "calm", meaning a period of peace, and instead says "clam", meaning the thing that lives under the sea and has a funny name.

 

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lol i didnt notice that, I fix that now

 

[Enewald]

haa, I shall follow. And I am not mean. Not as mean as phargles.

So to the Holy Land?

 

[Miscreant]

A good start Iceman - and don't listen the the meanie phargle...
he should really learn to clam up! :rofl:

 

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Uh-oh, that makes two Croatia AARs I've spotted since just beginning to start on my own.

I like the straightforward, stripped-down dialog. It lays a veneer of Julius Caesar-y theatre over the story and certainly sets it apart.

I like clams deep fried myself, but I have to say my favorite are seared scallops.

 

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Behold the Pale Horsemen

Chapter 3: The Spell of Diocletian​

The years passed by, Dragija Subic now 20, was the most powerful man in King Petar Trpimirovic of Croatia's royal court. He befriended the King and went on many hunting trips with him, but one faithful day the King was struck by a wild animal and passed away. This left him all alone in the world of Croatian politics, The Duke of Slavonia and the new King Stjepan Trpimirovic were bitter rivals of Subic. Although they wanted Subic dead and his wealth for themselves, they could not act agasint him for he had the strongest military and economy of them all and could dispose the king had he not felt loyal to the Dead King's realm. Dragija was also now married to Radica (18) who he was in love with. She also carried her son who was due to be born anyday now.

When Dragija first took the reigns of Duke of Dalmatia, he quickly took over the Republic of Ragusa and the Zeta. In the conquests he learned much about warfare. Saul was able to teach Subic the fine arts of battle tactics and stewardship. As the wealth pour in from trade and still have much of the Roman gold left, He decided to rebuilt Diocletians Palace in Split. Although most of the work was incomplete, Subic, his wife and Saul lived the live the life of a Roman Emperor.

Saul and Dragija were in the courtyard of the Palace

Saul-use your sword and strike me down, come on Iam just an Old man, can you not kill me!
Saul would take Dragija to the yard each week to train him in matters of warfare and religion. As Dragija raised his sword to deliver a death blow to Saul he was able to place a dagger at Dragija neck.
Saul-You learn slow, how do you plan on creating an empire if you can not kill an old man!
Dragija-You may look old but you fight like you are young and full of strength!
Saul-That is because I can use my religion as a weapon!
They both moved away from each other then charged once again to duel
Saul-Strike me down, but now use your hate of me, anger you have inside will kill me.
Dragija-But does not religion tell me to love you like a brother?
Saul-That love comes from the good God gave us, but I want you to use the Hate Satan gave us, gave you.

A servant ran into the courtyard, He shouted
Servant-My Lord, I bring you grave news, your wife has died in child birth and so has the baby!
Dragija began to weep as Saul walked away into his small Temple like bedroom.
Saul-I did not forsee this, Subic needs heirs that I may train to take his place upon his death. For now I must pray for an answer.

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Subic soon remarried the Duke of Swabia sister after he went to war with the Holy Roman Empire. Subic hated her, so did Saul even though he had picked her out for him. Subic became a bitter man and killed her shorter after. This event shocked everyone in the kingdom expect for Saul. Subic then married Again to the daughter if a southern french noble. Soon they had a Son named Boric.

Not long after the birth of Subic third child did a call for a Crusade to capture the Holy land ring throughout Europe. The Pope called for the faithful to go. Dragija had waited so long for this, he was now already 26 by the time the Crusade was called.

In the port of Split on Dragija flagship
Dragija-Prepare the fleet Marshal, we sail for Acre within the hour!
Marshal-Yes my lord.
Dragija-bring my wife along too, I think we should move the family to the Holy Land once we defeat the Arabs.
Saul-I shall stay here in the Palace and make sure none of the other Nobles try to backstab you on your adventure. I shall also keep Boric here too, he must learn.
Dragija retired to his flagship cabin and started to read more of Romulus Augustus journal.

The Duchy of Dalmatia

Dragija Subic​

Note this picture maybe out of date​

 

[IamWhoa]

Very intriguing so far. You are so self-depreciating though. It may lack some finesse but the writing is fine.

 

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Behold the Pale Horsemen

Iamwhoa-its true

Chapter 4: Few to Fight​

Dragija had a sleepless voyage to the seaport of Acre. He had only an army five thousand strong and two thousand troops from the Duke of Bosnia were atleast a week away. He expected to die fighting atleast sixteen thousand Arabs near the walls of the city but instead he found a a small garrison that retreated into the desret at the sight of his fleet. Dragija led a band of knights and men at arms into the castle will his Marshal took to the walls and markets looking for clues of why the enemy had not been mustered to meet him. Dragija looked through the Castle of the enemy Emir but found no trace, but he did find a tower with a commanding view of the city. As he viewed the city from the tower he noted that he shall build the Empire from here, asumming Jersuluam could not be taken in this crusade. A soldier came to the lord and told him that the Marshal had a report of the situation outside the main gate. The Marshal still on horse back reflected terrible news as a crowd gathered to meet there new lord.

Dragija-Report General!
Marshal-Sir, it seems the enemy planned to take the fight to Croatia before we set out for sea but they must have been delayed. As we speak they could be looting are homes.
Dragija-Those cowards!
Marshal-Even worse my lord it would take some weeks to get back to Dalmatia........
Dragija-Back! Are future lies here in the Holy land, am I the only one who can see it!
Marshal-Your son is stil....
Dragija-My son is in capable hands. Gather your men, we rest in Arce for the night.

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Outside Diocletian's Palace

Saul-Come with me Boric, we must not waste time.
Servant-The Arabs are now in the city of Split.
General-We must inform the King!
Saul-The King is a fool and he will let us perish, gather whatever strength you have general and we will retreat into Bosnia for now, the Arabs, and the King may have their victory...for now.
General-Strength...!?! Its all in the Holy land by now.
Saul-THEN YOU ARE USELESS! You, servant send messangers to every town and village in your Duke's realm and tell the people their lord is fighting the for their salvage in the afterlife, the least they could do is fight to defend his realm, gather all volunteers at Mostar.
Servant-Yes my master
Saul-Now what shall I do with the fool King Stjepan.

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Late at night the city of Acre sleeps while Dragija and his army plans. The Arab Prefect of the town was being interrogated by one of Dragija older knights for information on the Emir's defense of the holy land.

Prefect-I am telling the truth, God save me! ahhhhhhh
Knight-Enough! Can't you see he's dead now
Interrogator-I believe he was telling the truth about there only being small garrison troops in each emirate.
Marshal-Why is that?
Knight-He doesn't know
Interrogator-I should kill you for.....
Dragija-Enough, while you were 3 were enjoying yourselfs I planned our next move. Take a look!
Marshal-to Jaffa?
Dragija-yes, then we divide our force-I shall take Ascolon and you will go for Hebron and so on.
Knight-Shouldn't we march for the Holy city!
Dragija-no, as it turns out the Duke of Bosnia arrived shortly after us and went straight to the city so it is of no importance.
Knight-NO IMPORTANCE!
Dragija-No importance of now, have faith in me you shall see the holy city soon. Now leave me be, I must rest and my wife is lonely.

The nightmare of Dalmatia​

This Crusade had taken its toll on Dragija whole army, his losses were all to heretical writing of the advisor Saul. Saul had made each Knight and the preforming priest use a distorded version of mass. The priest began to profess that murder was natural part of life, that lust and passion lead to glory and vice was a way to become stronger inside. Everyone noticed the differrence in scripture and they questioned it, but it teachings seduced all who part of this "Holy Crusade". As the army marched south, so did murder, rape, slavery and pillage went too.

 

[Enewald]

A new religion, interesting!

Hehe, 'my wife is lonely' :rofl:

 

[Lord Valentine]

Hehe, I don't know why but Saul reminds me of a Sith Lord out of Star Wars. Especially that scene where he is training Dragija made me think of the scene in "The Empire Strikes Back" where Luke confronts Vader.
*Unleash your anger now. Only your hate can destroy me.*

Anyway an intriguing start! I cant wait to see how these "new teachings" will develop.

~Lord Valentine~

 

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Behold the Pale Horsemen

Enewald-Its more of a heresy then new religion, so far. I will explain it later on but the new religion needs a basic teaching which I still have not created, even the Catholic church had its beginnings.

Lord Valentine-I was trying to make Saul's character less like something out of star wars but it maybe too late now, Maybe a Keria like character from knight of the old republic 2 would suit Saul better then a sith lord, or not....Iam not really sure.

Chapter 5: Beyond the Crusade

Dragija was walking through the streets of Jersualem with his entourage of knights, brothers in arms and priests. So this is Jersualem! I find it lacking something. Although Dragija was unimpressed he noticed how other knights had dropped to the ground and began to weep at the sight of the streets of this holy place. As Dragija army entered into the city, the many Arabs, Jews and even Christians feared him. They heard the stories of Darum, where the population was massacred after not converting, the stories of Hebron, were thousands became personal slaves to the Duke of Jersualem. Dragija claimed the title for himself before even entering the city. The entourage approahed the Temple of Solomon. Dragija ordered the ruins to be turned into a great Palace for himself using his great many slaves as the projects labourers.

Besides his wife and Marshal, Dragija personal bishop of Dalmatia went with his lord and the pope made him Patriarch of the Levant. All priests reported to the Patriarch and him alone for everyone was told he acted on the Holy See's behalf. The Patriarch was seduced into Saul's teachings before the Crusade and now he used it to strengthen the army of his lord. He ordered the people of Darum to worship idols of made of stolen gold from Arce. The 3 idols represented strength, passion and mastery over others. When the locals refused the people felt his wrath. Even Dragija was somewhat frightened by the zealous heretic his bishop became. Saul made clear he would visit the new Duchy of Jersualem soon but the crusaders must convert as many as possible to his teachings.

Dragija gathered his nine best Knights to join him in Solomons temple. He led them through the maze of tunnels under the temple. Through the crusade, Dragija would use any free time to read the journal of Romulus Augustus. The journal had stated that the Holy grail, the cup of christ was hidden in the old temple when taken their by Constantine the Great. The cup would give everlasting life to those who drank from it, but there only for those people who do it for the benefit of others. Dragija believed that this grail could unite his army under him and his beliefs and finally declare himself free from the Kings of Croatia. After many hours travelling through the maze of tunnels, there was only one tunnel left to go through and he proceeded with all Knights behind him. As he used the a flame to guide the way he saw some faces the he though he knew. He was quick to jump around and notice all the Knights had gone. He approahed the man and asked who he was.

Dragija-Speak your name!
Man-Saul, the man who will lead your family to glory.
Dragija-You never came with us, how are you here with me in such a holy yet isolated place!
Saul-Do you accept my teachings?
Dragija-what!
The Nine Knights surrounded the Dragija and Saul. They look as if they are under some spell.

Dragija-Were have you all been!
Saul-They intend to kill me.
Knights together-We must kill before it is too late.
Saul-I shall lead you to what you deserve!
One Knight moved infront of Saul and without any resistance, he stabbed Saul. Saul lifeless body fell to the ground
Dragija-NO!

He struck the Knight then the others moved to stop. But they were too late. All the knights laid dead on the ground while Dragija white crusader Armour and robes were covered in blood. He closed his eyes and opened to find that all the bodies were gone, but not the blood on him and sword. The Holy Grail appeared before him, he took it and ran away. He saw light from the tunnel exit and he ran out into the temple courtyard only to find the Patriarch and two hunderd knights waiting for him. All were in shock to see his white battle robes covered in blood, it also ran from his face and sword. But this shock was nothing compared to when they noticed a Holy Chaliace in the hands of their lord.​

 

[Enewald]

Uuuh, scary. Yet confusing.

 

[Lord Valentine]

Uuuh, scary. Yet confusing.

Exactly. I wonder whether such a dark and in many ways terribly unchristian person as Dragija can use the Holy Grail without negative side effects (reminds me of "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" ).
I honestly don't know why my brain always comes up with these film references when reading your AAR. Perhaps my subconsciousness is telling me to watch more George Lucas films.

~Lord Valentine~