The Empress should be getting her portrait updated (50yo) soon. If you do not kill people, more people will like you. Thanks
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Sixty-Seven : More Plots!
Chapter One Thousand-Sixty-Seven : More Plots!
This chapter opens in late August, of the year 947 AD, with the Empress deciding to get the Count of Dulan out of the Faction. If she could.
So she decided to buy a favor from him. With lots of gold coins. And it kind of worked.
As he left the Faction that was meant to bring Gavelkind Succession to the Realm of Bhar. So, it did kind of work. And he still owed the Empress a favor.
“Tell him to stop it!” demanded the Empress as the Spymaster brought her the news.
Then there was more news. Seems the Exarchessa of the Patola Sahi Kingdom, one of her Vassals who liked her a LOT, was seeking to take the County of Bikrampur away from the Duchess Zuqi of Tosali.
“Tell her to STOP!” commanded the Empress. “All this plotting. It does NOT build character! What? What do you mean the Exarchessa may be heavy with child? She isn’t married.”
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Paying 118 to a count seems excessive. You hope that he hatches (even joining and refusing to leave) a Plot for an arrest warrant, Thanks
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Sixty-Eight : Improving On The Council?
Chapter One Thousand-Sixty-Eight : Improving On The Council?
This chapter opens in early September, of the year 947 AD, and the Empress was brought some interesting news.
The Non-Aggression Pact between the Doux of Bhutan and the Exarch of the Pala Kingdom had dissolved due to somebody, likely, dying. Or maybe having been murdered?
The Empress was more interested in her Imperial Council. Which was made up of some people who liked her and were skilled. And then the others. Like her Protostrator. And her husband the Sakellarios.
So, first, she gave the Protostrator a bag full of gold coins. Which helped make him see her in a more brighter light.
She WAS thinking about replacing her husband but all the people who would be good at being the Sakellarios also disliked or hated the Empress. So that idea was kind of shot down.
On the other hand she decided to try to sway the Doux of Bhar Raj. The “Wise” disliked her and was a big trouble maker. Maybe becoming his friend would make him stop causing so much trouble.
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Perhaps a recruit from outside the court might be a good replacement for Arsenios? If there’s someone more competent and at least mildly friendly.
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The Empress continues to impress with her narcissistic attitude and lack of gardening skills.
I do wonder about that event with the new variety of flowers. Is it simply random chance, or is she going to get better if she tries helping every time, until she starts getting it right consistently and gains the trait 'green thumb' or something similar?
The move of the capital was especially hilarious only to end up back in Kamarupa... Will she try to move it a second time? It remains a mystery.
Great job keeping this going and keeping it fun. I'll try to keep up now. No guarantees though...
I do wonder about that event with the new variety of flowers. Is it simply random chance, or is she going to get better if she tries helping every time, until she starts getting it right consistently and gains the trait 'green thumb' or something similar?
The move of the capital was especially hilarious only to end up back in Kamarupa... Will she try to move it a second time? It remains a mystery.
Great job keeping this going and keeping it fun. I'll try to keep up now. No guarantees though...
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I will, likely, try to move the Capital again as where it is does affect control over the provinces. To my understanding. Vassals far away from the Capital are more likely to try to become independent. So trying to center it is important.
It also decides which Holy Orders and Mercenaries you can hire.
It also decides which Holy Orders and Mercenaries you can hire.
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Sixty-Nine : News From China
China Has A New Ruler
Chapter One Thousand-Sixty-Nine : News From China
China Has A New Ruler
This chapter opens in late September, of the year 947 AD, with the news that the Empress Gaozu Borjigin, the Daughter of Heaven, had gone to heaven and had been succeeded by Jingzong Borjigin.
The, still living, Empress Eulalia asked for the folder on the NEW Ruler of China.
He seemed…normal for the Rulers of China to be honest. He wasn’t, of course, Chinese. And he liked Zoroastrians but didn’t like Dravidian Cultures. At least the Chinese Empire was still stable and open.
“Bring me more details!” demanded the Empress.
But there wasn’t really much to tell. He was an unknown to the Courtiers. The Empire didn’t have a lot of spies in China.
“Let us keep an eye on him,” said the Empress. “And maybe an ear or two. I want to know the second he does something in India or Europe or anywhere.”
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Why does a sign, that says keep calm, increase the worry factor exponentially. Is the new Chinese ruler related to the Mongol leadership (Borjogin dynasty)? Thanks
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy : China Being A Bully
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy : China Being A Bully
This chapter opens in early October, of the year 947 AD, with some news for the Empress. Good news.
It seems the powerful Bhikkhu Nikephoros of Para-Lauhitya had left the Faction to increase the power of the Imperial Council.
This was a good thing. As the Factions were weaker and this pleased the Empress.
Then in late October the Proostrator brought the Empress some bad news. The subjects of Kataka were having problems with highwaymen and wild beasts. He suggested a series of outposts be built along the roads. It would increase the safety of the travelers and may even encourage migrants into the region.
The Empress agreed to pay the 51 plus gold coins in wealth to create the outposts.
The Empress agreed to pay the 51 plus gold coins in wealth to create the outposts.
In Early November the New Ruler of the Chinese Empire took his first action. He went after the Maharaja Tugor of Punjab with the soldiers of his Western Protectorate.
The House of Kipchaki had always been known for being great warriors and having strong Kings. But sadly the current Ruler wasn’t really skilled at warfare. And how would he handle so many wars?
Not only was he engaged in the massive war defending the Realm of Khazaria against ANOTHER invasion from the Mongols Empire BUT he was also defending his own Realm against the Raja Jetha of the Janda Raj who was also trying to subjugate him. And the Raja, with his ally the Raja of Medapata, was winning. In fact, in the larger war the Mongols were winning.
And now the Chinese were trying to subjugate him and his lands. Even with over six thousand soldiers it was unlikely he could handle all three conflicts.
“The Chinese are really starting to piss me off,” the Empress murmured are she examined the Wall Map in her throne room.
“Mongols,” pointed out one of her Courtiers. “The populace is a mixture of different groups in China and the leadership is mostly Mongols.”
“In the corner!”
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It is bad enough with one Mongol Empire but now we have two. Thanks
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Being that the Chinese Emperor IS related to the Mongol Emperor could they try to claim each others' titles?
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy-One : Priest Hater
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy-One : Priest Hater
This chapter opens in early November, of the year 947 AD, with the Empress receiving some very good news.
Exarchessa Rajamati of Nepal had left the Faction to Increase Council Power in Maurya. This was a good thing.
Because, once again, the Factions within the Empire were becoming even weaker.
Then in late November the Empress was given some interesting news. Not bad news. Nor good news. Just news that might interest her.
It seems that the trouble maker, bringer of wars, and kidnapper of enemy family members, was now named the “Priest Hater”. This kind of made sense given his history. He was not only a Adulterer. But he had been named a Uncivilized Dueler. Seems he refused to go along with traditions and just picked anybody as a target to duel with.
Likely some Monks had tried to correct his behavior and he had most likely reacted badly. And now he was known a hater of priests. Surprise? Not really.
On the other hand he was Depressed and Stressed. Maybe the Empress could use that to her advantage? Use it to turn him into a friend?
Around the same time there was a empty Commander position within the Imperial Army. So now she had to pick somebody who was good with a sword AND very loyal to her. Or not so loyal so when they died in battle she didn’t care.
Likely some Monks had tried to correct his behavior and he had most likely reacted badly. And now he was known a hater of priests. Surprise? Not really.
On the other hand he was Depressed and Stressed. Maybe the Empress could use that to her advantage? Use it to turn him into a friend?
Around the same time there was a empty Commander position within the Imperial Army. So now she had to pick somebody who was good with a sword AND very loyal to her. Or not so loyal so when they died in battle she didn’t care.
Ajmal, Bhikkhu of Dhauli, was the best pick. He had a high opinion of her. He was also skilled at leading heavy infantry, he was also well-versed in the Way of the Dragon, and just plain strong. (1)
So he was the perfect choice and became the new Imperial Commander. Well, new when compared to the others.
The Imperial Courtiers were smart enough NOT to point out that the NEW Commander really wasn’t that skilled at warfare. They didn’t wish to stand in the corner.
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Author’s Notes :
1. The Way of the Dragon is the perfection of having authority over their troops AND allowing them the centralized, decisive, command over the battlefield.
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It appears Bhikkhu is just as good as Prince Dionysios when it comes to warfare. (Yes, neither one has much to brag about.) So at least he has company?
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Oh. A competent commander who actually likes the empress? That's definitely been a while. I'm impressed that she managed to find one at all...
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Stressed and depressed with a -33 opinion of the Empress, it is time to increase the pressure. The successor cannot be much worse. Thanks for the update
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy-Two : Plots And Meat Pastries!
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy-Two : Plots And Meat Pastries!
This chapter opens in late November, of the year 947 AD, with the Basilissa Eulalia “The UnFaithful” deciding to celebrate the autumn seasonal feast.
So the riders were sent out to invite her Vassals and she ordered the kitchens prepare a proper feast while the wine cellars were searched for the finest wines to serve.
She also had to decide on a gift for her husband. She selected a cape.
As she planned for the party the Empress was not as young as she use to be. Her hair was white, her body scarred, and one of her eyes was not doing so well. But she was rich, powerful, and of Imperial Blood. So who cared?
Then she was told that the Simonis of the House Toxias had turned down her invite to the party. Nobody was surprised. It just increased the two women’s dislike of each other.
She decided it was also a good time to invite Doux Bhogish to spend some time with her. After all, he was coming to the party, so why not use that time to get to brainwash…er…gain his trust and friendship. Yes, yes.
Then in December there was news of a NEW Count of Viraja. The Count Girgen “The Unready” had died of Cancer and Count Theophanes had gained his title.
Though it was said the boy, himself, was also sick. The boy didn’t like the Empress very much.
So she sent him a small gift. About 39 gold coins wealth in a purse of money. And it worked. At least he liked her now.
The Empress also suggested he marry, when he was old enough, Helene. One of her Dynasty. Well, they were both members of her Dynasty. Best to keep the power in the family, am I right folks?
All evidence suggested he would say yes.
As she waited for a reply, and ordered her staff about as they prepared the Palace for the feast, she received some bad news.
Seems her other Vassals were quick to try to go after the NEW Count’s holdings. Like vultures after a fresh corpse. Or at least the Duchess of Tosali was already plotting against him.
“He just got his title!” stated the Empress with a frown. “Tell her to stop. He is a member of my Dynasty. Can’t my Vassals stop trying to kill or wound or kidnap the kids for one second!”
Then the Palace was ready. The flowers and tapestries were all over the hallways and rooms. The massive tables groaned under the weight of fried fish and fowl, cakes and pies, jugs of chilled wine and platters of roast piglets.
The guests started to arrive. They were greeted by jesters, dancers, drummers, and cool drinks.
As the Empress greeted her Vassals the Imperial Guards announced the arrival of the Bard who had been paid to entertain the guests. He had been paid ahead of time due to the new, updated, rules of the International Union of Bards, Scribes, Clowns, and Jugglers.
As the Bard approached the cleared center of the Throne Room he ran a few fingers over his lute and bowed.
“Greetings!” he said with a big smile. “I am Joxer the Bard! And I have a wonderful tale to tell of great adventure and wonderful worlds!”
“As long as it has nothing to do with ducks,” replied the Empress.
The Bard looked confused for a second and said, “Say what?”
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Crusader Kings 2 - The Road of Queens
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy-Three : Vegan - Part One : Concerning Hobbits
Chapter One Thousand-Seventy-Three : Vegan - Part One : Concerning Hobbits
Joxer sighed and said, for the tenth time, “There are no talking ducks, talking cats, talking horses in this tale. It isn’t set in the past. It isn’t set in the future. And there no hidden messages within the plot. Okay? It had been a half an hour and I haven’t even started the story yet.”
“I just wanted to make sure,” remarked the Empress. “We had problems with the last Bard.”
“So I’ve heard,” mumbled Joxer.
“What?”
“Never mind,” replied Joxer with a smile. He stroked the strings on his lute and added, “May I start my tale?”
“Go on,” said the Empress before waving down a servant and asking for a few bottles of the strongest beer he could find.
“So let go to Middle-Earth,” stated Joxer. “A land full of amazing races, such as elves, dwarfs, orcs, and, most important to our story, Hobbits!”
“Hobbits,” he said quickly before the Empress could ask a question, “are halfings who love their food. Which they have tons of locked within their wine cellars and larders. Because they hate to share their food. You see, they have five or six meals a day and don’t like to give their food to others. What if they run out?”
“They love peace and love to garden,” he continued. “Gardens which had high walls to keep people out. And they love high fences and strong doors on their Hobbit homes.”
“They live in, or near, a region called the Shire,” he added. “They like their privacy. In fact the small folks are quick to disappear and good at tossing rocks. They hate adventure, dislike big folk stomping around their lands, and distrust strangers. They don’t even like each other very much. They look at Hobbits from other parts of the Shire are weird and strange and, to be honest, don’t like their own families very much. They have a habit of stealing from each other. They have a lot of lawsuits.”
“Sound like greedy, xenophobic, jerks,” said the Empress as she poured herself a pint of beer.
“Well….yes,” admitted Joxer with a shrug. “But the one we will be focusing is a Ruler of a small, and independent, realm called Greenholm. Greenholm is on the western border of the Shire. His name was Vegan of the House Burrito!”
“Burrito?” said the Empress in confusion.
“It is an ancient and respected name among his people,” pointed out Joxer.
“At the age of 16 he had just become the Ruler of the lands,” stated the Bard. “He needed to pick the members of his Council, pick a wife, and all the other things a newly empowered Ruler had to do.”
“Was he like the other Hobbits?” asked the Empress with a frown.
“Well, yes,” said Joxer with another shrug. “He was a Hobbit. Which meant his height gave him a disadvantage at combat. He was also somewhat Dull and a Naive Appeaser so he wasn’t very good with people. Or smart.”
“And,” Joxer continued, looking a tad awkward, “he was uncouth so he kind of smelled. He was also Gluttonous. Even for a Hobbit. And Deceitful. And Xenophobic. And a Drunkard.”
“BUT,” the Bard added with a cheerful smile, “he WAS a Novice Musician and Gardener. Which are good things.”
“He’s doomed,” murmured the Empress as she sipped her beer.
Joxer just shrugged and pondered asking for a drink. He felt this was going to be one of those gigs.
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