Restoration of the Empire : Germany/Holy Roman Empire

[Lord Crackbone]

Hi I'm Lord Crackbone,
I'm a great KoH fan and I hope I could share my experiences with the rest of the forum. :)
I have discovered this forum a few months ago and I enjoyed the AAR's that were around though many people stopped posting.

Here comes mine, so have fun :).

Main characters:

Emperor Albert III (Emperor)
Status : Deceased

Graf Albrecht (mashal)
Status: Alive
Title: The Iron Duke

Graf Cuonrat (spy)
Status: Dead, excecuted by the French

Emperor Volkmar
Status: Deceased

Emperor Heinrich
Status: Dead, killed by Austrian Rebels

Graf Egidius (marshal)
Status: Alive

Emperor Arnegisel
Status: Deceased

Emperor Arnulf(currently marshal)
Status: Alive

More will follow and some will die as the AAR continues.

Story:
After the ''Golden Age'' it had in 1200 AD the power of the empire was getting weaker and weaker, many lines of weak and corrupted emperors followed the throne combined with many ''city'' states rising up caused Germany to lose much of its power and land... till in 1350 a new power was rising.

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/7228/b1cd4.jpg
Eventually there wassent much left of it

Till one faithfull day... finally a strong person became emperor... he took the name of Albert III.
He had already a wife and 2 sons and a daughter.
http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/2789/b1ro1.jpg
When Albert became emperor his first decision was to make his younger though more ''intelligent'' son Volkmar heir to the throne.

Albert was detirment to take back what was rightfully German.


Objectives:
1. Conquer all lost territories by all means nessesary(!). (Acomplished)
2. Make Germany harmless through alliances espionage and other means. (Ungoing)
3. Become the emperor of Europe. (Ungoing)


Chapter 1: The imperial order

Albert III had asked his best friend Graf Cuonrat (who was among the fiercest supporters to rise Albert to emperor) to make sure noone would stab in his back, and his childhood friend Graf Albrecht to be the prime general of the army.
He offert his sons to trade with the few countries who were with good terms with Germany.

Albert asked his advisor what the current situation was with the rest of Europe.

Advisor: Well sire, we are not with good terms with France, some Duchys in the south and in the east, we are at war with one.
On the other hand we have good relationships with many states that were once part of Germany.

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/9448/b1fe9.jpg
Germany should watch it steps...

Albert: Hm, order Albrecht to build an army to keep Bohemia preventing conquering our lands, inform my sons to start trading with the neighbours we have good terms with and start to build town watch houses and inns to increase the morale of our people and order Cuonrat to see to it this happends, there will be no sabotages. A new power will rise....

Advisor: Yes milord

[maks]

HRE makes me think the game is modded, am I right?
Looks promising.

[Lord Crackbone]

HRE makes me think the game is modded, am I right?
Looks promising.

To be honest I still have to found what a mod is and what it's benefiths are. :o
Next part of the chapter is expecting to be within the hour.

[maks]

To be honest I still have to found what a mod is and what it's benefiths are. :o
Next part of the chapter is expecting to be within the hour.

I haven't tried any yet, too. It's just I suspected Elvain's Holy Rome mod because of the name. Well, my mistake :)

[Lord Crackbone]

Still chapter one

When Graf Albrecht received the order of building an army he wasted no time, peasants were all that was avalible, not the best men to rely on but still usefull incase enemies attacked Germany, he also ordered the construction of a Town Watch house which trained the more better trained soldiers to defend the town.

The imperial treasuary was low so progress in the rest of the empire went slow.
http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/6536/b1tr6.jpg
Graf Albrecht and his ''army'' in Hesse.

Some days later in the morning just after dinner a scout came in and informed Albrecht about the following:

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/6152/b1iu9.jpg
It was far bigger than Albrecht's army

An attack! Though inexperienced general and same type as units as Albrecht's army it was far bigger.

Scout: Fortunatly it appears they are heading for a village first to plunder it.

Albrecht wasted no time recruiting more peasants but still wassen't enough to match Jakub's army in size.
He could only helplessly wait till more people joined his cause.

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 2: The Iron Duke

It was late in the day when scouts reported that the village has been razed to the ground.
Though Albrecht was a quiet man, he was confident and detirment in battle and he finally had enough men to equal Jakub's army and decided to attack him.

Things coudn't get better for Albrecht, Jakub had to cross the river to reach him.
Albrecht ordered the construction of towers.

Albrecht: Men... you were once the proud citizins of the most powerful empire on earth... show me you are men and defend your empire! Long live the emperor!
- Long live the empire!!!

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/3836/b1xg2.jpg
Albecht and his men are trying to hold the enemy off.

The battle was going well... though there were much casulties on both sides... till one cowardly captain shouted to retreat.
Albrecht tried to keep the peasants in line but they just woudn't listen.

Albrecht: Stay in line! Cowards!
- Runnn!!!

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/4153/b1lt6.jpg
The cowards are retreating

http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/7213/b1zu2.jpg
The battle was slowly turning to Albrecht's favor though he had the defensive advantage he was strongly disturbed that his troops morale was low.

When most of both sides troops were dead Jakub launched alone a suprise assault on Albrecht.
http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/5980/b1hq9.jpg

The two commanders were equally skilled with the sword and after a lengty battle Albrecht managed to disarm him.

Jakub: My brother... will avenge me.
Albrecht: I'l be waiting.

And with a quick swing he ended the life of the young soldier.
And ordered the leaderless renmants of Jakubs army to be killed... earning him the nickname Iron Duke.


Result:
Victory for Germany, province has been succesfully defended.

Casulties:
Albrecht's Forces : Atleast 350
Jakub's Forces : Entire army

[maks]

It's going nice, I'm waiting for more. :)

I wonder if you could upload bigger screencaps, though. Or at least less compressed.

[Lord Crackbone]

Thank you :)
I don't know what the problem is with screenshots, all the other times they were normal size and I dont know how to fix it .:confused:
And I stop posting for today. So don't expect till tomorrow a new reply from me .;)

Later

[maks]

I don't know what the problem is with screenshots, all the other times they were normal size and I dont know how to fix it .:confused:

Maybe you imageshack it wrong. After uploading you're supposed to use the link they give you in a field below.
If not so, I don't know. o.o

[Doux]

I don't know what the problem is with screenshots, all the other times they were normal size and I dont know how to fix it .:confused: Untic the option 'resize image' when uploading. It's standard value is 320x240 pixels. You could also try the option 'optimize without resizing'.
Edit: Oh, but post the thumbnails here and make them link to the original size image. This is the most convenient method.

[IWM]

Good AAR. I want to know the story!
Good job!:)

[Lord Crackbone]

@Doux
Ah thanks now I can change it, though unfortunate I haven't saved the images I have posted earlier, ah well. :(

And thanks everyone for the positive replys. :)
I will continue the AAr today!

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 3: The offer and the peasant rebellion.

The news of the victory spreaded like wild fire, as this was the first true victory of Germany in 100 years.
The emperor was very pleased about it, as the people even donated some of their money to further support his cause (after the battle I had alot of money).
He used his money to hire a cleric called Anselm.

Everything was peacefully till a message came from the Duchy/kingdom of Palatinat, a close friend of Germany. They requested us to break relations with Gelre as they were bitter enemies.
Albert wished to remain neutral in the conflict, though they were ready to make a great offer he didn't expected ; the town of Franconia... this was truely a offer Albert coudn't refuse and so he accepted.
http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/9407/b1aj4.jpg
They say to love thy neighbours... esspecialy when they pay good.

Not everyone in the empire was pleased by the decision the emperor made, some even choose to rebel!
Albert sended Graf Albrecht ''the Iron Duke'' to ''convince'' the peasants to go home.

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/7283/b1oi4.jpg
Albrecht on his way to stop the burning!

The rebels were not much of a match as Albrecht's men outnumbered him 3 to 1.
Albrecht also received a more... strategyful mind.... he inspired his men to go faster home.
And when he arived in Bavaria he received word that the first swordsmith in Hesse was finished, Germany was almost ready for a fullscale war!
http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/6125/b1lc2.jpg
Albrecht defeating the rebels and gaining the skill ''Strategist''.

While rebellions like these were small Emperor Albert knew they would cause long term problems...
All provinces the people were not pleased due the wars, esspecialy in the newly gained province Franconia. Perhaps they wanted to be ruled by their former king? Albert sended his cleric Anselm to see what he could do about it.

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 4: The Return of Jakub and the Plan

It has been quiet for days in Bavaria since the rebbelion has been crushed, Graf Albrecht himself was playing cards with soldiers of his army untill a messenger came by.

Messenger: Sire! The garizon of Hesse is need of your army!
Graf Albrecht: What is the problem?
Messenger: An army of Bohemia has arived! It's commander its called Jakub!
Graf Albrecht: Jakub?! Thats impossible... unless...
Messenger: Unless what my lord?
Graf Albrecht: Nevermind, send word to the garizon I'm comming!
Messenger : Yes sire! *leaves*
Graf Albrecht : Your move now... Jakub

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/7759/b1wk6.jpg
Jakub is about to wreak havoc in Germany

Hesse is also a strategic important place for Albrecht to improve his army by the new swordssmith there was build recently... only hope he could reach it in time.

Meanwhile... at the castle of the emperor...

A messenger arived and delivered a letter to Albert.
The letter contained information from Anselm that he found a way to persuade the people of Franconia: though this method required many books (1000 got currently around 970) he would use these books to force the people to learn Germany's culture.
Albert wasted no time and sended the books to Franconia, hoped his method would succeed.

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 5 : Deja vu.

When Graf Albrecht arived he almost instantly demanded the situation of the commander of the garizon.

Commander: Well sire, the cowards are attacking inncocents. We coudn't do anything to stop them without your army.
Graf Albrecht: Very well... anything else?
Commander: Yes there is good news, we have swords and shields for you avalible.
Graf Albrecht: How much?
Commander: Enough for 3 companies I think.
Graf Albrecht : Excellent, equip my men with it and we will march to Jakub.
Commander : Yes sire!

Within the hour the army was ready to meet Jakub on the field...

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/6926/b1qw4.jpg
Let battle be joined!

We arived just in time as the enemy was about to attack a large village.
The enemy was nervous, you could smell their sweat. As they all heard what happend to the previous commander of the invading army, this proved to be very usefull to Albrecht.

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/2342/b1tf4.jpg
The highly motivated men of Albrecht are holding the enemy off!

Graf Albrecht: Watch the right flank! Send more troops from the left flank!
Captain: Their morale is low, sire.
Graf Albrecht: Good, they will break soon.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/6827/b1bi3.jpg

Captain: They break my lord.
Graf Albrecht: Finally, follow them and take no prisoners!

Though despite their best efforts Jakub escaped with some renmants of his army.
It was pointless to follow them so Albrecht decided to return to Hesse.

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/1035/b1cy7.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully defended.

Casulties:

Albrecht's Forces: Around 100
Jakubs Forces : 150-200

Albrecht summoned a messenger to his office.

Messenger: Sire, you called me?
Albrecht: Yes, I need you to bring this letter *gives* to the king of Bohemia.
Messenger: What is in it?
Albrecht: It contains a peace offer... with some terms ofcourse but more you do not need to know.
Messenger: I understand sire. *Leaves with letter*

Meanwhile at the castle of the emperor

Albert: Any news from the front?
Advisor: Yes, Albrecht defeated Jakub and sended a message of peace to the king of Bohemia.
Albert: Any other?
Advisor: Yes, Anselm managed to get his method to working and the people of Franconia fully support your cause.
Albert: Very well..
Advisor: Sire, you're alright? You don't seem to be very glad despite this good news?
Albert: I know... I have some bad feelings.
Advisor: About what?
Albert : I tell you later, call Graf Cuonrat here now!
Advisor : Yes, sire!

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 6: The Betrayal

When the messenger arived at the castle of the Bohemian King he knew what the messenger would bring, the Bohemian had sufferd 2 major defeats.

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/1968/b1co9.jpg
If this war was over, Germany could focus on its economy for a while.

Fortunatly, these terms were accepted and there was peace! The entire country was celebrating it.
Now the region was safe Brandenburg offert a trade agreement, Germany could use some friends so Emperor Albert accepted.
http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/6567/b1wb7.jpg

Prince Volkmar was working in his office at Bavaria untill someone knocked at the door, it was Anselm.

Anselm: Prince Volkmar, can I have a quick word with you?
Volkmar: Always, what is the problem?
Anselm: Can we talk private?

Volkmar sended his two guards away.

Anselm: Due unforeseen incidents I have been forced to take some measures.
Volkmar: What incidents and measures are you talking about?

Suddenly Anselm draw his sword

Anselm: I'm sorry but my lord pays very good for your death.

Volkmar was horrified by this betrayal, but just before Anselm could even think of striking to Volkmar Cuonrat and a group of elite soldiers entered.

Graf Cuonrat: In name of the Empire I place you under arrest!

Anselm knew it was all over and dropped his sword.

http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/1861/b1xb5.jpg
It was unknown who Anselm's true master was.

Meanwhile at Emperor Albert who was all the time distrustful of Anselm and ordered his arrest received a disturbing message:

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/189/b1hd1.jpg

To secure the safety of the nation, Emperor Albert hired a second marshal: Graf Egidius. Though he knew security from within was not enough, he needed allies so he requested trade agreements with all Northen Kingdoms (Denmark Norway and Sweden), who all but Denmark agreed.
Denmark requested first a marriage between princess Clare and the son of the Danish King, Eric.
Though it pains Albert greatly, he accepted.

http://img223.imageshack.us/img223/8840/b1sd6.jpg

The two princes who were still merchants were instructed to trade with the new trade partners, the profit was much higher and allowed to Germany's economy to grow much faster.

Ps: Enough for today, sorry . :)

[Mephistopheles]

Nice AAR. *thumbs up*

[Lord Crackbone]

Thanks everyone . :)

================================================== =======


Still chapter 6

Despite the succes Germany had in making some new friends it was still quistioned if it was enough, Emperor Albert took a look at Burgundy's relationships.

http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/2057/b1uk1.jpg
Albert was shocked.

Many of Germany's enemies formed a bond together and some states in the south Albert did not know well, combined with the fact Germany did not had many friends and the treath an invasion was possible.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/5793/b1ca5.jpg
''Keep your friends close... keep your enemies closer''

Emperor Albert summoned Graf Cuonrat to the throneroom.

Graf Cuonrat: You called milord?
Emperor Albert: Yes.. as you know not everybody likes the Empire right now... and some have decided to make an alliance with each other, possible to invade us.
Graf Cuonrat: What do you want me to do?
Emperor Albert: Simple, go to the court of one of our enemies and try to extract information... and if they have bad intentions. Stop it at all costs! My son Volkmar will take your duties here over. Go with our blessing!

And so Graf Cuonrat decided to go try infiltrate the court of France, which was the most powerful member of the ''Allies''.

An ambassador arived at the castle of the emperor, it wore the colours of Germany's friendly neighbour, Brandenburg.

Empor Albert: Welcome friend, how we can help you?
Ambassador: I have an offer you can't refuse milord.

Brandenburg offert for a non-agressionpact the province of Mecklenburg! This was again too great for the emperor to refuse as it was one of the few countries left that could breed horses!
http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/6619/b1sw2.jpg
Though he was curious as he knew something was wrong. He took a more closer look at it...
The scouts he sended reported the following:

http://img250.imageshack.us/img250/2959/b1ft2.jpg

What?! This was outrageous! A war just outside the town!

Albert ordered Graf Albrecht to make order there, also he informed him and Graf Egidius about cavalry would be availible soon!

[Lord Crackbone]

Just when the Brandburgian ambassador left an other arived, this one was from France.
Emperor Albert was cold towards him and demanded what he bringed to Germany.

French Ambassador: I have come to offer a ransom for the safe release and return of one of our knights you hold captive.
Emperor Albert: Who?
French Ambassador: The one you call... Anselm...

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/4302/b1xu6.jpg
A huge sum of money Germany could use good...

Emperor Albert was about to excecute Anselm, but he knew that would even worsen the relationships between France and Germany and it could lead to war, and Germany was not ready for one.
The deal was accepted in the end.

Albert asked for the current situation of Germany.

Advisor: Well sire, I'm happy to tell you we are one of the largest countries in the world, thus also one of the mighiest. But all we lack a decent millitary.

http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/5584/b1hr2.jpg

Meanwhile at Mecklenburg...

Graf Albrecht has arived with his army and asked of the situation of the commander of the castle of Mecklenburg.

Commander: Milord there was a huge presence of Denmarkian soldiers and Brandburgian but most of them got killed or went in hiding.
Albrecht: How come?
Commander: Apperantly, there was a baron who was loyal to the throne of Mecklenburg and took advantage of the confusion, he is now plundering some villages.
Albrecht: I'l deal with him.

The men of Albrecht were nervous, this rebel had to be experienced as it defeated both the fierce Denmarkian army and disiplined Brandburgian army, and Albrecht was outnumbered to make things worse.
He was forced to retreat!

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/1231/b1ef9.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully defended.

Casulties:

Albrecht's Forces : 120
Rebels: Unknown

He swore quietly revenge, but the closest place to replenish his army was in Hesse, as Mecklenburg only had peasants.

(as you can see on the image) Graf Cuonrat has been managed to infiltrate the French armies as one of its commanders, his objection was to extract much information from other commanders and then strike a blow and make his retreat.
When he tried to earn the trust of his soldiers and stage an army revolt the attempt was falied, only because Anselm reconized him at an important meeting, and was imprisoned... but was excecuted before Emperor Albert even think of offering a ransom....

Graf Cuonrat, protector of the royal family and personal friend of the emperor himself had been excecuted.
His body was returned to his family in Nassau, Albert swore this act could only be repaid by blood, but not now.
May the Lord watch over him.

Meanwhile Graf Albrecht replenished his army... and finally archers were availible too! And he marched with good hope to Mecklenburg.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/2725/b1db0.jpg
The excecutionletter and Graf Albrecht on the background marching to Mecklenburg.

[GogoT]

Give us some more pic of Europe- more east pics :)

[Lord Crackbone]

I like to gladly but its a bit... irrelevant.

[Lord Crackbone]

When Graf Albrecht arived at Mecklenburg he requested that every man availible holding a weapon should join him.
This time the rebels were not as fortunate.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/4430/b1vx0.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully defended.

Casulties:
Albrecht's Forces: 150
Rebel Forces: Entire army

Graf Albrecht decided along with his bodygaurds to increase their skill and knowlegde with the sword, and returned to Mecklenburg.
But one problem solved an other arises.

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/309/b1nt1.jpg

Despite being outnumbered 4 to 1 Albrecht proved again a brilliant strategist.

http://img254.imageshack.us/img254/1456/b1aq3.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully defended.

Casulties:

Albrecht's Forces: 10
Rebel Forces: Few but most killed afterwards.

Meanwhile at the castle of the emperor...

Prince Volkmar: Father good news!
Emperor Albert: What is it, my son?
Prince Volkmar: First of all, Frederik managed to open relationships with Teutonic Order, a strong and powerful nation.

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/470/b1zc0.jpg

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/2796/b2wf1.jpg
Indeed, Teutonic Order could prove to be a powerful ally[I]

Prince Volkmar: And the second thing is we have now amongst the finest infantry in the world, we have now Men-at-arms.
Emperor Albert: Thats good...*starts coughing*
Prince Volkar: Father you're alright?
Emperor Albert: This old man just needs some rest...

To lighten the work of the emperor Volkmar hired a cleric and a merchant their names were Eirmanrich and Ewalt (from left to right).

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/3430/b1zp4.jpg

He urgend his father to mobalize his army for an attack on.... Austria... this would mean Germany would have some of its territory back, and Bohemia(former enemy of Germany) Switzerland(who recently broke away from Austria control) and some others were at war with Austria, this would see what Germany is capable of.

And Volkmar was also a diplomatic genius, managing to get the mighty Croata King on his side.
http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/5337/b1tf7.jpg

This was the current situation of Austria.
http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/3761/b1sc2.jpg
[I]Almost compleetly surrounded with foes.

And Volkmar ordered Graf Albrecht to strike...

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 7: The end of a dream?

Graf Albrecht decided to attack the province of Salzburg first, it had a wooden wall.
But it was impossible for Austria to hold so many enemies off at one time Albrecht concluded, as now the Holy state of Papecy decleared war on it, they were even pleased we were on their side.
http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/950/b1ck8.jpg
This was a good sign to Emperor Albert

There were no enemy armies in the province... it seemed an good start of the campaign.

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/1391/b1fk8.jpg

Albrecht chosed to assault the city, he waited till reports came from scouts.

Scout: Milord, the town is very weak defended, only having one towngaurd and peasant squad.
Graf Albrecht: Captains, order the strike!

Needless to say it was a victory, many countries were pleased, finally Germany had some friends it could rely on.

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/1386/b1xr7.jpg
The conquering message and the new friends Germany now have.

Even old hatres were put aside.

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/3931/b1ok7.jpg
Bohemia had been Germany's nemesis for a long time, finally it ends.

Graf Albrecht was given orders to attack the last Austrian province (the other one was taken by Papecy) only to find it besieged by Papecy but scouts reported an Austrian army was on the way to break the siege, Albrecht knew he had to stop them, and he engaged.

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/879/b1qw9.jpg
Albrecht is blocking the way for the Austrian soldiers.

And he was succesfull, however the battle costed many lives.


Result:
Victory for Germany, enemy army destroyed.

Casulties:

Albrecht's Forces: Atleast 150
Austrian Forces: Entire army

Meanwhile at the castle of the emperor...

Prince Volkmar had found an mysterious document in Graf Etwalts office on his desk, he coudn't read it.
It was only after a translation it had become clear that he was not loyal to the cause of the Emperor!

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/5670/b1ec2.jpg
Only because Denmark and Germany were kin saved his life!

The Emperor went terrible ill (possible poisened by the spy) ... his best doctors did what they could... but at Sunset the Holy Roman Emperor left its people...
His body was brought to Hesse, the place he was born and rised to emperor, his coffin was burried by his friends and family.

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/8031/b1hi4.jpg

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/3565/b1dn7.jpg

The Denmarkian did not claim responbility of their spy actions, in good will they declined the right they had to claim land which drasticly improved relation between the 2 countries.

http://img134.imageshack.us/img134/6942/b1ym8.jpg

Through Emperor's Volkmar rule, Germany went to huge preperations for war... and was soon ready to meet the enemy blade by blade...

Ps: Enough for today :)

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 8: The Dream Restored!

Shortly after his father burial Volkmar received this message.

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/8950/b1mb2.jpg

He coudn't do much about it and he had bigger matters to deal with, he needed a wife. And he found one...

He personaly visited the old king of Denmark, and after days he asked the hand of her daughter, Astrid who was known for her beauty.

King of Denmark: We will certainly agree your proposal but we need to ask you two things.
Emperor Volkmar: Yes?
King of Denmark: We would be honered if you would enter into an alliance with us, for our childeren, homes and nation, and the safe return of our Jarl.

It was reasonable enough to Volkmar and he accepted.

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/3584/b1vo7.jpg
The royal family.

Emperor Volkmar hired 2 new knights, a cleric and merchant. He hoped these would not betray them like the last ones did.

http://img213.imageshack.us/img213/319/b1ra7.jpg
Bernhold the new cleric and Bernhart the new merchant.

A year had passed... notting had really happend, till Volkmar was overjoyced of a message came in and ran to his wife.

http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/2268/b1xg1.jpg
The future of Germany was secure.

He was also suprised but even happier when the doctor said:

''Its a twin''

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/8251/b1ey6.jpg

And Volkmar also decided the time has come for Germany to take its place within Europe.
Gelre had serious trouble working with his allies, France decided to break their relations with, Scotland decided to break aswel, many duchys(Burgundy is Gelre's only faithfull ally) have been destroyed by internal struggle.

Albrecht formulated this plan.

http://img245.imageshack.us/img245/9329/b1ge4.jpg

Albrecht would attack from the north and wait till Graf Egidius (almost forgot about him) took the south and would join them, from there they would conquer the remaining provinces.
Its also speculated that Papacy attack the allies from the south.

Graf Albrecht: Let battle be joined!!!!

[Lord Crackbone]

When Graf Albrecht and Egidius entered their place of operations, reports came that the provinces were in utter chaos, rebels everywhere and the few Gelre troops stood there to stop them.

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/3162/b1zt1.jpg
This was reported by Egidius' scouts

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/9775/b1jq8.jpg
This was reported by Albrecht's scouts

They took advantage of the confusion and marched straight to the castle of the province.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/3250/b1db2.jpg
The twin sieges

And both were succesful, we even managed to kill the king of Gelre!

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/1096/b1di2.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, provinces succesfully conquered.

Casulties:

Germany: Few
Gelre: Massive

The now even more confused troops and rebels were easily destroyed by both generals, then they marched north.

Scotland and Castilla were still good friends of Gelre and decleared war on Germany fortunatly we received also more support, Sweden and Norway are on our side now, and the Teutonic Order has plegded their support with us and supplies us with their finest warriors... for a good price ofcourse. (I'm now able to make teutonic knights)

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/6766/b1zv8.jpg
Treason again! This time Volkmar was not as patient and signed its excecution.

The leaderless northen province were no match for the combined might of the two generals, the king-in-exile in Londen had to accept a peace treaty, they were now our vassels!

Followed by this, Scotland withdraw its attention in the war and offert peace, which was accepted.
Castilla on the other hand did not, they would not last long Volkmar predicted as they were at war with far too many countries.

http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/36/b1zu4.jpg
http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/3302/b2ib3.jpg

Years followed, it was a time of rebuilding, and the time was come for the prince to take its place.

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/6025/b1pc2.jpg

While he wassen't as effiecient as his father in diplomacy and being an genius on the economy field he was a master in espionage and populair because he supported the church.

Time will tell.

Finally the time has come to choose an emperor of Europe! Volkmar has choosed to go some days ahead of the election so he could take some rest and enjoy the city of Rome, an place of history and legends.

Despite the king of Sweden was a good friend of Volkmar he decided not to vote on... he was convinced only Germany was capable of rule in Europe.

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/8742/b1oy5.jpg

And when he returned home, he was overcome with hapiness because his wife gaved birth to a second son right on the day he left to Rome, was this a good sign? Only the Lord can tell.

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/9549/b1ze9.jpg

And he was also pleased at the news that we finally could train cavalry (light cavarly and feudal knights).

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/2252/b1ke0.jpg

The future seemed bright indeed!

[Lord Crackbone]

The power of Germany was growing... Volkmar had to deal with increasingly more requests which most of them were declined infact, all of them were.

http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/3192/b1nq3.jpg

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/6640/b1xt8.jpg
Sometimes its hard to be a strong ruler.

The last message proved the most intresting...
The King of Denmark had passed away and we had the right to claim land.

http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/854/b1jv2.jpg

Friesland was the province Volkmar had its eye on and he used his right, though dissapointed Denmark accepted. In turn Volkmar gaved Jutland back.
Volkmar ordered his son to raise an army and work alongside the 2 marshals to keep the peace.

Shortly after another message arived! (Jeez)

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/5218/b1rr8.jpg
Volkmar ofcourse accepted!

Results:
-5000 extra gold
-Kingdom power increased
-Province of Brandenburg joins the Empire of Germany

Germany was so strong it was only matched by Sjeluks .

http://img75.imageshack.us/img75/9746/b1gf8.jpg
The Holy Roman Empire is finally taking shape!

But even powerful nations can be torn apart by 1 man...
http://img259.imageshack.us/img259/8018/b1zz0.jpg

Fortunately he did not cause much damage, though Volkmar was slowly losing patience with Denmark, he decided to keep him captive and hold him till a ransom was offered.

Meanwhile...Prince Heinrich received a scout message.

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/1747/b1qy5.jpg

Prince Heinrich was nervous, he had good military training, finest troops in the world but was scared that there was nobody here to help him.

Prince Heinrich: Alright, captain what is the situation?
Captain: It appears they only exist out of archers milord.
Prince: Heinrich: Hm... an direct assault would be sucide... this is my plan... let them come and order the cavalry to sneak behind them and charge them at the back.
Captain : Yes sire!

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/2982/b1hi7.jpg

Rebel Commander: Watch your back!!!!
But it was too late...

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/404/b1ex5.jpg

Despite the good plan, the cavarly was suffering badly and Heinrich decided to come to their aid, together they killed the leader.

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/1358/b1hz3.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully defended.

Casulties:
Heinrich's Forces: Moderate
Rebel Forces: Heavy

Meanwhile at the castle of the emperor....

Danish Ambassador: I have come and offer a ransom of the safe return of our Jarl.

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/2720/b1ap1.jpg

This was accepted, though Volkmar gaved a warning to the Danish ambassador.
Volkmar: Should I ever find again that there is a traitor among my men, then I know where I should start looking who sended them.

Meanwhile... he received word that Austria has risen back to power again...
He ordered his son and Graf Albrecht to invade it...
http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/2713/b1aw7.jpg

Friderich, the second son of the emperor has been grown and given the cleric job, he was roughly equal with his brother but it was certain Heinrich would follow the throne, noneless the emperor loved them both.

This was some unusal news, 4 kings of the SAME country died at the SAME time and probbaly also in the SAME place in the far south, it amused Volkmar sightly.

http://img90.imageshack.us/img90/8529/b1ed9.jpg

Ps: Enough for today :)

[Lord Crackbone]

Sorry for not updating lately, had to deal with some problems.

=========================================

Chapter 9: The Dream Fufilled

The 2 generals quickly advanced into Austrian territory, hoping to use the element of suprise to the newly organized kingdom.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/8522/b1de6.jpg
Prince Heinrich and Graf Albrecht attacking.

Scout: Milord! The defenses are very thin! Just 2 companies of townguards!
Prince Heinrich: Order the strike captains...

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/9748/b1rn6.jpg
Life can be unfair at times...

Needless to say that was a piece of cake.
http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/7166/b1wo8.jpg


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully conquered.

Casulties:
Germany: Very low
Austria: Low, most surrendered.

Prince Albrecht was even more overjoyed when a messenger from his father came.
http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/588/b1gv6.jpg

As a result the morale of the army was high, the remaining Austrian town didn't stood a chance.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/2118/b1gr2.jpg

The German Emperor had so much support now that armies could replenish faster (Prince Heinrich gains Healer skill)

Much time to celebrate this wassen't, as Volkmar ordered the attack on Venice, for they had a town that once belonged to the Empire.
Apparently the Venice have not payed much attention to the town... by stastics this was one of the most crude and backwards towns in the world as they didn't even had a towngaurd!

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/3430/b1zp4.jpg
This was almost too easy...

The Doge of Venice after hearing of the capture of the town begged for peace, and accept the following term: vassalage.

There was one province left that was needed to be conquered... Switzerland... the owner of Switzerland was a friend of Volkmar, but he still was determined to take it.
Emperor Volkmar taked a look at the relationships Switserland had.

http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/2784/b1qh4.jpg
It seemed Germany was its only true friend... for now!

He ordered a messenger to recall German Ambassadors, thus breaking the relationship between the 2 countries.
Switzerland was not pleased but accepted but in contrast many other countries were.
http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/7537/b1jd2.jpg
http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/3559/b1af8.jpg

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/6372/b1os7.jpg

Emperor Volkmar ordered to Heinrich and Albert to invade Switzerland, thus finally taking the last lost piece.

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/4346/b1bv3.jpg
The casulties were high but it was worth it.


Result:
Victory for Germany, province succesfully conquered, Germany unified!

Casulties:
Germany: Moderate-high
Switzerland: Massive

Meanwhile... the castle of Flanders was under attack, fortunatly Egidius and his army were camped inside the town... and Albrecht was on its way to reinforce it.

Graf Egidius: Victory will be certain if we hold till the arival of Graf Albrecht.
Captain: Milord, they are at the gates!

http://img242.imageshack.us/img242/6223/b1mw5.jpg
Enemy at the gates

Graf Egidius: They will have to fight for every inch of this castle, towngaurd foreward!
Towngaurd: Charge!!!

The battle took a while but it seems they are retreating. They probbaly got word of an incomming army and knew it had no chance... the king of Switzerland knew it had used its only chance of victory and like the king of Venice accept the peacecondintion vasselage.

Emperor looked proud at the current map of Germany, fufilling the dream of his father.
[img=http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/4710/b1ln5.th.jpg] (http://img341.imageshack.us/my.php?image=b1ln5.jpg)

Germany was the most powerful empire in the world!

========================================
Ps: If you people like I can continue the AAR to compleet the third goal (becomming emperor of europe).
Please answer. :)

[Frujin]

Very nice and very touchy :) !!

[IWM]

Wow! Even the creator of the game says yes! Continue it, Comrade!!

[Lord Crackbone]

Your wish is my command :D

=====================

Chapter XI: A New Begin

Emperor Volkmar was pleased that Germany was the most powerful empire in the world, but he didn't want to stop at that point.... he knew Europe was in dissarey because of so many wars.
He wished to bring Europe to one strong ruler.... but he knew his time was running out... for he was already 73 years old.

But quickly forgot the plan when he heard that his third son was grown.
Though he was much more intelligent then his older brothers he was considerble more ruthless and not very populair among the royal court.

He also received news from Rome.
http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/1851/b1cz6.jpg
In the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit...

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/3383/b1ha6.jpg

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/7294/b1lf7.jpg
The current royal family...

It was however a boring time for the generals of the army, apart from training the troops there was nobody left to fight.
Prince Heinrich who was inspecting the troops (he didn't had much else to do) received a message and he wasted no time prepairing himself.
http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/4739/b1vt7.jpg

Though he was dissapointed when he arived in Austria that the rebels have already engaged a Bohemian Army.
http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/6215/b1pc1.jpg

He was about to return to the town of Austria when scouts reported that the Bohemian army has been destroyed he was about to attack them when he received other news.... his world went black.

http://img174.imageshack.us/img174/916/b1ao6.jpg
Emperor Volkmar, was widely though to be the most powerful German emperor to be lived.
He was a genius in dipomacy, was a skilled economist and a brilliant strategist, everybody liked him.
He will be remembered as a light in a time of darkness... a sign of... hope and inspiration.
Long live the Emperor!

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/9323/b1wi0.jpg

Emperor Heinrich who was troubled ordered his captains to the army pull back, the troops were mourning aswel...

=====================================
Short one today.

[Lord Crackbone]

Emperor Heinrich was devastated by his fathers death, as a result this gaved the rebbels time to recover from their battles with the Bohemian army.

He didn't even had time to mourn as some messengers arived.

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/8559/b1qi9.jpg
This one was accepted.


http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/5917/b1zm3.jpg
This one was declined.

http://img106.imageshack.us/img106/2510/b1ub5.jpg
He was pleased about this news.

Even more importantly, a message from Rome came.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/9894/b1xb2.jpg

Heinrich didn't like the idea of sending an army to a good friend but he also didn't wish to lose the support of the pope.
He accepted in the end but quickly changed his mind when the messenger returned to Rome.
He ordered all remaining messengers to be send to his uncle, Frederik.

Days have passed, despite Heinrich best efforts he still didn't had the chance to signifantly defeat the rebels that were wreaking havoc.
He had greater problems, he needed a wife to produce childeren.
And he found one... and he came up with some expansion plans....

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/6222/b1dy6.jpg
Heinrich calculated it would be a matter of time before Norway is absorbed in the Holy Roman Empire....

Heinrich was right... as a few days later...
http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/2861/b1gu6.jpg

But to his horror they refused! (forgot to screenshot it :( )

Heinrich ordered Graf Albrecht and Graf Egidius to defend Mecklenburg and other cities from Norway armies.
As soon the messenger left another arived.

Messenger: Sire! Your life is in danger!
Emperor Heinrich: What is it?
Messenger: The rebels have amassed an army and are attacking the castle.
Emperor Heinrich: Bring me my armor, I will deal with this myself.
Messenger: But sire you are too important.
Emperor: This is not a request this is an ORDER!
Messenger: Yes sire...

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/7171/b1dh9.jpg

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 10: Black Skies

The army and the city garizon was soon assembled forming a huge army.

Emperor Heinrich: What is the situation?
Sir Leopold (second in command) : Well sire, we vastly outnumber them and their morale is low.
Emperor Heinrich: Very well... we shall meet them in the open... and I will be there!

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/7311/b1zz7.jpg

Emperor Heinrich: Charge at the achers! They are killing us!
Sir Leopold: Milord, our infantry is suffering badly!
Emperor Heinrich: Knights follow me!

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/996/b1px3.jpg

It has struckt them hard, rebels deserting.

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/5751/b1xv6.jpg

Suddenly Heinrich could hear many hoofsteps, he looked and he saw the Rebel Commander charging at him.

Emperor Heinrich: Soldiers! Protect your emperor!
But he realized he was alone alongside his knights, he underrestimated the rebels enough to have the main part of the army be inside the city.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/9347/b1zf1.jpg

Emperor Heinrich had highly underrestimated the rebels... combined with his confusion of his fathers death....
He was surrounded with rebels...

Rebel Commander: Surrender, and your life shall be spared.
Emperor Heinrich: I won't be taken as hostage to be bargained with.
Rebel Commander: May the Lord have mercy on your soul then...

Sir Leopold watched in horror as the Rebel Commander stabbed with his sword through Emperor Heinrich.
His body was looted and dragged away, never to be seen again.

http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/8462/b1jt9.jpg
Rebels have just slain the Emperor.

Sir Leopold furious ordered all squads to destroy the rebels, though he knew the emperor was beyond help.
The Rebel Commander was fighting like a lion, he slayed dozens of soldiers this was turning the tide of the battle almost.
Sir Leopold, knowing that things went wrong (if not already) grabbed a spear and throwed with all of his strength and anger....

http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/8193/b1jp7.jpg
The Rebels butchered!


Result:
Pyrrhic victory for Germany, emperor slain.

Casulties:
Germany: Heavy
Rebels: Heavy

Sir Leopold sended messengers to all important nobles in the country about the loss of the Emperor....
http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/5670/b1ec2.jpg

The council of nobles quickly decided that the closest relative of Heinrich should be the new Emperor.
In this case Arnegisel, brother of the deceased Emperor.

Graf Albrecht and Egidius were deeply oposed of Arnegisel becomming the new emperor, they described the new Emperor as; powerhungry, greedy, merciless and at some times even insane!
But what could they do? The Royal Bloodline had a great influence on the Counsil (3 members in the Royal Court).

http://img509.imageshack.us/img509/9559/b1ub9.jpg

[Frankoman]

oh, what tragedy, that. Continue the story, I like this one :)

[Lord Crackbone]

This is an intresting plot twist I think.:)

[anguille]

Great Story!

Keep it coming :go:

[Lord Crackbone]

Thanks, I have alot been inspired by your AAR. ;)

================================================== =======

When news came to the people that the emperor was killed, some were starting to doubt if the future of Germany was going well.

http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/2548/b1bp3.jpg

They were even less happy that Arnegisel had become emperor, who just raised the taxes.

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/8097/b1tk7.jpg

Meanwhile... at...Saxony...

Scout: Milord! An invasion!
Graf Egidius: Where?!
Scout: A Norway army has landed in Frieseland!

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/8051/b1qb9.jpg

Graf Egidius: Anything else?
Scout: They are badly armored, and their morale is low...
Graf Egidius: Very well... tell the captains to stand ready.

As soon as possible, Graf Egidius and his army left to reinforce Frieseland.
He was victorius!

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/9659/b1hw6.jpg

Jarl Halvdan: What is gonna happen with me?
Graf Egidius: For my part, I shall spare your life. I will send a message to the emperor to ask if you can go free, I pray for you the best of it.

Meanwhile... at Mecklenburg....

Graf Albrecht and Emperor Heinrich's former second-in-command, Sir Leopold were disscussing the current situation...

Graf Albrecht: This is going the wrong way, Arnegisel emperor? HA!
Sir Leopold: There is a high chance the empire will collapse should we try to do somthing about it.
Graf Albrecht: Yes... we must wait and play along and----
Scout: Sire!
Graf Albrecht: What is it, soldier?
Scout: Norway troops have crossed the border!
Graf Albrecht: Leopold, tell the men to get ready!

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/7308/b1qt2.jpg

The Norway Commander didn't expected a fast counterattack, and he was defeated and captured alive.

http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/1895/b1sl0.jpg

Normally Albrecht would allow no prisoners but he had greater problems to confront with, and he saw Graf Thorvald praying, to take care of his childeren and wife.
This emotional act broke Albrecht.

Graf Albrecht: Your life shall be spared for now, I will send a message to the emperor what to do with you.

In truth he did not expect any mercy for this poor man, this could only lead to more unnessesary bloodshed.
He ordered two messengers to be send to Frederik, Arnegisel's uncle and Graf Egidius.

[Lord Crackbone]

Emperor Arnegisel who just raised the taxes again used the money to donate and gain the favor of the Pope and faithfull Catholic Kingdoms, much to the people's suffering and nobles frustration.

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/4596/b1gb3.jpg

He spended so much money on it that his uncle Frederick asked what the point was giving that much money to the Pope, as other religions will still hate him.

Emperor Arnegisel: I'm the emperor, I do what I want. And I want to finish the dream of my father, your brother. He said to me I was destinated for not more then serving Heinrich! Well look what has happend to him!
Frederick: But giving the entire treasuary away!?
Emperor Arnegisel: I won't be as foolish as my brother! I have bigger plans! Now get out of my office!

Frederick was starting to wonder if Arnegisel had become emperor was the right choice, he mumbled somthing and went away.

Emperor Arnegisel demanded ransom from Norway for the safe return of their Jarls, they also asked for peace which Arnegisel accepted, to the displease of the marshals.

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/3365/b1ea9.jpg

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/2686/b1pw2.jpg

Arnegisel used all of this money again to donate to the Pope.
While this was an effective plan to gain the favor of other kingdoms, it was crippeling Germany.

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/1027/b1gu1.jpg

Some weeks have passed... and Arnegisel got married with a daughter from a respected baron, there were rumors that Arnegisel blackmailed him.
Noneless, there may be some hope left for Germany should a prince be born with a healthy body and a clear mind.

http://img505.imageshack.us/img505/1550/b1mp6.jpg

While Arnegisel was also not was talented as his older brothers, he still was certain he will and be a better ruler.
To prove this he ordered the construction of buildings that were capable of making usefull goods... and after a day he received a message that pleased him very much.

http://img522.imageshack.us/img522/8952/b1vl5.jpg

Emperor Arnegisel: This is only the beginning....

[Frankoman]

Haha, I loved that "... who just raised the taxes.", haha. Supprized there was no rebellion! a question though, what do you mean by blackmail king?

[Lord Crackbone]

That Arnegisel technicly forced the baron to give permission to marry his daughter (I think when the daughter saw him she went for a run).

[Frankoman]

oh, haha.

[Lord Crackbone]

Emperor Arnegisel asked the current situation of Germany to the advisor.

Advisor: Well sire, it seems Germany is the most powerful kingdom in the world but---
Emperor Arnegisel: But what?
Advisor: There are many other kingdoms rising to power like Sweden.

The advisor took a map of Sweden's lands and showed to the emperor.

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/2920/b1uy6.jpg

Emperor Arnegisel: Hm, our power will be challenged sooner or later.
Advisor: We should focus on our merchant power.
Emperor Arnegisel: No I have a better idea.... I will infiltrate the court of Sweden! And tear it apart from within!
Advisor: But sire, who will rule the empire then? You don't have any heirs and what will happen if you get killed?
Emperor: Arnegisel: My brother, Frederich and uncle Frederick will take over during my absence.
Advisor: Yes milord....

And so the Emperor of Germany left the safety of his castle and rided to Saxony to take a ship to land at Sweden....

One day later after the emperor left... the whole of Germany celebrated for the best news in years!

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/7192/b1bp8.jpg
Now they could only pray if he was not like his father.

Meanwhile somewhere at Sweden...

Using his vast wealth and spy knowlegde it was not difficult for Emperor Arnegisel entering the Swedisch army as one of its commanders.
He was nervous as he heard his father, Volkmar telling a story that one of his father best friend (Cuonrat) got caught and was excuted.

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/4702/b1cb6.jpg

He found out that many soldiers were weary of all ungoing wars thus were easy for Arnegisel to bribe them.

Major succes for Germany!

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/2436/b1gj0.jpg

When he got home he found out that a son was born, he did not care.
All what he had in mind was his victory.
He ordered his advisor to come again.

Emperor Arnegisel: Tell me, do we have a cathedral?
Advisor: Well no sire, but we have some cities that have the potential to have one. But they are already in use for the millitary.

http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/515/b1yb8.jpg

The Emperor said notting for a second but eventually...

Emperor Arnegisel: Order the construction in Salzburg!
Advisor: Sire? The marshals are gonna be furious! As there are some of the best troops!
Emperor: They will have to accept my plan, as they did with my father.
Advisor: Yes sire...
Emperor: And I want it finished before I die! As there will be my tomb!

Many buildings had to be demolished for get some space for the huge cathedral, mostly millitairy ones.

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/5004/b1or1.jpg

Few days later a messenger arived.

Messenger: I'm sorry sire.

Emperor Arnegisel readed the letter, he went into rage.

Emperor Arnegisel: Guards, kill him! I want his head into a basket and sended back to his king!

The messenger begged for his life but there was no mercy. Even Graf Albrecht and Egidius were shocked by this action.

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/9596/b1op6.jpg

Emperor Arnegisel ordered Graf Albrecht to protect the south from any possible invasion.

Emperor Arnegisel was still angered but calmed when he heard he was now the father of healthy 2 sons.

http://img139.imageshack.us/img139/6747/b1sk4.jpg

[Lord Crackbone]

Officially there was war, but the emperor did not care much about it, as he said the chance of an attack would be small. And the kingdom was a vassel to the Papacy, he was smart enough to avoid conflict with them.
He focused more on the construction of the cathedral.

Advisor: Sire, it will take years or even decades before the construction is finished. It will take loads of manpower.
http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/6871/b1hy1.jpg

The emperor said notting. He was just looking to the map, till suddenly a man came in, it was his son.

Prince Anselm was a kind and warm man, despite being alot different then his father he wanted still be ''accepted'' by him and did everything to please him, to no avail.

http://img81.imageshack.us/img81/7769/b1nu6.jpg

Prince Anselm: Father! Good news!
Emperor Arnegisel: I told you NOT to disturb me, while I'm working!
Prince Anselm: But this is good news! And more are comming from the harbors of Saxony!

Prince Anselm ordered two man with a chest to come in and put it down.
He opened and Arnegisel could not believe his eyes.

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/7285/b1me8.jpg
Silk from the far away China!

Emperor Arnegisel: Good work, son... now go. Your mother needs you.
Prince Anselm: What is wrong with my mother?
Emperor Arnegisel: It appears you have a new brother.... or what I have heard from it.

Prince Anselm was sad but he tried not to show it. He could not help it his father only cared for himself and the Empire.

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/6684/b1ic3.jpg

But as soon as Prince Arnegisel left, another prince came in, it was Dideric.

While Anselm and Dideric received the same education, Dideric was more handy and more cool-headed then his older brother. And both were sane to the relief of the whole of Germany.

http://img292.imageshack.us/img292/2122/b1dr7.jpg

Emperor Arnegisel: Shoudn't you be at your mother?
Prince Dideric: Both my little brother and mother are healthy, father.
Emperor Arnegisel: Well make it quick then, I'm working.
Prince Dideric: Certainly father, in the harbor from Flanders we are importing ivory from the far south. From great beasts they call elephants. Apart from decoration it has also medical purposes.
Emperor Arnegisel: Good, you may now go.

Prince Dideric shook his head in dissapointment as he expected a more positive reply.

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/8529/b1ed9.jpg

Advisor: Is somthing wrong sire?
Emperor Arnegisel: You know... its sometimes hard to be dad.

[Bern]

For such an ugly Emperor, he must have a way with the ladies if he already has three sons! :rolleyes:

[Lord Crackbone]

For such an ugly Emperor, he must have a way with the ladies if he already has three sons! :rolleyes:

I have that been wondering myself aswel.:p

[Styx]

Though I have been reading AAR's for some time now, I've not encountered one as brilliant as this. The cold-hearted treatment of arnegisel of his sons makes the story living. You'd almost want the two sons to succes their father already, but you are eager to see what Arnegisel is planning for Germany.

keep up :go:

[Lord Crackbone]

Thanks. :D

================================================== ========

Advisor: Sire, just to remind you that the Election is over one week in Rome.
Emperor Arnegisel: Yes I know.
Advisor: And you're also aware that southen Italy is hostile against you?
Emperor Arnegisel: They are? Hm... call my eldest son, Anselm here.

http://img508.imageshack.us/img508/8391/b1wu6.jpg

Prince Anselm: Father, you called me?
Emperor Arnegisel: Yes.... the time has come to prove yourself... you always asked me if you could lead an army against the enemies of Germany. After many considerations I have decided to agree your proposal.
Prince Anselm: ALRIGHT!!! Eh... thanks father. Forgive me for my enthusiasm.
Emperor Arnegisel: You'l be leading an army against the infidel Turnovo. Though there is a small problem with your army.... due ''onforeseen'' financial incidents you'l have a lower quaility army.

Advisor: *Quietly* I wonder if it had anything to do with giving money to the Papacy.
Emperor Arnegisel: What did you say?
Advisor: Notting sire. Notting important.

Prince Anselm was glad he was given the opportunity to prove himself to his father, and departed to his army. Emperor Arnegisel also promised Graf Albrecht would reinforce him soon. But the messenger was never given order to get to Albrecht....

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/7741/b1tw8.jpg
The plan. But in reallity Albrecht would never come.

Meanwhile Emperor Arnegisel alongside a small army of elite soldiers arived at Rome.... the once mighty capital of the Roman Empire, it was now a shadow of its former self. You could still see its beauty from its ancient stones.

Emperor Arnegisel had good hope, as most of the Counsil were friends of Germany. And who would dare to deny him?

http://img106.imageshack.us/img106/8687/b1mv4.jpg

His opponent was the mighty Grand Master of Teutonic Order, a close friend of Germany.
Emperor Arnegisel had expected that atleast 3 out of 5 would vote on him, noone voted on him!

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/4200/b1zi6.jpg

Humiliated and angry he lefted Rome as soon as possible. He wasted his only chance to become Ruler of the World.

http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/5509/b1bg0.jpg

He had now to think about the future....

[Lord Crackbone]

While Arnegisel returned to Germany, his son Anselm arived at Appulia.

Prince Anselm: What is the situation?
Scout: There has been no sign yet of Graf Albrecht sire, but there are rebels nearby.
Prince Anselm: We shall wait for Albrecht, and if nessesary take the castle without him. In the meanwhile we shall sack this place!
Scout: But sire, the castle is currently under siege by troops from Napals (see note after this story) and its very likely they will be victorius...
Prince Anselm: Then we move in land! Wipe any remaining oposition out!

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/8735/b1wb2.jpg

Meanwhile, Arnegisel who arived in Germany received an unpleasant but expected message.

http://img253.imageshack.us/img253/290/b1aw5.jpg

Prince Arnulf: Dad, let me take care of those devil servants! Give me a sword and an army and I will put an end to their rule!

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/4861/b1dh1.jpg
Prince Arnulf was much in common with his grandfather, Volkmar thus was the only prince who received some attention and love from his father, but this did not cause any jealousy amongst the 3 princes, their bond only became stronger.

Emperor Arnegisel: No son, I have already sended your brother to take care of them. And what if he gets killed? Dideric is not the one people wants to see on the throne and Anselm---

At that point his face went white, Arnegisel remembered he forgot to send graf Albrecht to assist Anselm, as he was inexperienced and he had low quality soldiers.

Prince Arnulf: Dad? What's wrong?
Emperor Arnegisel: Hum, notting! I have some work to do!

And he ran inside, if his son gets killed he was directly responsible for it and he would never forgive himself.

================================================== ===================

I had no real inspiration for this part, but I found somthing intresting, likely a bug as you could maybe see in the story.
The castle of Turnovo was under siege by Napal, who later appeared as an ally declearing war on Germany.
Seconds later, the castle was conquered.

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/1679/b1ns9.jpg

And now look at the flag of Napals from the declear of war.

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/6871/b1hy1.jpg
A match!

[jediguardian]

Dude this is amazing! Keep up the good work!

[Lord Crackbone]

My excuse for not updating recently, I really had a bussy week.

================================================== =======

Graf Albrecht wasted no time and marched towards the coastal village to get ships and assist Prince Anselm, he never took an order from Arnegisel this serious.

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/2485/b1kn8.jpg

Meanwhile at Napals...

Prince Anselm: Captain, what is the situation?
Captain: The troops morale is low sire, we have walked for days and nights without some rest.
Prince Anselm: Hm... my scouts tell me the castle of Napoli is weakly defended, if we take it we have a good outpost for the Empire.
Captain: Alright sire, I will order the men to get ready.

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/3082/b1ip5.jpg

The battle did not went as expected, there was a small army inside the castle and a marshal.

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/8245/b1gu7.jpg

And an other army arived soon within the city walls.
Meanwhile Albrecht had landed nearby.

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/4131/b1re9.jpg
Albrecht is trying to get on time.

And unfortunatly Albrecht arived too late and found most of Anselm's army utterly destroyed. He heard tales from them that the prince was so obsessed making his father proud he did not surrender no matter the circumstances.

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/4114/b1tn8.jpg

Result:
Victory for Napals, crownprince of Germany has been slain.

Casulties:
Germany: Heavy
Napals: Light-moderate

Graf Albrecht ordered the retreat as many Napolonian troops were after him because the renmants of Anselm's had captured a general of them and he sended messengers to send word to Arnegisel.....

Some days later at the castle of the emperor....

Emperor Arnegisel: Any word from Albrecht?*Starts to cough*
Advisor: Notting yet sire.
Emperor Arnegisel: Any other news?*Coughs more heavy*
Advisor: Yes sire, the construction of the cathedral has been finished!

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/5917/b1ql1.jpg

But as soon Arnegisel want to say somthing some gaurds appeard with a messenger.

Gaurd: Pardon milord, but there is an urgent message from Albrecht.

The messenger handed over the letter.
You could see on Arnegisel's face he was very sad about the news.

Emperor Arnegisel: Those Napolionian dogs have butchered my son.... and have tossed him away as trash... *tear drop* please gentlemen... leave my room... all of you.

The emperor went into depression, a few days later he died of grief.

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/506/b1sp4.jpg

While not one of the more friendly emperors he was a highly skilled economist, even managing to get some exotic trading goods! And he was an experienced spy, having sabotaged the Swedish army before they could give a possible invasion to Germany.
His last wish to be burried in the cathedral was respected and fufilled.

[IWM]

Good job, my friend!

[Lord Crackbone]

Sorry again, real life is killing me!:bash:
Anyways, here we go again!

================================================== =======

The first order emperor Arnulf did was lowering the taxes, the people had suffered for 30 years.
However, it didn't had a positive result on the balance of Germany.

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/9091/b1yd9.jpg

Many people, including a noble, saw this as a sign of weakness and decided to take arms.
Arnulf sended graf Egidius to crush the rebellion.

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/461/b1sv2.jpg

The news that emperor Arnegisel had died reached also the outside of Germany, and decided to try to let the emperor choose their side

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/2962/b1zv1.jpg

http://img82.imageshack.us/img82/7004/b1zc7.jpg

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/5763/b1ql4.jpg

Arnulf was wise enough to refuse their request for help.
He also received some dire news from Albrecht.

http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/3571/b1el0.jpg
They must have been followed us from Napoli!

Emperor Arnulf take a seat in his throne... he is now emperor for about 2 hours and troubles were already starting.
He took a deep sight and start thinking his strategy to outsmart his enemies...

=============================================

Short one today.

[IWM]

Hahaha! Same with me!

AND GOOD JOB YOU GOT THERE!!

[Lord Crackbone]

Chapter 11: A New Generation

While Anulf had many problems, another arived! He needed a wife!
But his uncle Frederich had the answer.... the mighty neighbour of Germany....

The grand master was more then happy to help Germany of this problem since it will benefith them aswel.
But Arnulf cunningly knew it would be a matter of time that Germany would benefith the most of it.

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/2105/b1cz5.jpg

Arnulf was having a break when a messenger comes in.

Messenger: Sire! A rogue marshal has entered Germany!
Emperor Arnulf: WHAT?! Can't we have some rest?!
Messenger: His army is small but it could become dangerous in time.
Emperor Arnulf: And Graf Egidius and Albrecht are too far away of it... I will deal with this rebel myself!
Messenger: Yes sire!

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/2531/b1zv5.jpg

Meanwhile at Carinthia....

Scout: Milord! We're too late! They have pillaged the coastal village and killed it's villagers!
Graf Albrecht: They are now in God's hands.... have heart men! We shall show these barbarians the meaning of pain!
Soldiers: Yea! Death to them all!!!

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/4524/b1yz5.jpg
Graf Albrecht ariving too late! Ps: Damned cloud!

Some days later at Lorraine...

Emperor Arnulf: Any news of Graf Egdius or Albrecht?
Soldier: Yes sire, Graf Egidius has managed to crush the rebellion!

http://img180.imageshack.us/img180/6097/b1fz8.jpg

Soldier: And we just received word that the Napolonian invasion has been put to an end by Graf Albrecht!

http://img120.imageshack.us/img120/2724/b1ch2.jpg

Emperor Arnulf: It's now time to do my part of the story.... bring me my armor.
Soldier: Yes sire!

[IWM]

Hahahahaha! Well, the Germans are surely in a bad, very bad------ situation. How many rebels you got there, my lord Crackbone?

[Lord Crackbone]

By the time Graf Egidius killed his oppponent there is only 1 rebel army remaining.

The problem is that the army needs to ''grow'' else it woudn't be much of a challange and thus not worth it to write it down.

[elvain]

so you only have one rebel left and no invading army, right?

good job :go:

what's to be next?

[Lord Crackbone]

so you only have one rebel left and no invading army, right?

good job :go:

what's to be next?

I can tell you that there MAY be dark times comming for Germany.

[Lord Crackbone]

My apology to all for not updating the last months, but I promise I will forthcomming week. ;)

[Lord Crackbone]

As promised I will continue the AAR now. :)

================================================== ========

Emperor Arnulf: Let battle commence, leave no prisoners! Kill them all!

The rebels gave the imperial troops a hard time but eventually were all killed.

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/148/b1sl8.jpg

Meanwhile at Carinthia....

Albrecht was about to begin his lunchbreak when a soldier arived in his room.

Albrecht: What is it?
Soldier: Sire, Salvesto was when we captured him in a poor health and he died a few hours ago.

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/5752/b1gt4.jpg

Albrecht: Is there more news?
Soldier: Ehm, yes sire...

http://img92.imageshack.us/img92/9115/b1jn8.jpg

Albrecht: Tell the captains to make their squads ready... lets go kick some Napolonian butt.
Soldier: Yes sire!

At the battlefield...

Albrecht: Alright... what's the situation, captain?
Captain: Well sire, we are vastly outnumbered but in turn they tremble at the very mention of your name.
Albrecht: Hm, it seems I have made some reputation... let's get this over with.

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/3214/b1bc0.jpg

Albrecht: Form ranks! Infantry front and crossbowmen behind!
Captains: Yes sire!
Albrecht: Knights! You have made an oath to defend your lord and his land! Try to break their spirit from the rear or back!

http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/9383/b1gw6.jpg
Albrecht deploying his forces.

The infantry of the enemy nearly reached Albrecht's but before they knew what was happening, a yell came from the back.

Albrecht's Knights: BREAK RANKS!!! CHARGE!!!

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/3296/b1ok8.jpg

From that point confusion was created... the enemy marshal attempted to flee but Albrecht's knights did not give up so easily... and finally they proved they were worth their money.

http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/8711/b1zr1.jpg

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/2379/b1pj3.jpg

Result:
Victory for Germany, Napolonian marshal assasinated.

Casulties:
Albrecht: Light, few infantry and few knights.
Napolonia: Light but all leading figures slain.

Albrecht was enjoying his victory when two messengers arived.

First messenger: Sire, the dynasty of our emperor is secure! We have a prince now!

http://img58.imageshack.us/img58/9170/b1pa9.jpg

Second messenger: Sire, the Grand Master of Teutonic Order has passed away, and our emperor used his right to claim land (no screenshot, sorry :( ).

http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/4820/b1ni8.jpg
Germany's new 'colonies'

Albrecht: The future seems to be bright indeed!

Second messenger: Ehm... the emperor also 'ask' from you to get to these new lands, the people there need some 'imperialization', if you know what I mean sire.

''Next time I keep my mouth shut about how bright the future was'' were Albrecht's thoughts, and he prepared himself for a long walk...