[en]The story thread

[hawk_knight]

Here you can follow the story from the The tavern at the Inn :wink:

here is the story and the logs of the knights and layd's Hawk_knight,
The knightly sword, dobber. angryminer, Xuca, NaVatar, Richard, Sakim, traveller, Odyssey, Wowlops, Heretic Kuno of Gersenau and conquestare legionare :cheers:

This is the list of the knights wou had died in the battle:
Frankish Knight and Nike. :yawn:

24 july 1005 TKS dairy
Dear dairy
Some scouts spotted wild cocnut slingers invading uss from the south, Frankish orderd uss to build up a temporary fort . sgt, Dobber is still searching for a maid as usual . Navatar is going crazy these days , he screams strange conspircies about mercia being lost to our foes forever, good thing we got Lorah here supplying our brains with alcohol . and for me ive just got the new light boots, i requested to easy up the harsh marchs .

28 july 1005 TKS dairy
Dear dairy
We were attacked by cocnuters at night.
Cocnuts every were , one was about to hit my head , i threw my self on the ground at the last second . Poor sgt.Dobber , he got hit while giveing out commands to some rookies . captain Frankish made an attempt to scare them off , he screamed NI NI NI NI NI NI , but the layers of hair covering there ears made an barrier makeing it impossabile for the sound to penetrate there ears . Fortunely we managed to fend them off atlast ,with some support of Navatars crazy combat cows . my arm hurt after this terrfying battle , but Lorahs cocnut drink paid off .

28th of July, 1005 AD

Frankish Knight's diary
After a lengthy struggle we were able to defeat the sparrows, but in the distance I see the troops of the enemy approach. I gave order to fortify, and load our catapults with the coconuts that were useable. Fight the enemy with their own weapons!

28th of July 1005 AD

Dobber's diary - I think
I keep trying to convince everyone that if we had wenches of the night, we could send them into the enemy camp to distract them and we could attack while their minds were on other things. The victory would soon be ours, as it is hard to fight while tangled with your garments about your feet! But no one listens, they say we must fight like real men, but mind is so fogged by the abundance of green beer I consumed that I have forgotten how a real man fights.

Hawk_knight's -diary march 19

i had traveld long distances and fought many battles on land, sea and air with my loyal companjon Scarlet The Dragon. when is was hunting a army that had terrorize there land they had hired me to hunt them down and kill them all. i saw a army that mas preparing to fight the army that i was following i hada also a army at my disposal i orderd them to make camp so i can go to the other army to propose a join forces to fight the enemy army.
when i approachd the other army i saw some familiar faces i where the knights frankish,dobber,tks navatar, and prince lorah. when i landed they had welcomed me at there camp and considered my proposal they said that they will be ready when where going to attack. I said that we will attack tomorrow moring at dauwn. i returend to my camp to prepare the army and to have some rest.

Frankish Knight's diary, 20th of March.

Today is a joyful day, as the famous Hawk-Knight and his army have joined us. We were attacked in the night but managed to kill the assasins...and there was much rejoicing. However, our alcohol stocks are running low, but the Prince has gone to get some more...we may only hope that he returns safely.

Sgt. Dobber is still obsessed with his wenches, resulting in a severe wrenching from the few women in the camp...and there was much rejoicing. He still tries to convince us, in vain I might add, to fight like pansies. If he had balls I'd have him castrated for such a cowardly proposal.

Our Swordly Knight was hurt severely by a cow that was launched unto him...and there was much rejoicing. But NaVatar, who has experience with cows, managed to protect us from further pain. Fact remains, that with three of our officers unavailable for combat, we must pray that our foes do not attack...we may not make it.

Dobbers log - March 20

The wenches are no count, I guess we can forget about catching the enemy with it's pants down. These stinking cows are starting to get to me also. How much more must we endure? And the green beer I think must have been green for some other reason than coloring added to it. I have been puking my guts out for days, and none of my men are in any condition for battle. I fear for my balls, Frankish is threatening castration. I guess that would be one way to get my mind off the wenches! Is there a medic in the camp? A witchdoctor? Anybody that can stop me from this puking? I think maybe the enemy has poisoned our alcohol. I must warn everyone, Prince Eric may be a spy, undermining our efforts, sabotaging our mission. I must meet with the others and have an investigation started.
Those of you under my command, "No more alcohol! Prepare yourselves for battle, we will soon attack the enemy!"

tks`s dairy 20th march 1005
Dear dairy

We were attacked by normen surprisely . How could they sneak in at our lands without getting spotted ? . Damn cow catapults , PAIN was all i feelt in the hole long battle , the first second i saw a cow flying towards me , the other second i was under a big fat cow . Cpt.frankish and Sgt dobber managed to lift it off . I had a broken arm but i still could fight them back , we almost killed the hole division, the others fleed , they even left the catapults , we could have great useage from . Well seeing from the bright side we got catapults and some fine meat , a corpal in our army unit was a former butcher . Frankish did send a scout this time , the scout saw them reform and additionlly elite guards dieractly from normandie reinforced there weakend unit , seemd like another wage comeing . later at night we were reinforced by our ally dragon master hawk-knight , this general has command over the most elite army units , the Dragon legions . I think my arm will recover very fast atleast the doctor said that.

NaVatar's Dairy 20th March 1005

Dear Diary

This is my first entry,as i been busy with my blasted combat-cows....those stinking cows they never follow orders,they have been very disordely these few days of battle, i think i have to come up with something about these cows before my brethren loses their morale.Maybe i should consult with the cap´n about those cow-catapult our foes left in the last battle....maybe my cows can be of some "service" in that matter...

Cap´n send me on a lookout in on of the towers today and i'm am to report if the enemies makes a move....Besides for some small attacks it have been calm these last days,no major attack so far.I must say it's getting quite b....OMG!!!There are thousands out there!!The normans is preparing for a major attack on the camp,i have to run like the wind to the camp...hopefully i can get those catapults up and running before our foe is near.

22nd of March, 1005 AD.

Frankish' Diary.
Yesterday NaVatar rushed back like the wind. He told us there was a big army assembled, ready to attack us. I have gathered the catapults NaVatar readied, and instructed my men how to use it, I hope it will give us an advantage. However we must not forget that they too have livestock, so I had some men build extra crenellations to take cover behind.

Meanwhile, Dobber said the alcohol is poisoned, and that we must keep a good eye on Eric...I don't believe Eric to be a spy, just that Dobber's had three kegs too many...

Knightly's arm is healing well, although he still isn't ready for combat right now. Eric is supposed to return tomorrow, and Dobber has recovered from the wrenching, so we might be able to fend off these enemies...if only for a while.

25th march 1005 tks dairy
Dear dairy
My arms have almost recoverd fully , they will get there old strength back our doctor said. And as for the normens , after navatars report we havent heard off them yet , Cpt,frankish took an effort fixing those catapults . Sgt.dobber has stopped his whineing about wenchs for 3 days , hope he will for the comeing months . lorah is back , and well a cup off beer can save your day. Some suspect that lorah is a spy cause the green beer he brought was poisionize . But i think it is his suppliers who mix up our precious beer .

25th of March, 1005 AD

Frankish' Diary.
The Normans have attacked. Many men were lost and only 20 or so survived...Luckily our staff of officers is still complete. They attacked in the night, and it was hard to aim our cows. The armies of the Hawk saved us however, as they kept the Norman laddermen off the walls...we are riding out to the castle at Lincoln right now, as we have no other alternative. We must conquer it.

Dobber, NaVatar, Prince Eric, Knightly, Hawk-Knight and me are leading our knights, even if only one of us survives this bloody battle we may count ourselves fortunate.

March 25

Dobbers log
As we road up outside the castle, I told the others I would create a distraction while they attacked from each side. At the command of Captain Frankish, I removed my helmet and blinded the enemy with my bald head as the remainder of our force took the walls and gained the upper hand. We ran each and every enemy knight through as they were trying to recover their sight. Soon the victory was ours and we found copiuos amounts of alcohol and food. A thorough search was completed with the finding of many fine wenches for the enjoyment of the troops. Thus followed a night of eating and drinking and ......

March 25-26 1005 AD

NaVatar's Journal

Our battle at Lincoln castle was quite boring,actually.I thinks the outcome of the battle was clear as soon as Dobber showed his bald head and blinded our foes(some was blind after a hour or so) and now we have complete control of the castle and everbody is drinking and singing and doing some things that shouldn't be writen on paper.Tomorrow i have to start building some defensive constructions on the walls cause i have a feeling that it's not safe yet.....Damn my beer-keg is empty again, got to refill.

Tks dairy 26th march 1005
Horrbile news has came , our hole kingdom is lost. Normens along with There allies made an massive invasion into our land mercia . It was a major blow . our armies were off guard and forced to surrender .our divsion was cut off from news for months . We have no friendly provinces nearby , were surrounded by a sea of enemies . our only hope is to hold out until our germen allies defeat the norish armies . resistance brigades from all over mercia has came to our only province to seek hideing from the savage normens.

26th March 1005

NaVatar's Journal

I knew something was out of order.Damn those normans,where do they get all there mens from!
Now everbody in the castle is stumbling around and shouting "We're all Doomned" and so on but cap'n Frankish is trying to calm the people down,and Dobber is....actually i haven't seen him this morning..maybe his still with those wenches..
TKS and Hawk-Knight is rallying up our remaning troops with no luck,they are all drunk and stoned,dammit it seems like our beer was tempered with too.
I gotta to gather some workers so we can reinforce those walls and towers, cause it seems like we have nowhere to go right now.Let's hope for the best.

March 26

Dobber's log

I have been taken prisoner, someone inside our camp is a turncoat. I do not know who it was that led the enemy to me, maybe it was those wenches. But I think it was someone else, I think I may have been close to revealing them, so they turned me over to the enemy. I shouldn't have gotten so drunk last night. As it turned out the poor souls we ran through with our swords were actually prisoners from some other raid the Normans had been on. They had been dressed in full battle dress and made to fill the positions of the former troops of the castle, while our true enemies had stolen away from our attack. We were set up, somebody is feeding intel to our Norman enemies. They know our every move prior to us making them. If some of my comrades should read this, look for a traitor among you. There is no chance for you as long as the traitor is allowed to remain undiscovered. If you can some how rescue me I would appreciate it, but first and foremost find the traitor.

March 27, Frankish's Log.

I managed to recover Dobber's log, but I have no idea who the traitor is. Meanwhile, NaVatar, Knightly and the Hawk-Knight are trying to free Dobber...Prince Eric is nowhere to be seen...

I have been losing sleep these past days, as nothing seems certain as long as we trapped inside this castle...visions of trampled men and burning ruins of castles that were once glorious have come to me, recurring more and more often...we must find the traitor soon, lest we all die in this cursed fort...

march, 28, hawk_knight's Log
When we saved dobber from the enemy.
I had a idee me can go to my kingdom from the north its called the land of the dragons. So that we can regroup there and refit our troops, heal them, train more troops for battle and i will summon all my dragons to go to war!!!! Against the normans.
I had told the others my idee and they say that is there only option to defeat the normans.
So the next day we shall march to Hawk_knights Kingdom. The next day we have marched for a l0ong time now with our army.
I and the other knights agreed that we will give the men 3 hours of rest before we go on marching again. I had send some scouts ahead to see if any enemy army was nearby. I had send 10 scouts a head and there only returend 9 of the 10 so i jumped up om my companjon Scarlet the dragon to see if my scout was killed by the enemy or captured.
After a while i saw a enemy army it where the Normans. I quickly fly back to camp and while i getting closer i yelled that a anemy are is coming. They did not hear that so i thought i had let my dragon growl very loud to the camp.
they did hear this and the i yelled again that there was an enemy army on his way to here.
So we broken ouwer camp down a quickly march furter to Hawk_knights Kingdom. That they had found our army here than we must have a traitor in our army. We will search now very good to find that traitor before its to late. It is still two days marching to the land of the dragons so we must be carefull. we agreed on that we will rest for 5 hours a day. But in the rest we will have many guards to keep a eye out for the enemy and the traitor.

Nikes Diary - March 28
Hmm... Dear Diary... No, no... Dear... Dear... Dear what? Dear... Deer... Deer... I'm hungry. I should go hunt some deer...

Few hours later
Dammit! I couldn't hunt anything today! Just as I found a nice, fattened young deer and then a whole army came, running like idiots, shouting something about Normans and such. Barbarians! They scared all the game in atleast 30 km range! Damm those crazy people! But it was not only that. I thought "OK, all deers ran away, but they scared the birds, so I could shoot some with my bow." And just as I aimed at a nock of ducks and then a dragon flew by them and burned them with his breath. Damm'em! Now I have nothing to eat. Atleast he could roast them, not completely burn them! Ok, after all those troubles I thought I could have a rest, but no - I couldn't sleep either. Obviously the first army was right about those Normans, who came running and yelling as if the Judgement day was coming! Is the whole world out of their minds?!

Tks dairy 28 march 1005

When were crossing the big field of glorius , i saw a man in the dark forests of lincoln .He obviously was drunk , i tryed to help him but when i took a few steps closer he aimed at me with his bow saying , finally a deer . I left the place as i thought about him being drunk and donsent really know what hes doing.I walked back to the army suddenly hearing him scream great ive lost my prey and then something about roasted birds .

Nike's Diary, 29 March

Deer Diary... no, not those deers again! I see deers everywhere! Probably that's because I haven't eaten since yesterday. I'm having hallucinations. Yesterday, after all those woes, I finally found some peace. I slept a few hours (thank God for the sleeping beer he gave us ) and after that I thought my luck finally came, when I woke up. I saw a strange looking deer, standing on his two feet, creeping towards me, thinking I can't see him. Dammit! From when have deers started hunting people? This world is going nuts! Anyway, even such a strange deer can't scare me, so I raised my bow and aimed at him. He saw me, started screaming and ran away, waving his upper limbs above his head. I was too surprised to hear a deer screaming, so I couldn't even shoot atleast one arrow. Dammit, I missed my prey again! Anyway, I've heard that screaming, two-legged deers don't taste good. After that I went back to strenghten myself with some more beer and woke up just this evening. Grrrr... I'm hungry. I'm going after this deer and the savages that scared all the game! They have to give me some compensations for this!

March 29

Dobber's log
Today as I was riding back scouting our backtrail, I saw the Norman's on a hard march. As I was turning to ride back to our troops, I noticed some half-crazed lunatic chasing after the Norman's yelling something! I decide to ride wide around the Norman's and get close to this guy to see what is going on, maybe it is our traitor. As I got in close I realized that traitor he was not, I had never seen him before. He was shouting about somebody's gonna pay for his hunger! He was severely pissed! If only he had another hundred or so like him, those Normans ahead would be in trouble. I have used a lot of my daylight hours and do not wish to stumble upon the Normans in the night, so I will swing wide, camp at darkfall and catch back up to my friends on the morrow

Nike's Diary - 30 March

Grrr... I tried to catch up with those Normans, but they were so scared of my wrath, they were running like if Satan himself was after them. Oh, and I'm so hungry! I have to take a rest. Thank God I saw a nice cosy tavern near the road! I ordered some beer for everyone. People were so happy, they wanted to repay me. But with what could they repay me, when they have no money? We talked for awhile and they told me that most of them haven't eaten since days, too. And there was no food in the tavern also. Bloody Normans! They've eaten all the meat in the region. Atleast now they won't be able to run so fast. I took some 100 people with me to get those Normans and their food and ordered another round of beer for the others. Hiccup! They still have green beer here...

March 30

Dobbers logI arose early and made my way around the Norman's. I have been riding for some time now and have not been able to catch up to my comrades, it is as though they are moving like the wind. I see where they have travelled but I can catch no sight of them. Have they run off and left me behind, perhaps they think I have been recaptured since I did not return last night. I would like to find them to give them the news about the madman I saw following the Norman's. From a hilltop I saw that there are now @100 madmen following the Norman's. Perhaps we could turn and attack from the front and force the Norman's into a battle on 2 fronts and finally put an end to their threat, but I must find my comrades and discuss this with them. Where did they go, why can I not find them? I must continue on, they have to be somewhere ahead.

30th of March

Frankish' Log
Our forces are scattered. NaVatar, Knightly, Dobber, Eric and Hawk-Knight are all nowhere to be found. I hear screams from across the forest all the time, they echo all across the plains, across the rivers and past the hills...

I am falling into a well...deeper and deeper...I cannot get out. None will survive this battle, but many a knights blood will be avenged. The great warriors of past time are no more, but as long as there is valiance in the hearts of peasants and nobleman alike, hope remains...

Let us fight. Let us fight the Normans and conquer our fears. Let us thrust our swords through the infinite bodies of our foes and trample their corpses with our horses. Let us fight once more...let us fight once more.

I am riding north to the hilltops, as I believe I spotted Dobber's bald head...


March Which day i can't remember...

NaVatar's Journal
I'm Lost!! My comrades Frankish,Doober,Knightly,Eric and Hawk-knight i haven't seen for days and i'm lost in some deep forest,the light is dim and fog surround me....I have been hunted by some kind of a animal for days now.I can feel it's bloodthirst and evil....I'm exhausted, hungry,tired and scared....I hear screams from all over the place...I can't get out.....i can't get out.....i'm doomed......

NO!! I will not succumb to FEAR!! YOU HEAR THAT!!I WILL NOT GIVE IN TO FEAR AND AGONY!!! COME OUT YOU EVIL CREATURE!!!! COME OUT AND FIGHT ME!! I DARE YOU!!!!

There something coming from the shadows.......OMG!! It's a ............

Angryminer's tale.

God knows I have been running around these woods for ages. Evil Normans invaded my homeland and pillaged the town where I was a guard. I escaped into the woods and tried to make my way for days. Some time ago I saw someone in the woods and I carefully followed him as I didn't know if he was evil or good. I don't think he noticed me.
After a time he took a rest and I watched him from a distance. After writing down some words he stood up and shouted at me like a madman.
As he now knew where I was I knew I was revealed and stood up.

He seemed to be very suprised and terrored like he was expecting to see the devil himself. We talked and I am very glad that he isn't one of the Normans. We'll see what the future brings.

Adventures of Xuca
by Xuca
Chapter l
l left my homeland in hope of finding some adventures. l found myself in a distant land of Mercia. A war was raging here for a long time. Normans were all over the land, plundering, killing. Me and my small group of men nearly avoided battle many times, as bloodthirsty groups of Normans wanted our heads! We depleted our food supply and saw a small tavern. l taught: "A good place to have a drink and refill our food wagon". Unfortunately, there was no food there, and there was no food anywhere!
A mad looking man entered the tavern and bought us all a drink. He said: "Grrrr! Those damn Normans, l'm so hungry! Let's go and kill them all!" The crowd ran out the tavern and started chasing the nearest group of Normans. l decided to join them and fight the Normans on their side.
As we chased Normans, l saw something shiny on a nearby hill. l was looking carefully, and saw that that is a bald man. The Normans spotted him too, and turned in that direction, and started marching at double speed. Who is that shiny-headed man, and why are the Normans so eager to catch him? Does he have an army that will aid us? Will we reach the Normans? Much men are hungry and drunk, they can't chase them for much more...

March 30

Frankish' Log

As I rode up to the hills I suddenly saw Dobber riding towards me. Had he spotted me?

But as I saw the Normans running after him I thought...mmm...maybe not. Luckily Dobber managed to tell me there was another army marching towards the Normans...all we had to do was get out of range, and then those two would battle it out. Our horses are fast and well trained...

*another entry on the same day, but a little later*
We are now safely in the cave of Caerbannog...I have blown my horn, which all those loyal to me can hear. They will hasten to me and so we can regroup. This way I know who will not answer my calls, and as such...a traitor.

Later March 30
Earlier today I saw a Herold, maybe he was bringing news of an ally joining our cause. Maybe reinforcements are marching to aid us as I speak. I came upon Captain Frankish and he reported that our company had been scattered by a band of Ogre's. Have the Ogre's joined with the Norman's against us? All we can do now is wait for the survivor's of our band to come back together and fortify a position that we might at last stand up to these Norman's. I have heard that Captain Fry is looking for adventure, maybe he can bring a force of fresh men and some supplies and join the cause! I call all men to arms against these damn Norman's!

Nike's Diary, March 30
Damm those Normans, they run fast! Many of my comrades are tired, so we must stop often and strengthen ourselves with some beer. Hmm... Beer... Eurica! I have an idea!

Few hours later

We finally reached one Norman camp. We said we are peaceful and hungry poor beggars and would like to share something in exchange for some food. The Normans were surprised by our arrival and asked: "What could you ol'beggars give to us? We have everything we need." But I knew their beer from before and it tasted like crap. I told them: "We may be poor, but we can make some great beer like one you could taste only in Valhalla". They thought for awhile (awhile? they thought whole two hours - idiots) and then agreed to share some meat if we make them some beer. Making beer was easy, but I had something else in mind. With my one hundred fellows we made the beer and then I put one of my special "flavours". Once again, thank God for the sleeping beer! Those fools drank so much I began to worry they would all pop off. Ha! After they fell asleep we finally ate and drunk (but not from the sleeping beer, which the Normans drank the whole) and after that we binded them so they wouldn't escape. We searched the camp and found some pretty interesting stuff. One of my companions, the brave Xuca from a land near my home-country, came excited about some letter revealing something about a traitor or such. Don't worry me with such things, my friend! Btw is it from the beer or I did hear some strange noise like from a whole herd of elephants, coming from the nearby cave? I better check that out!

Xuca
Chapter ll

That madman wasn't so mad. With his brilliant plan we captured those Normans and found in their camp lots of meat. While others were eating, l searched the camp and found some spy message that indicaies that there is a traitor and who he was. l showed it to Nike, and he said: "Not now, l must eat."
l started to follow shiny-headed man's trails to some cave, then sudennly a horrible noise came out of there! l said to my ten men: "Brothers, get ready, some monster is inside!" We saw somethimg in the dark and attacked...

March 30? 31?

Dobbers log
We were trying to rest, when we heard men coming toward our cave. I thought "DAMN!" those Norman's have found us! They sure are relentless bastards! As I started toward the entrance of the cave my stomach remembered how starved it was feeling and grumbled and growled tremendously. At that instant they attacked, I called out for help, "Someone help, Norman's are attacking me!" I sprang free of the confines of the cave into the moonlight so I would have more room to fight and be able to see my attackers. For some reason the strange attackers stopped. Have I been without food and in distress for so long that I look that frightening? Then they begin to laugh and say, "Oh, it is the bald man, not a monster.". I warn them that there are Norman's about, that they should be quieter. They inform me that they and their comrades have a band of Norman's tied up back at the Norman's camp. Their leader Xuca said that he also had a note back at the camp that revealed who our spy is! I go get Captain Frankish and we return to the camp with our newfound friends.

April 1

Frankish' Log
Dobber and I have travelled to the Norman camp, and when Dobber passed me a letter I was shocked...it was correspondence between NaVatar and Guy de Loimbard, the leader of the Norman army. So NaVatar was the traitor that had supplied them with livestock!

I asked Xuca whose tent was that of Loimbard, because I had something to search for...Amazingly, I found it. It had a map, on which a farmstead was marked with an X...I knew what was there, but didn't want to tell the others just yet, I didn't want to get their hopes up. I will ride out to the farm and search them thoroughly...I have warned the men not to follow me, because it is not worth it.

Nike's Diary - April 1st

Oooh... I ate and drank so much yesterday I feel like I'm gonna explode. And my head... Better have another beer to quench the thirst. Besides, it's a good pain relief... Huh? What on Earth is this beer? Blah, it tastes like Norman beer. Who put the Norman beer in my mug? April fools, huh? We'll see about that! Everybody's making fun on me. I hate 1st of April!

1st-2nd April 1005 AD

NaVatar's Journal
Only god knows how shocked i was last night when i saw how had been following me all that time.This Angryminer fellow seems like a good lad and we have been talking and have decided that we shall travel together for a time,I await the time when we cross blades together agains't the blasted Normans.

*later that night*
We have escaped the dark forest and we are now camping on some plain which i think i have seen before,but it's to dark to see the details.I can't remember if i been here before or something..........wait...it can't be....is it the castle of Mercia where the leader of the normans,Guy de Loimbard resides.... It seems fate have drawn me to this dastard to give out royal-butt kicking to him! But first i think i have to talk to Angryminer and tell him about my past with this so called leader of the normans.
Just to be certain that if i don't make it i will write this note and hopefully someone who knows cap'n Frankish will see it.

-Dear Friends-
If you haven't already found out, it was I who was the spy to the normans.
But i will now explain why i did it so please put your bloodlust aside for a moment and hear me out.
It was a terribly night in 12th March when i was out and hunted some deer to put on the table, when i was assualted from behind by 10 normans and they took me hostage and after a long night of draging and pushing i found my self in a tent somewhere,it was dark but in the corner there was a man whose name was Guy de Loimbard who is the leader of the norman army.He told me that he had a offer to make me,ofcourse i tryed to escape but there was too many norman guards around and my hands was tied.
He said that he had my family close by in chains ,ofcourse i did not belive him at first but then he showed me a lock of my mothers hair and other personal belongings of my family.I knew then something had happend them and i listened to the stinky,lowlife's proposition and he said that if i didn't spy on my allies and supply the normans with food they would have my family tortured and killed a very slow and painfull death.And alas i agreed to his dreadfull propsition,which i regret to this day and i will now march upon this fiends land and bring death to all those fiendish normans which is close to my wrath and release my family from his clutches once and for all! I really hope that you will forgive me my brehtren, if not i will pay back my debt to you with my death.NaVatar out.

Xuca
Chapter lll, night betveen April 1st and 2nd
lt was my turn to guard the camp. lt was a very dark night, l couldn't see anything. l felt something is wrong, but there was nothing. Sudenly, l felt a strong pain in my head. Some guard l am, they captured me easilly. l heard one saing: "All the guards are disabled, let's attack!" The Normans will slaughter the camp! And it's my fault!

Nike's Diary - evening of 1st of April
...

Baah! I was so happy I found my real beer, not that Norman thing, that I drank and drank... And then I had to go take a leak, ofcourse. And just as I'm going to the nearby bushes and start to do my work and I hear "Hey! Watch it!" Some guy was hiding in the bushes. "What r'u doin' the'?", I asked, stunned from the beer and surprised from the guy. "Hiding", he replied. "Hidin'?", I asked and tried to fix my mind. "Yeah. Me and my fellows there are playing hide and seek.", he said as if it was ok. "Oh, so u'r hidin'?", I was even more confused. "Yeah, and you're seeking.", he answered. Then he stood up and ran towards our camp. "Hey, wait! I've already found ya!", I shouted back to him, "Go have some beer, till I find the othaz". Then I saw a lot of men rushing towards the camp. "Hey! I haven't found you yet! Where r'u goin' so fast? You wanna beer? No, not that one! That's... sleeping... beer... Well, anyway... I still need to take a leak."

knightly`s journal 3 april 1005
finally after many days of stalking at enemy territory ive founs what ive searched for .I didnt only manage to steal norish plans but also i managed to make our allies join uss in our fight against the norish beasts . this is certainly a day of hope . i really miss my friends back at mercia i really hope to see them alive when i return back home with this huge army.


knightlys espionage journey

28 march,day one
just before the battle i was in deep thougths about the normens ,i was so curious why did they attack uss at the first place , and who there allies was , and about there plans and such , i packed up some euipment and left for a quest of information thirst . i headed north as i asumed there main province should lay .

march 29,day two
Ive finally arrvied to the norish borders . DAMN those normens they have outposts everywere . The march was tireing but the travel taverns paid off with . Im planing to get past there camps even if blood is neccery


march 30 ,day three
Phew!!!!!! ive sneaked past the camps without spilling a guards blood , haha those normens are sure stupid . Ive marched all the way to the center of normandie .i stole a cart from a farm nearby . Ive now reached the town , im amazed they have got a big trench surrounding the town along with a bulwark wall , i just hope the townwatch here are just as stupid as the border guards .I got past through without any suspction , i told them i was a poor merchant needing somewhere to sleep this cold night .They
actully belived me those stoned brains. Ive checked in into a tavern near the castle , tommorow im breaking in .


31 march,day four
To day is the day im breaking in ,yesterday i heard a drunken marshal named pascal de monteluie talking about very important documents plans and tactics stored in a valute at the third floor in the castle in his room . i waited until everyone in the city sleep , when i reached the castle after some efforts ,there was either the heavyily guarded entrence or the servents door , i chose to enter from the servent and cook crew door . the hall was empty expect the masterchief who was prepareing his special meal for tommorow`s meeting. I poked him a sleep with a club i bought from a thief who said it was able to make the most hard headed idiots go asleep with an hit on the head . I sneaked passed the half sleeping guards up the floors and to the third floor , i also did take anything valuabile i could spot at the way , i wouldint wanna go out from a great castle like this one without some profit
, when i finally reached the marshals room i looked-picked the valute
first by helping him sleep even more -
with a hit on his head . i enterd the valute
finding alot of papers and documents, important letters , historical books and more much more. i -
took the most important things and burned the rest which-
seemed important to the normens but also useless to uss . there was one intressting document-
about the norish allies , the king of england , and the duke of milano along with earl d`arnot of normandie was planning to conquer mercia.B
ecause they were jealous about our rich and beautifull lands , they were eager of to conquer our land , they were driven by there thoughts to war , i guess theyve planned it months ago as it is stamped 15th december 1004 . also a report from what seemd to be the main commander of the norish forces in mercia named Guy de Loimbard about an horrfying band of madmen causeing panic in the norish ranks makeing them run like pansy idiots . i left the castle with plenty of information , i payed the tavern keeper and marched out two the coastal docks , tommorow im gonna hire a crew to sail for our ally- the holy roman empire to the east , to look at the reinforcement situation i requested a couple days ago ,

1th april ,day 5
Ive hired a cheap boat crew who offers there services for little . the captain said we will reach our allies coast soon , the ship is little but fast . there is little to do on the ship then looking at the endless sea .

2th april ,day 6
We have reached the shore , i paid the captain twice as much for takeing efforts and makeing a long trip short .I bought a horse from a farmer on my way to the capital , he also gave me dieractions of were to go , i rode for hours and hours but never could see the great city , turned out i ended up somewhere at the border lines of the holy roman empire -to the mercian captured cities . I suddenly a sound which sounded like massive foot steps started to appear , i looked back , i saw an endless sea of soldiers strecthing to the horizont as far as the eye could see. thousands of banners were raised , there was a heavyliy armored knights in front , i asked there leader why they were marching , he told me that he was orderd by the king to gather the armies and to march into mercia to fend of the normens to aid there ally . i told him i was one of the last knights in mercia , he asked me how the hell i could pass the norish fortification , i told him the hole story until the end , he was amazed . time was going on and by night we reached the border river terecantus , a massive camp was set up. tommorow the knight said tommorow we shall fight.

April 1

Dobber's log

I've had it with this sh**! I am going stark raving mad! Let me at 'em! I don't care anymore whether I live or die, I just ain't running no further! If I die, I die right here with a pile of Norman's laying about me. And there will be a pile because I now have an edge, and that is that I don't give a sh** no more, a man not afraid of dieing does not hesitate, he acts and his opponent does not expect that. Come on and join me my comrades and ayone else who will. Let us send some Norman's before their maker!

hawk_knights log
Now the other knights are disapeerd i had to lead the rest of the army to my kingdom The land of the dragons.
We finally came to my kingdom. The army had made a camp infront of my castle i had supplied them with beer, meat and new weapons. Th next day i started to organize my army and prepare them to fight against those bloody normans. It toke a week to organize my army it had a totally of 15 thousand men there where 5000 dragons, 3000 horsemen, 3000 archers and 4000 infrantry men. On 2th of april i marched to the norman lands with my compleet army. The march was quick an fast i had made camp at the norman border. My scouts reported tht there where 2 large norman army's where close to the border and they also reported that there was a another army had made camp at the norman border i had send a message to that camp to ask if they wanna join forces against those 2 norman army's. When my messenger came back he said that they had agreed to join forces with me. We will join tomorrow our army's together and assault the norman army's. I had send scouts to see if they can track the other knights and tell them that a army is ready to invade the normans lands and if they want they can join the fight.

Frankish' Log

April 2, a farmstead somewhere

Finally I have found what I was looking for! I unearthed the sword Excalibur of the famous King Arthur! Now I will beat these Normans with ease! Come now my brothers, CHARGE!

April 4 - Dobber's log
There may be those that would like to fill in what happened on the battlefield the past two days. As I write this entry to my log, I look about and see many fallen comrades, and think of their families left behind, such useless slaughter happened here. Many a child fatherless, it seems that the ones that fall are the ones with families at home. The unmarried mercenaries seem to go through the battles not unscathed, but with minor injuries. Maybe it is that carefree manner they have, they are fearless and fight with abandon. The family men seem to fight to cautiuosly and wind up mortally wounded perhaps because they stood to long in one spot. I think of also the many Norman children that will look longingly to no avaail for fathers to come home, Norman women waiting for their men who will never return, they are all slaughtered upon this field. We had finally defeated the bloody Normans, not even one was left to carry word back of what had brought their demise. When Captain Frankish returned with Excalibur, the morale of the troops greatly increased, hope and determination showed on each man's face. And when rode to meet the Norman's, the Captain held up Excalibur for all to see! You could see fear strike the Norman's and disarray befall their ranks. And at the end this, bodies everywhere! Death hanging in the air as I turn my steed and ride for home.

Frankish Log + Will, 4th of April

We have won! We have won the battle and defeated the Normans...but oh irony of fate, I myself am mortally wounded, I feel my strength leaving my body as I write this...the other officers are still alive however, and I will state my will here.

I want NaVatar to succeed me to the throne of Mercia. He will carry Excalibur as the royal sword. To Dobber, who fought valiantly and suffered many fears in his days, I will leave the sum of 10,000 gold coins for him to use as he pleases. To Hawk-Knight, and Knightly I will leave (respectively) the counties of Lincoln and York, as well as a sum of 2,000 gold coins.

Thank you my friends, and may Pie bless you.

Nike's Diary - 4th of April

Bah... It's over! No more Normans to hunt. It doesn't matter - they didn't taste good... j/k But my friends fought like crazy. It's interesting what the thirst for beer could do when you haven't drunk for days! It's like it made their skin from iron or stone and almost none of them died. Unlike the kind men from the army that gave us some meat and beer, although their own food stocks were low. So many of them have died! It's like I'm watching the Catalunian fields or the field of Aheloi back home... Which reminds me... I should continue with my mission to establish contacts with this foreign kingdom. But I hear that their king Frankish is mortally wounded and is expected to die soon! I should have a meeting with him and his heir, NaVatar, before he leaves... It's a shame! He used to make such wonderful pies (or blabarpajes, as he called them)...


A few hours later

I managed to arrange a meeting with NaVatar and the dying Knight in the Commanders tent at evening. I gave them the message from my King, proposing an alliance between Mercia and Bulgaria. Relations between those two kingdoms were good for the past few years and my king decided it's time to go forward. He also hoped the brave knights of Mercia could help him in the battle against the foul Byzantines, who attacked treacherously our lands from the south. He's holding them at bay at the passes of the Balkan mountain, but rumours of a large fleet coming from Constantinopol are quite disturbing. NaVatar and Frankish promised me they'll order to spread the message in the camp and across all the lands of Mercia, so that all the brave volunteers, who want adventure and glory could join in. They couldn't do more as they were exhausted from the fight with the Normans. I only hope it will be enough...

April 5 -- Dobber's log
Word came during the night of Captain Frankish's death. Very troubling indeed, that Captain Frankish has passed on Excalibur and his command to Navatar, afterall was it not Navatar that had betrayed us to the Norman's. Even now he claims to have been under duress, and that his family's lives were in jeopardy. I am not sure I can pledge my allegiance to this one. And word has also come that Sir Nike from Bulgaria is seeking assistance in overcoming the hordes of Byzantines storming their borders. I will take the 10,000 gold coins Captain Frankish left me and seek to hire an army of mercenaries to ride at my side in aide of Sir Nike. I will wait and see how true this Navatar proves to be, before joining in confidence with him. If he proves himself against the Byzantines, then maybe I can swear allegiance to him.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter two
It's the fifth of April. A Lord by the name of Sire Dobber offered me money if I would join his army as a mercenary. As I am in severe need for money and I can handle even heavy weapons very good because of my time as a townguard I guess this is the right thing to do at the moment. Fast money is better than slow death through starvation. Perhaps I can even get into a higher position during my duty under Sire Dobber's command.

Knightlys logg 5th april 1005
Today is our dead captains funeral , many has gatherd to see the dead king who achieved victory throught courage and bravery .he died but he will live on as hero in mercian stories about brave warfares who prevailed over all odds. many hours the people rememberd the sorows the normen had given them , but now people could see it brighter as the war is over and we have overwhelmed there warfare. ive heard the news about byztine poseing a threat to our new found ally bulgaria . but it will take time to recuit and recover our soldiers

Knightlys logg 6th

time to greet the new king navatar of mercia . a big banquet is held in our capital mercia . with kings from the smallest countries to the most major kingdoms . the banquet ended by the cardinal crowning navatar to king of mercia . tommorow i shall recive my reward but for to night a good sleep is needed , hail the king.

Nike's Diary - 6th of April
Yesterday was Frankish's funeral. All the soldiers from the camp and the peasants from the nearby villages gathered to honor him. "He was a good man and did much for bringing peace upon the land. Even his physical condition couldn't stop... Oops, wait a minute! That's the wrong guy!" I don't know if the priest attending the funeral was too afflicted or if it was from the beer he drank last night. Anyway, all the brave men who fought against the Normans honored him and gave him a salute for Farewell. "Le roi est mort, vive le roi!"...
Many men have came to recruit under the banners of Mercia and Bulgaria. Some say they do it as a last sign of respect towards their great leader. We'll have two more weeks to prepare for the long travel and recruit new men. I don't know how many of them will survive to come back, but I'm sure those who do will have to worry nomore for anything. The spoils of war are vast, especially if you war with such a rich country like Byzantium. And we'll have many more lands to pass through on our way to the other side of the continent. There we may meet unexpected allies, willing to join us or secret enemies, plotting our destruction... Hope or despair...

hawk_knight's log 7th of april

After the funeral of Frankish Knight. I prepaerd my army to march to my kingdom The lands of the dragons also called by travellers Mithdrill because of the blacksmith's that make strong weapons and armor for soldiers.
On there way back to my kingdom i had got a message from The Bulgrians that they are under assault from the Byzantines. And if we will come to Bulgaria to help them in battle against Byzantine.

9th of april

When i and my army had returned to my kingdom i had called all the lords of my kingdom to have a meating for the question if we will aid The Bulgrians in batlle against Byzantines. We came to a desicion that we will go to War!! once again we had send a message to The Bulgrians that we will send a army worthy of the kingdom Mithdrill and that the army will march in a month from our lands.
We also asked the people of my kindom if they had agreed whit ouwer desicion. They answer was To WAR!!. We will beginning tomorrow to prepare our forces for war. But for now we will rest.

TKS logg 9th april 1005
three days good rest as earl of york restores life power back after a long and cold war . ive recuited soldiers and heavy cavlary as order from the king , 300 soldiers has come and is still under traning but more will come the officers said as they have stil not spread the recuitment news all over the province . i still worry about normens and there allies , we might have defeated them but who knows what they are planning , i never saw there allies in battle. it will take many months to march and king of italy havent been kind since we defeated the normens , i think the duke of milano have tryed to convice him that were hostile and have succeded but the king havent attacked us yet i think he`s waiting for the right moment. byztine march will be very hard .

Xuca's log
10th April
l agreed with sir Nike to persue my king to send aid to Bulgarians, as Byzantins propose a threat to us as well. l left Mercia emediatly, before the others, to organise an army to be ready till the others arrive. l hear that Bulgarians are in a tough situation, and l must be very quick, as the Mercians will need a long time to organise

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 3
Word spread under the troops of Sire Dobber that we are marching against Byzantia. I don't know how far that is, but rumours say the march will be very hard and lead through hostile territory. Many of the soldiers are in fear and think aloud about leaving the army as soon as they get a chance. No one of us wants to march through enemy territory to fight an enemy we never heard about.
The morale of the other men is wavering but I will follow Sire Dobber's command as good as I can and try to convince the others to hold on. I hope this will earn me respect with my commanders so I may get appointed to a higher rank.

Nike's Diary - 12th of April
Around a week since the recruitment began. Many men have gathered, eager for battle. Or maybe they just like my beer... I don't know, but in both cases, my kingdom has found a strong ally. Strong allies, actualy! Lord Hawk Knight from Mithdrill has also agreed to join our "defensive crusade". And I spoke with my friend Xuca, who has went off to speak with the king of Serbia for help. After all, if we fall, Serbia will be the next and after that God knows... All these good news bring hope to my heart. But, ofcourse, there'll always be something to ruin it. The morale of the men is getting low. I can't blame them! If I was on their place, would I agree to cross all of the known civilised world to a land I know almost nothing about, to travel through hostile teritories, when no one knows if I'd even reach this distant land? Oh, wait, I already did, when accepting to come here, seeking for help. Anyway, that's not the main problem. Some beer should be enough to lift their spirits. But I sailed to the mainland a few days ago to scout ahead. There I've received news that the Byzantines have signed a peace treaty with the Arabs. This means that almost the whole might of Byzantium will strike down at the heart of the Balkans. There are also rumours they've drawn a large number of Seljuk Turkish mercenaries. Hah! They pretend to be the leaders of Eastern Christianity, but draw infidels to fight for them! Just their typical trick! I still remember those Norman mercenaries, who pillaged and sacked the city of Serdica (or Sofia as some call it)... Hmm... Could there be a connection between those Normans and Byzantium?

Apri 11 --Dobber's log

A conference was held with a young recruit that was proving himself an able man. He informed me of grumblings from some of the recruits. I did not understand, they were being paid for their services, what was the problem? This new recruit, Angryminer, told me that the men had heard there was to be a long march across treacherous lands. I promoted him to Battallion Commander and told him to inform the troops that we were not traveling with the main force, but to make no mention of it to anyone else. Ships had been hired to carry the armies across the Channel. I had hired two ships and we were going to board our ships as the rest of the forces, but crossing the channel ?, no, we would sail to the Moorish lands of North Africa, there we would recruit more men, there were many there who wished to fight and help others win their independence from the Byzantines, just as their peoples had won theirs earlier. From there we would sail into the heart of their empire, to Constantinople. I trusted the seas more than I did King Navatar. I just could not place my life and the lives of my men under the leadership of the man that had betrayed us to the Normans. Our ships would be flying Norman flags we had taken from the battlefields of Mercia, for we had learned that the Byzantines had sent an entourage in mid-March to forge an alliance with the Normans. With luck, we would sail right into the port at Constantinople and take the city with little trouble! For I am sure the Byzantines will be building their forces along the Bulgarian border, and the city will be lightly gaurded. Upon taking Constantinople the Byzantine Empire will be split in half and supplying their troops will be a much harder undertaking!

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 4
Oh, how fortunate I am! My leader Sire Dobber called upon me and promoted me to Battallion Commander! He also told me of his strategy how he would savely travel to Byzantia.
With my new rank I was able to rally up men and tell them that they wouldn't risk their lives but achieve a great victory over Byzantia due to Sire Dobber's great and most cunning strategy! The word spreads among the soldiers and many believe my words, giving them new strenght and will to follow Sire Dobber.
I sincerely hope Sire Dobber is right.

Hawk_knights log the 12th of April
When i was taking care of my dragon an messenger came to my castle. He said that a lord had caught one of the enemy’s spy that was stealing the plans of which route we where going to take to get our army to the borders of Byzantine. But i told not to worry because there where fake the real plans of which route we would take are still safely lockt up in my castle.
When i was finished taking care of my dragon i was going to train with my men to perfectionise our skills as we started to train an urgent knight came to me and saying that the normans where still not defeated a large number of norman soldiers where joining the army’s of Byzantine and he also said that there was also an army ready to invade my lands from the north by the Byzantine’s and there new allies and my old enemy who i had crushed many times in battle the Novgorods. I said we will first deal with the Novgorods and the Byzantines from the north. I quickly sended a message to The Bulgrians, Navater and Dobber that my army will not be coming in a month but i could be longer then expected because my Kingdom is threated by an army of Novgorods and the Byzantines in the north and that i must first deal with them before i can join them in battle.
I sended to all the lords of my land a message about the army from the north and that we will first deal with them and later we will join the other kingdoms to take constanopel.
We will march at the end of this week to the northen army of the Novgorods and the Byzantines and defeat them in battle.

April 12 -- Dobber's log
Angryminer has reported back that the morale of the troops has greatly improved upon hearing we would be traveling by ship and stopping to visit with the Moors. I think they have ideas about the mystical Moorish women. The morale is so much improved that we have had others wanting to join our forces!
I have commissioned a messenger with 3 mounts to go with haste to Constantinople to tell them that Norman troops will be arriving by ship to aid them in their quest and to please have some fine steeds awaiting us. (Are they going to be surprised!) I asked the commander to have the ships supplied and to have the men ready to sail within 4 days.

Nike's Diary - 14th of April

Everything is falling apart! All hope is lost!
Sire Dobber has decided to travel through Africa with the men of Mercia. A real suicide! They stand no chance against the Arabs, who will no doubtedly attack them. After all, Byzantium didn't signed peace treaty with them by chance. But on the other hand, there can be no real peace between Byzantium and the Arabs. They've been fighting for centuries and they would probably keep fighting for even more! Perhaps if Sire Dobber could persuade them, they might even help him in besieging Constantinopol! But does he know their manners and customs? The Arabs demand respect or they'll just cut his head off. I wish him luck, for he will need a lot of it! And Constantinopol has never been captured before... Well, except that one time, during the reign of our Khan Tervel, who helped the Byzantine dethroned emperor Justinian to take his throne back. But if Justinian didn't told us about that secret passage, we would never be able to capture this city, even if we had all the armies of the world! A tough task is in front of Sire Dobber and the Mercian men...
I have also received news from Lord Hawk Knight that he's under attack from both Byzantine and Norman forces and also from his old enemies, the Novgorodians. He'll be busy for atleast a month. But I wonder how did those Byzantine forces reached so far north in such a short term... I had no report of their armies moving in that direction. And how could they pass beyond the Bulgarian or the Serbian borders? The only other way is through the Black Sea. But that would also mean they have reached the Bulgarian shores and are probably marching through my land. In this case, I have no other option than to travel as fast as I can to help defend my King and my people! Let's just hope Xuca has reached his homeland and that his King has agreed to help us! I'll take farewell with Sire Dobber, warn him about the dangers on his way, wish him luck and then I'll leave immediately without an escort, so that I can reach my country as soon as possible...

Advantures of Xuca

14th April
l reached the shores of Serbia and hurried to see my king. He said:
-l am happy to see you, friend. lt's been a long time sice you...
-No time for that, my king. We must quickly gather our armies and march to aid the Bulgarians against the Byzantins.
-Wait a minute. Why are you so rushing? l plan to send them aid soon, but they will have to wait a little longer...
-No! l go now, with or without an army!
-Very well, we will march tonight.

16th April
We are now on a peak of the Balkan mountain. l see the long battlefield. The Byzantins sorounded the Bulgarians in the southern bottom of the mountain and the rest of the Bulgarians is fighting on the shores of the Black Sea where the enemy landed. l will send a mesanger to the rest of the army, which is far behind, to tell them to go and help the Bulgarians on the east, and now l will try to save the sorounded army, if l reach them soon enough...

Knight Richard's(The Lionheart) adventure
Chap. 1 A Time for war.
March 4, 1005.Today in the morning the king called on all the generals and marchals of england. He said that a great war had exploded in continental europe and that our allis would need the help of england, so he asked for a voluntire to lead an army to help serbia and bulgaria in the war. I quickly accepted because this seemed like a great opportunity to win fame and fortune. So I prepared my force of 5,000 men and tomorrow we set sail across the channel into france, in hope to reach serbia and aid them.

April 16 1005
1 long month of march across the land and we are near the lands of a a man called Hawk knight. I have heard great storys about him having a dragon and that his man fight fearslesly. He is also an alli of serbia so we will probably fight side by side, this brings me satisfaction as it will be an honor to fight alonside with people of such corage. So I was enjoing the great view of the land when one of my scouts reported.

"Sir!, Sir! He called, "I'm afraid I bring bad news."
"What is it?" I said, "Speak man."
"I heard from the surrounding villages that a great convine force of Byzantine, normans and novgorodians are attacking Hawk knight's kingdom." The scout said
"What!? How many are them?" I asked
"I'm not sure sir, some villagers said there where over 30,000 men, but there is no way to confirm this." He said
"Tell the man to set camp here and prepare, we march to aid hawk knight at sun rise." I orderered the man.

So now we prepare for what seems to be our first battle, I only hope to get there in time, as if hawk knight's kingdom falls, our enemy will have a great advantage and big hopes of winning this war will be banished.

Nike's Diary, 29th of April
Finally, after a long and exhausting ride with almost no rest I arrived at my homeland. Many defenseless villages were burnt, but the people would rebuild them when the war is over. And I heard good news - obviously Xuca arrived as fast as the wind and just like a hurricane his army smashed into the surprised Romeans. He managed to push them back beyond the Balkan and captured the ships with which they landed. I will meet him tomorrow when I reach the Black Sea shores, where he's preparing for an eventual counter-attack. I'm interested to hear how he fought the Byzantines off. And perhaps he could give me some news. I'm worried that I haven't heard anything of Sire Dobber and Lord Hawk Knight so far. I hope they're not in an insurmountable difficulty and would be able to come to help once they deal with their own problems. Xuca may have pushed Byzantium back, but the pressure at the mountain passages is getting stronger and I don't know how much could the two armies (the Bulgarian and the Serbian) hold the strongholds there...

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 5
The preperations are going on. It seems we will be able to get hold of enough ships until the 18th of April, the day of departure.
The support of the population is great. The people see us as their liberators and it is easy to get good conditions for buying supplies.
Because of the new volunteers in our army I also tried to get hold of more armor for our troops. There is a lot of cheap Norman armor around in Mercia, taken from the battlefield by the population. I will suggest Sire Dobber to fund the buying of this Norman armor. I already gathered a lot of armor with my available money, but we will need more if we are to defeat the army of an Empire.
Today I sent 18 men with 6 oxes to retrieve three slightly damaged catapults from the battlefield where the Normans were defeated. They will pack the catapults unto wagons and bring them to the harbour of Mercia. I believe they will be of great use for us once we have repaired them. No one knows wether we will be able to construct siegecrafts on our way to Constantinople.
While a lot of our men are getting suplies on the ships we already have and doing basic work in our camp near the harbour I began training some of my men in the usage of the advantages of heavy armor. My experience from the training of a town guard is of great value here. Currently I hand out the available armor only to the most skilled fighters because I lack the equipment.
I gave long spears, javelines or bows to those without armor. We will need quick auxiliary troops on the battlefield beside armored infantry anyway.
Cavalry is another chapter... Only few horses survived the slaughter at the battlefield and supplying horses on ships is a difficult task. I will suppose Sire Dobber to pack up as many equipment for horses as possible and get the required horses on our way to Constantinople. But I am afraid that cavalry won't be the strenght of our army.
I try to set up the best army possible in this situation...

We may not have fine equipment or uniforms like the byzantine armies, but the men are willing to fight and they will wield any weapon they can carry.

April 15 - Dobbers log
My Commander has informed me, we will not be ready to sail tomorrow as I had requested. There seems to be some problem with ship acquisition. It seems the morale of our men had caused our forces to swell and the ships I had acquired were no longer enough. I reminded Angryminer that we hoped to pick up some Moorish mercenaries along the North coast of Africa along the way and that we would need passage for them also. I am not sure my friend there has access to ships.
Sir Nike, before he left for his homeland expressed great concerns about my plans, being the Arabs are currently allies with the Byzantines. But he does not know that even now there are those that are unhappy with that arrangement and would gladly take opportunity to try and sever that relationship.
I have heard that Constantinople is seige proof and that it has two walls surrounding the city. But if my plan works we will not have to lay seige to the city, nor will the walls be a problem.

Advantures of Xuca

17th April
The Byzantins were well stunned. lt was a great victory, we managed to capture many of them. l interrogeted them and l found out that there is a large army near bulgarian border. lt was to reinforce this army if it gets hot. Well, it got hot, but there was no Byzantin who escaped to report the defeat. l must go now to lead the other army to fight on the shores of the Black Sea. l just hope that the Byzantins don't come to see what hapened to their army, we would then be in a lot of trouble...

19th April

l reached my army before they engaged the enemy. l had a great plan how to dedet them. The Bulgarians retreated and the Byzantins passed us allowing us to attack them from the back. Again it was a glorious victory, and we captured thier ships. Foulishlly, they left them almot ungarded. Now the last of their strike force waits for us.

23rd April

A large army it was, indeed, but l had another great plan. We took the Byzantin uniforms, disguised as the Byzantins and falselly tied the Bulgarians to loke like they are our prisoners. We really looked like a triumphing army. But the men were tired and l didn't think that battle would be an easy victory like the others

24th April

The guards of the enemy camp spotted us from a large distance. We were velcomed with ovations. l tried to look like a Byzantin general, and l am sure that if it was day, they would recognized us and our plan failed. But it was night and we marched in the center of the camp. l shouted:"Attack!" But they grabbed their weapons quickly and a fierce battle. They were still confused and we defeted them, although we suffered many casualties.
There is still many large armies around, but we are safe for now.

30th April
l am telling this story to Nike, who brought me the news about attack on the Hawk Knight's kingdom, and that the army of sir Dobber which is comming to help us is stopping to visit the Moors, and his plan of capturing Constantinople. He'd better be quick, the Byzantins attacked again, and l don't know how much we can hold them this time...

hawk_knight's log the 1th of mai
My army was finally ready to assault the army of the Byzantium, normans and novgorodians.
My army had a strenght of 29000 thousand men which included 5000 dragons who where heavly armed and ready for battle.
i gave the signal to begin the march to our border at the north the march will take three days to get there. While we where marching one of my scouts reported that Sir richard of england was leading a force of 5000 men to aid us in battle against the Byzantium, normans and novgorodians.
They will join our army in two days on our march to the north to fight against the Byzantium, normans and novgorodians forces.
While my army was marching i had going forward with my dragon to scout a head for any ambushes and if some soldier are willing to join us in battle.
when i was done with scouting i returned to my army. When i came there i said to the lords we will make camp on the hill for tonight and we will have more guards on duty for tonight. but now we will rest because tomorrow we will march again.

2th of mai
We had broken our camp and we marched again to the northen border of my kingdom mithdrill. A half a day march we finally saw the army of sir Richard from the west. they quickly joined our ranks and we continued our march. While we where marching a scout reported that the army of the Byzantium, normans and novgorodians forces had started invading ouwer kingdom and that we will meet them tomorrow on openfield for battle the scout also said that we can make camp on a hillside infront of the openfield. I quickly jumped on my dragon and called the lords together and said that si Richard is now in command until i come back and that they must march to the hill while i will secure the hill with my dragon squad. When i came to the hill there where some enemy horsemen making camp on the hill. I gave the signal to assault the horsemen we quickly defeated them and secured the hill for that the rest of my army can march safely to the hill. When my army was at the hillside we made camp and we will now rest so that tomorrow we will be at full strenght to fight the Byzantium, normans and novgorodians forces out of the kingdom Mithdrill. in the morning i will call al the lords to the table to think of a strategy to crush the enemy army because you can not only relya on brute force.

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap.2 A view of the battlefield

April 17We began the march right after sunrise, but it seems I was late to the battle as our allis got a great victory pushing back our enemys. My scouts reported that hawk knight was marching with a great army after the enemy to finish them once and for all, so I will have to fallow them and hope to get there in time to help. This,however, has made the moral fell, has my men have done nothing but march. Hopefuly joining forces with hawk knight will make my men happy.

May 2th.
ALAS, after almost 2 weeks of march, I finally joined forces with hawk knight. It was impresive as he had 5,000 dragons, something that neither me nor my men had ever seen. The moral quickly rose as my men felt more secure with the great army of hawk knight. We where marching and he gave the order that his men were to fallow my command while he was gone attacking some horsemen camp on the hill, this was a great honor has it showed he trusts me as a friend. I also sended a massage to the king calling for reinforcements, hopefully they will be here by the end of May. Now we are camped on the hill hawk secured, which is near the battlefield where most likely we will have a battle tomorrow. My men are training hard as they are as eager for a taste of battle as I'm. Hawk knight called for all the comanders to device some kind of strategy, which is agood idea.

Nike's Diary - 30th of April
I spoke with Xuca this morning. He told me of his clever tricks with which he destroyed the Romean army. Smart! Now he's rebuilding his forces and our army is recovering, too. Many Bulgarian warriors have fallen in the desperate defense of the two fronts. Some even say that when our men at the Balkan passes ran out of arrows they started to throw woods, rocks and even the dead bodies of the fallen friends. [offtopic: Hehe, Shipka ] And when all seemed lost, the Serbian reinforcements came to help. A really heroic battle! But many men have died and our armies are not in the good shape I would like them to be. The war continues and we'll have to think of something to hold the line. I'll ride now to our capital of Veliko Tarnovo to speak with my King. I must tell him all I've learned so far. I should've done it at first, but I was too eager to see the battlefield.

Later that evening

I had a meeting with the King. I told him that I fulfilled my mission to travel to Mercia and that the Mercians have agreed to help us. I also told him about the unexpected allies that joined us as well. I think he was relieved to hear that. But then I had to tell him about the fights in Mithdrill and Sire Dobbers plan to travel through Africa. he wasn't very happy, so to make it somewhat easier, I told him of a plan that emerged in my mind when I saw the captured ships. I already discussed it with Xuca and he thought it's a good plan and might bring us some hope. So I decided to tell my King about it:
1. The Byzantines are still pressing on the Balkan passes, but their control over them is not very good and I think I would be able to sneak through with a small group of men. After that I would move through Thrace and Macedonia. The people there definitely don't like the presence of the Romeans, who, as every army (especially one that consists mostly from mercenaries), plunder all stocks they can find. The local population is also used to war, since the battles between Bulgaria and Byzantium were fought mainly on the Thracian border. That's why my purpose would be to incite a revolt in the back of the main Greek army. It's true they're only peasants and have no good weapons and armor, but it's still better than nothing.
2. The second part of the plan is to repair the captured ships. When that's done and we're ready to fight, Xuca will board most of his army and lands also at the back of the Byzantines. I will lead the rebels to join him and then at the same time both we and the defenders at the passes will strike down at the enemys army. The best defence is the attack!
This is just a rough plan, but my King liked it and appointed me Commander of the Resistance. I should go and discuss the plan more thoroughly with Xuca and arrange the details. But I still have no news from abroad...

April 18 - Dobbers log

At last we are at sea! I need to talk to the ship's captain and find out how long the voyage will take to reach the Mediteranean and then on to the north African coast where I hope to find my old friend, Sakim. I summoned Commander Angryminer to have him talk to some of the veteran seamen and find out what we can expect on our voyage to Constantinople.

I am somewhat troubled in leaving, King Navatar has shown little inclination toward preparing to aid our Bulgarian allies. I am still not trusting of him. Once so many of our fighting men are gone, what is to keep him from opening the doors of Mircea wide and inviting the Normans to come right in and take over. But I have given my word to Sir Nike to come to his aid and a man's word is the worth of the man.

Soon, the envigorating smells of battle will once again fill my nose, very soon.

Journal of Sakim - 30th of April
There are many that grow restless, they long for the taste of blood and the smell of sweat and fear. They are disenchanted with our leaders, and angry about the treaty with rulers of Byzantium. Here along the northern shores, we do not prosper from the treaty as those along the borders of Byzantium do! Many are looking to me for answers, if only I knew what to do. We are not enough to overthrow our brethren, though the discontent grows daily. I will pray to Allah and ask him what to do, He will send an answer!

Knight Richard's adventure.

Chap. 3 The first blood is spilled.

May 3rd, 1005
So, the morning came and with it a tranquil field filled with many birds and I remembered why I was here fighting( for fame and fortune), but this was to change quickly as we heard the horns and feets of 1,000's of men marching toward the battlefield and the horrors that were to fallow. Hawk knight had prepared a master plan with my help. I was to take command of his army and take it muscle to muscle versus our enemy horde, while he was to flank the right side of the enemy with his dragons and one of his commanders flanked the left with horsemen. So I took the troops and position them alone the field and we waited as the enemy aproached. It was magness as they were superior in numbers, almost 2 to one. The first blow came of our part when I order the archers to fire, and 100's of men fell liveless in the field. Then their archers fired and many of our men fell as well. The enemy charged, and you could see the ground shake as they shouted " YAHHHHH!!!" and runned against our lines. Then I gave the order and our men charged as well, and the air became filled with the smell of blood and death as the 2 lines clashed blindlesly. Many man fell in the first minute of fight in both sides, but we were loosing badly as they were superior in numbers, our only hope was the plan. I almost died, when a bysantiun pulled a spear right into the chest of my horse and I was sended flying into the hard ground. I stood almost counciusless for a moment, but quickly recovered and was fighting again. Then out of no where hawk knight appeared and flanked the right side with his fearsome dragons,it was amaizing what this creatures could do,the other lord attacked with the horsemen from the left.Our enemy broke some of their formations and it was just what we needed. I lead my men trough this hole and attacked from the rear. There was no dought we had won, for our enemy was now surrounded with no way of scape. They surrendered by sunset and now we hold many prisoners. Eventhough it was a great victory, it didnt felt right as many men won't be returning home to their wifes and children in both sides. I lost more than 1,000 of my men and many are wounded, hawk knight lost many more. Now I see something that I didnt saw before. I understood that not all wars are fought for fame and fortune, but for freedom and defending your homeland,when I saw the bravery this men fought and die with. They had a cause beon my and our enemy understanding, which is the cause we won this great battle. So now we camp near Deadmen's field ( as we named the battlefield)where we buried the dead.We will continue our march tomorrow.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 6
We have boarded ships and are on route. I have never been to the sea so long. Once I was on a small ship on a lake for fishing, but now I am almost a week on the sea. I spend most of the time looking at the cost so I don't get sick...
As Sire Dobber told me I talked to the crews of the most ships. Two of the hired captains have been working for a trader before and already visited these seas. They both said that there was a war between the french and the portugese. We should be very carefull because both parties used privateers to support their war on the sea. It may happen that some of this privateers actually decide to attack us, so they warned me.
The weather isn't the best possible, in fact it is rainy, but the winds are mostly strong and we are travelling south fast. We will soon leave the save french waters...

knightlys journal , 4th may 1005

Finally i have recuited a army of my own.many came not just from mercia but also highlander from scotland , recuiters from ireland , even from saxony. i couldint follow my brave friends to assault as the province of york needed an ruler who orginizes them after the war with the terribile normen. ive had a desk full of reports of battles with bysantium. but my deepest thought is about italy. they were supposed to attack sire dobber from sicily when he was recuitng men in the moorish lands .but they have been quite for a while i suspect they have made an secret peace treaty with byzantium and will attack as soon as our armies in byzantium are weaken. I left york to venture of and wage war against the duke of milano pierre tombale partizan.he is a great enemy to mercia and our allies.

Adventures of Xuca

2nd may
The morale of men is high, following recent victories over Byzantium. Everybody took good quality weapons and armor from the captured and killed Byzantins, so now we look like a Byzantin army! Just hope that our allies don't mix us with the enemy when they arrive. Byzantins are pressing again, but Nike's plan, if it works, will bring us another victory. l will send a messenger to my king to send reinforcements, as even if we win again, we still have too little men. the ships will be ready tomorrow and Nike has already gone behind enemy lines to organise a revolt. We will bring weapons to them, as there is three times more captured weapons than our soldiers!
But what if we meet more Byzantin ships when we sail off? Let's hope we won't...

hawk_knight's log the 3th of may

the battle was a hard battle to fight we both lost many men my army had a totally los of 5000 men and sir Richard had lost 1000 men. The enemy had lost over more then 10 thousand men the those that where still alive we had taken them as prisoners of war we had won this battle but not yet the war. The novgordians, Normans and the Byzantine are just rebuilding there forces deep in the novgorods lands. They will come back with another army. But tomorrow we will march back to our castle and rebuild our forces.

4th of may
earliey in the morning i sounded the mrach back to my castle in mithdrill.
The march was quickly done the march had onlt taken about 4 hours. When we came to my castle. I had given orders to make up camp and rest. i had sended scouts out to my border and in to the Novgorods land.
I had called all the lords together to say that we must seperate our forces in to two parts the main part with heavy infrantry and the other part with heavy horsemen and dragons. I said also that i will take command over the horsemen and dragons and that sir Richard will take command over the infrantrie. so in a battle our army wil be seperated but it will be more of a threat to the enemy because ouwer army's can back each other up in battle.
when we disguissed our strategy's one of my scouts returned that the enemy is rebuilding his forces nearby ouwer northen border. He also said that the enemy's army will be ready in two weeks and have a totally of 35 thousand men. I said to the lords that we must now quickly must recruit more men.
Tomorrow we will start with recruiting more men and get ouwer reinforcements from the south and east from my land.
But for now we will rest.

Knight Richard's adventure.
Chap. 4 Preparing for invasion.
May 4th, 1005
Well, after the great battle we returned to hawk knight's castle at midthril to prepare our forces again. Hawk knight gave me the comand of the main army,
infantry and archery, while he is in command of cavarly and dragons.This is great as both armys will support each other in battle. Also, a scout reported that our enemy was rebuilding an army of more than 30,000 men in the Novgorods lands. We are devicing a strategy on how to overcome this force, maybe we should strike deep in our enemy land before they asemble that army. Maybe is time for counter attack and bring this war into the heart of the Novgorods lands. Who knows, maybe it might inspire a rebelion withing their lands, since I have heard alot of the novgorods people don't like their king. I will talk about this with hawk knight and decide on what to do, but for now we rest. I only hope hawk knight sees the advantage of invasion.

tks journal,may 4th 1005

finally ive reached the lands of dragons, mithdril, i now have to seek the capital to reinforce my friends who had a harsh battle with the byzintines yesterday.


later on that day,,,,

finally ive reached the capital to reinforce my allies .ive came with my army of 20000 men. to join them against novgorodian enemies.i sent a messenger telling them that friendly forces are here to join them under the command of earl knightly of york.

Nike's Diary - 4th of May

I've managed to sneak through the Byzantine lines and am now in Thrace. My men and I are disguised as simple merchants, returning from the Romean camps, where we brought some food and drinks. Atleast, that's what we say to the small groups of Byzantine guards we meet. As I suspected, the local population isn't happy with the presence of foreign troops at all and wishes to restore the power of the Bulgarian tzardom here, as it was before. But many of these peasants are too old or too young to fight, and not everyone is willing to join our army. I can't blame them - the war is a very heavy burden, especially for the peasant. If they all leave their homes, there'll be too few people to care for their crops, as the women and the children can't handle the heavy life of the farmer. And as a result hunger will come to this land. Something I can't let happen. Damage here is already big enough, as when the Byzantine army stormed surprisingly these lands only the militia could fight back, and as a result many families were slaughtered or divided. That's why I set my men in different groups to travel the land and recruit only the bravest and most eager to fight, those who have some battle experience, be it theoretical or practical, and those who have nothing left to care or live for. In my rough calculations, after about 10 days I'll be able to gather up to 3000-3500 men from both Thrace and Macedonia. In the begining we'll use the "guerilla" tactics - small groups of my men will ambush other small groups of unsuspecting enemies, capturing all they carry. Thus we'll disrupt the supplies of the besieging forces and when we meet them in battle, their morale would be poorer. And when I receive news of Xuca's landing, all of our groups would join in one bigger group and then we'll meet Xuca's army. Btw he had a very good idea, which might easen us a little bit more. We can use the captured Byzantine armour and thus disguised like Romean reinforcements we could reach the army near the Balkan passes. And when we're close enough and attack, we'd put our mantles, showing on whose side we're fighting, so that the defenders of the Passes don't mix us up. Then the defenders, themselves, would also launch a counter-attack and in this way we'll be able to put those Greeks between the hammer and the anvil. I hope this will be enough to overcome the larger and better trained and equiped Byzantine army. I hope...

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 7

Oh what a disaster!
Under the cloak of the early morning 3 quick french privateer-ships intercepted our fleet of mainly heavy trade-ships. We were in no way prepared for a sea battle and the privateers managed to set the sails of one ship on fire with flaming arrows. Within minutes the ship was unmaneuverable and fell behind our formation.
Our other ships were completely unable to intercept the small privateer-ships and we couldn't protect the unmaneuverable ship from the arrow-volleys of the privateers.
At last we had to withdraw our remaining maneuverable ships before even more ships are set on fire! May god bless those unfortunate on the lost ship.
Unfortunately the lost ship hold the main part of our horse-armor, the repaired siegecrafts and twohundred lightly armored men.
What an unfortunate disaster! How shall we now overcome the heavily armored byzantine troops with no heavy cavalry? We will surely need help.
Tomorrow we will gladfully leave this warzone and enter the mediterranean sea.
May god be with us.

Adventures of Xuca

5th may
After a quick journey we landed behind Byzantin backs. We brought quallity weapons and armor with us, to supply the rebels. l sent a scout to look for Nike and tell him we arrived. We are now camping on the shore, waiting for him. Of course, l put many guards around the camp, if some Byzantins come close. The scout must be fast, the more we stay here, the more we risk being detected.

Later same day

The scout retourned and reported that Nike will need around 8-9 days to gather the rebels. He also arranged the meeting place. BUT WHAT SHOULD WE DO FOR 9 DAYS? Well, l put Byzantin banners instead ours, and hid all things that could show our identity. l also ordered our soldiers who speak greek to teach others if we get in a situation to speak to some of them. But Nike better hurry, we are lousy Byzantins, and somebody will figure out that, sooner or later!

April 30 -- Dobber's log


The fortunes and misfortunes of war are a thing we must accept. Today we lost a ship to an attack by the French. Damn, I had forgotten they were at odds with Normandy, I shouldn't have had the ships flying the Norman flags until we were in the Mediterranean. Captain Angryminer has reported that it was the ship with the seige craft and the bulk of the horse armor, neither such a big loss. But the loss of 200 men is a concern. I tried to get the captain to leave the horse armor behind, because my plan was for the men to be outfitted with horses by the Byzantines themselves. And the seige weapons are not necessary if my plan works, for we will be inside the city anyhow. Just a couple more weeks and we will be near the Moorish lands I am seeking.

Nike's Diary - 5th of May
Today a messenger from Xuca arrived. He reported that Xuca's army has already landed in the occupied lands and has set up a camp, pretending to be Byzantines. I didn't expect him to come so fast! I've sent some messengers to find the leaders of the small rebel groups and tell them where we will meet. Xuca was worried his soldiers don't know Greek very good and some Byzantine scouts might find out of this. That's why I will ride to meet them. I have some knowledge in Greek language and manners thanks to the time I've spent in Constantinopol's Magnaur University as young. If the enemy reaches us, I'll pretend we're an army sent to deal with the rebels and after that to reinforce the Romean forces at the Balkan. We'll stay there for nearly a week "collecting information for the rebels" and after that we'll set off to meet my friends and their groups. It's very risky, as many things can go wrong! F.e. how could I explain all this armour and weapons? I hope the Byzantines would be too busy thinking about the war and not see all the flaws in our plan!

Nike's Diary - 13th of May
After 5 days of camping, we left to meet and unite with the rebel groups. After three more days we reached the meeting place. Most of my men had already arrived. There were some signs of a recent battle, so I spoke with the commanders and asked them what has happened. They told me that a convoy travelling to resupply the Byzantine forces had recently passed by. The escort noticed some of the peasant-rebels and attacked. But although they were better trained and equiped, our superiority of numbers, the skills of my second-in-command and the ambush we had made have granted us victory. The insurgents have captured some nice supplies of food, wine, beer, armour and weapons. But the most of all - they've captured prepared for battle horses. Nearly a 130 of them. This could be very useful! Since times long forgotten my ancestors were famous as great horsemen, especially as horse archers. I couldn't use cavalry till now, because there was no way to transfer the horses through the Balkan siege and there was not enough room on the ships for both horses and men. But now I can form a small squadron of horsemen - horse archers, light or heavy cavalry. In the ancient times we were said to live on the horseback, so I'm sure I'll be able to find enough men skilled with the art of riding and fighting on horse.
I'm surprised to see so many people! The volunteers are coming like a big river, although on small groups, and my commanders say they'll probably be nearly 7000 men. Till the end of this night they all should gather. We'll rest here until then and tomorrow we'll arm the men and march north. I hope Nike* will be with us!

Adventures of Xuca

15th may
The rebels were still comming yesterday, and we had to delay our attack for today. We have a mighty army, around 7000 men! But there was not enough weapons for all of them, so some are armed with pithforks, but they are brave and villing to fight, l see a mighty victory ahead. Also Nike selected best riders to mount the horses, and we now have 50 light cavlary men, 20 heavy cavlary and around 60 horse archers.
My messenger retourned bringing the news that there are no available reinforcements, because the tensions between Serbia and Croatia and Hungary grown. l am worried about that, but the reinforcements are no longer so badly needed. The rebel numbers are big, and their morale is also very high.
The scouts l sent are back and they report that there is another army on the south. Maybe we can attack them after, but then we mustn't let any Byzantin escape, so we can surprise them too. l will send a spy to their camp to see what is their assignment, it is always good to know what is your enemy up to!

Hawk_knight’s log May 5th
Sir richard had talkt to me about a counter attack against ouwer enemy’s and fight them on there land. I said yes we shall attack the novgorods. I said to sir richard we will invade Novgorod in three days then we have enough time to gather our troops. I had got a message that the Knightly sword is in front of my gates with an army of 20000 men under his command i said to the soldier tell them to open the gates and let them in. Give them food, water and shelter. Whenthe knighthly sword came in the chamber i had told him the plan of sir richard to invade the novgorods lands and that we will invade in three days. Then we will enough men at our disposal the Knightly sword will have 20000 men at his disposal, sir Richard will have command of the infrantry and archers totally of 30000 men I will have command of 15000 heavy dragons and 15000 heavy horsemen. So that we will over run the enemy compleetly. I had callt the commanders and lords together to make a strategy for the invasion. We had have agreed with the strategy to invade from three directions in the center sir Richard shall attack and The knightly sword will attack from the left an i will attack from the right. This will be the battle plan for the invasion. I had got a message that the reinforcments from the south of my land willjoin us in 2 days. After the discussion about the invasion strategy i was going to take the army of heavy dragons up to the mountains for some training for a two day’s. I gave the command of the army to sir Richard until i return from my training if there is a urgent message or a problem you can send me a message by dragonscout to me. I will now prepare to go.

In the evening later that day
I was ready to go and the dragon army to so we took off to go to the mountains. The flight was quick. When we came there i gave the command to make camp and send scouts out to search for anything suspicious. The scouts reported that they have seen of heeard nothing. I said make some more camp fires to warm up your self and the dragons after that rest because you will need your strenght for the training tomorrow . I had first taken care of my dragon scarlet and then i had to go to sleep to. I had put some extra gaurds on to kep an eye if something was coming to ouwer camp.

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 5 Walking in the enemy's backyard.

9th of may, 1005
So we marched into the enemy lands. Me with 30000 hevay infantry/archery, hawk knight with 30000 horsmen/dragons and knightly sword with 20000 men.
Certanly a massive invasion, and as i spected the people see us as liverators and don't put a fight. Many joined our ranks and now we are marching right into the heart of the novgorods lands to finally put a stop to them. It was a sorry sene see the poor conditions this people live in. Heavy taxed they have bearly enought to eat and survive, but is a bad life. Some of my scouts told me that a group of revel peasants are organising themselve to attak their cruel ruler. This is a oportunity we most not let go, so i asked hawk knight to equip this men with good weapons and armor, and he accepted. We sended the equipment to them andt they told my scout they would attack when we gave the order. So now they march with us and is only a mattar of days before we laid siege to the capital city of the novgorods. It will be a massive battle and might take many weeks, but with the help of the revels and our convine forces we will put at end to this cruel ruler.

Nike's Diary - 17th of May

Two days after all the men gathered (nearly 7000 rebels and 10000 regular army, around 17000 men alltogether), we saw the Balkan mountain in the distance. We could reach the enemy army till the end of the day. I've sent a messenger to carry a letter to the Romean general in which I inform him we're reinforcements from Constantinopol, carrying supplies, and that we'll reach his camp not earlier than tomorrow noon, because of the carts. The messenger should then slip out unnoticed and make contact with the Defenders of the Passes and inform them of our plan. In the meantime we stopped to make the final arrangements and discuss the plan once again with Xuca. After that I made sure everybody's well equiped and left to the left wing, where I would command the cavalry squadron. Xuca would take the center and the right wing. A great man crossed the Rubicon river once and said something that would be remembered for centuries. Alea Iacta Est! The Die Is Cast!



Nike's Diary - 18th of May

We reached the enemy at night. Their guards weren't very cautious, because they didn't expect an attack from the south. And although the night was lighted by the clear Moon and stars, we eliminated them easily without any noise. Then we quietly positioned our troops - Xuca in the center and the right wing and me on the left wing. All our archers were in front, prepared to shoot anybody close enough. We were prepared even to light the arrows. And so I did. I fired two fire arrows in the night sky, which was our signal for the Mountain Defenders to attack, and I shouted with all my voice "Fire!" Immediately all the archers fired their deadly delivery. Flaming arrows whistled all around me. The Byzantines were shocked and it took much time before they could realise what is going on. But it was too late for them! Their whole camp was burning, as if Hell itself had came on Earth. So many bodies already lied on the ground! Most of them didn't even had the chance to put their armour. Then I heard Xuca's loud voice shouting "For Honour and Glory! Attaaaaaaaaack!" and the infantry charged forward. The noise was unbearable! I had never heard such a terrible thing! Thousands of men shouting their battlecries, like a thunderstorm, and even more men crying in mortal agony, like little kids... What things does war do with these human beings! This bloody thing should end as soon as possible! I can't stand it anymore! I charged with my horsemen at the flank of the enemy's encampment. Blood and gore everywhere! We didn't even need to waste our arrows. The enemy was crushed and fleeing. Or so I thought. But then I saw a squadron of nearly 300 heavy horsemen charging at our right flank. Our archers "welcomed" them with a volley of arrows and some of the riders felled down. But the majority of them smashed down into our lines. Seeing this, many of the running Byzantines started to reorganise. And they still had a numerical superiority. I shuddered at the thought of what might happen. The battle was turning against us! Then I saw two horsemen, standing against eachother. Xuca and the Roman general Nikifor Uran. "Surrender or die!", with all his anger the general cried. "For Honour!" Xuca replied, he pulled the rein of his horse and charged forward. The Greek general raced towards him, too. They smashed at eachother, like two Titans! But then then I fealt something hit me, all the world spinned around me and blackness came...

I woke up the next day in my tent. My loyal squire was beside me. My head was swathed in bandages and I fealt some strange pain in my body. It hurted really bad! I asked my friend what happened and he told me everything he knew. Obviously, the reorganised Byzantines launched a counter-attack and one of their arrows hit me. I have then fallen from my horse and hit my head on some rock, where I had lost consciousness. I saw through the entrance of my tent the field outside. The whole place was covered with dead bodies. Bulgarian, Serbian, Greek and even some Norman. Death showed mercy to noone! I saw also many wounded men, most of which were doubtedly to be able to fight again. Even their survival wasn't sure! Those, who got away with only light injuries, were taking the dead bodies, preparing them for their funerals. I don't know how would they burry so much men! In rough calculations, nearly 40000 men had died this night - around 10000 from our side and 30000 from the enemy's. The beauty of Byzantium died in just one night... once again. This land has seen so many glorious battles, and now another one can be added to the list! Many men have been taken prisoners or have fled. "But how did this all hapen, when we were loosing the battle?", I asked to my fellow companion. He told me that soon after I passed out, the Defenders came. They broke the siege and their cavalry smashed at the enemy, totally crushing their morale. And now all the horsemen were pursuing the fleeing Byzantines. There was a small group of reinforcements coming from Constantinopol, but they wouldn't be a problem. Especialy if what I heard is right! And I heard that in the lead of the striking force of the Defenders was my King Samuel himself, together with his Royal Guards... We had won! Bulgaria and Serbia are saved! The road to Constantinopol is free! But, no, our forces are too weak to deal with this giant. We will need time to recover, to construct siege weapons and ships, in order to have some chance of succesfully besieging the unconquerable city. But we must do all we can to help Sire Dobber! And we must send forces north to help Serbia defend it's northern border! We should send help also to Mithdrill and Lord Hawk Knight! But who am I to give orders? It is the Kings job to decide... Oh, it hurts! I need a rest...

Last entry of Nike's Diary - 19th of May
Written by Lord Nike's faithful and loyal squireToday, after a whole night in fever, my Lord passed away! Doctors said the arrow that hit him was coated in poison. This was probably done in purpose! He shall find his revenge! I guarantee it!
His last wish was to send help to his friends and to finish his diary. His funeral will take place tomorrow at noon and his body shall be burried here, in this field of a glorious battle. May he rest in peace!

May 12 - Dobber's log
We have reached the African shores. I set out in a launch to the shore and am searching for my friend Sakim, in hopes of talking him into joining us in an attack on Constantinople. I must not venture to far from shore, I know no one except Sakim in these parts. I would hate to be taken prisoner.

Adventures of Xuca

21st may
l write these lines with great pain and sorrow. Today was the funural of a great hero, Lord Nike. Every last man was filled with sadness. Farewell, Nike... my friend...
l will now march to the north to Serbia. Maybe the war with Hungarians isn't inevitable. The Bulgarians do not need my help anymore, the Byzantins are defeted and they will attack the Constantinople as soon as Sire Dobber comes. Maybe i'll meet him again some day, who knows...

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 8
Land, at last. I don't think I am able to stand another day on a ship.
We set up a small yet nearly unfortified camp near the shore. Sire Dobber tries to contact a friend that will help us. We will need to make haste because our journey to Africa already took to long.
I made some soldiers set up training grounds, so I have the mercenaries do something. I hope we can get more soldiers, armor and horses here before we start our attack on Byzantia or we will be defeated with ease by the byzantine heavy cavalry.

May 13 - Dobber's log
Once more I make my way to the shore, I did not trust staying ashore overnight. I am trying to remember a discussion I had with Sakim while we were shipmates on the one merchant voyage I had been on. We both had been taken against our will aboard ship and twas many days before we were able to escape. I had been drinking in a tavern, when suddenly sleep fell upon me. I awakened aboard a ship that was already at sea, shanghied. Sakim had been taken at another port several weeks earlier. He had been much at sea, but always before willingly. We became friends because of a common interest, "Freedom"! He had sailed once across a vast ocean and had seen a great land. It was during that talk, something he mentioned....???!!! Ah!!! Yes!!! That's it!!! He mentioned a people along the shores of that great land that talked with smoke! And that if I ever made it to the shores of Algeria(his people had left Morrocco and were living in eastern Algeria near the Tunisian border) to send up 3 smokes each hour. If he is anywhere close, he would come. He said not to wait longer than 2 days, for he would be no more than a day's journey if at home.

We built 3 fires 100 meters apart, and every hour we added pitch to the fires to make a smoke. We continued until nightfall, extinquished the fires and returned to the ships. We will wait until the second dawn, and then take leave if no response. We were able to replenish our supplies of water today and found some wild fruit growing which was enjoyed by all.

Traveller's Log - May 21st
The Road Starts Here
Sometimes I believe I am cursed... Just a few days after I became a squire of the Leader of the Resistance, my Lord died, poisoned by an enemy arrow! Today was his funeral and many brave and noble men gathered. Even the King of Bulgaria himself was here! He ordered a mound to be build at this battlefield, where his body will remain for those who are to follow. A sign of a great battle and the lost life of many...
I sweared at my master's death bed that I will find a revenge for his death. I will find the traitor that brought death to my Lord! But I can't do anything alone. That's why I will leave with Lord Xuca and travel with him to his country. And after we deal with the Hungarian threat, maybe he would turn back at the Byzantines and deal with them also. And then I would find the treacherous villain. Or should I travel south and meet this Sire Dobber? I heard he was a good friend of my master. But then I should travel through enemy territory and across the sea. And I don't even know where to find him. No, for now I'll stick with Lord Xuca. I will ask him if he could take me with him to seek revenge!

Adventures of Xuca


22nd may
l was just to leave when a man came to me. He said that he was the squire of Lord Nike, and that he want to follow me to Serbia. l asked him why does he want to go with me, and he answered:"My Lord would done the same, and l am doing this in honor of his memory.",,Okay" l said, ,,Let's go, my new friend, there is a long way to go, and l don't know how much time do we have..."

May 14 - Dobbers log

Angryminer has come to me, requesting that we get under sail and forget this insane quest to enlist the African Moors in our cause. I remind him that we lost 200 men when that ship went down and we could use a few more warriors at our side. Nevertheless I have stated we will leave at dawn tomorrow if there has been no response to the signal smokes. Sakim I pray to God, and to your Allah you have seen my smokes and are able to respond.


Traveller's Log - May 22nd
Hunter or pray?
Today I spoke with Lord Xuca and he agreed to take me with him on the way to Serbia. He mentioned that the war with the Hungarians might not be inevitable, but I'll still go with him. We must gain strength and I should gather information about who the assassin is. Besides, I have another reason to go with him. The one who killed my master was obviously aiming for the high in command in the army. And although the Byzantines lost, he might still be on the hunt for the second commander... And that is Lord Xuca. So I should keep an eye and protect him! I don't need to search for the villain, because the villain might come to me. Hah! This reminds me of a saying about Mohammad and the mountain...

Journal of Sakim - 13th of May

Today one of my followers reported 3 smokes rising from near the coast. Could it be after these years my former comrade has made his way to my homeland. I will ride to the shore to investigate. I send mesengers throughout the area to muster as many men as I can, for if it is not my comrade Dobber, we may be in for a ferocious battle. We will leave at daybreak tomorrow.


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 6 Massive stone, long siege.

May 15, 1005
After 2 days of marching we got to the massive walls of the capital of the enemy.Something unespected happened, when we got there the enemy had a army waiting. So we prepared for the battle. Hawk knight when to try to flank them with his cavarly and dragons while my men and tks's formed a wall of shields, and a deadly fire line of archers on the back. The anemy made the first move, I don't know what the enemy general was thinking but he did somehting stupid. He sended his infantry forward, with no protection, In other words easy targets for my archers.
"wait, let them get closer!" I said to my men.
Then there was complete silence, And all you could hear was the foots of the upcomming men.
"Chargeee!!!"A loud shout was heard, as the enemy began to charge across the field.
"FIRE!!!" I ordered as the 100's of arrows where let loose into the sky.
Then all that was left was the crying of agony of those that were let wounded in the field.
Infantry, prepare to charge" I shouted
"Forward men!" I said as me and the infantry charde toward the enemy.
" CHARGE!!"
The 2 armys collided as hawk knight came with the cavarly/dragons and flanked, the enemy moral quikly fell and many surrender. Then a few retrited into the walls of the castle. Though it was a easy victory, A massive battle is comming next, for this massive walls wont fall on their own. Hawk knight gave the order to make camp and make siege weapons caveble of briging this walls. Also sened some scouts to the sorrounding villages asking for men willing to join us and for provisions. I only hope this siege won't take long, for many brave men will die and that is something we can't spare.

Adventures of Xuca

23rd may
l was sleeping when some whispers woke me up. First l tought it was nothing, but l heard it again. l grabed my sword and hide it. A man sneaked in holding a knife in his hands. When he was just to strike l pulled my sword and stabed him. He yelled something l didn't understand and died. Next the whole camp woke up. l turned the light on and seen the horror: it was one of my men! And he wasn't alone! l'm not safe here, l must immediately speak with Travaller to figure out what to do!

Traveler's Log - May 23rd
The Beast Awakes
What I suspected, has already happened! But, luckily, it failed. Lord Xuca came to me in a big hurry and told me an assassin tried to kill him. But he noticed him and killed the murderer. For a big surprise, it was one of his own men. So, the enemy has recruited men among us, even in our own camp. Lord Xuca thinks the dead wasn't alone and I agree with him. We must find out who the puppeteer is! I suggested first to search the body of the assassin for some clues. And the thing that he yelled, before he died, could also help us, but first Lord Xuca must think of what it was. We should also check all the men in the camp, see when and from where they came to us, look for something suspicious. And maybe somebody has seen the second man. In all the cases we must be on guard! Atleast now I know my vengeance is near, just as near as this Beast is...

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 9
"Sakim will soon arive". Always "Sakim will soon arive"...
I keep my men busy by commanding them to train their fighting skills but they also see no further sense in this. We're sitting around doing nothing while we are supposed to fight an enemy!
And who's this Sakim anyway... I don't trust this...
By now our camp is fully fortified and the local nobility is quite unhappy with such a big military presence in it's area. We should make haste now. We were already late when we came here and now the situation is even worse.
We also didn't recieve any news from the other armies. We don't even know wether they are alive or have all been defeated and the big byzantine army is now only going for us. Then we would surely be lost...

Journal of Sakim - 14th of May

We left out for the coast at dawn, I left a Caliph behind to await any other men and they are to follow behind us to the coast just in case it is not my comrade Dobber and we wind up in a battle!
After a full days journey, we are nearing the coast. It is midnight, so I order the men to set camp, and I send several riders to scout the shores and bring back reports of their findings!
It was not long when the scouts reported back, there are ships off the coast. But there was no way of discerning their origin. At dawn we will ride to the shore, the Caliph will have arrived with the rest of the men by then.

May 15 -- Dobber's log

I was awakened in the early morning hours by the lookout stationed in the crow's nest. He had spotted several spots of brightness beyond the dunes as though there were fires of a large force of men. Sakim, let it be you! Maybe then Commander Angryminer will quit his grumblings! At dawn we will see!

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 10
In the late day yesterday the lookout spotted troops near the shore. Sire Dobber is at extreme unrest like the rest of us. We don't know wether the troops are friendly or not. Is it Sakim who comes to our aid? Is it the local nobility that wants to drive us from their territory? Is it the byzantine army, just waiting for reinforcments from the sea to arrive to attack us from two sides?
In the darkness of the night there is no way to tell, so we have to wait until dawn. The soldiers are at unrest and have to stay on guard, because when those troops are enemies they could set alight our ships every moment.
I don't understand how Sire Dobber can trust this so much, but I have to follow his decisions.

What a horrible tension...
May god bless our way.
And may Sire Dobber be right...

Adventures of Xuca

23rd may
We searched the assassin's body and we found a letter in Hungarian! None of my men speak Hungarian, so l don't know what the lettre says, but WHY WOULD AN ASSASSIN HAVE A LETTER IN HIS POCKET WHEN HE IS ON AN ASSASSINATION MISSION?! l think the letter was mented for us to read it if the assassin fails and is a bait to provoke us to attack the Hungarians.
And l still can't remember what the assassin yelled when he died. Maybe it was in Greek, or Hungarian, l dont know. We should interrogate all the soldiers in camp, to see has enyone seen other man(or men?) and have they understood what he shouted. lt could last till tomorrow, or even longer so we must start now. l shall leave this to Travaller and examine around the camp to see has anybody entered or exit it during the night. l better take armed escort with me, l am not safe alone...

Odyssey's Adventure
May 22nd
It's one day until my birthday, and I'm stuck in this blasted Byzantine Empire prison. How was I supposed to know that spitting on a royal guard was an offense. I've been in here for two straight weeks! No sun, barely edible food, and rats. Ugh! How nasty it is. How I wish somebody would save me...

Traveller's Log - May 23rd
Schemes of War and Defense
This job is getting even more complicated! When we searched the assassin, we found a letter, which, according to Lord Xuca, is on Hungarian. We both believe this is more likely to be a false clue. But why is it on Hungarian then and not on Serbian or Bulgarian? We know this men was one of our own. We'll have to find someone who speaks Hungarian to translate it. And the real message might be deciphered. If so, I'll have a lot of work and it still might be a false clue. Anyway, I've got other things to do right now. Lord Xuca ordered the camp to be closed, noone can leave or come. He placed trustworthy guards to watch and eventually shoot down all who try to run away. I also told him to announce to the men that we're looking for people, who speak Hungarian. This way we'll both translate the letter and see if the real assassin would fall in our trap. We'll gather the men tomorrow for the translation. In the meantime I inspected the new bodyguards of Lord Xuca to see if they're trustworthy. The enemy could try to strike again, before we get too close to him. I hope fear will make him overhasty and not so cautious, so that he would fall in the trap himself.

During the night a messenger from the King of Bulgaria has arived. He has decided to fulfill my Lord Nike's wish and to send help to his friends. He has comanded an army from the men, ready for battle, to march to the Serbo-Hungarian border in help of our ally. He has also sent scouts north and south to gather information about the two armies in Mithdrill and North Africa. But it will be a long time, before they could reach their targets, colect the information and get back. And in this time Tzar Samuil has called the men from whole the land under his banners. For the next three months atleast, he'll prepare for war. Blacksmiths will have a lot of work in making all the armour and weapons for the men, because around 100 000 men or even more are expected to enlist the army. Until this time they'll pass battle training, so that we'll have a fully efficient army against the Romean Emperor Basil II. Last years harvest was very bountiful, so I believe we'll have no trouble in maintaining such an army. The Tzar has also ordered the current standing army to split in three groups. One to defend Bulgaria agains eventual attacks from Constantinopol (although the Byzantines are too weakened, IMO), one to help our Serbian allies, and one to march south in the Greek peninsula and capture the light defended Byzantine cities there. This is very important, because this way we won't have to worry about our backs and we'll get some nice and rich cities, like Solun (Thessaloniki) f.e. Thus, we'll also cut the enemy from valuable resources and only the Romean part of Thrace and Asia Minor would remain under Greek control. I hope we'll deal with the Hungarians and the assassin until then and that I'll be able to join this glorious campaign!

Odyssey's Adventure
May 23
Hah! How lucky I am! I busted out and now I'm on my way to Rome to meet up with my brother. As I left, the fighting grew more intense. As a matter of fact, I had to kill three people with this tiny dagger my brother had given me. I hope I can it there soon! I wish somebody would come along and give me a ride. Oh it seems a horse and rider approaches, let me be off.

May 15 Dawn -- Dobbers log

Several men have appeared from behind the dunes. I order a launch put on the water, I am going to shore. I may be placing my life in jeopardy, but I am counting on being treated with respect for my bravery(if it can be called that). I have a feeling in my gut that just the other side of the dunes is Sakim!

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 11
Someone just said Sire Dobber wants to leave the ship and go to the shore! I have to make haste and offer him to follow him to protect him!

*the log entry is interrupted here*

Journal of Sakim - 15th of May

I peer over the crest of the dune and see a small boat approaching the shore, a grin spreads across my face as I see the bald head of my comrade Dobber. He has done well for himself, to command such a number of ships!
"Stand down men, it is a friend!" I say as I cross the dune onto the beach.
"Welcome, my friend! What brings you to these shores Dobber?"
Dobber responds that he is looking for help in assaulting Constantinople! A very big undertaking, I am not sure it can be done. He says he has a plan and would I hear him out before making a decision. Surely he wouldn't expect my compliance otherwise. I summon several of my Caliph's and board the boat with him to go to his ship to discuss the proposal along with some of his Commanders, he made mention of one in particular, a kind of odd name Angryminer, sounds more like a disgruntled laborer than a fighting man.


Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 11
*the log entry is resumed here*
I came too late to follow my Sire to the coast, but it seemed everything went fine. He brought this Sakim and some of his heathen commanders on the ship. I don't trust them and I propably never will, but Sire Dobber does and when the heathens fight for us, this can only help us. I will try to be as friendly to the heathens as I can.

Hawk_knight's log

may 16th

We have begon the siege at the capital of novogorod. Our numbers have increased with 11000 men. I gave the order to gain ouwer strenght back that we will first lay siege to the capital for 12 days so that we can rest and make new siege weapons for ouwer assault on the castle. I had sended 5 spy's to the enemy's castle to see if there is a weak point in the enemy's defence, and i had send 5 spy's in to my camp to search for enemy spy's and i had send some 50 scouts out to search for enemy army's. I told sir richard and The knightly sword only about that i have sended 5 spy's in to the camp to search for enemy spy's. I gave the order to the troops to strat training and to the dragon troops that they must train on the mountain with there fire attacks. I also started to train with my dragon in the sky with manoeuvring to afoid enemy missile fire.

later that day

when i had returned from training one of the spy's reported that he had captured a enemy spy in ouwer camp. I gave one of my lords the order to question him. If he does not wanna speak use every use of force that you need to let him speak. The spy did speak now he said that the in the castle there is enough food for three months and that there is a weak point in the left wall in the center. That was good news i gave the order that we must build enough trebuchets, catapults to destroy the wall and ladders, siege towers to take the right wall. to morrow we will start building new sieg weapons but now we must rest.

May 15 - Dobber's log
After a lenghthy discussion Sakim has agreed to supply some men to help with our assualt upon Constantinople. He has had men arriving all through the day. He hand picks a select few men to remain with him, he is going to remain and recruit others to join our quest. We will send ships back for them if we can, otherwise he will procure ships in a stealthy manner. After the troops have boarded and we've said our good-byes to Sakim, we finally get under sail. Next stop Constantinople.

May 16 - Kuno's log

How long was I a slave on this pirate-ship? Months? Years? I can't remember.

I was with some men on the way to the Holy Land, I thought that I can conquer myself there a little realm, what else could the third son of a count do to get his own land?

Howewer, our ship was boarded by the pirates and a hard fight took place. Many times I thought that it would have been better if I died during this fight, like many of my men....
But I was taken as prisoner and survived. And today I saw that it was god who saved me then and that he will maybe give my live a new sense. This noon, there were ships on the sea, a lot of ships. And on this ships a famous banner moved in the wind, the one of Sir Dobber!
And these ships started to hide the ship of my suppressers.

When they finally cought up, a short and bloody fight started, but the pirates were cutted down like grass.

And then a wonder took place, a men came to us slaves and cutted off our chains. A man I knew! He was the guard of my fathers palace in my hometown! He was called Angryminer! Why was he here and not at home? But before I could talk a word with him Sir Dobber himself came to us...

Angryminer's Log
Chapter 12
Pirates! Again!
Sire Dobber gave orders to attack the pirates and capture their ships. This time we were prepared and were able to render the pirates unmaneuverable. The ships were captured and once we have repaired them they can be added to our fleet. That means we can pick up additional men from Sakim's army!
A very strange coincidence happened while capturing the ships... When the fight on the deck was over and I entered the ship's inner rooms to fight I found slaves and freed them. But not only did I find slaves, one of them was the lost third son of my former liege Sire Gersenau!
A strange happening... I'm still not sure who my Sire is now... Sire Kuno of Gersenau or Sire Dobber?
I will talk to Sire Kuno of Gersenau and tell him that the town of Gersenau was overrun and burnt by the norman army and how I made my way here as a mercenary of Sire Dobber.
We have to be blessed by god that such a thing happens to us!

May 16 - Dobbers log

Today we suddenly surprised some pirate ships as they emerged from a cove, and I gave orders to board them and to seize their craft. I figured they would be surprised that what appeared to be a merchant fleet would attack them, and a surprise it was. And with all the warriors we had on board, we quickly defeated them with our boarding. The men had been restless and lusting for battle, so the attack curbed their appetite a little and we gained 3 ships for our fleet. I called Commander Angryminer and Sire Gersenau into my cabin and offered them the opportunity to take the three pirate craft and to return to Sakim for the reinforcements he is mustering. We will send enough men to handle the ships and a small fighting force in case you have trouble before meeting up with Sakim. You can hand pick the men, just be sure to take along some of Sakim's men, they can summon Sakim for you. The pirate craft are faster than our ships, so you might be able to get the reinforcements and overtake us before we reach Constantinople. We will be half a day getting the ships inventoried and the crews readied. If you wish to remain with the main fleet, I will find another to command the reinforcement fleet. There is another on board, seems a bit over zealous, he calls himself King Bigcastle, he is no way a King and certainly has no castle, (sounds kind of like this Farquat dude from a fairy tale). But he appears to be capable. I left Angryminer and Sire Gersenau alone to discuss the proposition and await their decision.

Knight Richard's adventure

Chap:7 Stones on fire, head of iron .

May 24, 1005
After having a horrible night, (couldn't sleep because of I couldn't take my ming off the assoult) today I went out of my tent and the first sight was of the massive siege wepons the men had been building for hte past days. It had taken them less time than we tought, so we were going to assoult. The morning was quite but soon came full of noices of the massive wood weapons and the men pushing them. So we marched onto what would become a massive blood spill. Me and Hawk knight had prepared a plan to fule the enemy. Since we knew where the weak part of the castle was, we were going to attack from that point, but we would divide the armys into two. I would comand a army to the front of the castle to make it look like we were going to attack them directly, so the enemy would focuse most of his men on that part giving more than enought time for hawk knight to attack the weak spot and bridge into the walls of the city. So I took my "army" and position the men in place. I could smell the fear in the air, the crys that were to come, the horror of men dieing.
"Fire!" I ordered and the rocks in flames went flying as the Trebuchets fired.
Soon after the thunder of the fire, rocks knocking into the Walls of the castle and even the bodies of the enemy became intense. The catapults fallowed, with even more force. My men began to shout,
"ARGHH!!, HAUH HA, HAUH HA,...!" like barbarians tersty for blood.
As I speacted most of the enemy troops gathered there. I ordered the siege towers forward., Then men began to puch the enourmus thing directly to the enemys wall. Some infantry behine them, and some inside the towers for the assoult. Also Archers moved forward, and big wooden shield were positioned to protect them. The archers began firering and the enemy fireing at us. It was madness, finally one of the towers touched the wall and with it the rushing of men into the walls. But still, somehting was wrong, it was allready afternoon and there was no sign that hawk knight had broken throught the weak spot the spy had told us about. What was I to do, continue charging and storming the enemy or retreat? The enemy had a huge garrison inside th castle and going throw the siege towers wasn;t working, for not many ment fit at the same time, plus the archer's fire killed many of those that were running across the field and those that made into the tower and up to the walls were overwelmed by the superiority in numbers of the enemy. I had to do somethign fast, but what? And Time was important for many men were falling by the minute. Then I remember that we could use somekind of ram to destry the gate. So I order the men to make a Ram, It was going to be easy for we had parts of one in the camp and it could be build in a hour. After a hour and half, the ram was ready and I was about to orther the men to use when one of Hawk knight's scout reported. He said that Hawk knight could break throuth, the spot wasn't weak, so the spy had lied. The man also said that Hawk knight order to retreat, because it would cost to many lifes if we continued the siege this way.
"Prepare to back up" I shouted
Then men began to retreat, but keeping their formations. My face became sad as this was the first battle i had ever lost, but like the wize ones say, You learn from your defits more than from your victories. I gave my back, and suddendly, I felt something hard, yet sharp as a blade go in.
"AHH! " I cryied out as if I couldn't control my will;
Then everything became black.

Later, at night.
I waked up on my tend, not knowing how I got here. I tried to lift my self up but a pain rushed throug my back, My head heard also. then i heard the voice of a man.
"You'r a lucky fella, A arrow almost piece you competly."
"What?, how i got here, why my head hearts?" I asked
"You felt of your horse after the arrow hited you in the back and hited your head with a rock, then lost your concience, you'r real lucky to be alive, Is yout head made of metal or something?" the man said in a humurous way.
I said nothing and just let my head rest down and fell asleap again...

May 16 - Kuno's log (part 2)

After Sir Dobber has left us Angryminer and I had a long talk. He told me about the things who had happpen to my hometown. It was really depressing for me...
I also told him, that I'm not his lord anymore and that I'm now a simple men under Sir Dobber's command. And that I will do now all I can to help him to conquer Constantinople. (To be honest I also hope to plunder a lot of gold when we once have conquered the city. With this I could then rebuild my destroyed hometown.)

So finally I decided to go back with the pirate ships to get the reinforcement. Angryminer was still thinking about it...

Adventures of Xuca

23rd may
One hour before the dark 12 men left the camp lead by me to look for track of leaveing or entering the camp. But one thing nobody knew, not even Travaller or the guards, was that l wasn't leading them! l took my best friend to disguise as me. l was near my double and when the time was right l fired an arrow. lt was a perfect hit, right in the bag of red paint which was hidden under the armor near the heart. The guards spotted me and charged. l eluded them easilly in the forest, and my double put a letter on the place of my assassination saying l'm just the begining or something like that, and then sneaked back in the camp. My body is missing, but there is 11 witnesses, and they are the men l trust least. Maybe my plan isn't perfect, but better plans would require more men envoleved, meaning bigger risk of somebody knowing l'm still alive. This is the only way for me to be safe, and l shall search the forest a little, maybe l find something... or somebody...

Angryminer's Log
Chapter 13
So Sire Dobber asked me to get more men from Sakim. Though I'm not too fond of the idea, I will follow Sire Dobber's command and won't dissapoint him. I'm already on one of the former pirate ships and we have everything we need for the trip back to Sakim's location. We will set new course every minute now.

Before I left Sire Dobber we had a discussion and I said that we should contact the other Knights that travelled through the land. We should get to know how well their campaign succeeded or wether they need help.

Quick now, we have to get back to Sakim, recruit new soldiers and get back to Sire Dobber before Sire Dobber's fleet meets byzantine warships.

Traveller's Log - May 24th
Mission Impossible

I write these lines with great grief and anger... This night Lord Xuca left the camp with his bodyguards to look for eventual tracks of the assassin. But from all the sudden an arrow pierced him from behind. All the men ran after the murderer, but he managed to escape. They made a mistake, as nobody stayed to help Lord Xuca and see if he's only wounded or dead. But when they returned, they saw no sign of Lord Xuca's body, only his horse and a letter on it. This message was something like "He's only the beginning. You'll be the next" or something. This foul villain has not only killed him, but has also stolen his body! For what purpose, I don't know. Maybe to break the army's morale even further. One thing is sure - the assassin is no longer in the camp. Still, just to make sure, I've ordered to search the whole encampment and the nearby woods. But there are too few men that can really be trusted to do this. Sometimes I wish I would've stayed in my home rather than taking care of such responsible and hard deeds!

And now we have an assassin, a missing body and an army with broken morale and no idea what to do! The second-in-command will surely take Lord Xuca's place, but I doubt the army would continue it's march, without burrying it's general. And somewhere out in those woods is he, watching and stalking...

I've gathered the men, before Lord Xuca left to look for the most suspicious ones. I selected 5 men, who could speak both Hungarian and Greek and could've acted as links between these two countries. But when Lord Xuca was killed, all of them were in the camp and noone has leaved. And now they're still here, while we know the real assassin is outside. We have searched in the wrong place! But how did he know from where and when will Lord Xuca leave the camp? He probably has an informer inside. I'll make sure to get him, before he strikes again! The least, because I'm probably his next target. Lord Nike, Lord Xuca and now is my turn... War isn't really such a nice thing!

Adventures of Xuca

24th may
l was exploring the forest, searching for something, some clue that could lead to the assassin, when l heared some voices. l went in their direction and saw three men. One of them said in Serbian: ,,l don't know who killed him. One of my men used the disorder caused by his death to sneak out and report me that he's been killed, but now it's impossible to enter or exit the camp." And the second one replyed in Greek(good thing l leared some Greek while we camped in heart of Byzantium pretending to be Byzantins): ,,We will think about that later, you are to ride to Serbia and see is everything ready for a rebelion and to organise espionage actions against Hungary. Remember that every spy must be caught and to confess after he's been tortured that he works for Serbia." ,,Yes," the Serb said, ,,we already planed the actions: attempt of murder of Hungarian King, robbing his treasury, organising rebellions and many more!" ,,Good," said the Greek, ,,This man will go with you to make sure of what you're saying and than report back. Remember that the Emperor does not tolerate failure!" ,,My master will not fail your Emperor, be sure, as he's the only way for him to get to the trone of Serbia!" Then they went off, every in his direction.

This is horrible! After the false spy actions Hungarians would attack Serbia and then the rebellion would start! Without my army, they would conquer Serbia with ease! And then the leader of rebels would became the pupet King of Serbia, Hungarians would sing alliance with Byzantins, and then they would all attack Bulgaria from two sides! l must find a horse, ride quickly to Hungary and talk to their King to tell him about these plans and prevent him to attack or even make an ally against the Byzantins! But what if he refuses to belive me? l must aquire some proofs first. l shall follow this traitor and maybe find something...

And who can be the leader of rebels? l know few nobles who may want to seize the throne of Serbia, but l can't point out whom...

May 17 - Kuno's log
(part 3)

This evening i stood on the deck of "my" ship and looked towards the sinking sun.(Angryminer took command over two ships and I over one)
The sword at my side still felt heavy and unfamiliar, no wonder after the long time on the pirate ship. I had time to calculate how long I was a slave - two years, two damned wasted years!
I still feal a weakness coming from the few and bad food I had to eat all this time, but this will get better with the time! I also wonder if I can still handle my sword? I have to ask Angryminer for a little show-fight tomorrow, if he agrees.

But back to the things who happened this evening:¨
With the last light of the day we came to the boards of the sea and saw a little harbour. Angryminer's ships took course over there, this seemed to be the land of Sakim.

When we entered the harbour a lot of people with torches and bows stood on the kais and pointed against us. A loud voice appeared: "Pirates, we don't know how you can be so stupid to stop here in Sakim's Land, but anyway, die now!!
But before they could start to fire Angryminer's loud voice answered: "No!! It's us, Sire Dobber's men! We conquered these ships yesterday and were sended back to catch up more of your men! I'm Commander Angryminer and I wish to speak Sakim!"

The people on the kais were surprised, but they sanked their bows!
We could go on land and a noble man with a big turban came towards Angryminer and me - Sakim himself! After a short report from Angryminer about the things which happend yesterday, Sakim wanted him to come with him and to talk about the next steps. He also invented me if I want to join, but I was to tired. So I asked him for the permission to leave and went back to the ship and in my room.

Goodnight.

Angryminer's Log
Chapter 14

We're back at the african shore. The welcome wasn't too heartly, these heathens nearly killed me and wanted to burn down the ships! I'm glad they had enough sense to understand that I'm not a pirate.
Sakim however was by far more friendly. After I introduced Kuno to Sakim I reported the situation and asked him wether he could support us with more troops because this would be vital to the chances of victory for us. I also said that we had to make haste so we get back to Sire Dobber as fast as possible. He said he will speak with his advisors tomorrow and we will rest for the night now. Sakim invited us to spend the night in his camp near the harbor so we could start our recruiting as early as possible.
On the way to the camp Kuno asked me wether I could help him regain his abilities in swordsmanship. Of course I will. I'm more or less the trainings-master of Sire Dobber's army and I will surely help Kuno.
I begin to wonder wether I should invite Sakim to follow us on our march against Constantinople. We are drafting more and more of Sakim's men and when he is in our ranks this would surely raise the morale of these soldiers.

So, I should rest now. Tomorrow will be a day of hard labor.

May 17 - Dobber's log

The winds are favorable, if they remain so we should arrive at Constantinople in much shorte time than the first leg of our journey. Yesterday we left Commander Angryminer and Sir Gersenau behind to venture back to my friend Sakim for more mercenaries for our attack upon the great city of Constantinople. The men are still bragging about their heroics during the taking of the pirate ships. Oh the lust for blood rises in them! I hope the Commander remembered to change the flags on the vessels, he should be flying the Norman flags I gave him before we parted. I would hate for other ships to mistake them for pirates. I also ordered that all the ships in our fleet to fly the Norman flag for the rest of our journey. It is imperative that we appear to be sailing to aid the Byzantines in their quest. I am counting on my spy getting through with the message I sent of my "Norman" force coming to their aid. If we can sail right through the great sea gates we will be inside the walls. Then nothing will stand in our way of devastating that great city the Byzantines are so proud of!

May 17 - Dobber's log

The winds are favorable, if they remain so we should arrive at Constantinople in much shorte time than the first leg of our journey. Yesterday we left Commander Angryminer and Sir Gersenau behind to venture back to my friend Sakim for more mercenaries for our attack upon the great city of Constantinople. The men are still bragging about their heroics during the taking of the pirate ships. Oh the lust for blood rises in them! I hope the Commander remembered to change the flags on the vessels, he should be flying the Norman flags I gave him before we parted. I would hate for other ships to mistake them for pirates. I also ordered that all the ships in our fleet to fly the Norman flag for the rest of our journey. It is imperative that we appear to be sailing to aid the Byzantines in their quest. I am counting on my spy getting through with the message I sent of my "Norman" force coming to their aid. If we can sail right through the great sea gates we will be inside the walls. Then nothing will stand in our way of devastating that great city the Byzantines are so proud of!

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 8 New men and bad news.
May 26, 1005
Today in the early morning I was finally able to stand on my own two feet. My back still hearded, but I couldn't stand been on that tend any longer, and needed some fresh air. So I walked out and finally some sun light touched my face..
"Oh, you'r walking!" A familiar voice said. "How is my lord, feeling today?"
I turned to see and it was the man that had took care of my wounds. I didn't see him well the first time, only his face, but i saw him today completly. He was an old man, tired by the years, but yet full of energy and happines. Allways had something to make a joke about and I wondered why a old man like him be on this war? How can he be so happy, so full of hope after living such a long life?
"I'm feeling well, thank you." I finally answered, "What is your name old man?"
"I have had many names in my life sir, but you can call me Robin the herb."
I could see why he had earn such nickname, he was good a curing illnesses and wounds.
"Ok Robin, I thank you for your accistance"I said as a rider came at al gallop into the camp.
The men stoped him, thinking he could be an asasine or something like that ,but then he spoke.
"Where can I find sir Richard" He said." I bring him news from the king of England"
It was the rider I had sended for more aid, and as spected he came by the end of may, but somethign seemed wrong.
"Where are the reinforcment" I asked
"They are a day behine sir, I rided here when i heard your where in this siege."
The rider said, but still he appeared to have bad news.
"How many men the King send me?" And is there soemthign wrong?" I asked
"My king sended 20,000 men sir, but I'm afraid there are soem bad news." the rider said " When we landed near the cost of France, we saw many norman ships, apparently preparing for a invasion."
"And invasion?" I asked "Where?, WHERE!!"
"I'm not sure sir, could be england, thats why i sended a massage to the king so he can be prepare for anything"
I said nothing, stood there thinking what I should do. So now here on my tend I'm thinking on what to do. Surely if that invasin is to england my king will need help, but I can't ride on my horse still. Tomorrow I will send some spys, to gather information, also will talk to Hawk knight to see if he could aid. The reinforcement should be here tomorrow by noon and with them I'm sure we can try another assoult, but I can't fight alone side my men. Damn that arrow! It will be sometime until I can mount my horse.

NaVatar's Journal

30th May
Why didn't i see that coming.....*sign* Very well...There is not much I can do in this cell anyways....Blast those normans! Why are they so persistent! Can they never give up!
I might as well review these couple days as I don't have anything else do than to stare at the cold stone wall....

After that Dobber and his army left I contiued to rally men to go with the other army.After the army size was up to 20000 or so I gave them orders to ride out.Everything was fine for many days and I got some small messenges from my spy's about the crusade to Bysantium and other stuff. But! After some days I didn't hear from my spies for a long time and I got no news about the war.This was the time I was getting suspicous and started to investigate the matter myself.
I thought to myself "If you want a job done, you have to do it yourself" so I left the crowns duty for a while to my loyal friend TKS. I discarded the warnings of my advisors and went out to act like a spy of my own.
I visited taverns (under disguise of course) and the docks for some leads about my spies, but it was futile and i didn't get any leads so I went back to the castle.

It was very quiet many days later.I had a bad feeling about everything 'cause my advisors and those nobles who were living in the huge castle were casting suspicous looks at my direction every time at dinner and whispers echoed the hall at night.
One day,oh what a day to remember, I was going to the balchony at my quarters after a small dinner with close friends.And when i stood there, looking out to the foggy air I saw a large army of Normans advancing through the mist! I was shocked that they could have advanced this close to Mercia without having been noticed.I figured that my spies got to close to the army and they got killed and because of the mist the town-guards wouldn't have noticed them anyways.I heard a noise and turned quickly around with the sword in my hand and I saw 10 men with black clothes walking with daggers towards me.They positioned in front of me and then a large man shouted "Remember! Our employe wants the king alive so if anyone kills him that unlucky bastard will be one head shorter! Got It!" And so the men charged me.

I managed to slay 4 of them but then 2 of them managed to get behind me and grabed me and I were hit in the backhead and fainted.Damn, it still hurts!.

And now i'm in this cell deep down the castle with only rats and skeletons to keep my company....well in some way they are far better company than some nobles i know....haha..ha.......ha..*sign* I'm hungry,i had only bread and water for the past week and i fell extremly weak......What shall i do.....There is noway to escape....I must keep my mood up and not fall into despair......Blast! I hate cells!

tks journal 31th may 1005

I couldint battle novogrodians with my friends hawkknight and richard as king navtar made an urgent call puting me temporarly king at mercia. the king have still not returned from his journey .

later on that day

what in gods name i get reports of an huge army approaching our borders . i order the border guards to trippel the manship and watch out for any unexpected attacks . i sent messengers to all our allies as this might be another even more threatning enemy then the normens.

Traveller's Log - May 25th
Hide and Seek
After a whole day search I came to the conclusion that the assassin has escaped from the camp. There is no sign of him. I ordered a check-up of the list we made before to see who's missing. It seems that four people have left the camp in the disorder, caused by Lord Xuca's death. Men continue searching the forrest, but with no result. I have to do something, but what?! All I could do was to put in use the old tactic of punishment and reward. I gathered the men and told them: "My friends, there is a traitor among us! Atleast one, but maybe even more. I want to make it clear to you: We WILL catch them! Sooner or later we will! And when we do, they'll pay the price of treason costly! So, if you hear me now - give up and you may survive! Because I will catch you and there will be no mercy then! And to all who might have some information, concerning some suspicious persons and/or Lord Xuca's death - report to me or some of the high commanders and you may receive a reward, sufficient enough to buy yourself from the best beer for years ahead! That is, if it leads us to the villain, ofcourse..." I can now only hope this will startle them and they'll give up what they know, both to avoid the punisment and to receive the reward! Maybe even some of the assassin's associates could give up. Not very likely, but there is a chance...

Also a messenger arived today from the Bulgarian reinforcements. I couldn't let him in the camp (maybe I should put a sign "Quarantine"), so he had to give me the message through the palisade. The Bulgarian forces were on the way and would reach us within three days. Nearly 4000 men, of which around 3000 fine Bulgarian horsemen, would aid us, doubling our army size. I told the messenger to tell them to tighten the control of the guards and to look for foreign persons. I don't want the assassin to join them and later to enter our camp. But when the reinforcements arive we'll have to continue our way immediately. We have lost too much time. Time that might cost our allies dearly... So, when both armies join, we'll march to the Serbian-Hungarian border! Even if it costs me my life...

Adventures of Xuca

26th may
l followed the traitor for two days and finally reached his camp, where was about 20 men. They welcomed him and one of them asked: ,,Who is the man with you" and he said: ,,lt's our control, and l don't like being controled, get rid of him tonight" Then a plan came to me, but l'll have to wait for the dark.

Then the traitor talked about his conversation with the Byzantin in the forest, and then they were planning which spy would take which actions. l was surprised how well organised they were and how many people was on their side. They mentioned even the King's finest spy to take the most dangerous action - the murder of the Hungarian King. And their conversation lasted deep into the night. Soon after, they retired.

They left only one guard, which was not such a smart move, so l started to act. First l got rid of the guard. He was standing near a bush where l was hiding. l waited for him to get closer, and the l striked him from behing, stabbing my sword right in his heart! Then l hid near the Greek's tent to wait for his assassin. When he came, l striked him same as l striked the guard. Now it was Greek's turn. l needed to kill him without a mess, so l started to strangle him. He woke up, tried to shout, but l sqeezed his throat so hard, he couldn't make noise. Soon, he was dead. l searched him and, unfortunately, found nothing. l took his body and his belongings and carryed them out of the camp.

Then l retourned to finish my job by killing their leader. l took the Greek's dagger and sneaked back in the camp. The leader was drunk and couldn't hear nothing, so l was quick stabbing him and left the dagger in his cheast.

l took the Greek's body and burryed it deep in the forest, so now the traitors will think he was sent to assassinate their leader, and the Byzantins wil think they killed their man. This will ruin their cooperation and give me enough time to reach my, and the Hungarian King and worn them. l took the Greek's horse and l found a letter in the traitors leader's tent, but l can't read it, it's too dark right now, and l don't know how will this what l'm writing look in the morning...

Traveller's Log - May 26th
Birds song

I can't believe it! I just can't believe it! I think luck finally smiled upon me! I thought that my yesterdays anouncement would have no effect, but I was obviously wrong. Today two men came to my tent and wanted to speak with me. The guards searched them for hidden weapons, but found none. They looked scared and guilty, but also a spark of greed could be seen in their eyes. "They're here for the prize", I thought. "I'm tired of this! So many men came here with such absurd "informations", like that Lord Xuca himself was the assassin for example, that I'm beginning to think about a punishment for all, who try to lie me." But those two were different. They told me there was a small "underground network" in the army, which was comanded by some foreigner, rumours suggest a Byzantine. He recruited some men, including my two "birdies" here, promising them a substantial ammount of money. But since he ran away from the camp and left them to do on their own, many of the recruited have started to fear for their rewards and their lives. Some have also ran away after Lord Xuca's death, but some are still in the camp, worrying about their heads. The others didn't want to surrender themselves to me, because they didn't trust me and maybe they're right! My two new "friends" promised to show me the other traitors and to give me proof of their guilt. They also said they might know where the master-assassin is hiding and would lead me there. I don't really trust them, but this trace is worth following. Besides, in two days the reinforcements would come and we'll have to continue our way. I have no other chance than to risk! That's why I ordered all acused to be arrested and interrogated. If they prove guilty, they'll be decapitated! To my informers I gave a small ammount of money, saying I'd give them the rest when we capture the assassin. Ofcourse, I can't let such traitors to go away unpunished, despite my promise not to hurt them. That's why in all the battles we'll have, they'll be on the first line, at the heart of the battle. They'll have the chance to redeem their crimes either through their bravery or with their blood! I wash my hands clean...

Adventures of Xuca

27th may
When it got lighter, l emediatelly read the letter. lt was a letter from Byzantin Emperor himself to the Serbian noble Vladislav Pavlovic recogniseing him as the King of Serbia and his ally! And there are instructions how to bring Hungay to their side! Knez Vladislav is King's right hand! l can't belive he's the traitor! l must worn the King, but l don't belive he'll belive me! Better first to go to the King of Hungary, it's more important to prevent him declaring war to Serbia, and now l have some proof. l might have a plan:
lf Hungarians belive me, they will catch the spies, and we can force one to reveal how it was planed for them to report they succeded being caught, and then missguide the traitors we don't know about the plan. Traveller will probably arrive with the army, and maybe, just maybe the Hungarians agree to help us against the Byzantium and send an army, too. Then the rebels would think the Hungarians come to help them, so we could crush them with ease. And, of course, the King must not know anything before the rebellion starts, because he could never belive Knez Vladislav could want to raise a rebellion. l'll think about the plan a little more...

Journal of Sakim - 18th of May

The meeting with the Caliph's was not as promising as I thought it would be. I had expected wholehearted support. But there seems to be a split in the council, They desire to confer with each other and give me their answer on the morrow.
Later in the day I met with Commander Angryminer and informed him the decision is delayed another day, but we will have an answer tomorrow. I also informed him that in the meantime I would be mustering all the support I could and that if the Council of the Caliph's decided against aiding in the effort, I would take what support I could muster on my own and join them on their voyage.

Journal of Sakim - 19th of May

The Council refused their support. What I can do must be on my own effort and my popularity with many of the men. I send messages to all those who support me, to meet me in 2 days, a half days journey to the west where we first met Dobber.

I reported to Angryminer the unfortunate news, and tell him of my plan. He will sail from the harbor as if he is leaving and will then sail west to the spot we first met along the coast. I will meet him there 2 days hence with all the men I can muster and what supplies I can slip off with.


Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 15
Bad news, the local nobility doesn't seem to want to support us with more soldiers. But this Sakim offered us nevertheless to support us with as much as he can effort and he said he will follow us on the journey against Constantinople.
He seems to be very courageous. I begin to understand why Sire Dobber counts him to his closest friends.
We boarded the ships again and sailed out of the harbour. While I am writing this we are loosing sight of the harbour and will turn soon westwards where we are to meet Sakim again in two days. I close the log now, I'll go and give Kuno some training in swordfighting with a shield now on the deck.


Traveller's Log - May 28th
Mouse, cheese and...

It seems the two "double-traitors" didn't lie to me! It has been proven that all those, who were accused by them are really a part of this spy network. 22 men were publicly decapitated yesterday. I can't let the other soldiers think they can commit treason without being punished! Ofcourse, nobody knows about the two, that are left. And for their own good, they better keep their mouths shut!

Today the reinforcements were supposed to come. I thought this is a good oportunity for the assassin to mix with them, while they march to us and that he'll probably use this chance. That's why we prepared an ambush for him. During the night I took some men with me and left the camp. We separated on two groups, with each there was a "guide". One gorup left to see if the information about the assassin's location was right. And my group went to reach the reinforcements and warn them of the ambush. Both groups had to be very careful not to let the "informers" to escape AND not to be noticed by the assassin.
We reached the Bulgarian camp in the night. I guess they took my recommendation too serious and they nearly shot us! Luckily, they recognized me, some of the men had seen me, while I was in service of Lord Nike. I spoke with their commander and discussed the plan with him. He thought the plan's too risky and the Romean could escape, but since we had nothing else in mind, he agreed with it. We remained in the camp, because we would travel with them to our camp, watching for suspicious elements. But we had to hide in the commander's tent, so that we won't be seen from unwanted eyes. I hope the commander won't hate us for disturbing him, although one of my companions snored like a lumber-mill! The next morning (today actually) everything was normal. The men extinguished the fire, collected the tents and prepared for the road. My men and most of the horsemen in the army were on their horses, ready for an eventual pursuit. But I hoped we won't need to come to this. And so, we continued towards our camp. It all seemed peaceful, there was no sign of any kind of movement. Only the birds sang from the nearby forest. "Could've he saw the other group and ran away? I hope not! Then we'll never be able to catch him! But, no, wait!" I was riding at the end of the column, so that I could see around clearly. "Where did this guy came from?", I thought. There was a man right next to me, a man that wasn't there before. Thank God I had put my hood on and he didn't recognize me! He weared armour exactly like the Bulgarian type. He even had the signs of a lower Bulgarian officer! But I didn't saw him yesterday in the camp and I saw ALL of the officers there. "I should test him!", I thought and then I said on Greek "Hey, your mantle's unbuttoned!" He instinctively reached his hand to his shoulder, unwittingly showing he knows Greek. And yesterday the commander told me none of the lower officers speaks Greek, because they weren't so well educated as the high officers! I jumped at him and knocked him down on the ground. We started fighting and suddenly my hood fell. When he saw my face, he recognized me. Hatred was burning in his eyes! With an unexpectable strength for his body, he throwed me away and pulled out a dagger from somewhere. He threw himself at me, but I wasn't able to defend. Only a few more seconds and I would be dead! But the Providence was with me and an arrow pierced his hand. I nearly forgot I was travelling with a whole army! They had seen I was fighting on the ground, but couldn't shoot, because they might hit me, too. But now that his body was clear, one accurate archer saved my life and rendered the assassin harmless. Seeing this, the Greek tried to escape, but how could a bare-footed man escape from horsemen? They captured him and he's now in chains in our camp. Some very skillful men are "persuading" him to talk. And we're also examining what we found in him and in his camp. He'll soon talk! ... He better do!

Heretic's log

Desert Notes

For travelling across the deserts the camel serves the best. Caliph sent me a letter where invited me to Alexandria. It was a short letter, but I knew Caliph well and I could understand that there is something serious, even without many words. He also asked me to take the best camels and my faithful horse, so I must go to meet him quickly.
Tomorow I'll leave the town. Or maybe this night. The sky is clear, it will be cold...

Wowlops logg May 17th

My crew and i have been digging for days. We have finaly compleated our task. The tresure is buried and we have burned all evidence of our pressince on this mysterious island. Last night i could have sworn i saw something in the shadows of the fire light but i convised myself otherwise. It appers this island has a stage effect on one's pressince of realality. I have noticed a strage rash on the men's faces but they apper to take no notice of it. Who ever inhabited this island befor us must have placed a curse on it i swear by the gods we migh all perish here if help dose not arrive soon.

June 6 - Dobber's log

I do not know what happened to Commander Angryminer and the other 3 captured ships, I hope they have not run into any trouble. The winds have been very favorable to us. Maybe that is why they have not arrived yet. And they could have been detained in Africa a few days longer than I anticipated. We are outside the seagate at Constantinople. Earlier today a launch was sent out with a Captain and a few men to meet with me. It appears the spy, I sent ahead arrived with the news that the force of Normans that had been requested by the the Emperor of Byzantium, was to arrive by sea. The Captain acknowledged they had been expecting the reinforcements. We had our Norman flags flying, and I had all the men that had received the captured Norman armor in view about the decks of the ships, all others were under orders to remain hidden below deck. The Captain asked all sorts of questions about the trouble he had heard that our "Norman" brethren had been having at home. I explained that as we had been at sea and away from all news for almost 2 months, that I was unaware of the trouble he was reporting. I stated that maybe we should turn around and go back to our lands to help our countrymen there. The Captain then reminded me that his Emperor had forged an alliance with the Normans and that troops had been promised. (Good he thinks we are the real thing, that we are the troops promised by the Normans , before we had defeated them in the great battle for Mercea!) The Captain said for us to remain where we were, while he reported back to his superiors and the Emperor. He stated that once they were satisfied with his report, the seagate would be opend for us to sail into the inner harbor to unload our ships. All seems to be going well. I wish Commander Angryminer was here with the rest of the forces, but we will do what we must, maybe he will arrive to help us mop up the countryside. And of course we will have to hold the city once we have taken it.
I called a meeting with all the Captain's to go over our plans for once we are inside the city walls. They all reported that the men have a great lust for battle and bloodshed.

Late Afternoon
The Captain returned and informed us that they would be opening the great seagate and that before we could sail in, they would have to move some of their ships out of the harbor to make room for our fleet in it's entirety.
We are to be ready in the morning, 2 of their ship's crews had been on furlough and would be returning to their ships this evening.
Tomorrow we fight!


Journal of Sakim - 21st of May
I have gathered together 500 men, and we arrived in the dunes along the shore during the night. We have travelled at night so as not to arouse the suspicions of the Council of Caliph's. I am sure they would try to prevent our leaving, if they knew. As I look over the tops of the dunes I can see the tops of the masts clearing the horizon as they are approaching the shore. Commander Angryminer should arrive soon. Then we will be off to war and to gather the spoils of war. I guess I have always been a wanderer, a soldier of fortune. Many a night and day have I looked to the horizon and wondered what lay beyond my view, and while I have seen many places there are so many more that I must see. And now my future lies with those 3 ships comong over the horizon. I long to be back at Comrade Dobber's side, sword's drawn, prepared to cover each other's back as we are carried into the heat of battle.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 16

It's the late night of the 21st of May. Sakim and 500 of his men with equipment boarded our ships. In the morning we will set sails and have norman flags flying.
We should have enough time to reach Sire Dobber's fleet before he reaches Constantinople. Even with the most favorable winds he wouldn't reach Constantinople before the end of May.
Anyway, we should make haste nevertheless. We should join forces with Sire Dobber as fast as possible.

When I train more swordsfighting with Kuno I will invite Sakim to show us this dreadful saber he is carrying.

lilmisswagonburner's log

Day 345 of being held against my will......in the year of our Lord 1563,

As I watch from the up-most window in the tower where I have hiden, I see many men with weapons attacking the gates of the city. I wonder if any of them will be able to see my signal from the ledge far below me. I had pushed out as much linen as I could find onto the ledge below in the hopes that if I can set it afire, they may see it from where they now are fighting with all their might. Many have fallen where they begain the march against the city in which I have been held against my will for so many months now. Locked up in this tower, with only myself and one maid-in-waiting. How my only companion has brighten up many a sad and gloomy day.............I only hope that we will make it out together when the many knights and pages have taken this awful place once again. I will end my dreams of freedom for now so that I may have them later..................

Kuno's log - May 22

Oh god, I'm so tired! These swordfights with Angryminer need more energy than a whole week on a pirate ship! I can still hear his commands in my ears: "Left!"..."Right side!"..."Block"..."Good!"..."Attack!"..."No! Wrong!"....
But today wasn't as hard as the other days were, he spended a lot of time for a show-fight with Sakim, he seems to be fascinated from Sakim's saber...

Our ships are now full with well trained soldiers, hope they're enough. I gave the command over my ship to Sakim as a sign of thanks for his help. (And to be honest, I don't know very much about ships, so I couldn't really give proper commands to the men. I learned some commands during the slavery on the pirate-ship, but they were in a different language and the men didn't understand them.)

The winds are good, hope we will reach Sir Dobber before he comes to Constantinople...

Adventures of Xuca

29th may
l was near Serbian border, when l saw an army camp. lt was very dark and l could see whose camp was it. l sneaked near and heard two guards talking: "We are waiting here for five days, and still he hasn't came!" ,,He'll come, you know he...someone is comming! Halt!" A man appeared from the dark, and the guards seemed to know him. "Oh, it's you. But where is he? Did he sent you as a messanger?" ,,He is dead. A Byzantin spy killed him"
Then l realised they were talking about the man l killed. My plan worked! The guards looked furious and sad at the same time. They were cursing the Byzantins and mourned their commander. One guard followed the messanger in the camp. l'll leave my horse on a safe place and sneak in the camp to hear what are they planning to do now that their leader is dead, and who are they at the first place...

Hawk_knights log 26th may
I just have now time to write in my log again. After so many days i was very busy preparing the army for an attack on the castle and developing a strategy that can overrun the enemy troops.
I had also heard about the wound that sir richard had gained in the last battle and that he is recovering swiftly.
When i was thinking about the stategy for the attack.
Sir richard came to me and said that England may be invaded by the norman army and if i was willing to help them in battle against the normans.
I said we will help you in battle but now we must take this castle to end this war with the novgorods.Then we will put ouwer army's aginst the normans.
I had told sir richard about my attack plan that i will attack from the air with my dragons and that he will attack from the ground with the infrantry and horsemen. I had said to them that the dragons will attack with fire balls to put the castle in to fire when they are busy with the fires you will attack with siegetowers, ladders and catapults. When your men are at the wall. I will charge from the air with the dragons in to there lines. And we will blast the gate open when the gate has been breached. the horsemen will charge in to the castle. Then the enemy will be overrun and can do nothing the just surrender.
We will attack in three days. I had send some spy's to the norman invasion army. I had send a message to my capital that they must prepare the reserve army for battle. Tomorrow we will continue to prepare for the attack. But now we will rest

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 9 New friend
May 27, 1005
I talked to Hawk knight about the possible norman invension to england and he accepted to help. He showed me his plan to assoult the enemy again in 2 days, but I don't think I ill be able to lead my men as my wound is still healing.
Also, the reinforcements arrived today and the men are now making them selves feel at home, but above all this things I have been talking to Roger. He is more that what meets the eye. I asked him why he was on this war been so old, and his answer was.
" Sir, the novgolods took everything I loved and had in life."
"How is that" I asked
"Well, 10 years ago I used to live in a small peacefull village with my wife son and dougter. Then one day the novgolod came and attacked our small village for no reason, all the men were called to fight and me and my son went to battle. Then, then,..." He said as tears came from his eyes
"Then what?" I asked, "What they did?"
"Then we were overwelmed and forced to surrender, but they took my son and they cuted his fingers, toungue while he was alive for no other reason than to have fun. They killed him slowly and painfuly. then they took my dougter and wife and the soldiers hung them after raping them." He said as his voice became full with anger. "So since that day I promise my self to kill any novogold soldier and if i could get the king i woulld do the same they did to my son"
I stood quit for a minute, thinking what I could say to make him feel better.
"I'm very sorry robin" I finally spoke, "I promise you, we will make that king pay what he has done, every single of his crimes, he will pay dearly"
Robin just stood there and let his tears dry, his anger went away then he said
"Thank you sir, your the first person I have tell this and is good to know I have a leader that can hear me, I have to go to work now"
So now I have seen and tasted a small portion of what this king have done to the people, and for Robin, I'm thinking on making him my personal quard or something, as he has prove to be a loyal friend in the pass days.


NaVatar's Journal

30th May

Why didn't i see that coming.....*sign* Very well...There is not much I can do in this cell anyways....Blast those normans! Why are they so persistent! Can they never give up!
I might as well review these couple days as I don't have anything else do than to stare at the cold stone wall....

After that Dobber and his army left I contiued to rally men to go with the other army.After the army size was up to 20000 or so I gave them orders to ride out.Everything was fine for many days and I got some small messenges from my spy's about the crusade to Bysantium and other stuff. But! After some days I didn't hear from my spies for a long time and I got no news about the war.This was the time I was getting suspicous and started to investigate the matter myself.
I thought to myself "If you want a job done, you have to do it yourself" so I left the crowns duty for a while to my loyal friend TKS. I discarded the warnings of my advisors and went out to act like a spy of my own.
I visited taverns (under disguise of course) and the docks for some leads about my spies, but it was futile and i didn't get any leads so I went back to the castle.

It was very quiet many days later.I had a bad feeling about everything 'cause my advisors and those nobles who were living in the huge castle were casting suspicous looks at my direction every time at dinner and whispers echoed the hall at night.
One day,oh what a day to remember, I was going to the balchony at my quarters after a small dinner with close friends.And when i stood there, looking out to the foggy air I saw a large army of Normans advancing through the mist! I was shocked that they could have advanced this close to Mercia without having been noticed.I figured that my spies got to close to the army and they got killed and because of the mist the town-guards wouldn't have noticed them anyways.I heard a noise and turned quickly around with the sword in my hand and I saw 10 men with black clothes walking with daggers towards me.They positioned in front of me and then a large man shouted "Remember! Our employe wants the king alive so if anyone kills him that unlucky bastard will be one head shorter! Got It!" And so the men charged me.

I managed to slay 4 of them but then 2 of them managed to get behind me and grabed me and I were hit in the backhead and fainted.Damn, it still hurts!.

And now i'm in this cell deep down the castle with only rats and skeletons to keep my company....well in some way they are far better company than some nobles i know....haha..ha.......ha..*sign* I'm hungry,i had only bread and water for the past week and i fell extremly weak......What shall i do.....There is noway to escape....I must keep my mood up and not fall into despair......Blast! I hate cells!


tks journal 31th may 1005

I couldint battle novogrodians with my friends hawkknight and richard as king navtar made an urgent call puting me temporarly king at mercia. the king have still not returned from his journey .

later on that day

what in gods name i get reports of an huge army approaching our borders . i order the border guards to trippel the manship and watch out for any unexpected attacks . i sent messengers to all our allies as this might be another even more threatning enemy then the normens.

Traveller's Log - May 25th
Hide and Seek
After a whole day search I came to the conclusion that the assassin has escaped from the camp. There is no sign of him. I ordered a check-up of the list we made before to see who's missing. It seems that four people have left the camp in the disorder, caused by Lord Xuca's death. Men continue searching the forrest, but with no result. I have to do something, but what?! All I could do was to put in use the old tactic of punishment and reward. I gathered the men and told them: "My friends, there is a traitor among us! Atleast one, but maybe even more. I want to make it clear to you: We WILL catch them! Sooner or later we will! And when we do, they'll pay the price of treason costly! So, if you hear me now - give up and you may survive! Because I will catch you and there will be no mercy then! And to all who might have some information, concerning some suspicious persons and/or Lord Xuca's death - report to me or some of the high commanders and you may receive a reward, sufficient enough to buy yourself from the best beer for years ahead! That is, if it leads us to the villain, ofcourse..." I can now only hope this will startle them and they'll give up what they know, both to avoid the punisment and to receive the reward! Maybe even some of the assassin's associates could give up. Not very likely, but there is a chance...

Also a messenger arived today from the Bulgarian reinforcements. I couldn't let him in the camp (maybe I should put a sign "Quarantine"), so he had to give me the message through the palisade. The Bulgarian forces were on the way and would reach us within three days. Nearly 4000 men, of which around 3000 fine Bulgarian horsemen, would aid us, doubling our army size. I told the messenger to tell them to tighten the control of the guards and to look for foreign persons. I don't want the assassin to join them and later to enter our camp. But when the reinforcements arive we'll have to continue our way immediately. We have lost too much time. Time that might cost our allies dearly... So, when both armies join, we'll march to the Serbian-Hungarian border! Even if it costs me my life...

Adventures of Xuca
26th may

l followed the traitor for two days and finally reached his camp, where was about 20 men. They welcomed him and one of them asked: ,,Who is the man with you" and he said: ,,lt's our control, and l don't like being controled, get rid of him tonight" Then a plan came to me, but l'll have to wait for the dark.

Then the traitor talked about his conversation with the Byzantin in the forest, and then they were planning which spy would take which actions. l was surprised how well organised they were and how many people was on their side. They mentioned even the King's finest spy to take the most dangerous action - the murder of the Hungarian King. And their conversation lasted deep into the night. Soon after, they retired.

They left only one guard, which was not such a smart move, so l started to act. First l got rid of the guard. He was standing near a bush where l was hiding. l waited for him to get closer, and the l striked him from behing, stabbing my sword right in his heart! Then l hid near the Greek's tent to wait for his assassin. When he came, l striked him same as l striked the guard. Now it was Greek's turn. l needed to kill him without a mess, so l started to strangle him. He woke up, tried to shout, but l sqeezed his throat so hard, he couldn't make noise. Soon, he was dead. l searched him and, unfortunately, found nothing. l took his body and his belongings and carryed them out of the camp.

Then l retourned to finish my job by killing their leader. l took the Greek's dagger and sneaked back in the camp. The leader was drunk and couldn't hear nothing, so l was quick stabbing him and left the dagger in his cheast.

l took the Greek's body and burryed it deep in the forest, so now the traitors will think he was sent to assassinate their leader, and the Byzantins wil think they killed their man. This will ruin their cooperation and give me enough time to reach my, and the Hungarian King and worn them. l took the Greek's horse and l found a letter in the traitors leader's tent, but l can't read it, it's too dark right now, and l don't know how will this what l'm writing look in the morning...


Traveller's Log - May 26th
Birds song
I can't believe it! I just can't believe it! I think luck finally smiled upon me! I thought that my yesterdays anouncement would have no effect, but I was obviously wrong. Today two men came to my tent and wanted to speak with me. The guards searched them for hidden weapons, but found none. They looked scared and guilty, but also a spark of greed could be seen in their eyes. "They're here for the prize", I thought. "I'm tired of this! So many men came here with such absurd "informations", like that Lord Xuca himself was the assassin for example, that I'm beginning to think about a punishment for all, who try to lie me." But those two were different. They told me there was a small "underground network" in the army, which was comanded by some foreigner, rumours suggest a Byzantine. He recruited some men, including my two "birdies" here, promising them a substantial ammount of money. But since he ran away from the camp and left them to do on their own, many of the recruited have started to fear for their rewards and their lives. Some have also ran away after Lord Xuca's death, but some are still in the camp, worrying about their heads. The others didn't want to surrender themselves to me, because they didn't trust me and maybe they're right! My two new "friends" promised to show me the other traitors and to give me proof of their guilt. They also said they might know where the master-assassin is hiding and would lead me there. I don't really trust them, but this trace is worth following. Besides, in two days the reinforcements would come and we'll have to continue our way. I have no other chance than to risk! That's why I ordered all acused to be arrested and interrogated. If they prove guilty, they'll be decapitated! To my informers I gave a small ammount of money, saying I'd give them the rest when we capture the assassin. Ofcourse, I can't let such traitors to go away unpunished, despite my promise not to hurt them. That's why in all the battles we'll have, they'll be on the first line, at the heart of the battle. They'll have the chance to redeem their crimes either through their bravery or with their blood! I wash my hands clean...

Adventures of Xuca
27th may

When it got lighter, l emediatelly read the letter. lt was a letter from Byzantin Emperor himself to the Serbian noble Vladislav Pavlovic recogniseing him as the King of Serbia and his ally! And there are instructions how to bring Hungay to their side! Knez Vladislav is King's right hand! l can't belive he's the traitor! l must worn the King, but l don't belive he'll belive me! Better first to go to the King of Hungary, it's more important to prevent him declaring war to Serbia, and now l have some proof. l might have a plan:
lf Hungarians belive me, they will catch the spies, and we can force one to reveal how it was planed for them to report they succeded being caught, and then missguide the traitors we don't know about the plan. Traveller will probably arrive with the army, and maybe, just maybe the Hungarians agree to help us against the Byzantium and send an army, too. Then the rebels would think the Hungarians come to help them, so we could crush them with ease. And, of course, the King must not know anything before the rebellion starts, because he could never belive Knez Vladislav could want to raise a rebellion. l'll think about the plan a little more...


Journal of Sakim - 18th of May

The meeting with the Caliph's was not as promising as I thought it would be. I had expected wholehearted support. But there seems to be a split in the council, They desire to confer with each other and give me their answer on the morrow.
Later in the day I met with Commander Angryminer and informed him the decision is delayed another day, but we will have an answer tomorrow. I also informed him that in the meantime I would be mustering all the support I could and that if the Council of the Caliph's decided against aiding in the effort, I would take what support I could muster on my own and join them on their voyage.

Journal of Sakim - 19th of May

The Council refused their support. What I can do must be on my own effort and my popularity with many of the men. I send messages to all those who support me, to meet me in 2 days, a half days journey to the west where we first met Dobber.

I reported to Angryminer the unfortunate news, and tell him of my plan. He will sail from the harbor as if he is leaving and will then sail west to the spot we first met along the coast. I will meet him there 2 days hence with all the men I can muster and what supplies I can slip off with.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 15

Bad news, the local nobility doesn't seem to want to support us with more soldiers. But this Sakim offered us nevertheless to support us with as much as he can effort and he said he will follow us on the journey against Constantinople.
He seems to be very courageous. I begin to understand why Sire Dobber counts him to his closest friends.
We boarded the ships again and sailed out of the harbour. While I am writing this we are loosing sight of the harbour and will turn soon westwards where we are to meet Sakim again in two days. I close the log now, I'll go and give Kuno some training in swordfighting with a shield now on the deck.

Angryminer

Traveller's Log - May 28th
Mouse, cheese and...
It seems the two "double-traitors" didn't lie to me! It has been proven that all those, who were accused by them are really a part of this spy network. 22 men were publicly decapitated yesterday. I can't let the other soldiers think they can commit treason without being punished! Ofcourse, nobody knows about the two, that are left. And for their own good, they better keep their mouths shut!

Today the reinforcements were supposed to come. I thought this is a good oportunity for the assassin to mix with them, while they march to us and that he'll probably use this chance. That's why we prepared an ambush for him. During the night I took some men with me and left the camp. We separated on two groups, with each there was a "guide". One gorup left to see if the information about the assassin's location was right. And my group went to reach the reinforcements and warn them of the ambush. Both groups had to be very careful not to let the "informers" to escape AND not to be noticed by the assassin.
We reached the Bulgarian camp in the night. I guess they took my recommendation too serious and they nearly shot us! Luckily, they recognized me, some of the men had seen me, while I was in service of Lord Nike. I spoke with their commander and discussed the plan with him. He thought the plan's too risky and the Romean could escape, but since we had nothing else in mind, he agreed with it. We remained in the camp, because we would travel with them to our camp, watching for suspicious elements. But we had to hide in the commander's tent, so that we won't be seen from unwanted eyes. I hope the commander won't hate us for disturbing him, although one of my companions snored like a lumber-mill! The next morning (today actually) everything was normal. The men extinguished the fire, collected the tents and prepared for the road. My men and most of the horsemen in the army were on their horses, ready for an eventual pursuit. But I hoped we won't need to come to this. And so, we continued towards our camp. It all seemed peaceful, there was no sign of any kind of movement. Only the birds sang from the nearby forest. "Could've he saw the other group and ran away? I hope not! Then we'll never be able to catch him! But, no, wait!" I was riding at the end of the column, so that I could see around clearly. "Where did this guy came from?", I thought. There was a man right next to me, a man that wasn't there before. Thank God I had put my hood on and he didn't recognize me! He weared armour exactly like the Bulgarian type. He even had the signs of a lower Bulgarian officer! But I didn't saw him yesterday in the camp and I saw ALL of the officers there. "I should test him!", I thought and then I said on Greek "Hey, your mantle's unbuttoned!" He instinctively reached his hand to his shoulder, unwittingly showing he knows Greek. And yesterday the commander told me none of the lower officers speaks Greek, because they weren't so well educated as the high officers! I jumped at him and knocked him down on the ground. We started fighting and suddenly my hood fell. When he saw my face, he recognized me. Hatred was burning in his eyes! With an unexpectable strength for his body, he throwed me away and pulled out a dagger from somewhere. He threw himself at me, but I wasn't able to defend. Only a few more seconds and I would be dead! But the Providence was with me and an arrow pierced his hand. I nearly forgot I was travelling with a whole army! They had seen I was fighting on the ground, but couldn't shoot, because they might hit me, too. But now that his body was clear, one accurate archer saved my life and rendered the assassin harmless. Seeing this, the Greek tried to escape, but how could a bare-footed man escape from horsemen? They captured him and he's now in chains in our camp. Some very skillful men are "persuading" him to talk. And we're also examining what we found in him and in his camp. He'll soon talk! ... He better do!

Heretics
Desert Notes

For travelling across the deserts the camel serves the best. Caliph sent me a letter where invited me to Alexandria. It was a short letter, but I knew Caliph well and I could understand that there is something serious, even without many words. He also asked me to take the best camels and my faithful horse, so I must go to meet him quickly.
Tomorow I'll leave the town. Or maybe this night. The sky is clear, it will be cold...

Wowlops log May 17th

My crew and i have been digging for days. We have finaly compleated our task. The tresure is buried and we have burned all evidence of our pressince on this mysterious island. Last night i could have sworn i saw something in the shadows of the fire light but i convised myself otherwise. It appers this island has a stage effect on one's pressince of realality. I have noticed a strage rash on the men's faces but they apper to take no notice of it. Who ever inhabited this island befor us must have placed a curse on it i swear by the gods we migh all perish here if help dose not arrive soon.


June 6 - Dobber's log

I do not know what happened to Commander Angryminer and the other 3 captured ships, I hope they have not run into any trouble. The winds have been very favorable to us. Maybe that is why they have not arrived yet. And they could have been detained in Africa a few days longer than I anticipated. We are outside the seagate at Constantinople. Earlier today a launch was sent out with a Captain and a few men to meet with me. It appears the spy, I sent ahead arrived with the news that the force of Normans that had been requested by the the Emperor of Byzantium, was to arrive by sea. The Captain acknowledged they had been expecting the reinforcements. We had our Norman flags flying, and I had all the men that had received the captured Norman armor in view about the decks of the ships, all others were under orders to remain hidden below deck. The Captain asked all sorts of questions about the trouble he had heard that our "Norman" brethren had been having at home. I explained that as we had been at sea and away from all news for almost 2 months, that I was unaware of the trouble he was reporting. I stated that maybe we should turn around and go back to our lands to help our countrymen there. The Captain then reminded me that his Emperor had forged an alliance with the Normans and that troops had been promised. (Good he thinks we are the real thing, that we are the troops promised by the Normans , before we had defeated them in the great battle for Mercea!) The Captain said for us to remain where we were, while he reported back to his superiors and the Emperor. He stated that once they were satisfied with his report, the seagate would be opend for us to sail into the inner harbor to unload our ships. All seems to be going well. I wish Commander Angryminer was here with the rest of the forces, but we will do what we must, maybe he will arrive to help us mop up the countryside. And of course we will have to hold the city once we have taken it.
I called a meeting with all the Captain's to go over our plans for once we are inside the city walls. They all reported that the men have a great lust for battle and bloodshed.

Late Afternoon

The Captain returned and informed us that they would be opening the great seagate and that before we could sail in, they would have to move some of their ships out of the harbor to make room for our fleet in it's entirety.
We are to be ready in the morning, 2 of their ship's crews had been on furlough and would be returning to their ships this evening.
Tomorrow we fight!

Journal of Sakim - 21st of May

I have gathered together 500 men, and we arrived in the dunes along the shore during the night. We have travelled at night so as not to arouse the suspicions of the Council of Caliph's. I am sure they would try to prevent our leaving, if they knew. As I look over the tops of the dunes I can see the tops of the masts clearing the horizon as they are approaching the shore. Commander Angryminer should arrive soon. Then we will be off to war and to gather the spoils of war. I guess I have always been a wanderer, a soldier of fortune. Many a night and day have I looked to the horizon and wondered what lay beyond my view, and while I have seen many places there are so many more that I must see. And now my future lies with those 3 ships comong over the horizon. I long to be back at Comrade Dobber's side, sword's drawn, prepared to cover each other's back as we are carried into the heat of battle.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 16

It's the late night of the 21st of May. Sakim and 500 of his men with equipment boarded our ships. In the morning we will set sails and have norman flags flying.
We should have enough time to reach Sire Dobber's fleet before he reaches Constantinople. Even with the most favorable winds he wouldn't reach Constantinople before the end of May.
Anyway, we should make haste nevertheless. We should join forces with Sire Dobber as fast as possible.

When I train more swordsfighting with Kuno I will invite Sakim to show us this dreadful saber he is carrying.

Angryminer

lilmisswagonburner
Day 345 of being held against my will......in the year of our Lord 1563,

As I watch from the up-most window in the tower where I have hiden, I see many men with weapons attacking the gates of the city. I wonder if any of them will be able to see my signal from the ledge far below me. I had pushed out as much linen as I could find onto the ledge below in the hopes that if I can set it afire, they may see it from where they now are fighting with all their might. Many have fallen where they begain the march against the city in which I have been held against my will for so many months now. Locked up in this tower, with only myself and one maid-in-waiting. How my only companion has brighten up many a sad and gloomy day.............I only hope that we will make it out together when the many knights and pages have taken this awful place once again. I will end my dreams of freedom for now so that I may have them later..................

Kuno's log - May 22

Oh god, I'm so tired! These swordfights with Angryminer need more energy than a whole week on a pirate ship! I can still hear his commands in my ears: "Left!"..."Right side!"..."Block"..."Good!"..."Attack!"..."No! Wrong!"....
But today wasn't as hard as the other days were, he spended a lot of time for a show-fight with Sakim, he seems to be fascinated from Sakim's saber...

Our ships are now full with well trained soldiers, hope they're enough. I gave the command over my ship to Sakim as a sign of thanks for his help. (And to be honest, I don't know very much about ships, so I couldn't really give proper commands to the men. I learned some commands during the slavery on the pirate-ship, but they were in a different language and the men didn't understand them.)

The winds are good, hope we will reach Sir Dobber before he comes to Constantinople...

Adventures of Xuca
29th may

l was near Serbian border, when l saw an army camp. lt was very dark and l could see whose camp was it. l sneaked near and heard two guards talking: "We are waiting here for five days, and still he hasn't came!" ,,He'll come, you know he...someone is comming! Halt!" A man appeared from the dark, and the guards seemed to know him. "Oh, it's you. But where is he? Did he sent you as a messanger?" ,,He is dead. A Byzantin spy killed him"
Then l realised they were talking about the man l killed. My plan worked! The guards looked furious and sad at the same time. They were cursing the Byzantins and mourned their commander. One guard followed the messanger in the camp. l'll leave my horse on a safe place and sneak in the camp to hear what are they planning to do now that their leader is dead, and who are they at the first place...


Hawk_knights log 26th may
I just have now time to write in my log again. After so many days i was very busy preparing the army for an attack on the castle and developing a strategy that can overrun the enemy troops.
I had also heard about the wound that sir richard had gained in the last battle and that he is recovering swiftly.
When i was thinking about the stategy for the attack.
Sir richard came to me and said that England may be invaded by the norman army and if i was willing to help them in battle against the normans.
I said we will help you in battle but now we must take this castle to end this war with the novgorods.Then we will put ouwer army's aginst the normans.
I had told sir richard about my attack plan that i will attack from the air with my dragons and that he will attack from the ground with the infrantry and horsemen. I had said to them that the dragons will attack with fire balls to put the castle in to fire when they are busy with the fires you will attack with siegetowers, ladders and catapults. When your men are at the wall. I will charge from the air with the dragons in to there lines. And we will blast the gate open when the gate has been breached. the horsemen will charge in to the castle. Then the enemy will be overrun and can do nothing the just surrender.
We will attack in three days. I had send some spy's to the norman invasion army. I had send a message to my capital that they must prepare the reserve army for battle. Tomorrow we will continue to prepare for the attack. But now we will rest

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 9 New friend
May 27, 1005
I talked to Hawk knight about the possible norman invension to england and he accepted to help. He showed me his plan to assoult the enemy again in 2 days, but I don't think I ill be able to lead my men as my wound is still healing.
Also, the reinforcements arrived today and the men are now making them selves feel at home, but above all this things I have been talking to Roger. He is more that what meets the eye. I asked him why he was on this war been so old, and his answer was.
" Sir, the novgolods took everything I loved and had in life."
"How is that" I asked
"Well, 10 years ago I used to live in a small peacefull village with my wife son and dougter. Then one day the novgolod came and attacked our small village for no reason, all the men were called to fight and me and my son went to battle. Then, then,..." He said as tears came from his eyes
"Then what?" I asked, "What they did?"
"Then we were overwelmed and forced to surrender, but they took my son and they cuted his fingers, toungue while he was alive for no other reason than to have fun. They killed him slowly and painfuly. then they took my dougter and wife and the soldiers hung them after raping them." He said as his voice became full with anger. "So since that day I promise my self to kill any novogold soldier and if i could get the king i woulld do the same they did to my son"
I stood quit for a minute, thinking what I could say to make him feel better.
"I'm very sorry robin" I finally spoke, "I promise you, we will make that king pay what he has done, every single of his crimes, he will pay dearly"
Robin just stood there and let his tears dry, his anger went away then he said
"Thank you sir, your the first person I have tell this and is good to know I have a leader that can hear me, I have to go to work now"
So now I have seen and tasted a small portion of what this king have done to the people, and for Robin, I'm thinking on making him my personal quard or something, as he has prove to be a loyal friend in the pass days.

NaVatar's Journal

Don't know what day it is.

How many days have past since i was thrown in this cell.....2? 7? 14? A month? A year?
I have thought of many things while being in here, like my old captain F-rankishKnight, May he rest in peace. TKS my loyal friend. Dobber and how he didn't thrust me. Angryminer, who I found in the forest.And the other people i have got the honor to meet and. I think about my family, my wife and my unborn child.Wonder if it will be boy or a girl.I try to smile as i think about that, but i can't.
Last i think of my betrayal to my comrades a long time ago which fills me with angry and sadness and it would have brought me to tears if i wasn't so dehydrated. I have silently vowed to do anything to meet my comrades and family again before i die.

I still haven't found a way to escape this foul cell yet and right know i can't barely stand up for 15 minutes before i crash down on my knees again.
Wonder what happens upstairs? I wonder if the army managed to conquer my fair city or not. I'm sure they managed to, but one never knows.The walls is so thick that i don't hear anything from outside.

The only people I seen for a long time is the one's who gives me the little food I get and ocassinally gives me a punch on the face or a kick on the stomache.
I must think out an plan to get out of here...and soon...cause i don't know how much longer i can take this

Some hours later.

I have finaly develop a plan how I will break out from this cell so the next time that cell door opens, that person who comes in here will get a suprise of a lifetime!
Hopefully my plan will work perfectly.


June 7 - Dobber's log

Early morning

The watch in the crow's nest has just reported 3 Norman flags cresting the horizon, my Commander has arrived, and none to soon, for the great seagate is opening to allow us passage inside the great walls of the city. But what is this? As the byzantine ships exit to make room for us in the harbour, they are splitting to either side of my fleet. What is going on? I do not like the looks of this, then I notice the archers lining the decks. Holy sh**! Signal the other ships to full sail and turn out of here before they reach our flanks, they have discovered somehow, we are not what we had seemed. I order my ship to stand it's ground we must cover the rest of the fleet as they retreat. They must get clear and join Commander Angryminer and Sir Gersenau, so they can fight another day. Maybe we can maneuver ourselves into being able to retreat also but not until my fleet is out of danger. If the Byzantine fleet opens fire we will also. Archers to the decks, prepare the firepots. Maybe Commander Angryminer can see our ships turning and not come on in to close, or at least position themselves to cover our ships if there is pursuit.

"All hands on deck and prepare for the battle of your life!" "Give it to them! From both sides FIRE!" They seem to be trying to disable us but not sink us. I will not be taken prisoner! If we cannot escape the ship will go down and I along with it! We will make them sink us, none of the men want to rot in a Byzantine prison. The Byzantines are having to concentrate on our ship, because we are really pouring it to them. I look to see that the rest of the fleet is picking up speed and will soon be far enough from the battle to evade the Byzantine fleet should they make the effort to catch them. Maybe they will settle for the prize of the Flagship of the fleet. I wonder how the Byzantines discovered my plan, who sold us out or was it something else. I have no way of knowing what has been happening with the land campaign. Who knows everybody may be wiped out by now. It may all be over and for naught!
They have finally realized we are not going to surrender, and want no more damage to their fleet. They have rammed us with a fireship. We are going down, but the men are under orders to fight until the water rushes over them. We will give them no prisoners.
Commander Angryminer, if this log should ever make it's way into your hands, you will know that I have officially handed over full Command of the force to you! Give them H*LL! when you finally make it into battle. Find Sir Nike and tell him of my fate. I will wrap my log book in oilskin and toss it into the sea, and maybe somehow someday it will make it into the hands of my friends! Farewell my trusted friend and get word to Sakim for me also, I am sure he will want revenge!


*As Dobber prepares to toss the oilskin wrapped logbook into the sea, sail rigging and yardarms fall to the quarterdeck and knock him into the sea !*

TKS log 7th june 1005


I KNEW IT , the normens along with there allies the italians have made a massive invasion . my border guards was killed by norish night attacks they didnt have a chance to defend themself . right now i can see an army approaching its very massive more then 20000 soldiers and 1000 of cavlary
.ive sended messenger for
help to our nearest ally mithdril i hope cant get any support from hawkknight and richard.

an hour later

they are only a couple meters from the castle i can see the army now . its gigantic . theyve got over 50000 soldiers . theyve brought everything - heavy cavlary , archers , ballistas , catapults . and heavy infarty . they wont be easyly . ive sent a messenger to request war bargain meeting for tommorow.

June 7 - Kunos log

noon

Today is a very sad day! The Leader of our Army, Sire Dobber left our world...:( Our three ships reached Consantinople this morning, right at time like it seemed. The seagates were open and Sire Dobbers ship was entering. Then all of a sudden the Byzantine ships started to attack Sire Dobber! The rest of the fleet could turn around, but Sire Dobber's flag ship sank...

Now Comander Angryminer has taken over the control and let the fleet go out of danger. Every man on the ships had tears in the eyes and anger in the heart, but all saw that it would be useless to attack the city now...
When we were out of danger Angryminer and Sakim went under deck to make a new plan, may god help us this time!

For this evening a symbolic burial is planned, we will give this man, who was more noble than most of todays kings, his last honor.

When all seems to be dark,
keep proudness, honor
and hope in your heart!
Then a new sun will rise!


Traveller's Log - May 29th
The beginning of the end
Now I'm sure this is the one, who killed my Lord Nike! This is the evil murderer! May God curse his soul to Hell! In his small camp (just a grass "bed", actually. He didn't even made a fire, so that he wouldn't get caught), the group found his belongings. Ofcourse, there were no letters or anything that could link him directly with some of the Royal Courts of the Balkan countries. He was too smart to leave such evidence! But he couldn't go without proper clothing. He would ditinguish himself too much if he weared Roman clothes in the Bulgarian camp or Hungarian clothes in Serbia. But he needed such clothes and that's exactly what we found. He had, as I already wrote, the uniform of a Bulgarian lower officer and ofcourse his real Greek and some Serbian clothes. Some men from the camp recognized the signs of the Serbian noble Vladislav Pavlovic. Could've the Greek stolen those clothes or were they a "gift"? And was he alone? I doubt it! The Romeans have the nasty habit to use many "ways to victory". They wouldn't let only one man to do such an important job. There are probably more agents... No, not probably. I'm sure there are! I'm absolutely sure there are agents not only here, appointed to disable the command of the enemy armies, but also in the High court of Hungary. Byzantium rarely fights alone. They prefer to buy some ally to join them, like they did with the Normans, and like they obviously do with the Magyars. I'm afraid there may be even Greek spies in the Courts of Bulgaria and Serbia! I certainly hope not, but everything is possible...
Anyway, how was I so sure this is the exact assassin I was after? Easy! He may be a spy, but even spies are humans and are... how to say... fragile... The interogators managed to break him easily, without any kind of "uncivilised torture". Psychologic interogation is so much better! So, they broke him and he convinced that he was sent from the Royal Court in Constantinopol to disable the effectiveness of the Bulgarian and the Serbian armies by "getting rid" of their high commanders. He also convinced that he killed Lord Nike with a poisoned arrow in the battle at the Balkan passes. Strangely, he insisted that he wasn't responsible for Lord Xuca's death. This proves my guess that there are also other spies sent!
Well, my job here is done! After we squeezed out all we could from him, I ordered the Greek to be hang on a tree in the forest, like a normal criminal, and I personaly put the loop on his head. My master has been avenged! I have left command of the armies to their commanders, although I'm still not sure why they beared to follow my orders. Maybe because of my closeness to Lord Xuca and my service to Lord Nike. I don't know that either... Anyway, the Serbians would do the same without me, so they don't need me anymore and now I should travel south-east, to Bulgaria. I'll see how's the preparation for the great siege of Constantinopol going. How many men, armour and weapons are ready, how many siege weapons and ships do we have at our disposal and such. Maybe I'll hear something of the North and the South campaigns, too. And then I'll probably enter the Romean lands. We have spies, too, not only the foul Greeks! I'll reach Constantinopol for maximum a week after I depart from Bulgaria and there I'll look for an eventual weakness of the walls. Somewhere we could breach with ease! Because Constantinopol is a huge, self-sufficient city, with a population of over 1 million, spread on two continents, that could hardly be exhausted by hunger and it's walls are the greatest this world has ever seen. The siege would be long and bloody if we don't find an easier way to enter!


Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 17

Disaster! The byzantine destroyed the ship of Sire Dobber!
We're clueless why they destroyed a ship that was flying the norman's flag. We had to withdraw the fleet because most of our ships aren't usefull for a seafight.
The byzantine didn't follow because they were wise enough to not be distracted from protecting their harbour. I ordered to cease flying the norman flags. Propably the normans betrayed the byzantine while we were on sea.
After the byzantine ships were out of sight I told Sakim and Kuno to come to the flagship so we can make up a new strategy.
The situation is disasterous! Sire Dobber is dead and he was the only one to know the secret plan how we are to conquer mighty Constantinople. We won't be able to fulfill our campaign without this plan.
We must find out why the byzantine attacked a "norman" ship. A spy? Unpropable. How should a spy get the information about us to Constantinople while we are seaborn? Even if a spy got the idea in Africa, he wouldn't have been able to get the information to Constantinople before we arrived there.
We will have to land somewhere soon to get new supplies. But where? The african nobles are growing increasingly unhappy with our presence and we have no other allies in the mediterranean sea. Also, it is sure that our presence in africa wouldn't remain unknown for long. Surely some of the unhappy nobles would tell the byzantine, if they didn't already send a messanger... Propably there are already byzantine warships on the way to Africa...

Traveller's Log - June 7th
A flew over the Greeks nest
A week since I haven't entered anything in my log-book. A week since I left the army and rode to the Bulgarian tzardom to gather information and prepare for my "spying mission". A week since my revenge...
I arrived at the Bulgarian capital of Ohrid (freed from the Romean hands) to see how's the recruitment going and hear news of the war. It seems our troops have quickly stormed through the Greek peninsula and have captured almost all of it, including the rich city of Thessaloniki. Soon Peloponesos will fall too and only the Greek islansd will remain in enemys hands. And also less than two weeks had passed since the Tzar anounced he's calling all the men under his banners. But so many Bulgarians were flocking to the city! I guess they were too eager to "return the favour" to the centuries-long enemy... I even heard an interesting funny story: In one village the messenger with the news of the mobilization came at late night. The "mayor" of the town thought it's too late to wake up the men and that he'll tell them in the morning. But when he did, the men beated him saying "What were you waiting for? The Romans to come? There's no time! If the orders are "Immediate mobilization" than immediate mobilization it is!" ( Hehe, another real event from the Bulgarian history during the First Balkan War) And so the preparation's going well. We'll be able to gather the enormous ammount of more than 100 000 men in less than a month if things go with this speed. And ofcourse many more will join during the march south. Never before has Europe seen such an army gather to war. At the year of 917 our Tzar Simeon the Great fought a battle near the Aheloi river with 60 000 of his men and crushed the 62 000-men Romean army. This was one of the biggest and most glorious battles in Europe. But now... Now this is surely going to be the Biggest European battle, if not in the whole world even! Siege weapons are being built, ships are being repaired... Unfortunately, we'll need many more ships in order to block Constantinopol and overcome the great Byzantine navy, which numbers up to more than 2000 ships. We'll need help in that matter! I hoped that this Sire Dobber has secured enough ships and men, but I haven't received any news neither about him, nor abouth the kingdom of Mithdrill. The scouts that Tzar Samuil sent had not yet returned. That's why I decided to go down to Byzantium right away. To scout the area ahead and possibly to enter Constantinopol.
And now here I am, after crossing whole Eastern Thrace, at the shores of the Bosphorus strait... Watching the Great city and the Norman ships, waiting to enter the city and the rising Sun behind them... Hah, here they go! Those dammed Romans are getting even more reinforcements and in the distance are coming more Norman ships! But... What the heck?! The Normans started firing arrows at the nearby Greek ships and are trying to turn back and escape. What the hell are the doing? I thought the Normans were allied with the Romans! Most of the ships managed to escape in a safe distance and the Greeks don't seem to be eager in pursuing them. Hmm... I don't understand a thing... But wait! I see something shiny in the water! This might just be my new prisoner I wanted so much for Christmas! If he's not dead ofcourse... We'll see! I'm going to check it out...


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 10 The fall of novgolods
May 30.
Early in the morning we mobilised to go back to midrill's capital. The men's moral is extreamlly high as for the great victory we adquiered yesterday. What a battle it was, deadly and bloody. I had never seen so many men die.
I thought I wasn;t going to be able to fight alone side my men since my wound still hurt, but for Hawk knight's plan to work I needed to be there commanding the infantry. Roger, what a breat guy he is, did something I can't explain. He came on to my tent and said.
" Sir, your boys are going to need you, so why aren't you ready to go to fight?"
My wound" I said " I can't ride my horse"
"Ahhh, you think you can't" Roger said with a big smile "You just need to belive you can"
Then I tryed to stand and like a miracle nothing hurted, I looked at my wound and was stil there, but I felt nothing. How he could have done this? I stil don't know, but all I know is that I ride my horse onto the battle field. First came Hawk knight with his dragons and stormed the castle. As thought this weakened the walls as the men were trying to turn off the fire. I sended the leader man and siege towers. Then came a cry, "For Glory and Death" And all the men charged across the field onto the walls. The cavarly Charge after when the men opened the gate. What a slouter it was, 1000's of men laid dead on the ground. Me and my companion guards took the King prisoner and put him in a cell later. After we won the day became black as clouds rushed and a stream of blood was formed as the rain and blood of the fallen convined in the ground. But I hadn't seen Roger during all this time, maybe he was curing the wounded?
Then out of the keep came a man with a small dagger, stained with blood. Then I saw his face and it was roger!
"Where were you?" I asked
"I was checking the prisoners sir" he answered " the king is dead"
"What, how is that"? I asked
"An accident probably sir" he said with satisfaction
"And accident? HUH! I said as i looked at the dagger, the blood was still fresh
"Don't let another such accident happen again, Do I make myself clear?"
"yes sir" he said as he went to help the wounded
I went into the cells and there the king laid, or parts of him. I remmembered what Roger had told me about what he would do to the kind if he ever had the chance. " I will make him pay for what he did to my son, the same way" the voice ringed in my head. The finger of the kinf were hacked away, so were his, his... manly gifts. I pictured everything that happened, the king had had a slowly, painfull death. It is unbelieveble what can hatred and revenge do to a simple man like Roger. So now we march onto Middrill to hear what info the spys have gather about the possible norman invasion and get new supplys, rainforcements.

Journal of Sakim - 7th of June

As dawn was breaking, we caught sight of the great walls of Constantinople. The great seagates were opening and suddenly all but one of Comrade Dobber's ships were turning and heading out to sea. Ships were bursting into flames. I knew all to well the significance of the ship that did not turn. I am sure it was Comrade Dobber's Flagship!
My friend would give his life to save the lives of as many of his men as he could. I am also sure he would have had some of the bravest men in his force aboard that ship with him. Men that would proudly stand at his side until their dieing breath. I wish that I could have been there at his side, no nobler way to die than to be at the side of one such as he, one that counts it not courage or bravery, but his duty as a leader to stand while staring death in the face and daring it to bring on all it has got.
I will not mourn for him, he would not want that. But once we reach landfall and join with our alliance, the enemy will see the wrath of Sakim. This sabre on my side will sever many a head from it's body as I count coupe for Comrade Dobber. Allah, be praised!

Commander Angryminer has asked Sir Gersenau and myself to meet with him to plan our next move. He desires to know Comrade Dobber's plan of attack on Constantinople. He can forget that plan, it didn't work! There is talk that maybe some one betrayed us to the Byzantines, that someone tipped them to Dobber's plan. But that is not possible, it has to be something else. For I alone knew Comrade Dobber's plan. Once we were all back together and inside the seagates, he was to make his plan known to all his Commanders and Captains. For his plan to work we would have to be within the walls of the city. We were to accomplish that by entering the city as Norman forces sent to help in their war effort. Once inside we were going to methodically move through the city in close combat, slaughtering everyone that crossed our path, man, woman or child. The men because they are our enemy, the women because they give bith to our enemy and the children because they grow up to become our enemy.
Perhaps the Byzantines heard of the defeat handed to the Normans in Mercea and decided they wished not to be aligned with a nation that suffered such a defeat.
I must set aside my journal for now and go meet with Angryminer.


Adventures of Xuca
29th may

The soldiers in the camp lighted a fire and l saw that they were wearing Knez Vladislav's uniforms! But l saw some men wearing same uniforms as mine! So l decided to enter the camp and maybe talk to some soldier, but first l removed my rank marks. The whole camp was awake now, while the messanger and some men talked. There was many peasants in the camp who looked like they were just recruted! When l was about to estimate the number of men in the camp, someone put a hand on my shoulder. l froze of fear, when l heard a voice saying: ,,Xuca, my friend, is it really you!?" l turned an saw my best friend from childhood. l just couldn't belive that he is in the rebel army! We had a long talk about many unimportant things, when l decided to ask him why he joined the rebal army, he answered: ,,Well, from the same reason as all: to stop the tyrany and bring Knez Vladislav to the throne." Tyrany? TYRANY? lt seems that Knez Vladislav was a tyran, and all his deeds assigned to the King!
Then the men who talked with the messanger stood up and prepared to announce something. One said: ,,Soldiers! With our commander killed by the foul Byzantins, we have no other option, but to revenge! We will continue with our plan for now, but when when the rebellion is over, we will act!"
l left the camp as soon as everyone fell asleep. So, they will continue with their plan. l must now hurry to Hungary, l lost too much time allready...

heretic
Desert Notes

The Desert is so wide... The town lights slowly disapearred beyond dunes. I turned my camel back and left the squad for a while. I wanted to look at the town once more, I felt like as I leave it for ever.

We travelled not very long and finally noticed the towers of Alexandria on the horizon. The city was more beautifull after first time I saw it. But I can't have a trip along these cosy streets, located as a labyrinth, because Caliph is waiting for me in his stronghold.
The audience was ordered at the evening, very soon, so I have few time to prepare.
My friend Caliph welcomed me in the big room, illuminated with many lanterns. The excellent form windows were vestured with gauzy hangings, coloured in red by the setting sun. "You've always had a perfect taste" - said I and we huged. We talked a little and then Caliph said why he had invited me. "Here is the letter, which must be carried to the Byzantine Emperor and quickly. It is my answer to his proposal. I heard they have some problems with Bulgarians and Serbians and it can end in not very good way. Armies are preparing to assault Constantinopol..."

Next morning another travel is waiting. But now - much harder, across the Sea.
I'll need to be very careful.

Adventures of Xuca
6th June

l am in a town, four days away from the Hungarian border. Nothing interesting happened to me these days, only that some men in almost every town or village tried to recruit me to the rebel army. l can say that the reply was always swift: they didn't live to see another day...
l am thinking about my comrades. Has Sire Dobber arrived yet, what happened with my army and Travaller? My army must get here soon and attack the rebels, before they attack us. And l haven't saw any king's army around here. Could all the soldiers join the rebels? And maybe the rebels are preparing something for the Byzantins? They still belive they killed one of theirs commanders. But l must continue my journy to Hungary, to prevent the worse, but there is a little problem: l don't speak Hungarian! But l'll find some translator somewhere...

Traveller's Log - June 7th
Ho-ho-ho and Merry X-mas
Later the same day

Yes! I really did got my Christmas gift! Well, it's far from Christmas now, but that doesn't matter so much, as I have my own new prisoner!
Ok, enough jokes! The shiny thing I saw appears to be a shiny bold head. It was one of those Normans, who probably fell down from board during the escape manouvres. I dragged him to the beach, because he couldn't swim on his own. I think he was in unconciousness, but he might also be pretending, so that I leave him unguarded and he could run away. No luck with that, pal! I'm not that stupid! Just to make sure, I tied him tightly and then I went back to the sea to look for more "findings". I had no luck with that, but, hey, I still have a prisoner to interogate! Maybe he'll explain me why did they attacked the Greeks? But he has to come back to this world first...


NaVatar's Journal

???????

Finally, i'm free from the cell. But the way it seems now it's like the whole castle is a cell with no way out. I better take it from the beggining.
After I had - with great effort - knock the cell-guard unconciuos i took his sword and keys and opened the door. There was a another guard there to but he had his back turned so i managed to hit him in the backhead without any fuss and I started to ascend from the dungeon to get above ground, 'cause i knew that if i could reach the throne room and to the mighty sword Exalibur - which has hang on the wall since the death of my good cap'n Fr@nkishKnight, may Pie bless him - I could easily fight of the bribed soldiers in the castle.After i managed to climb the stairs to ground level I was so exhausted that i couldn't stand. I have been in that cell to long. I managed to sneak past some guards by using some hidden passages I found a long time ago and I came to the kitchen, from there, there is 4 rooms to go before the throne room. But I'm so exhausted right now that I must grab someting to eat and rest a while before I keep going. I waited till the cook left the room, snatched some meat, bread and something to drink quickly and i hid in the storage room, behind some big sacks. After I have eated i must get some rest to regain some power. Later i while finally have my revenge to those spiteful normans once and for all.


June 7 - Dobbers Log


What is going on? Why are my hands tied? I'm supposed to be dead. The ship was in flames, we had been rammed and were going down. We were to fight to the bitter end.
I was not going to be taken prisoner. But here I am laying on the ground with my arms tied. I remember being struck by some rigging, but nothing after that. The damn Byzantines must have pulled me from the water, but yet I do not see any buildings around, so I must not be inside the walls of Constantinople. If I can loosen my restraints and flee, maybe I can find my way to the Bulgarian forces and Sir Nike. Maybe he can spare a few men to ride with me to find where Commander Angryminer and my former troops are making landfall. But first I must free myself!

Adventures of Xuca
6th june

News are coming from south-east that my army encoutered the same rebel camp l saw. lt was lead by my second commander, the one helped me to fake my murder. The flow of battle is unknown to me, but it seems that after a fierce battle our army had to retreat, but that rebels sufered many casualtes. l also heard that the rebels don't control any town, but that their numbers are big. There was no biger battles, but when my army gets, l belive that there will be some campain against them. And, somehow, the King still doesn't know about the rebelion! He is held captive in his castle, guarded by Knez Vladislav's men. No news are comming to or from him, and l am afraid for his life.
But l must continue to Hungary, and l still haven't found a translator...

Later that day

Today l found a man that speaks Hungarian. We agreed about his pay, and when l reached in my pocket to pay him, l felt a piece of paper. l couldn't remeber what it was, but when l took it out l saw that it was a letter, the same letter that was found at the assassin who tried to kill me! l asked him to translate it to me. lt said:
"You are to kill Lord Xuca as soon as you get this. His death will slow down his army and buy us enough time to march into Serbia and defeat it quickly. After you read this, destroy it." Signed by the Hungarian King.
This letter is a fake! l am very sure that the Hungarians have nothing to do with this. This was meant to turn us more against them. lt even says "After you read this, destroy it." so that it would look like he was reckless and forgot to do it! Maybe Hungarians had the same letters. And l don't know are the spies sent yet. But no matter are they sent, or not, l must hurry there, time is running short...

Traveller's Log - June 8th, early morning
A New Bard's In The House
This prisoner is quite odd indeed! When I woke up today, I saw that he was already awake and to a great surprise of mine - he obviously somehow managed to write something in the book, I've found with him yesterday. How he did that with his hands tied, I don't really know! I've seen people tied like that, with hands behind their back, to write, at some of the fairs back home, but their writings usually weren't very... understandable. And this thing here seems to be pretty well written. I guess he's an entertainer, travelling together with the soldiers to amuse them. Too bad I can't understand what it says! It may reveal something about this mysterious attack of the Romans at their allies. I see it is written on the Latin alphabet, which proves even further I'm dealing with a Norman, but unfortunately I can't speak any of the barbaric western languages. I should go back and find someone to translate the book and what this guy's saying, because I'm getting really tired from his non-stop mumbling! For another surprise, I think I heard him mentioning the name of my Lord Nike. Could he be another assassin? No, I doubt he's so stupid to say the name of one of the victims in their plan. And besides, he's Norman, not Greek. Maybe he's a bard, already creating stories about the Great World War, in which my former master and even me are taking a small part. Hey, shut up! The prisoner's getting more lively! But what's he staring at? I think it's ships. Dammit, I forgot about the Norman ships! They've probably saw my fire, during the night! But why would they come back for a normal bard? Or they're thinking we're a small Greek group they could crush easily and then land on the safe beach? Nevermind, I'll have to hide my prisoner and myself somewhere, before they get too close!

hawk_knight's log

31th of may

We had arrived at my capital from the long march from novgorod to my land.
I told the men to make camp and to rest a while to regain there strenght.
When i was at my throne room talking with sir Richard about the norman invaison a spy came to me and have given information about the invaison it confirm that there was a large army of normans ready to attack and that they will attack in 12 days and that there ships will come in 10 days. the spy told me that the norman army have totally strenght of 50 thousand men and 10 thousand ships. I said to sir Richard that the normans have a lack of ships and i think that they will attack in waves with the ships. I said we must think a good plan to attack them. I told the spy that they must gather more information about the weak spots of the army's location. Tomorrow we will begin preparation. I said also to sir Richard that the novgorods will help us in battle as they had told me that they will help us against the normans for the help that we gave them to restore order in there kingdom. Tomorrow we will begin preparation but for now we will rest.

Journal of Sakim - 8th of June

The meeting with Commander Angryminer lasted through the night, with no real plan developing. The Byzantines gave no chase, so we are not far from the city. We have dropped anchor in a cove on the northern side of the Mediteranean. Many of the men wish to be off these confining ships and get the feel of land under their feet once more. I have suggested we disembark and march overland in search of the forces that are gathering for the northern assault on Constantinople. Dobber told me that if the plan failed and should anyone escape, to search for the forces following Sir Nike. If Commander Angryminer insists on staying aboard the ships, I shall ask that my men and I be allowed to go ashore, so we can seek our fortunes on the battlefield. Surely we can find someone marching on Constantinople. For now we rest, we are to meet again this evening, maybe there will be some decision made at that time. Now I must sleep.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 18

Sakim proposed that we join forces with the other knights from the Mercia-campaign that are on the way to attack the byzantine from north. As we are not strong enough to attack the byzantine on our own I believe that this is the only way to gain victory over the Empire of Byzantia.
If Sire Kuno of Gersenau doesn't insist on traveling elsewhere we will set sails immediately.

Angryminer

Kuno's log - 8th of June

I feel a bit useless, I don't know very much about the things which happened before I was rescued..and especially not about the other troops who are around... But Sakim and Angryminer were sure, that there are some on the march. So I agreed with their plan, I'm sure they know what is the best!

I'm really looking forward to the siege or at least to a little battle, there I could do more for us!


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 11 Massanger, spys and more massangers
June 3rd, 1005

Today while recruiting and preparing the army to march into the normans land the spy I had sended arrived. He brought some reports that the army might not be to invade england after all. He said that the normans are allis with the bysantines and that they needed help stoping a force from our allais that was marching into their great capital. This, however could be wrong, but if the spy is correct destroying this force will severally hurt the normans and the bysantines. So me and sir hawk have been thinking on a plan to destry the sposed norman army. I sended my spy back for more info and then another rider came. It was a massanger from my king saying he has prepared a force to attack by sea while my army and the forces of midthrill attack from land. This will help us alot as the normans will be attack from 2 sides and will be overrunned. Yet by noon another rider came, he was a norman. The guards stopped him and he said he was a massanger from his king. He said that his king wanted to speak with me and Hawk knight about a possible peace treaty. It could be a good thing but then the normans will be free to help the bysantines. I asked Hawk knight to think it well as our allais in the south need help and making peace isnt going to help. we will encounter the norman king in 2 days and we will decide what to do then. The army should be ready by then so they most be prepare for battle. But as night began to fall yet one more rider approshed the castle. He was a Rider from serbia asking for help and troops. Now we are in a delema as to what to do, assist our allais, attack the normans, or make peace with them.

Traveller's Log - June 8th
Irony of fate
Me and my luck! Just when I thought I can find out something from and about this prisoner and his pals arrived! They came with their ships in the early morning, while I didn't expected them and so, in the hurry, I had to drag my captive to the nearby bushes and then go back to erase all the tracks, before they see me. But I hadn't much time and I didn't do that very well. Everybody could see there has been a camp and fire here recently and I think I even forgot to take the prisoner's log-book! Not only that, but the Normans landed exactly on the same spot and made a camp just around 15 meters away from the bushes, where I was hiding. I can't run away, because everything around is a clear field and the sea and they'll see me right away. I don't know the Norman language, so I also can't blend in with them. And for the top of it all, those barbarians are using my bushes as a toilet! One even almost pissed on me!
Hah! One of the soldiers found the log-book. He brought it to his superiors, who seemed very surprised and excited. Like if this book with bard's tales is worth its weight in gold... But wait, for me it does! If they read the last entry, they'll see that one of their friends is alive and has been captured prisoner nearby, only a day ago. Then it wouldn't be hard to guess that he was in this camp, with the still smouldering fire, they've found and that he was probably still somewhere nearby. And then? Then they would start a search and in a blink of an eye, I'll be prisoner myself. If they don't kill me right away, that is...

Journal of Sakim - 8th of June

Evening

The meeting was brief, We have decided to at least go ashore for a couple of days, the men are tired of the confines of the ships. If we are to sail, we will need fresh water taken on. And we should scout the countryside to see what foodstuff's we might be able to find also. The men went about making camp, and soon word came that a hastily abandoned campsite had been found while setting up the camp. You could see that someone had tried to hide their presence, but to many scuff marks were left behind and the spot where had been the fire was still warm. And one of the men had found a bundle, a loosely wrapped book. I was conferring with some of my men when a great shout of exclamation was heard from Commander Angryminer. I ran to see what was about. It seems Comrade Dobbers logbook had been found while pitching camp. Could this possibly mean that my friend had survived? Why was his logbook in this camp? I set my men to scouting the area. There are very few areas to hide. As hastily as it appeared the old camp had been brushed over the culprit could not have gone from the area and especially not with the burden of a man. Maybe in the bushes there 15 meters from the camp, that seems a likely place to look. So I order some of the scouting men to surround the brush covered knoll. And I call for Commander Angryminer to join me in my approach on the knoll.


Kuno's log - 8th of June (part2)

Finally something to do! I asked Sakim for the lead of the men who are send to the bushes to look out for Sire Dobber. When we arrived at the bushes i told the men to make a circle around them and to make sure that nobody will run away.

When we entered in the plants we could see a man with the armour and weapon of a noble. And beside him, bounded like a prisoner, was Sire Dobber! The noble man was very calm when he noticed us, seemed that he already expected us. He took up his sword. I prepeared myself for attack if he would try to kill. his prisoner. But he stuck it into the earth and shoowed us his empty hands. Then he sat down and waited.
I gave two man the order to bind him, but not to hurt him. He had to come with us to the camp. Then I went to Sire Dobber and freed him. He started to smile ehen he saw me and I couldn't believe our luck!

When we came back all the men shouted out in happiness and cheerfull laughter was everywhere. The prisoner was put before Sire Dobber, Angryminer, Sakim and me, then we told him to speak who's his lord and what he does over here!


Adventures of Xuca

9th june

Must everything be so dificult! Just as l was near the Hungarian capital, l heard the news that the King of Hungary is near the north Hungarian border! l don't have enough time to reach him before the spies act. And what will happen while l'm gone? Serbia is in great danger, but Bulgaria also. Even if our allies came to help, l think if l fail, we stand no chance. But only time will tell...

June 8 - Dobber's Log

It is great to be free from my bindings! And to be surrounded by people I know! And Kuno my newest friend freeing me. Such fortune has come my way. The man who had been my captor was now bound and standing proud no fear in his face. The man is not Byzantine, for if he had been he would have immediately taken me to the city. I believe he had come here to spy on the city and probably was associated with our allies the Bulgarians. I sent word through the camp for someone who understands and speaks the Bulgarian language, perhaps we can determine if that is his language. I had heard speech of similarity when Sir Nike came to us asking our assistance in the Bulgarian Campaign against the invading Byzantines. I also asked that his bonds be removed, for no Nobleman should be treated thus. And besides where was he to go with so many men around. I also asked that the Norman flags be taken down from the ships and that our colors be flown in camp. If there is a Bulgarian force nearby, I would not want we should be attacked because they thought we were Normans. I noticed as our Mercian banners were unfurled, a startled look on the face of the Nobleman. I will meet with Commander Angryminer, Sir Kuno and Sakim and propose that we separate the men into 4 companies, with each taking command of a company and that Commander Angryminer be in Supreme command(I had turned over the Command to him when my ship went down). If that is not satisfactory to Commander Angryminer, I suggest we 4 share command. But for now camp must be organized and guards set. Tomorrow we will start unloading the ships and prepare to find one of the expiditionary forces coming to aid the Bulgarians. Also search parties need to be sent out to see if they can find evidence of our allies.

Traveller's Log - June 8th, late evening
Sine Nobilitas
Strange things are going on! Just as I expected, the first place that the Normans searched was my hidingplace. It was too obvious! But I couldn't hide anywhere else, so I guess... Anyway, they captured me and freed their bard. They are strange people, those Normans! They were all so happy and cheerful and welcomed my prisoners return with loud shouts. And this only for a bard? I can't imagine what would they do if their king arrives...
So, they welcomed him back and then they placed me in front of him and three more men. One of them, the one that captured me, started talking something to me. I couldn't understand why, but from the look of his face I could see he wasn't very happy. When he saw I won't talk, they debated with eachother, while from time to time they were looking seriously back at me. Then they ordered something to the men or maybe asked them. Nobody nearby answered them, so they carried on with their discussion. Then the bald guy I had captured ordered something and one of the soldiers came and untied me. But why? I doubt they're letting me free. I saw they had noticed I was wearing an armour of a Roman noble, I had taken back in Bulgaria as a disguise. If that's the reason, then maybe they're not such barbaric people after all! Then I saw they were removing the Norman banners of their ships and were replacing them with Mercian ones. What is going on? Was this some kind of a trick? And how did they got Mercian banners? I remember that when I had talked with Lord Xuca (may he Rest In Peace), he had told me some of his battles in Mercia and that there we found some allies. Poor old Xuca... I wonder what is going on with the Serbian campaign that I left. By my calculations, the army I had led for awhile (although I have no noble ancestry) should reach the Serbo-Hungarian border within 3 or 4 days. I should've stayed there as a soldier, a volunteer, rather than be a prisoner in the hands of people, I'm no longer sure who they are! But atleast I know they're noble people, since they not only untied me, but they also gave me back my log-book. Hmm... Maybe they're hoping they could gather some important information from me... I don't know, but now this shiny, bald head reminds me of something! I should check back in the entries of my Lord Nike! Thank God I asked for his log-book the last time when I was in Bulgaria, hoping there might be something that could help me in the spying mission! I think I've read there something about some bald Mercian commander named Doba or something... If this is the guy that Lord Xuca told me about, then that would explain the joy in his mens faces. And that would also mean our allies have arrived to our help and those Norman flags were just a trophy they used to fool the Greeks! And the Mercian banners were their reall banners! But then I'll have to tell them the bad news about the deaths of Lord Nike and Lord Xuca, the hard battles in Bulgaria, the new conflict with Hungary and the assassins. And that the great army of Bulgaria will be here after months. Or maybe my king should be informed to hasten with the preparations and send the current standing armies immediately to start the siege of Constantinopol? Difficult questions that should be decided later! First, I should make sure I'm not mistaking and these are really our allies...


Hawk_knight's log 4th of june

Yesterday we received news that the army of the normans may not invade England but it is going to help the bysantines. and because of that the norman king had sended us a messenger to ask if he can talk to us about a peace treaty. When the norman rider left a Serbian messenger came to ask if we will come to help them against bysantine. it is a dilemma for me and sir Richard for what to do. I said to sir richard we will meet the normans tomorrow i think they will be no peace treaty with them if we will let them go they will trouble ower allias in the south and may destroy them. we have an alliance with ouwer friends who fight the bysantines and i will honor that alliance. So i said to sir Richard my answer is clear we will speak to him but the asnwer is maybe clear that we will fight them.

I immediately called my troops together and told them about the situation
and there answer was first talk then To BATTLE. so i yell prepare for battle and i told them that we will ride tommorow at noon to the norman king.
I said to sir richard if he can send a message to his king. if he can prepare his army battle so when it comes we can fight and that he could get more information about the norman army his strenght and weakpoints.

I called a messenger i said to himn taht he must bring the message to my capital to raise more troops and send them to me so that we will have enough troops to help serbia.

but for now i must prepare my self for tommorow's battle.

Navatar's Journal

5th June
Only one room left. I can clearly see my sword hanging there above the throne.
And i can also see the low-life, double-crossing, son of a skank that sits on my throne with my crown and clothes.
But that's not what angers me the most. It's that my wife is sitting next to him with her hands tied up and with bruisers the size as a fist on her face,pale as a ghost and weak eyes pointed down the floor. I hope, from the bottom of my heart, that the baby is still alright.
When I see that son-of-a-whore on my throne sitting as he was the king and when people in the throne-room bows before him and that ,so called "king", sends tied up prisoners which is my dearest friends to prison or to be hanged brings out tears from my eyes. Both for sadness and angryness(!).
Odly I don't see TKS in the long line of prisoners. Is he still loyal to me? Has he switched sides and joined the traitors? Or has he avoided the hands of the traitors and waiting for a opportunity to act? I hope he's still allright amongst this chaos.
I've regained some of my orginal strength and I'm now able to use a sword without falling down and all I have to do now is to gather up courage to regain my crown,throne,kingdom and most of all my wife and my unborn baby.
The only thing I have left to do is pray to the god Pie before i charge the room.

"O, Holy Pie, bless me in the coming battle with all your powers and might and please lend me a hand which I will use to perish evil and injustice and bring order to chaos. Protect me O, Holy Pie so that I can live yet another day in happiness, justice and order."

I'm now ready to meet the traitors.

*NaVatar, the King of Mercia, goes with focused footsteps into the throne room with a sword in hand and a shield in the other hand and eyes filled with hatred and despair.
With a terribly war-cry which strikes fear in the rotten traitors hearts, he starts to run with the sword held high, and shield infront of him, towards his foes with his eyes focused on the man who sits on the throne, which is shaken from the unexpected attack from the man he thought lied dead in the dungeon. Guards form up to counter the rightfull kings attack but with fear in their hearts they see the king runs towards them with revenge in his eyes*


Sir Richard's Adventure
Chap 12: Lost friend, Dark Dungeon.
June 6, 1005.
The morning of june 5 came and me, hawk knight and some other men rided to meet with the norman king. I had a feeling that this barbaric man had a surprise waiting for us. While riding, I saw roger, my most trusted friend who i had made my personal guard after the fall of the novogolods. I found it wierd that he was still in the army, since he had allready taken what he came for, the revenge of his famaly's death. The I spoke to him
"Roger, why are you still here, fighting when you allready did what you had to."
"Yes sir", He answered, I did took my revenge, but somehow I feel that something is comming, something I somehow feel obligated to go, Something that I think wil take me near to my famaly."
I didn't understood, but it was his will and so we rode together. We meet with my king as previsted and continue our road. We finally got to the spot where we had agreed to meet. It was a old church, we went in and there was the norman king. He had some guards near who seemed a little impassient. Then the king spoke
"I have been specting you"
I wondered how he knew english, afterall he was more of a french, maybe he wasn't so barbaric after all.
"Yes, we came to negotiate" My king said
"yes" Sir Hawk fallowed
"Oh yes, the peace between us" The norman said " Well, I'm afraid there will be a peace very soon, since I will rule all the lands"
"What do you mean?" My king asked
" I mean I have a small surprise for you" The norman spoke with a smile in his arrogant face " Gurads!, leave non alive"
"What is this" My king said
"your end my friend" the norman said
Then a feeling that i had never felt before came to me and I shouted
"Run my king and hawk knight, get out of here I will hold them!"
"No I can't leave you here" Hawk said
" No, go you have a kingdom and army to maniage, I most do my deuty and protect my king"
"Very well if that is your will so be it, May the gods have mearcy on your soul and may they give you the strengh of a thousand dragons" Sir hawk said "Godd bye, friend"
Then as I prepared to charge I saw roger he was still there next to me.
" Roger, go save your live"
"No sir, I think this is the thing that I felt comming and is my deuty to fight alone side you" He said
"Thank you, Friend" I said " If we are to die today, may you find happines with you family in the after live and I hope to find you there as you are my best friend."
" Now for honor, for glory, and for ruin,CHARGEE!!"

Sir richard and his fellow companion, Roger ,charge against the enemy with a thunder like shout and fight fearsly. They get to kill many of their foes, but more and more keep comming. Then as they fight Richad doesn't notice his flank side where a man is comming to stab him.
" Look out sir, NOOO!" He shouts as he jumps into the man's weapon saving Richard, but courageuslly ending his life
" Roger NOO!" Richard screams
"Don't worry sir, ( he coughts) I will join my fami..." Roger speaks with his last breath
Then a guard hits Richard with the bak of his sword and he becomes unconcius.

Several hours later he wakes up inside a dungeon
So now I'm here inside this dark, cold cell wondering if my king and friend Hawk knight made it out of this "ambush". I only prey that my friend Roger finds his family and can finally be happy in the after life, thu I feel i should had been the one that die.

Hawk_knight's log 7th of june

we where ambushed by the norman king yesterday and i had heard of sir Richard being held in a dungeon. I had spoken with the king of England for a battle plan he will attack from the sea and i will attack from land.
I had said to the King of Engeland we must attack in three hours i said my army is ready for battle and he said that his army is also ready. I said then TO Battle i called my army to gether and told them what happend They got angry at the norman king to ambush us and that he captured sir Richard.
I yelld PREPARE TO MARCH TO BATTLE.

three hours later

we where in position for the attack i had send some men forward to kill the enemy's scouts so that they will not see us comming.
I gave te order to advance the norman army was preparing them selfs for battle but they where not ready for battle now. we where closing in on the norman camp then i gave the archers to open fire they shoot a volley and then i shouted CHARGE FOR DEAD AND GLORY CHARGE i was at the head of the charge with my dragon scarlet.
We charged straight through the norman camp killing all norman soldiers on ouwer path.
During the battle i gave the signal that the horsemen can charge to battle.
I saw that the King of england has been landed on shore and is attacking the normans flank. the normans morale broke and they fled the i saw the norman king trying to get his men back to fight i charged at him and he felll of his horse my dragon put his feet on the norman king that he cannot escape.
A rider came and told me that he new where sir richard was being held captive he was locked up the the norman last defence the castle where the remains of the norman army had fled to. This battle was over but we must take the norman castle to free sir richard and to stop the normans once and for all. I gave my army the order to make camp for now tommorow we will march to the norman castle for now we will rest.

heretic
Desert Notes (or now, better, Sea Notes)
I remember Sea in North. It was different than this Sea, not such turquoise colour, colder..Much more colder. I wish this travel across the Sea will end soon, I feel unsafe in this vast of water, especially when I carry the letter. But captain said the coast is not far away.

When the ship sailed closer to the coast, I've put armour under the clothes and robed into the hood. My horse didn't like this travel and was anxious.

As soon as it has reached the ground with hoofs, it has begun to run like wind.
I've left the Sea behind.

Adventures of Xuca
10th june
l just don't know what to do. lf the rebels' plan worked , the spies will strike tomorrow, and l can't reach the Hungarian King in a day. l think it's the best for me to return to Serbia, destroy the rebels and organise the difence. But the rebels are very strong, and probably the Hungarians will reach us before we destroy them...

Later that day

My companion saw my greef after my last entry and said: "Sir, there might be a way for us to reach the Hungarian King in ti.."
"What way?" l interrupted him.
"Well, the wizard..."
"What wizard?"
"You know, the Wizard. They say he was last seen in Hungary..."
"There are no wizards! And if there were, how would we find him?! He could be anywhere!"
"People say that he finds you, if you are worthy..."
"lt's just a legend. When you said that there might be a way, l thougth you meant a real way... What's that!"
l saw a hut which was not there before! lt was far away, so l took my horse and rode in that direction. l felt something strange when l got near, and my horse trew me off and ran away. And, instead of going after my horse, l entered the hut. A strange man sat there and said:"Sit down." Then he started talking about Mercians reaching to help the Bulgarians in the siege of Constantinople, he told me about King NaVatar being captured, he told me about Normans attacking England and many more things. But the most important thing he said was that the Byzantins gathered a big army in Asia Minor and that they will sail out in 5 days to attack Bulgaria from the Black Sea. l didn't know what to do! l could never reach Bulgarians and Mercians to worn them in time. And l still had to defend Serbia from Hungarians and rebels. But before l said anything, the Wizard said: "You can do everything in time. lt's already aranged for you to meat the King today."
"How" l asked.
"Look outside."
l turned around, went out the hut and saw a castle. But there was no castle there! l wanted to ask the Wizard about the castle, but the hut disapeared!
l still can't belive what happened to me! My translator is gone, but sudenly l know Hungarian like l was born in Hungary! l'll go to the castle and see if the King is there...

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 19
Sire Dobber offered me the command over the army.
I didn't recieve the education to know strategies. After all, before the war against the Normans I was a townguard in Sire Kuno's father's town. So it would be greedy to demand the command for myself.
But I will also not dissapoint Sire Dobber. I will work out strategies and we shall all discuss them before the battle so each of us can use his wisdom to our advantage.

Chapter 20
I'm feeling nervous. We are still in our fortified camp near the shore somewhere in Bulgaria. None of our scouts reported any of our allies in the area yet.
Where are they? We have recieved a report about rebels in Hungary but nothing more. I'm feeling very unhappy not knowing where our allies and where our foes are. We don't even know exactly who our foes are. The byzantine, of course, but why did they attack the normans? What has shattered the alliance to lead to an open conflict? And how are our forces involved with this? Are there now other allies? We must be cautious.
If our mercian allies were successfull in the Bulgaria-Campaign we would have noticed this here. After all, the scout we sent here from the african shore didn't get back too.
I hope for the best, but I will, for now, assume that our allies are ... not in the area. We must make contact to the local nobility and the ruler of Bulgaria. We will need his support if we are to launch a successfull campaign against the byzantine.
When I'll talk to Sire Dobber, Kuno and Sakim I will also address the byzantine forces. By now they had enough time to regroup and follow us. Also, if the byzantine are not too bad organized they will soon notice that we aren't flying norman flags anymore.
I must draw the conclusing that our forces are very propably well outnumbered, our allies propably scattered and our chances bad.

But now for better news... In the nearest town there was someone who will help us translate the words of the man who kept Sire Dobber captive. Tomorrow we talk to him. Perhaps he knows something about the political situation. After all, he's been wearing the cloths of a nobleman...

May the lord bless us all and lead us to victory and peace.

Angryminer

Traveller's Log - June 9th
A New Hope
Today finally my hope came to real! In the early morning a man came, obviously somewhere from the nearby villages. He said he was a trader from Bulgaria and he could speak also Greek. I can speak Greek myself, so I started to laugh - how didn't I thought of that before. Greek and Latin are universal languages. I don't know Latin, but there should be somebody more educated in this army, who could speak Greek. And ofcourse there was. I asked the soldier, who brought the trader, if he can translate for me and he agreed. I think some of the commanders might also be able to serve as enterpreters, but I didn't want to insult them in some way - they might be offended, who knows! So, the translator called the leaders in the army and all of the officers to speak with me. I started rather carefuly, because I didn't knew their habits and manners and I wasn't still sure I can fully trust them.
"Good day, dear people!", I said on Greek. "Thank you for beeing so kind and generous to untie a poor beggar like me and to give me back my book!"
"You? A beggar? Hah!", answered one of them, a strange looking guy. He was wearing exotic clothes as those that the infidels from the Holy Lands carry. "Do you think we're blind and can't see your armour? It bears the signs of a Roman noble, not of a beggar!"
"Oh, I believe there has been a misunderstanding, dear Sir! I found these clothes on the battlefield near Thessaloniki, where a Greek army was defeated by the Bulgarian troops.", I told him. I was still trying to figure out who they are - Normans or Mercians. But in both cases, they were obviously not in good relations with the Romeans now and as a proof I noticed a sparkle of hope and joy in the man's eyes. "My own clothes were only dirty worthless rags, so I thought there's no harm to take something better. But if you need them, I'll be more than happy to give them to you! I don't really need them. I have my own kingdom, you know!", and I made a silly face.
"Stop playing crazy, you fool!", this time it was another guy, maybe an executioner, as he had an halberd with him. "Tell us who are you and under whose banner do you serve! Speak!"
"If we should be fair, Milords, then you should tell me first who YOU are. You're more than me, so you have nothing to worry about."
"This is none of your business!", said the third man. "But we'll tell you anyway as you really serve no threat. I'm Kuno of Gersenau and this is the army of Mercia under the command of Sire Dobber, who you had tied up. And here we should ask you that: Why did you captured Sire Dobber? Who are you? A spy of the Greeks?"
"So, it was Dobber, not Duba!", I thought. "Well, Milords, as I see, you really are the Mercian reinforcements we were expecting! I didn't knew this was Sire Dobber, of whom I have heard many things and I deeply appologize for this misunderstanding! But come now, I have many things to tell you!"
I told them all I knew about the progress of the war since their departure from the coast of Mercia. About the attack of the Romans in Northern Bulgaria and how Lord Xuca captured their ships; about the peasant uprising in Thrace and the following battle at the Balkan passes; about the death of Lord Nike and my service under his command; about the rumours of war between Serbia and Hungary; about the death Of Lord Xuca and the assassins we caught and finally - about the preparations of Tzar Samuil for a siege over Constantinopol. They were all saddened from the words of Lord Nikes and Lord Xucas deaths, especially the bald one, my ex-prisoner, who seems to be Sire Dobber, of which Lord Nike had told me about. The other one, the "executioner" seemed to be another man from the Mercian campaign - Angryminer. On the other side, Sire Dobber told me of their journey through the Mediteranean Sea, how they found Sire Kuno as a prisoner in a pirates vessel and how the met his old friend Sakim, who joined their forces with some of his men. Then we spoke of our future plans and I suggested that I ride to Bulgaria and warn my king to send immediately reinforcements to his newly-arrived allies. In less than five days I could go there and return with the current standing troops. They agreed and now we're preparing our horses and some provisions for the road. They decided that an escort should be sent with me, maybe they still have their doubts about my loyalty and my side. That doesn't matter, as I don't have any doubts about them anymore. Reinforcements have finally arrived and new Star of Hope is rising!

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap 13: Lonely cell.
June 8, 1005
It has been 2 days since I last wrote in my log. the truth is that it is a little hard coz there isnt much light and my ink is running low. My head hurts a little, and I can't forget that last stand of Roger, my friend. If I'm to get out of here alive, I promise on all the gods to honor his death and courage. May he rest in peace.So here In this dark cell all i got for company during most of the day is the ocasional rat that passes by. I'm feeling a little weak, since this barbarians havent give me anyting to eat, only a sip of water.
Also Yesterday there was a big noise, guards shouting like if they were angry. I couldn't understand a word they said, but it seemed like the normans are in trouble. Maybe my king and Hawk knight made it to safety and they attacked the army that was going to invade. I hope they were succesfull. But even so they still will need a great efford to bring the normans down as they have many castles and a huge standing army. I most device somekind of a plan to scape this place. Maybe my spys will hear of my capture and try to help me, but I ill try to scape next time one of the guards comes alone.

navater Doctors Notes 7th June

Diagnostic
The king's condition is critical.
I have done everything I can for him to ease the pain. He has lost a lot of blood and his condition is critical.

He has a mortal wound in his right side and left shoulder caused by two arrows, shoot from behind. His breathing is weak and haven't shown any change since he came to the infirmary.
He's uncouncious and has started to rabble silent on things i cannot understand.
Right now I must wait and see and hope for the best.
End of the Diagnostic

Review on events the last days

I was there in the throne room, tied up cause of my loyalness to my king and was the next one to be punished but like the god Pie answered my prayer King NaVatar was standing there in the doorway with anger,passion and revenge in his eyes and weapons in hand and stormed the traitors.
He looked like he had lived in a cell for many days but he still had strenght to slay those who stood in his way. When he reached to the petrified and terrified man who sat on NaVatar's throne NaVatar rose his sword up the air and looked into the traitors eyes with unlimited anger the traitor fell down on his kness and begged for his life to be spared but I knew that NaVatar wasn't going to spare the man who betrayed him, took his kingdom, tortured him, threw him in his own dungeon but the worst crime he did (if I know Navatar right) was that the betrayer layed hands on Navatar's wife and the unborn baby (when he wakes up, if he wakes up, I must tell him the news about the baby) When the rightfull king was just about to slay the rotten snake two archers stood behind the king and fired the shots. Both shots hit the king, which fell down on his knees.
The betrayer laughed hysterically and ordered the archers to fire the killing shots. But the archers were both laying on the floor,killed by some cloaked man wich dissapered as fast as he appered. I didn't know who that man was but he saved the kings life.
The king stood up again and finally put the sword in the betrayers belly and freed the kingdom of Mercia of tyranny.
But the cost was great. The king is near death and I don't know what will happen to him in the matter of days. Only time can tell

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 21
The worst thing I had expected actually took place. Lord Xuca and Lord Nike are both dead! The prisoner told us the story of them. My prayers are with them, may god of mercy with them.
Now the fate of the conquest and the duty of revenge lies solely in our hands.

The Traveller, as we used to call the prisoner, said that he wasn't a noble but served Lord Nike. He offered us to gain the support of the Bulgarian nobility and provide us with reinforcements. I spend one night thinking about that and I have come to the conclusion that I will travel with him. I believe that I can serve our quest best when I follow him instead of waiting at the camp. The last time we spoiled time in africa all we got from it was that our attack on Constantinople turned into a desaster and our companions here are dead. I will not allow anything like that again. We must take action fast and we must be successful. That's why I will follow the Traveller and support him. After finishing this log entry I will tell the others about my decision.

In deepest sorry for our lost companions, Lord Xuca and Lord Nike,
Angryminer


Kuno's log - x. of June (Sorry I'm not sure about the date)
Angryminer told us today that he will travel with the traveller to the Bulgarian king. (what a sentence ) I wished them all the best and hope that they will get back soon. I for myself will stay here and look that we get a solid and strong fort.
Afterwards I've in mind to look if I could spy out Constantinople or at least the walls. But we will see....
I also ask me if it even wouldn't be better to march to a Bulgarian town with our men, because here we could have problems with getting food and we have to be prepeard all the time against a Byzantine attack!
I will propose this to the others, best would be when I go now to Angryminers tent, hope he didn't leave yet!

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 22
This evening I had a discussion with Kuno. He brought to me his best wishes for my quest to get reinforcements from the Bulgarians and talked to me about our strategic situation. He wanted to move the army near a bulgarian town. I oposed that the ships are still at the coast and when the army marches into the bulgarian lands the ships should be sold, as they are currently not in a defendable state with so few crews on them.
I also expressed my fear that the byzantine might attack soon. The propably didn't follow us in the harbour of Constantinople because they didn't have the troops available but by now they should have been able to get the troops and the information that we are not normans but forces from the mercian knights.
A seaborn army would be able to reach our position any time now. It would be vital to crush the byzantines before they can get hold of some of the beach if they attack. When Kuno oposed that a seaborn attack of the byzantine would surely destroy all ships in sight of our troops which would surely pose a great loss of morale among our troops, I agreed that the ships should be sold. They are neither of direct need nor of any strategic advantage in their current state.
But I'm still of the opinion that our forces would be able to crush a seaborn byzantine attack if our positions are used wisely. We have a fortified camp near the sea and the propably more numerous byzantines won't be able to use their full strenght at one time while dismounting the ships.
On the open field a byzantine attack would be by far more dangerous, if not fatal.
I have the strong feeling that a byzantine attack is inbound, but I am sure that our forces will prevail.
I offered Kuno to stay near the sea where only a seaborn attack is to be expected now. If we recieve bulgarian reinforcements we should move into bulgaria because then we will be able to defeat the byzantines on the open field.
Also, within a week byzantine armies could be in range so that the position at the sea-side is no more of any advantage.

I already packed my bags and tomorrow morning I will leave the camp together with the Traveller.

Angryminer

June 10 - Dobbers Log

So much to do, which way to turn. Everybody has different ideas about what should be done. Damn there has to be one commander in charge, one man making the decisions, four men can not command a force in harmony. To many differences of opinions. Angryminer has sensed this also and has decided to follow the Traveller in search of support from the people we are here to support. Where the **** are the overland forces that were to march to the aid of Sir Nike. It seems the Byzantines and Normans are playing a pretty good game of divide and conquer right now. And right at this moment, I am not feeling like much of a commander. What did I do? I led my men into a ******* trap, that's what I did! It is a wonder any of us are alive. And by all rights, I should be fish food now.
I have decided to trail along with Angryminer and the Traveller, I need a fresh view of things and would likre to here more about the demise of Sir Nike. I talked with Sakim and he seemed to be leaning toward gathering his men and scouting the surrounding countryside to get the lay of the land. I wouldn't blame him if he put his men aboard ship and sailed back home. But I hope that he would hang around nearby as extra manpower might be needed in case Kuno's forces were attacked. I need to get some rest before time for us to leave. I hope the damn revellers shut their yaps so I can sleep a bit.

Adventures of Xuca

I don't know what day it is, nor where am I.
When I met the King of Hungary, he already caught some spies and didn't belive me. He threw me in the dungeons, taking all my belongings. There was three more men, probably the spies. One said: "Hallo, join the party! We are haveing lots of fun here, tomorrow we'll be executed! I wonder why did I agreed to this..." I tought that was it, but then I had an idea. I was in pretty bad shape when I came here, so maybe if I play dead, they would throw me somewhere. I told that to the others, and they didn't think that's a good plan, but agreed. They started calling the guard and told him that I died. Guard called some other people to check what to do with me. One said: "He's not dead, he's just pretending!"
"So what should we do to check him?"
"Bring a poisonous snake! He'll get scared and move!"
So they found a snake and put in on my chest. I was calm, because I know snakes won't do anything to you if you don't move. But the guards were not convinced yet. The leader said: "Light a fire on his chest! He won't be able to stand that if he's alive!" Than I got frighten! I would sure give myself up! They brought some firewood and lighted a fire. I don't know how I managed to stand that. I think I fainted away. Next thing I remember I heard the guard saying: "Stick nails under his nails! If he stays still, he's dead for sure!"
It was great pain, but somehow I stayed still. Then the guard said: "It looks like he's dead. Throw him in the moat!"
Then they went on the highest tower and threw me from there. I survived the fall and swam out of the moat and crolled into the forest. There I pulled out the nails with my theet and fainted again. Now I'm lieing in some hut and writing this down. My wounds seem to be almost healed, so I must have been leing here for a long time. I will have some day my revenge, but I must now find the man who helped me and thank him and then ride back to Serbia to see what can be done...


Traveller's Log - June 10th
The long road begins with a small step
Yesterday the Mercian commanders debated about my travel and decided that the Angry Miner, Sire Dobber and about 5 more horsemen would come with me as an escort. Sir Kuno and the Arabian guy would stay protect the camp, as there is a possibilty that the Romans could attack them. So, now we're riding as fast as we can to Ohrid, our capital, with just a few short stops from time to time. By the way, I had forgotten that our troops had already taken most of Greece and was still riding with my Greek noble's light armour. Good thing I remembered that, before we met the first garrison of Bulgarian soldiers and removed it, otherwise we might have been taken as Romeans and captured. To the troops I met, I told that the reinforcements from our allies in distant Mercia have arrived at the shores of Constantinopol and they should be ready to march in their help. I also asked them to send this message to all the nearby troops, because on our way back they would probably join forces with us. The men weren't very excited about sieging the Great City without the necessary preparations, but the news of the distant (and to some - exotic) allies would fire their hearts for awhile. We continued our way, but it gradually got too dark to ride, so we stopped and lighted a fire, under which's light I'm writing this. We're somewhere in the south-eastern Greek part of Macedonia. If we get up tomorrow as soon as it gets a little more light and we continue with this speed, we should reach our destination till noon. Wow, I'm travelling so much these last few days that now I know why friends call me "Traveller"!


Traveller's Log - June 11th
The Royal Court
With a fast and steady rate, we came to Ohrid, as I guessed, around noon. Good thing it's a "land as a human's hand" and our roads are being well cared for! We immediately went to the king's palace, but the guards said the king has an important meeting with his advisors and would meet us in a few hours. So, here we are, waiting for the king and wasting valuable time! Atleast I had enough time to gather some information. Till now, only around 40 000 men have gathered, fully equiped and ready to fight. Another 15 000 are prepared, although not so well armoured. On our way back we could also gather not more than 10 000 men, both equiped or not, experienced soldiers or new recruits. That makes a maximum of 65 000 men to help our allies. No ships, no siege weapons. With such a force, I think it would be most wise not to siege Constantinopol until all the preparations are ready. It would be better to make a strong, fortified camp somewhere around it. Thus we'll also keep an eye on the enemy and his movement. This would be my advice when we meet the king. But maybe the Mercians could have something else in mind...


tks come back:the traveling to bulgaria

june 10 tks log
after defeating the normens once again with there allies ive now decided to join the fellowship of heros who once saved mercia from the grasp of normens. ive got ceaseless news of battles and bloodspilling in the bulgarian lands, so ive set off with a horde of brutefull warriors to help my friends in battle.ive bought a ship to sail over to baltic sea to reach poland , from poland we will march to bulgaria


june 11 tks log
ive now reached polands coast after a hard storms . winds are blowing hard , clouds are dark. like if the sky cryed out its pain. this might be a sign of the gods .they dont favor me these days. i will need to forget the storms and see what future awaits me but for now i need buy some maps from the local village dealers


Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 23
Sire Dobber wanted to follow me and the Traveller on your journey. His presence will propably easen the discussion with the king.
But it seems he isn't in a too good state of mind. To be frank, he looks depressed and exhausted. While travelling I decided that I will take the full command of the troops once we are back and talked to him while riding. Sire Dobber will propably be happy to find the forces' command in one man's person and my close connections to the soldiers are only of advantage, as I recruited and trained many of them.
The Traveller has lead us right to the bulgarian King. He seems to be trustworthy and very well motivated to help us in our quest against the byzantine.
We had few problems to get a meeting with the King, Sire Dobber's presence as a nobleman opened us the doors.
We had few intentions to loose time and spoke about our plans very soon. The bulgarian king said we were fools to plan an offensive war against the byzantine, he said he was lucky that the bulgarian crown was still existant. We convinced him that only courage could win this war. We proved to him that our forces were strong and that we would be successful with the bulgarian's help.
I still think that we promised too much, but we are in dire need of the bulgarian reinforcements and our quest would end here if we recieve no help...
At last the bulgarian king sighed and said to us
"The fight against the byzantine has weakened the kingdom of Bulgaria and emptied our treasury. The people are exhausted and I sometimes pray to the Lord that he may send us a miracle so we could bring peace to Bulgaria because I don't believe I can end this war myself.
Perhaps..." He pauses a while and I felt that this man was weary of the war by looking at his face. "Perhaps you are this miracle. Perhaps god has lead you here so you can recieve reinforcements and end the bloodshed." Again he paused. He was still thinking wether he should take this decision or not. A wrong decision would lead the bulgarian kingdom into doom, either way.
Then he commenced with a more convinced voice: "I will hand 15000 men and equipment to your command and 20000 soldiers under the command of a bulgarian knight. The soldiers under your command will be able to leave within two days, the bulgarian troops will follow later when I have chosen the knight who will lead them. I will command to raise more standing troops as the bulgarian crown can affort but I can't promise much.
I pray to god that this was the right decision."
We thanked the bulgarian king for this decision as much as we could but he soon sent us away, propably to think about his decision. We were offered to stay in the castle until we leave with the troops by the king's advisor. We were also able to send bulgarian messangers to Kuno and Sakim to tell them that they should break the camp and meet us. They will propably recieve the note in one or two days, so our meeting point should be about the half of the way.
At last hope is strong again.

Perhaps the bulgarian King was right and it was our fate to come here. The attack on byzantia would have proved fatal to us all when neither Lord Nike nor Lord Xuca are attacking byzantia. We must thank the Lord that we were not successfull in the attack on Constantinople. Even if it was on the cost of many of our soldiers on Sire Dobber's ship, a defeat in Constantinople would have killed many more people.

Angryminer


June 11 - Dobber's Log

I am very troubled by the atmosphere of the meeting with the Bulgarian King! It seems as though his saddened heart still hung heavy with grief from Sir Nike's asassination. (We learned from the Traveller that Sir Nike had been murdered and that later Lord Xuca who had brought his forces alongside Sir Nike's in support had suffered the same fate.) I am glad Angryminer is going to take sole command of the forces when we return, for it seems commanders have a low life expectancy in these parts. I do not fear my opponent on the battlefield, but these people who attack from hiding, these cowards, and I call them cowards for they will not face a man and give him a chance to fight back, them I do fear. The atmosphere of the meeting was one of despair, it was as if the King felt there was no reason to continue the struggle. It brought pause, I wonder if Sir Nike was the heir to his throne? That would certainly bring one to despair. If the committed forces do not arrive soon this man will be so depressed people will begin to question his leadership.
I have always worked best when in motion, it is the waiting that unnerves me and gets me in the state I was in back at the camp. I shall ride northwest and look for the other forces and see if we can get them moving with some urgency in their step.
I leave a note for Commander Angryminer, I do not wish to wake him and besides he would try to cumber me with a protective escort. What I am undertaking needs no one else along for me to worry about, besides they will need every man they can muster to bolster Sir Kuno's forces. I also leave a letter of recommendation that he take sole command of the army with Kuno as his Captain. And I leave a letter to Sakim that he pledge his loyalty to Commander Angryminer the same as if it was me in command. And with this done I slip into the darkness, outfit my mount and ride with the wind into the night.

Sakim's Journal - 10th of June

A party of men road out this morning headed for an audience with the Bulgarian King. Comrade Dobber was with them. I would like to have rissen along, but Dobber asked that I remain here in case there was any movement from the city on our position. I have sent all of my countrymen to the outer fringes of our perimeter to patrol our position and to be ready to wait in ambush if there was any move from the great Constantinople. I advanced to a position from which I could overlook a portion of the city and watch people come and so from the south gates as well as the north. There were many merchants moving to and fro, normal daily activities/ Many legionaires were positioned about the city and there was it appeared an impressive force within the city. We are definitely outmanned, It will take many preparations before we can even consider an assault on this city. What were we thinking when set out on this campaign? As I watch the streets I see a rider come through the southern gates, there is something familiar about this rider. As she turned her mount the sun caught her face and I knew, this is not good. It was the Enlightened One, Heretic. The Caliph of Alexandria apparently has chosen sides, that is the only reason I can think would bring Heretic to this far city. For only "she", would the Caliph trust to carry his pledge to the Byzantine Emperor. I must return with this urgent news with haste. I hope Sir Kuno has some ideas as to what we should do now, my suggestion is to get the hell as far away as possible.


Traveller's Log - June 11th, Evening
Tzar: The Burden of the Crown
I was surprised from the meeting with my king today. Unpleasantly surprised, unfortunately. I hoped that he'll send a large army worthy to the might of our tzardom (ed. tzardom=empire), atleast 50 000 men from all that were available. But instead he gave us, to his allies, who travelled through two continents for him, only 35 000 men, of which only 15 000 under their command. If the Romeans launch an attack with their all strength against the camp near the Bosphorus, these men won't be enough. I guess our only choice left would be to escort the Mercian (and Sakim's) forces to a safer place. Maybe we would help with the siege of the only Greek city that still stands in Thrace - Adrianopol. It's already pretty much exhausted, it's expected that it'll surrender soon, but it's walls are strong and when we capture it, we'll be able to withstand a Romean attack. And the city is big, so it can provide for such a force like ours, if we receive the necessary food supllies from Bulgaria, for the first few days till we store enough. My tzar asked me to go to his palace tomorrow morning, for he wished to discuss something with me. I don't know about what, but this is a good time to propose him this plan and ask for eventual extra reinforcements. But I'm most worried about something else - about him! During the meeting today he seemed as a normal old man, tired of all these wars. His power seemed to have faded away. I couldn't believe my eyes! Is this the man, who captured Pelopones, Corint and Larissa in Greece? Is this the man, who defeated the emperor's army 9 years ago at Trayans doors? Emperor Basil II ran away then, in a shameful flight and the Greek scholar Joan Geometer wrote: "Fall down, you, trees, you, sinister mountains!... The Istur (Bulgaria) took the crown of Rome (Byzantium). The Misian (Bulgarian) arrows are stronger than the Avzon (Romean) spears..." Is this the same man, who fought succesfully for the past 30 years with the strongest empire in the world? Another Greek scholar wrote for him: "He's a warlike man, who never has peace..." I can't believe this is the same man! It's like if a curse has been put on him! Later I heard the news from some of the guards: One of the armies that was sent in Greece has been treacherously ambushed and destroyed. The Romeans were later destroyed from another of our armies, but they couldn't help anymore. 14 000 Bulgarian men, all that were captured, were blinded with only one on a hundred men left with one eye to lead them. In this way they came here in Ohrid and when the tzar saw them, his heart broke, said one guard. The sight of 14 000 blinded men would most surely be a horrible hing to see, I believe it. And this has been the main corpus for the assault of Greece. Greece has been conquered even with this big loss, but... Now I see why he's so weak and doesn't want to send a larger force. I hope tomorrow I'll be able to inspire some confidence in him

Hawk_knight's log june 9

My army was going to formation and will soon attack the norman castle.
My spy came to me and told me about the weak point in the norman gate.
i told the english king that we must concentrate our catapult fire to that spot. to open the gate for our men but we must also attack the wall with siege towers and laddermen. i say to them when the army is in formation in about three hours we will attack the norman castle.


Three hours later

My army was ready to attack the norman castle with 80 thousand men and to free sir Richard. I gave the catapults the signal to open fire on the norman gate and i gave the siegetowers the order to attack and also the ladder men to attack.
the siege towers whe quickly at the wall the battle had begun on the wall also the laddermen where quickly at the wall. the catapults had destroyed the gate the normans had cancentrated there troops on the wall and not behind the gate. I yelld at the horsemen to charge at the gate i was leading the attack on the gate. teh charge was so terrifying that the norman troops begun to flee. I gave the rest of the infrantry the order to attack. We quickly had taken control of the castle. I had given some troops the order to find sir Richard and free him.
i was in the throne room when some troops came back from the dungeon with sir Richard i aid to him welcome back and i said to him that the normans are no threat any more.
I had gave my army the order to make camp after this bloody battle my army had a loss of 5 thousand men and the norman army 10 thousand men. I had send scouts out try to gather information about hte troops that had fled the battle.
I said to sir Richard and the king of engeland that the normans are defeated and that we now must help the Bulgaria forces. but for now we must rest up and i said to sir Richard and the king of england tomorrow we will prepare for the march to bulgaria to help out our friends and i said to sir Richard and the king of england that the plan is to march to bulgaria in four days so that the men have time to rest and to prepare for the long march.


tks logg 11th june

in tavern near the polish borders i heard news from traveling merchants about wars in the balkan region. with knights defeating there enemies one after each other. i knew that there must be the heros of mercia. i order my army to march south .


4 hours later

strangely my big army didnt manage to scare of local bandits. theyve made many attacks against my gold caravans which i use to pay my army monthly.but my soldiers managed to fend of all of there atacks.

Adventures of Xuca

13th june
I tried to look around the hut, but I was too weak. I fell down after two steps. Then a man came in. I couldn't see his face, but when he said: "Why did you get up?! You should rest in bed until your wounds heal!" I recognize his voice. It was the Wizard. He helped me again.
"Why are you helping me?" I asked him, but he didn't answered. Instead he said: "You probably want know what happened these days."
"Yes, I do"
"Very well. Your army defeted the rebels and is besieging Ras. But the Byzantins changed their plans and are sailing to Zeta in two days. They belive that is the weakest spot and are planing to strike from there in three directions: north-east to the rest of Serbia, east to Bulgaria and south-east to the Greece. You can leave tomorrow. I can't help you getting there, because I spent most of my strenght in healing you. You shouldn't wear any armor for two weaks because of you chest..."
"But how shall I go to battle without an armor?"
"You want to go to battle, and you can't even hold a sword!?" he was right. I think it will past few months before my fingers heal. Then he saw the piece of paper where I wrote when I woke up and said:
"You shouldn't write, but if you must, take this." and he gave me my log book."Here are also your sword, armor which, as I said, you shouldn't wear yet, and your horse is outside. You should leave now. If the pain becomes unbearable, drink some of this." He gave me some strange bottle and then pushed me out and helped me to get on my horse. Before I managed to thank him or say farewell, he retourned to the hut. And then I realised that he said that I can leave tomorrow. He really is weird, but now I must think of ways of defending Serbia, but I don't know will I get there in time, especially with these wounds...

Knight Richard's adventure.
Chap. 14 Free once again
June 9, 1005
Today early in the morning a strong shake in the ground waked me up. It was a sound ofl ike a giangiant walking, and the ground shaked like if there was an earthquake. I heard two norman guards yell, but i couldn't understand. Then all of them exept 5 left the dungeons. Then a hour later exactly has I thought a huge battle began. Catapults lunching their fire balls and rocks and the yelling of men dieing became more and more stong. Some hours later a small group of soldier entered the dungeons and kill the guards. then start yelling my name, And when I saw them there before my eyes was the taste of freedom. They free me and soem other prisoners that where there. They took me to my king and hawk knight. there I spend the rest of the day eating and resting, as I was weak. Hawk knight proposed that we march to aid our friends in the south. My king told me he will stay and defiat the normans once and for all, and since their king is still with the army that fled they most be squach. We will probably begin our march tomorrow, but I intend to use some of the norman's ships sail to poland and then march south. With me I will bring 20,000 men, and hawk knight can take the rest, as he wil probably need them more. I will talk about this with sir Hawk as soon as i got the chance.


June 11 - Dobber's Log

I rode all through the night and have put quite some distance between me and Ohrid. I adjusted my travel to a bit more northerly in the direction of Kossovo Polje. I have found a nice secluded outcropping of rock that I can rest under for a while. After a few hours of restful sleep I will move on toward Serbia and hopefully find some familiar faces headed to Bulgaria. I hope that Angryminer will let the Traveller know of my quest. But it is time for sleep.


hawk_knights log
June 10
Sir Richard had told me about his plan that he will use the norman ships to go to poland with 20,000 men and from there he will march south. I agreed he already had 10,000 men so i gave 10,00 men of my army under his command.
I said to sir richard that i will be marching to the south in two days the preparations are going faster then expected. I gave my army the order to make strong supplywagons for the long march. I had sended scouts a head to see if there is a good camping point ahead so when we have marched a while the army can rest.
The morale of the army is good and they are preparing them selfs for a long march. A messenger came to me from the my capital that the 5000 dragons are once again ready for battle and will arrive here tomorrow.

I will send spy's to the bysantine army's to gather more information about them. I had also sended a message to bulgaria to tell them that i will come with 80000 men to aid them in battle against the bysantine empire.
but for now i must prepare myself for the march and i mustt prepare my dragon scarlet for the march.


Adventures of Xuca

16th june
I rode like the wind and I am near my forces now. My wounds are starting to get worse, and I almost drank the Wizard's potion. I am very worried about my showing up. If I would show up to my men, they would think that I'm a ghost, because I look like one. Only one man knows I'm alive, and I can't contact him without being discovered. I can reach the camp this night and I can imagine myself approaching the guard from the dark, pale, skinny and speak to him whit shivering voice and him getting freaked out, getting a heart attack or screaming something like:"The ghost of Lord Xuca has come to haunt us!!!" I think I should sneak in the camp and wake up my friend so he can announce me and explain everything. But I don't feal well, and there is only one drop of the potion left...


tks logg 13th june

if finally arrived to the balkan region , things doesnt seem very normal here , many wars have been unleashed and the wrath of thousands of warriors have been heard , blood have been spilled , i set up camp with my 25000 men , tommorowe we will march to bulgaria

heretic
Desert Notes

As my horse ran like a wind, I reached Constantinople very quickly. This city, capital, fortress, monument, was wallowing in the sunshine when I entered it throught the southern gates. The history of ages shrouded me also with aromas of streets and city noise. But I could feel the unease all around...I wonder, have anybody noticed me entering the city? Some spies or scouts...
Guards of keep had been told that messenger would arrive these days, I showed them the ring of Caliph and they let me in. Emperor welcomed me and invited me for a golden-glass of wine. He had been reading Caliph's letter slowly, I could see in his eyes and kind of joy. For these minutes there was silence in the room, untill Emperor put the letter on the table. "Perfect" - he said and pushed the letter to me; I've read it quickly. - "I've heard about you, Milady. And if you're already here, I'd like to ask one thing. Alchemy and potions are your specialities and as I know it used to help Caliph's armies to defend castles stronger. I think your knowledge could also help to defend my city. Of course, your work will be evaluated... Oh, excuse me, Milady, I haven't suggested you a rest after a long travel! My palace is for your use. Think about my offer". "Regards, Your Majesty, I'll contemplate".

I went along the dark cold passage.
Now the ships with Caliph's army should already be on halfway. They left the port several days after I had left it.

Kuno of Gersenau
June - 11th

some hours before midnight

"Kuno all is ready, we should go now!" Sakim came to me with this words and showed with his hand at all the packed tents and the men who were waiting for the sign to march. I could see their faces in the shine of the torches and saw that they were sad about the things we had to do now and that they were confused about what's comming next...

it was yesterday when he came back to me and told me about the women he had seen. Heretic she was called and she was riding to Constantinople. Sakim said that this is no good sign and that he thinks that the Caliphe will support the Byzantines!
We disussed during the whole night what we should do now. Should we marsch to Bulgaria, but what would we do with the ships then? We can't let them here, they would fall into the hands of our enemies. So should we burn them? or was there time to sail to a harbour and to sell them?
We finally decided that the ships are useless now and that we will burn them. Next harbour is to far away for selling them. I hope Angryminer will be ok with our decision...
Next day our camp was builded down and the men prepeared for the march.

"ok, let us go." I gave the man the sign to put the fire on the ships. Then we marched out into the night, behind us the bright shining fire of our ships...

June 13 - Dobber's Log


It has been 2 days since I struck out across the countryside to search for the armies that are supposed to be marching to the aid of Bulgaria. I skirted the city of Kossovo Polje, for fear of encountering Byzantine spies in the city. Not that a Mercian man traveling alone should raise any alarm with them, I just didn't want to chance it.
I am well into Serbia now and should have encountered the allied forces. One more day of riding before I turn back. I fear the Kingdom of Bulgaria and the forces that followed me there may fall if the promised forces do not arrive soon.


NaVatar's Journal

14th June In pain
How it hurts in my side. I don't know how long I can bear with this pain.
The bledding has stop but the Doctor say that i have a internal damage and if not a miracle incur i will die by internal bledding before the end of the month.
How cruel fate can be.
Although I'm close to death i'm full of joy. My dear wife have given birth to twins. Two boys they are and they are healthy under the circumstances.
They were born four days after I regained my throne and cleansed Mercia from the traitor. We haven't named them yet and I must be honest, I haven't the strength on thinking on names now. It's a miracle I can write this journal with my pains.
I heard that TKS has traveled to the Balkan i think, and joined some army...that's good for him because just as me he doesn't like to sit around in some castle and rot away. I wish him luck on his travels as he did me a great favour in the throne room that day I slayed the traitor.

In my absent my wife is taking care of my assignments and busines of the crown. I must say, she have a really sharp mind and she manages the kingdom very well, even better then me if I'm honest but then again i wasn't fit for a king in the first place and got the position "King" stucked in my throat so to speak.
Oh, how I long for battle again and away from all the corruptness and the spying around that comes from all the nobles. Hmph, nobles , can't thrust them for a nickle. I swear, they would sell there own mother to get a seat in the council.

The pain is starting to reapear so I must e...............

*The writing ends abruptely and NaVatar falls down on the floor unconciuos but only seconds after ,the Doctor comes running and lays the king on his bed. Many people say to them self "Will the King survive the night?"
"What will happen if the King dies?" and "What will happen to Mercia?"
No one can answer these question but one thing is clear, only a miracle can save the king now. *


Adventures of Xuca

16th june
It took me two hours to find my friend's tent. He was overjoyed to see me, but also worried about my wounds. He wanted that I stay until they heal, but I had to say no, because I must reach our allies soon. Then he told me how he defeted the rebels. At first, the rebels were winning, and only 1000 men of my old army survived. Then an other army showed up and helped him. Then he started to mobilise the people, and after that he won three battles and defeted most of the rebels. He plans to attack the capital at dawn. There are now 8000 men, 1000 my expirienced soldiers, 3000 militias and 4000 reinforcements. There is also another army of 10000 men in Zeta. I ordered him to announce to the soldiers that I'm alive. That should boost their morale before the attack. I also ordered him that he, after the city is retaken, send the militias home, and the rest of the army to help our allies. And the army in Zeta should send 5000 men to defend Serbia from a possible Hungarian attack, and the rest should defend the shore from Byzantins. There are only few places where they could land, and it shouldn't be too difficult to defeat them in the mountains of Zeta.
Now I'm riding to Bulgaria as fast as I can, but I don't know if I have enough strenght to reach it, I alrady drank the potion...


hawk_knights log june 12
My army of 80000 men is ready to march to Bulgaria I gave them the order to march. My scouts had reported that the road is save to march. I gave my commanders the order that we will rest 6 hours per day. While we where marching i had send more spy's to byzantine to gather more information.

later that day
after a long march this day i gave my army the command to make camp and to eat and drink something for there strenght. I said to one of my commanders to send more scouts out and another messenger to bulgaria. Because i still did not heard anything from the messenger that i had send two days ago to bulgaria. to be prepared for any surprises i had dubbeld the guard for tonight. Tomorrow my army wiil ressume the march but for now i will rest.


Knight Richard's Adventure
Chap 15. The blue sea
June 10, 1005
Today we sailed to Poland. Hawk knight found it odd that I was going to take that route, as it will make the march longer, but I couldn't say why I had to go there first. The day I was rescued my king called me to his tend. He seemed worried and sadened, but that wasn't unusual because he has been like that since the day I meet him, that was when I was a adolecent. He said that his time was coming to an end and he could feel it, that he was dieing and he felt sink. He said that in his absence the nobles would try to take power and there was going to be civil wars and that this could be prevented. The only way to stop this was if someone that had the loyalty of the army takes over. Then he stood quite for a while and some time later said
"You Richard, you have the army, you have the heart of a ruler, you must stop the nobles when I die."
I was shoked thath e had asked me this.Why make a man that was born a simple peasant a king? Was this the way of repaying me for saving his life that day during my adolecence? But It couldn't be, he had made me a knight for that. Then he interrupted my thinking and asked.
"Will you take this great honor?"
I didn't know what to answer, but something told me to do it So accepted. He then said that if was to become king I had to go to poland and ask the poland king, his brother to prepare his army, for when I came back from the bysantine campain I would take power and will probably need a standing army to fight the nobles. I asked him why I had to go, when a massanger could do this and he answered I would need to face him for the right to rule england and his support in a duel, because they had made a pact when they were joung and it had to be done. So now is late in the after noon and the seas seemto be favoring us. We will land in poland in 2 days if the winds keep this way.


2 Days later in the coast of polandJune 12, 1005

After 2 days at sea we have finally reached poland. We made camp near the coast and tomorrow we will go to the polish capital to do my duty.
I also will see the beutifull Naddie, my kings brother's dougther. We meet some year ago during the celebretion of my kings birthday. Since that day every year when the kings birthday came we taked to each other and love grew throughout the years, but we couldn't show our love to neither king as I was just a knight and she was a princes. Now, however, I have proven my self and if I win this duel I will ask her hand to my kings brother. I'm going to practise now my sword skills and prepare for tomorrow, as I must win if I'm to be with the women I love.

June 14 - Dobber's Log

It was getting late on this final day of my journey north, no troops had been spotted. My heart was heavy for our Bulgarian friends and for the men that I once commanded. I thought of my friend Sakim who joined us looking for action and a chance to make his fortune as a mercenary in a foreign land. There was a mountain ridge before me and the decision was made to stop my northern progress and to turn south and to ride to rejoin my friends and fellow soldiers, but first just a trip to the ridgecrest to view the land to the north.
When I topped out the ridge, what a sight to behold, there was a huge army in the valley below, must be 75,000-100,000 men, and what is that I see, my eyes must be deceiving me, there appears to be a squad of dragons. The only squad of dragons I know anything about is the famed Dragonmasters under the command of Hawk_Knight, whom I have never met, but have heard much about. Plans most definitely have changed, I will not be turning south this night. I will ride down to the army and ask for an audience with Hawk_Knight, maybe just maybe we can get these troops to our friends in Bulgaria before it is to late. I must tell him of the plans that were being made to attack Adrianopol and maybe we can join the allied forces there. I must also let him know that we are 3-4 days ride by a man alone, the army pace would be probably one week to reach our friends and allies. I must also determine if I should stay with his force and travel with them or if I should strike out with a small party to quickly reach our friends and let them know how soon help will arrive.

june 14th tks log
Ive reachead a great valley , it signs the borders a villager said. Ive sent out
scouts to see if there is any available way through the valley. The camps near the villages were my horde of warriors have heard about the on going wars in bulgaria. How the brave warriors fights to defend there lands from the mighty byztines.It has encouraged there hearts, they are eager to do battle with enemy.The past days have been favorable. The sun shines and the paths are clear for the eye. What more can a knight wish then to ease up the marchs for his soldiers. Ive also heard that there was allied forces which passed by some days ago.

later that day
My scouts have spotted a huge army camping in the valley. This might be allies or byztine forces makeing an surprise attack on bulgria.Theyve also spotted a bald man in armour on the other side of the valley.I fear that we might have been spotted by the enemy. The scouts said that the army must been over 600000.Not even the bravest of warriors can withstand such a number.Ive sent a messenger to annouce my presence for negotiations.

Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 24
We have joined forces with Sire Kuno and Sakim today.
I planned to move south-east through Macedonia and Thessalia to attack Constantinople from west, but Sakim brought bad news. As it seems the Caliph of Alexandria comes to aid the byzantine.
Looking at a map (Out of Story: You might also want to look at the KoH-map) I got when I was at the bulgarian court I suspected that it might be a bad idea to move through macedonia, because if the alexandrians help the byzantine, they will surely come here by ship and land either near Thessalia or eastwards of Macedonia to follow us until we meet byzantine troops and then attack us from two sides.
I also told them that we know that we will fight the Caliph's army, but we don't know where they will come from. Because of that we should avoid them and focus on the byzantine first.
But it is also very propable that the byzantine will be more numerous than we are. Thus we should avoid vast plains and travel past the mountains of Vidin towards the black sea and turn southwards from there towards Constantinople. I believe that, when it comes to scouting, we have an advantage over the byzantines and we can use this to be prepared for battle before the byzantines are. That way we might beat them.
Hopefully we will recieve reinforcements by then, because we can't attack Constantinople with a tired army.
I will send a messager to the bulgarian king when we have decided which way to travel, so propably reinforcements arive more quickly.

hawk_knights log 14 of june

My scouts reported an army not far away from us moving towards us. He did not now if that army was friend of foe. Then a messenger came in to my camp he said that the army behind us is from The knightly sword and he asked if he could join us. I said to him say to Tks that Hawk_knight is leading this army and that he may join us. When the rider had left some guards came to me with a bald men on a horse. I said to him welcome sir Dobber to my camp i had fought beside you in the mercia campain. He had told me about the situation in bulgaria and there plan to attack Adrianopol and that there is not much time left for bulgaria and when my army has arrived in bulgaria will take about 2 weeks and horsemen 2/3 days. he ask me if he could go ahead with a small force to bulgaria. I said to dobber you could get from me 10000 horsemen to go to bulgaria or you could stay with us and go with us to serbia. To help our friend sir Xuca who needs help more then the bulgaria.


Journal of Sakim - June 12th

We have made a days journey west of our camp and are moving to join with the Bulgarian troops where it will be safer for us. I can wait no longer.
I call my squad leaders together and inform them that our mission here is coming to an end, it is time for them to tell their men to start deserting while on night guard duty. The first deserters should carry a message to Heretic and the Arab commander there, that my mission is close to completion and I will join them there within a few days.
The English are so trusting, and it is not good to betray a friendship but, I already have betrayed, it was one of my men that was with Sir Dobber's force that signaled the Byzantines(by my orders) the day Sir Dobber's ship was attacked and my loyalty to my Caliph is much stronger than my loyalty to Comrade Dobber. Once he has returned and I can surmise the strength of the forces coming to aid the Bulgarians, I will slip into the night and join my brethren at Constantinople.

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 16 The sight of a goddes and a wise man
June 13, 1005
Today we marched as planed with dawn. The skys where clear indeed and I felt better than ever before, I was going to se my beloved, Naddie. We reached the great walls of the polish capital and after some trouble and mistundesttandings the king let us in. I gave my men the order to take the day free and go have some while I was of to meet the king. I entered the court room and there by the side of the king was my beloved, in her silk robes and with a smile worth of a goddes. The king said something, but I hardly heard what he said, I was spelled in the myths of my beloved's beuty. Then the king spoke again, this time louder.
"Richard, I belive you know my doughter?"
"Yes sir, some years ago during the king's birthday"
" I know why you'r here, If you are feet to rule Anglia, and win my support you will have to win in a duel against me."
" It will be a great honor to fight a man like you sir" I said
I knew he was extreamly good as I had seem him practise with my king many times in the pass.
We went out to a field, aparently specially made for this ocasion and we battled each other. It was incredible what this old man could do with a sword in his hands. His agelity, his strength, everything was like if was just a joung man. After almost an hour of battle, I was igsousted, but he seemed to be just fine, he charge to me and the two sword crossed each other
" bang, bing, thing" The two sword seemed to be singing
" I haven't fase a foe like you for many years" He said, I'm beginning to enjoy this"
The minutes procceded and so did the battle. Then soemhting strange happened. He did somehtign a expert swordman would never do, he literagy gave his back to me. He let me win! I was confuse, why would he do this? Then he said
"You'r a great warrior, and I think you have the heart of a king, you have my support."
"Why you let me win?" i asked
"My doughter, you love her right?"
"Sir.." I said, but didn't klnow what to answer
"She loves you too and I know you will make her happy, you have my concet"
"Thank you sir" I said
I imediatlly went to my beloved and we talked for th rest of the day, we made plans of getting marry when I get back from the bysantine campain and many other things. Tomorrow we are marching south to meet our allis and possibly I will meet Hawk knight in the way. I only hope I can return from this war soon so I can finally be with my love.


June 14 - Dobber's Log

Late entry
Word came to us before we were ready to leave that Lord Xuca was in need of assistance nearby. We will aid him before heading south!

Traveller's Log - June 12th
"In peace sons burry their fathers, in war fathers burry their sons"
As my Tzar ordered me yesterday, I went to meet him in his palace this morning. He took me to the Royal garden for "a friendly walk". He really was acting strange! We walked silently, listening to the birds and enjoying the fresh morning air.
"It's strange how this world can keep so much beauty and in the same time - so much evil!", he said, as to himself. Then he turned to me: "For the past nearly 30 years I've fought battle after battle, a constant war with our enemy. Hundreds, thousands of people have died and for what? For the power and glory of a few men? For the might and hegemony of one kingdom?"
"No, Milord!", I said what I'be always been tought. "For the freedom of our people, for one Holy country. To show those Romeans that we're the true servants of Christ. And our victories prove this - God is on our side!"
"God? Does God support the killing of people? Let me tell you a story! Once, there was a man called Nikola. He was a Komita, a governor, of the Sredetz region, one of the one of the mightiest Komitas in Bulgaria. He had a beautiful wife, Ripsimia, and four sons from her: the Komitopuls David, Moses, Aron and Samuel. But then the Roman emperor Ioan Zimisches invaded with a large force the eastern part of Bulgaria and conquered it, capturing the members of the Royal dynasty. Sredetz was also taken and the Komita Nikola - slain. His four sons managed to escape to the still free western parts of Bulgaria, to Macedonia, where they began preparations to overthrow the Greek power and free all Bulgarian lands. When Ioan Zimisches died a few years after, the Bulgarians revolted and chose the four brothers to rule them until the Kings return. But their fate was not to be easy. The biggest brother David was killed by Wlach rogues. Death came also to Moses, during the siege of Seres. The third brother Aron aspired to a marriage with the sister of the Roman emperor Basil II. The emperor betrayed him and sent him the wife of one of his attendants. The deceit was uncovered, but Aron didn't broke his ties with Constantinopol. He even showed ambitions to take the full power and the crown of Bulgaria. That's why Samuil ordered his brother to be killed with his entire family, for betrayal of the country, to serve as a warning that nobody will be spared for betrayal. This was on June 14th, 976. Soon the Bulgarian princes Boris II and Roman escaped from Constantinopol. Boris II was killed by accident at the border, but Roman was saved. Samuil acknowledged him as a true heir to the throne, but Roman insisted that they act together. During his captivity, Roman had been castrated and could no longer have children, so he wanted Samuil to inherit him. This was the most logical thing to do in order to keep the country stable. In the next years Samuil proved as a good commander and won many great victories. Roman had been taken prisoner again and in 997 he died in the dungeons of Constantinopol. The great Krum dynasty had ended, but a new ruler sat on the throne.* War continued in a constant struggle at the Balkan passes. Messengers were sent to close and distant kingdoms, seeking brave men to Bulgaria's aid. The pressure of the Romans increased as they managed to land with their ships in Moesia. Hard battles took place and the Tzar's son, Gavril Radomir, was sent to lead the resistance. With him was the only son of Aron, Ivan Vladislav, that was still alive. When Samuil ordered Aron and his family to be killed, Gavril Radomir had insisted that his cousin's life must be spared. But then, during those battles, Ivan Vladislav betrayed his saviour and in the shadow of the night he treacherously stabbed the Tzar's only son with his spear. He was caught, but the evil could not be undone. In him, a letter was found, from emperor Basil II, which said: "Why don't you avenge the blood of your father? Accept from me gold and silver and be in peace with us, and take back your kingdom, which Samuil stole from you. And if you're stronger, kill his son Radomir, who will rule after him..."
I hadn't heard of the death of the prince, maybe even the guards didn't knew or they were ordered to remain silent, but this explains the behaviour of the Tzar. His only son, murdered by his own cousin, whose life he had saved... This could crumble every man down to ruins!
"But it is not this what I have called you for!", he continued. "The war goes on and I can't neglect the fate of my people, even in these times of mourning. I can't lead the armies myself for I will stay here to burry my son. But my armies are not ready yet for an all-scale attack on Constantinopol. This is why I decided to give you and our brave allies a force of 35 000. 15 000 under direct command of this Angryminer and 20 000 under command of a Bulgarian knight. My men have told me of your service under Lord Nike and of your deeds in Serbia. I'm sorry to hear that Commander Xuca has died by the hand of the foul Greeks, but we have our own worries now. I've already sent reinforcements to our Serbian allies and now I've decided, due to your previous service and deeds, that you should lead the troops to reinforce our Mercian allies. Therefore, from today you're officially a Bulgarian noble, a Komita, like my father. After the war is over, we'll see which lands we shall give to you to govern. I'm also sending three more nobles to help you and serve as your substitutes. They're well educated and trained and have their own corpus of heavily armoured horsemen. Such a corpus shall be appointed to you as well. Now, go and leave me with my grief! And may God guide you in your quest!"
Thus my meeting with the Tzar ended. I received more than I could've hoped, more than I could even dream of. Today I'll be inspecting my troops and assemble my own cavalry corpus and tomorrow... Tomorrow we march to unite with the Mercians and help our troops in the siege of Adrianople.


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap 17: Hard to say goodbye
June 14, 1005
Early this morning we prepared to march sound. After a long talk and hard goodbye I left th polish capital and with it my beloved. She was crying as she had a dream last night about me having a tragedy in the bysantine campain, but I can't let a simple dream stall me from helping our friends in the south. After almost half day some of my scouts returned with news about an army that had passed by not many days ago and that his ladder was Tsk. Maybe we can reach him if we speed up a little, though I don't want to force my men too much as they will need their streght for the battes ahead. I also sended a massanger with news of my arrival with 30,000 men, the polish king gave me 10,000 soldiers. If the days ahead are to be like this one we will surely be in the balkans in 2 to 5 days, but for now we rest. Tomorrow we march with dawn.

June 15 - Dobber's Log

One of Lord Xuca's scouts rode into our camp with a message from Lord Xuca, yes a message from Lord Xuca, it appears he staged his assassination to draw out the insurgents. He has requested our assistance in ridding his empire once and for all of the insurgency. And he is not very far from our currrent location, we will be in conference with him before days end. We also received a message from the Traveller that they were going to attack Adrianople and for us to meet them there after we were through aiding Lord Xuca. The forces they have are more than enough to conquer the beleaguered city, the last outpost north of Constantinople. As I have only temporary command of Hawk_Knights cavalry, I must wait on him to issue the orders for the army to move onward to meet with Lord Xuca.
I wonder how my friends are, what anxieties they are facing on the eve of battle.
Oh to be by their side, but eh this is the life of a mercenary afterall, you never know where the winds of war will carry you. The man you stand by defending today could be the man you are facing tomorrow.

Hawk_knights log june 16th

Sir dobber had told me about the messenger that was yesterday in the camp. And that Lord Xuca was in need of help and ask us to help him in battle. I said to him i had already had send a messaenger to lord Xuca that my army was comming to help him against his enemy's. Because when i got the news from bulgaria that they need our help later then i had already made my decison. Then another messenger came in the camp he is a messenger from my good friend sir Richard he told him that Richard and his army was not far away from here and that he wanna join us. I told the messenger to day to his commander that he is welcome to join my army. And i told him that we will march serbia because they need ourwer help. I had told my army about my plan and they said when will we march we will march on 20th of june then sir richard has already joined us and the he is also ready to march.
I said to Sir dobber that if he would he could go ahead with my 10000 horsemen ot help lord Xuca with them And is said to him that i will begin to march when sir Richard had joined us. So that we will have more men to help lord Xuca.

Adventures of Xuca
17th june
It seems that I passed out last night. I was awoken by some stomping. I can't find my horse, and my chest hurts badly. By the noise, it seems that an army is coming, I must chek that out.

Few hours later

An army of 10000 horsemen is coming this way! And it's lead by Sire Dobber! I haven't seen him for months! I'll go and talk to him...





I shall edit this post a many as i can and put some new logs in it :go: :cheers:

[Moryarity]

That is a good idea, i really enjoed it...very funny....keep on ;)

[Nike]

Hawk Knight, it would be good if you make the new entries (Someone's Diary - Date; A few hours later etc.) in Bold or Itallic, so that the different paragraphs would be easily noticed.

[hawk_knight]

Here is the rest of the story the post was to long so i had to put the rest i another post :biggrin:


here is the new part of the story have fun with reading it :go: :cheers:

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap 18: Together with a friend once again.
June 20, 1005
Finally after 6 days of marching we got to a vally where my massanger had informed Hawk knight was waiting me. I climed the last hill an there was the vast army of my friend Hawk knight with his dragons and TSK with his ferousius warriors camped. I rode into the camp and after some hellos I ordered my men to camp and prepare themselves as we begin to march south tomorrow. Hawk knight callepd me to his tend and showed me the situation and that there were other friends in the south. The only one i had heard somethign about was Sir Dogger, whon had fought in the mercian campain and his bravery was know throughout Anglia. We will march to serbia, as the need our aid, and then we will go to greece and fight the bysantines on their own homeland once and for all.


conquestare legionare`s entery june 15

deserting the army of the empire

Im tired of serveing tyrrany. Ive always served as loyal captain to the byzantine army, But now i cannot handle the commands im forced to do burning and pillgeing defenseless villages.im now no more bound to these orders.Ive deserted the byzantine army seeking to join another. Ive heard about the armies at war with the byzantines maybe i can serve in one of them.Ive ordered my legion to march to eastern bulgaria i may encounter one of them.


17th June - Kuno's log
I hope tomorrow we will join forces with Angryminer, there are some thing who bother me...
I've the impression that we're less people than we were some days before. I haven't seen some of Sakims people for days...But when I asked him he said that everybody of his is here, exept some people who are scouting the landscape. I wonder why he needs so many people for this...

But this isn't the biggest problem, yesterday one of my scouts came back from the shore of the sea, where I sended him, and told me that there was a hug fleet at the horizon. he said that he could'n see the exact number, but it was the biggest fleet he ever saw!
I think that this is the fleet of the Caliphe. When I told it to Sakim, he agreed with me. But there was no surprise in his face, I had the impression that I saw something different...something like joy!


June 17 - Dobber's Log
I led the 10,000 horsemen into Lord Xuca;s camp today, and found the Lord in a bad way. He is badly wounded, but he is determined to stay with the forces rather than seek medical attention. I went to his side and asked that he let me treat his wound. I dug in my pack and found the pouch of crushed herbs Sakim had given me for dressing wounds. While I sprinkled the herbs on Lord Xuca's wounds, I had several men seeking out large slabs of moss to place over the herbs. Once the moss was in place I wrapped cloth snug around his body to hold the moss in place.
Lord Xuca, I place myself and these fine horsemen from Hawk_Knight's army at your service. Ready for your orders, Lord.


Hawk_knights log 20th of june
my army was preparing to march to serbia. Before we marched i sended some scouts ahead and i had sended a messenger to sir Dobber and lord Xuca that my army will arrive in three or four days. I said to sir Richard that its good to have him back and i said to him that we must be careful on the road ahead to serbia. There may be an ambush ready for us from the bysantiens. And is said to him that the army will be marching in a formation that could hold off an ambush the formation is infrantrie on the right and left in the centre archers and in front and at the back horsemen en in the sky dragons.
Then my captain walked in my tent and he said that a a spy has been discoverd in ouwer camp.

I said to him bring him here. I saw a tattoo on his back i said to sir Richard that i know that tattoo it is the signature from the spys of Golden Hord those spy are hard to discover. I think that they are hird by bysantiens to see where my army is going to. i said to sir Richard that we will talk about this matter later. i said to that i have to go to prepare my dragon and i said that we will march in three hours.

three hours later
my army was ready to march i gave my army the signal to march.


18th june

I'm alot better now since sir Dobber treated my wounds. But I still can't hold a sword properly. After I rest, I'll discuss with him about the plan of assaulting the town. But I can see dark clouds on the horizont. They'll come here by the night, and after that it could rain for atleast a week with small pauses. I don't think we could attack before tomorrow, but I'll talk about it with Sir Dobber...

Journal of Sakim - 15th of June

Today Angryminer and Traveller returned to our camp with 35,000 men and Traveller is indeed a nobleman, a Bulgarian nobleman. Where is Comrade Dobber? I must find out, maybe he is not returning and I will not have to turn on my friend. Most of my men have deserted by this time and Kuno is curious, I continue to tell him they are on scouting patrol, but he is skeptical.
I met with Angryminer, Traveller and Kuno to discuss the coming battle. It appears the plan is to attack Adrianople and use it as a base to build their numbers and prepare their armies for the attack on Constantinople. When I asked of Comrade Dobber, I was informed that he had ridden north to find the other promised forces. So this is not all of the aid the Bulgarians are receiving, it appears I must stay around a bit longer. I need to know how many troops Comrade Dobber returns with and maybe I can hear some crucial planning of the assault on Constantinople.
I must have the men that are still in camp remain for a while longer, there would surely be suspicions if I alone remained. I will send a couple of men to Adrianople to warn them of the impending attack. I gathered 2 of my most trusted assiciates and saw them safely out of camp with the message. Once they deliver the message they are to return here, stating they were out on patrol and saw heavy activity at the city of Adrianople. Imagine the surprise when we arrive at Adrianople and there is no one there, all the people and supplies gone. The forces there would surely have lost to this force and they would be better used in defending Constantinople! Oh yes the Caliph will be happy.

Heretic’s
Desert Notes
In a few days being in Constantinople I've found its people nice and friendly. The great city, but pretending to be conquered. People eyes said how they were frightened. In these few days of rest and thinking I've uncovered more beauty of The Capital, I've even met my old friend. After conversation I decided to help as much as I can to defend the city...
Another good new: scouts have brought news that Caliph's army is close and soon will reach the shore.
I'll be waiting


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap 19: A dangereous road ahead.

June 21, 1005
Today early in the morning Hawk knight gave the order to begin the march to serbia. We both knew that it will be dangerous as the bysantines won't hasitate on sending mersenaries or assasins to delay the advance of help. Also the rebels will try to do the same, so Hawk knight deviced a sort of a plan in case we were to be ambushed. We would march on a file beg enought to be able to stand a ambush and a special formation leaving archers in center, Infantry to both sides, cavarly in front/back and his special group of dragons on air looking for anything that might be dangerous. Most of hte day we marched without any problem, but as night grew nearer the skys became black and soon after a huge storm began. We had to make camp fast to protect the men from the rain, as diseases could begin and spread rapidly. It is midningt but I can't sleep. I had a dream where a ladder from Anglia dies on a great bloody battle. The strange thing is that his hair and face looked much like mine. I also for the first time in many weeks had a dream about my dear friend, Roger who had gave his life fighting alone my side. He said soemthing to me, but I couldn't understand and I woke up after that. So now I'm on my tent trying to go back to sleep as we begin our march tomorrow if the sky is clear.

Traveller's Log - June 18th
Views on the Horizon
Today we finally reinforced our allies. We're nearly 30 km. from Adrianople and tomorrow we'll probably attack the last fortress on our way. Of course, we'll have to discuss our plans with the others first, but I think they won't have anything in mind. Besides, even with our reinforcements, we're still too vulnerable here in the open. If the Romeans launch surprisingly a massive attack with all their sttrength, I don't know if we'll be able to withstand. We need a city with good fortifications, large enough to support our men. The only such city nearby is Adrianople, so we have to take it, no matter what. While I was still in Bulgaria, I ordered to immediately send provisions to this city and in four-five days they'll arive there, enough to support our army for a week or two, even if Adrianople's supplies are low. And after Adrianople falls, only Constantinople will be left. Oh, if we could only bring the Arabs on our side... Then the Great City will be smashed by two great waves and our glory shall be unsurpassed by any other man or country! Finally, justice shall rule over these lands under the sceptre of the Bulgarian tzar! But are the Arabs, those infidels, trustworthy? If I judge by Sakim - yes! When we arrived today, I saw that the men were fewer than we left them, mainly the men of Sakim. Obviously they had a fight with the Romeans and the Arabs have taken the main blow and thus, the biggest casualties. It seems Sakim really is a man of honour and is one, who we could put our trust upon. Even more, he's a modest man. He didn't complain about his casualties, nor he bragged about how he has repulsed the attack. We really have a great luck with allies such as these! But it seems the Romeans have a similar luck as well. Kuno told me that his scouts have seen a huge fleet, heading towards Constantinople, bearing the signs of the Fatimids. Just when I was thinking of the infidels and they come - could we be more lucky?! But Kuno didn't agree with me. He said that a few days earlier he saw a messenger of the Caliph, entering the gates of Constantinople. This would probably mean that they're not coming to take advantage of the war, but to help the foul Romeans. The Basileus's money have probably found their way to the Alexandrian coffers... Still, there is a hope inside me. Kuno said that the messenger hasn't left the city, he hasn't made contact with the fleet. Maybe he's kept as a prisoner? Maybe he was there to declare war? But it's not a he. It's a She - the Heretic, Caliph's most special agent. He wouldn't risk her life to send her in a hostile city. Hmm... I only hope that the fleet will continue its way to Constantinople. If they land somewhere to the west of us, then we'll be in big trouble - Adrianople's small garrison to the north, Constantinople's armies to the east and Caliph's army to the west of us. Our only chance is to take Adrianople as soon as possible and await new reinforcements from Bulgaria. That's why I immediately sent a messenger to my king to inform him of the new situation and ask for his help. I also hope that Dobber will soon come back to boost the morale of the men. I haven' seen him since he left us in Ohrid in search of the "other reinforcements". What reinforcements? Aren't they the Mercian reinforcements?! Of course, I won't reject any extra help, but I can't even dream of such... I know only that these lands shall once again be soaked with blood soon. A great battle is coming, a battle the world has never seen before and probably will never see again...

June 21 - Dobber's Log

The rains came early and postponed our attack to retake Lord Xuca's seat of government. We had originally planned our assault for two days earlier. It is still a miserable rainy day, and no one is out and about. Perhaps the rain will let up and we can make our attack tomorrow. We have even more hatred for the assassins that have taken over the town, for earlier today a force of 25,000 men marched up to camp, their leader stretched out upon a litter being carried by some stalwart young men. The Knightly Sword had moved out from Hawk_Knight's camp a day ahead of the main force. The strong armed Knight had ridden out ahead of his army, as was his cutom to do, scouting the land ahead. As he road into a peaceful glade, he was beset by assassins who had been waiting in ambush. When his army came within sight of the glade, they could see the great steed standing riderless, with dead bodies scattered about. They rushed into the glade to find their leader near his horse sitting slumped upon the ground with 12 dead assasins lieing about. The Kightly Sword barely clinging to lifehad fought admirably and bravely.
Upon their arrival, I had them bring The Knightly Sword to my tent and tried to make him comfortable, he was very weak. At his request his Commanders were summoned to my tent, and there in their presence he placed his 25,000 men under my command. He then requeste his sword be placed in his hand and asked to be helped to his feet. Once standing he said, "A warrior dies standing with his sword in his hand!" and then took his last breath and crumpled to the ground. We buried him on the hillside facing in the direction of the coming battle, I thrust his sword into the ground at the head of the grave and set his helmet atop. It was truly a great honor to know one so brave.
Tomorrow we get our revenge, and also return Lord Xuca's King to the throne. I also sent messengers via Ohrid to find my friends, they should be somewhere between Ohrid and Constantinople, with a message that the armies of from the north are just a few days travel from them. And that once we settle things for Lord Xuca, we will be enroute to join with them. I sent estimates of our strength as part of the message, so my friends could be devising a plan of attack. I will be bringing the 35,000 combined forces(10.000 horsemen from Hawk_Knight and the 25,000 infantry from our fallen TKS), Hawk_Knight is bringing an additional 70,000 combined troops(of which 5,000 are a dragon squad), Sir Richard is bringing 30,000 men and I am not sure how many men Lord Xuca will wind up with when it is all said and done.


Adventures of Xuca


21st june

It's been raining for three days now. But it seems that this night will be very stormy. If it starts early enough, it will stop in the morning. We may have few hours to attack. I sent a messager to south-west were the other army is to send some forces after we retake the city, so I'll have 15000 soldiers. Than we'll move to help our allies.
I heard what happened to The Knightly Sword. They'll feel our wraith! Now I must go and prepare the army for the attack...


Hawk_knights log 21st of june

a messenger came to my my army. While we where marching to serbia. The messenger said to me that the Knightlysword had fallen in battle. I said to him bring this message to sir dobber that my army will be in serbia in a three days.

I talked to sir Richard about the ambush that could be waiting for us on the road ahead i said to him that we must send out more scouts to discover those ambushes before there are used against us. but now we must continue our march.



Journal of Sakim _ June 19th

Kuno came again today inquiring of the missing men, and Traveller is of the opinion I lost men in battle. Kuno knows there has been no battle, this could get very sticky, I must silence Kuno, but death is to risky. Maybe I could induce an extended state of unconsciousness, something that resembles a fever or a bite from some varmint.

I assured Kuno that my men were all out on patrol, many some distance from camp!
I then suggested I was just preparing to have a goblet of wine, and would he care to join me. After we finished our wine, Kuno left to return to his tent.

It has been about 30 minutes, a call has rang out that Kuno has been found unconscious in his tent. I am sorry Kuno, that you must suffer this harrowing fate, but you were getting to close. You should be okay in a week or two, by that time I will be long gone and in no danger from your suspicions.

A messenger has arrived from Traveller's quarters, that we meet with him to discuss this new situation and to plan for the assault on Adrianople.


Kuno's log - June 19th

I don't trust Sakim anymore. He said, that his men are out for scouting, but so many scouts are not needed. The risk would be too big. Last night when I came back to my tent I saw some of his men, who should guard the camp, walking away in the night.
This morning they weren't back! I'll go now and talk a serious word with him.


later that day, after the meeting with Sakim

Sakim couldn't really convince me, when I asked him for some reports of his scouts he said to me that he will give them only to the commander. And when I asked him when his scouts will come back he couldn't give me a real answer...
I think I'll come up with this today evening when we've a meeting with Angryminer and Traveller...

I just hope I feel better then, I've headache and a strange feeling in my stomach. I think I'll lie a bit down on my bed, then it will get better soon...


notes of the camp-mediciner
Sire Kuno lies unconsciuos down in fever. He has a really strange illness i've never seen before. I tried everything to get down the feaver, but it didn't work yet...
Only thing we actually can do is to pray for him!


June 22 - Dobber's Log


AM - The rain stopped several hours ago and the men are prepared for battle. I sent messengers to all my commanders to approach the city from the southeast. In doing so it will force the enemy to flee in the direction of Hawk_Knight's line of of march. Perhaps that will prevent any escape. With the force we have there should be minimal resistance. I am sending a messenger to Hawk_Knight to direct his approach toward the city, he can join up with us there to proceed to Bulgaria.

As dawn broke we rolled the seige towers into ready position and brought up the battering rams in preparation for storming the city. We brought up the portable shields and put them in place. I then ordered the archers to take their place behind the shields and to continually fire over the walls edge to make the men on the wall nervous and seeking cover. Next the rams were ordered to take down the gates, followed by orders for the seige towers to be rolled into place. I then sent half the enraged infantry in squads of 100 up the towers and onto and over the walls, while having the archers cease fire so our men would not be hit. The rams busted through the gate and the calvary charged through the gates with a vengeance, followed by the remainder of the infantry. The archers were given orders to start encircling the city to kill anyone trying to escape. No one is allowed to escape. If we can take a commander alive, we will do so. Lord Xuca would like to bring some questions before someone. We did not use catapults or trebuchets, Xuca's people have to live here and protect themselves once we leave and they did not need to have the burden of wall repair. Our force was so overwhelming that the opposition soon fell before the surge, with a minimal loss to our force. When you send in excess of 35,000 men into battle and lose no more than a couple hundred you have had a good day. One of my commanders brought out a captured Captain, I had him taken to Xuca for questioning. Within 6 hours the city was secure and I had the men dismantling the seigecraft and packing it for our march to Bulgaria.
We will set up camp and wait on Hawk_Knight's arrival, then proceed to Bulgaria, to Adrianople. A messenger had arrived from Traveller that they were going to take Adrianople and for us to meet them there.
I will now rest and take an afternoon nap.



Adventures of Xuca
22nd june

Sir Dobber lead the attack this morning, because I am still weak. We were victorious with minimal casualites. A man came in and said that there is a prisoner and asked me if I want to interogate him. I asked him if they found the King or Knez Vladislav, and he said that they haven't. Maybe the prisoner can give me vital informations...

Later that night

When the prisoner came in he looked very surprised: "L... L... Lord Xuca!? You are alive!?"
"Yes, I am alive. Unlike your master, whom I'll execute on sight!"
"Wh... What master?"
"Dont pretend you are a fool! You know well about whom I am talking!"
"I don't know what are you talking about, my Lord! I serve only our King, Vladis..."
"King Vladislav!? He proclaimed himself King!?"
"Yes, after yours and King Vladimir* death, he was the only one who could inherit the throne..."
Then, my heart froze - the King is dead. Then I stuttered: "He is dead?"
"Yes, you didn't know? He died from an unknown illness."
Knez Vladislav killed him! I was mad, but I was downhearted too. I felt my chest exploding, and I heard a voice: Lord Xuca? Are you allright? Help! Lord Xuca's going to faint!"

I woke up late in night in my tent with a man beside me. I asked him what happened, and he said:"rest now, we'll talk in the morning." I went back to sleep, and now when I feel a little better, I'll continue the questioning...
Traveller's Log - June 19th
A history lesson

While I was in Ohrid, I took some time to speak with the chroniclers from Kliment's and Naum's monasteries. I transcribed and wrote all the information I collected about the Bulgarian recent history in hope of finding something that could help us in the war. "History is a door to the present and a window to the future", say the wise men. Now I'm re-writing my notes here, condensed in one book, with the most reliable information, starting with some background:
“Reasons for our current situation could be found whole the way back to the time after the death of our glorious leader - Tsar Simeon the Great. The politic he led was indeed a glorious one – all his enemies bowed down before him or were crushed, as in the battle at Aheloi (Anchialo). He also started a large spiritual and cultural revival program; many palaces, churches and monasteries were built, the Preslav literary and art school was well know across the world. After all, Simeon was a very bright man, he spent his childhood in the Magnaura School in Constantinople and Romans called him “demi-Greek”, referring to the ancient Hellenes. Under his rule Bulgaria became one of the three political and cultural centres in Europe. But all of this had a price – the economical and demographical resources of the country were exhausted.
In the year 927 after the birth of Christ his son, Tsar Peter, faced a hard situation by inheriting the throne. The same year he signed a 30-year peace treaty with the Romans, strengthened with his marriage with Roman Lakapin’s granddaughter Maria, renamed to Irina in honour of this peace. He thought that thus he has secured our southern borders and taken care of the biggest threat. But it wasn’t so… In 930 the Serbian prince Cheslav ran away from Preslav and with Romean help declared the independence of Zeta. In the same time a series of Magyar attacks started; supposedly aiming at Constantinople, but actually pillaging Bulgarian lands. Tsar Peter concluded a pact with the Empire against the Magyars, but no help came. Furthermore, the Romans used the intention of the Kievan knez (prince) Igor for a campaign against Tsarigrad (Byzantium, Byzantion and Tsarigrad are other names of Constantinople; Tsarigrad is its Slavic name, meaning “city of Tsars”, “city of Emperors”), by directing his intentions through Bulgarian lands. The campaign was finally thwarted, but knez Igor allowed his allies – the Pechenegs, to pillage the North-Eastern Bulgarian lands. The crisis led to the creation of the Bogomil heresy, whose followers are now infesting all over the civilized world under the names albigoans, katars and patarens. These heretics were (and still are) very dangerous not only because they deny the true Christianity and say that Satanail is the bigger brother of Jesus Christ and that he (Beelzebub) has created the human body and therefore men should not be “its slaves” (denying all normal human needs; even having children, because of the way they’re created), but especially because of their anti-government and anti-church teachings. As a result, many of the Bulgarian peasants grew anti-social and served a serious internal threat. But fate didn’t stop here! In the end of the 6th decade Emperor Nikifor Fokas undertook a decisive offensive against the Arabs in Asia Minor, thus securing the Empire’s positions to the East. In 967 the Bulgarian envoy in Constantinople not only did not receive the annual tribute, but was also shamefully chased away. With generous gifts the Kievan knez Svetoslav Igorevich was drawn as an ally against Bulgaria. Thus Nikifor Fokas drew the eventual strike of the Russes from the Roman city of Chersoneses in the Crimea to us.
Probably then the roots of the alliance of our current enemies have been sown, as in 968 knez Svetoslav debarked in the Danubian delta, leading an army of 60 000 Russes and Normans. He clashed there with the local 30 000 Bulgarian force, defeated it and chased it to the walls of Drustr. Hearing the news of this heavy defeat, Tsar Peter suffered an apoplectic stroke and withdrew to a monastery, where he died a year later. This disorganized the Bulgarian centralized power, because the heir to the throne Boris II was being held hostage in Byzantion. Svetoslav used this and captured 80 Bulgarian fortresses from Bulgaria-Beyond-Danube (between the rivers Dnepr and Dnestr). Luckily, our aristocracy managed to organize itself and directed the Pechenegs against the Kievan capital, forcing knez Svetoslav to withdraw. In the meantime help was asked from the Romeans, who freed Tsar Peter’s sons – Boris and Roman, due to problems with one of their spies in Kiev, who obviously planned to take the Romean throne himself. They signed a peace treaty with the new Bulgarian Tsar Boris II (who reigned only for two years – 969-971). The treaty was strengthened with the betrothing of two Bulgarian princesses with the juvenile heirs to the Romean throne Basil II and Constantine. However, the promised military help was not dispatched. In the meantime knez Svetoslav dealt with the Pechenegs and returned to Bulgaria in 969. A hard battle took place under the wall of Preslavec. The numerical superiority of the Russes proved to be decisive and the fortress was taken. The Kievans occupied all of North-Eastern Bulgaria with its most important cities – Great Preslav, Drustr, Preslavec and Pliska.
Aiming at Tsarigrad, Svetoslav had to improve his relations with us, so he formally kept the power of Tsar Boris II. Even the Christian temples were left unharmed by the pagan Russes. Svetoslav, himself, resided in Drustr. All of this brought a lot of confusion among the Bulgarian aristocracy. In 970, leading a huge force of Russes, Normans, Bulgarians and Pecheneg and Magyar mercenaries, knez Svetoslav invaded Thrace. In Philipopolis, whose population denied acknowledging the “alliance” with the Russes, he did some terrible atrocities. However, despite of his numerical superiority, he was defeated by the Romans, forced to seek truce, after which he retreated to Drustr.
In the beginning of 971 the new Emperor Ioan Zimisches (969-979) surprisingly crossed the undefended Balkan passes. He presented his campaign as a help to the Bulgarians against the Russian knez. This led to a voluntarily surrender of most of the Bulgarian fortresses to Ioan Zimisches and, as a result, Svetoslav was blocked in Drustr. The Bulgarians there revolted against the Russes and Svetoslav decapitated 300 Bulgarian bolyars. Survivors say that at the funeral of one Russian voevod there were also human sacrifices of Bulgarian children. All of this condemned Svetoslav to isolation even among his ex-allies. After a three month siege, he capitulated. He declined all his claims to Bulgaria and the Crimea, after which he was released. On his way back to Kiev knez Svetoslav was attacked and killed by the Pechenegs.”
The coalition between the Normans, Russes and Romeans quickly fell apart then, but, as we see, today it’s been renewed. But instead of Kievans there are Novgorodians this time. The Romans obviously didn’t like Svetoslav’s dreams for Tsarigrad…
“After the retreat of knez Svetoslav Ioan Zimisches enforced the Romean power over North-Eastern Bulgaria, including in the lands of Bulgaria-Beyond-Danube (the so called Western Mesopotamia). Boris II was captured and, at the hippodrome in Constantinople, he was de-crowned.
Exactly in those disturbing times the power in the free Bulgarian lands was taken by the sons of komit Nikola – the komitopuls David, Moisei, Aron and Samuil. They ruled as regents in the Western Bulgarian lands and in 973 they sent a mission to our German ally Oton I. Unfortunately, he couldn’t help us much, so, after the death of Emperor Ioan Zimisches in 976, the komitopuls started their military actions on their own. They fought numerous battles on a large front, but David was killed by Wlach rogues and Moisei died at Siar”…
I’ll continue with this “history lesson” later. There’s some disturbance in the camp, especially near Kuno’s tent, so I’ll go check what’s going on…


June 25 - Dobber's Log

Commander Hawk_Knight and Sir Richard arrived in our camp today. Lord Xuca and I met with them and we decided to give their men a days rest and we would start our march to Adrianople to join with the Bulgarian/Mercian/Arab forces there. I wonder how long it will take to move 160,000 men that distance. I wonder if the lands can even support us. This better not grow into a prolonged campaign unless someone knows where we can find food enough for all these men. I wonder how dragon tastes.


Traveller's Log - June 20th
The Last Fortress

Yesterday, when I stopped my "history lesson", I went to see what's going on in Kuno's tent. It seems he's very ill and in unconsciousness. The doctor said he can't help him, he hasn't seen such an illness and we could only pray for him. And we will! I sure hope he'll be fine soon! But this thing reminds me too much about my previous experiences in Serbia. And we're so close to Constantinople and its assassins...

But at least I have also some good news - we finally took Adrianople. The city was already besieged when we arrived - our forces had already taken whole of Greece and Thrace and only Adrianople was standing on our way to Constantinople. The city was besieged from only a few weeks, but it was already broken. We hadn't tried to assault it, which might save our lives - walls are preserved for an eventual counter-attack. The besieging commander was hoping to take it only by hunger and for a short time. And to my surprise - he did. Or we did, I don't know... "It seems that right after the siege all of the city food supplies were gathered to one common depot. This was a common practice in such cases - you don't know how long this siege is going to last and food stocks should be distributed carefully. But soon after this a fire broke out in the depot and destroyed most of the supplies. Only a few remained - mostly those in store for the army, which were in a separate storehouse. As a result, hunger quickly took the entire city. The population was growing restless and wanted to surrender, but the commander of the garrison ordered his men to try to break the siege. He was a Bulgarian called Nikulitza, in service of the Emperor. The Romeans opened the gates and quickly formed their ranks in front of them with their general at the lead. "Now he'll stand against us with all the rage and hatred of a brother against brother", our commander said. The Romans fought fiercely, but they were too weakened from the hunger and were also outnumbered - some had already died, while some had fled to Constantinople before the siege. In the beginning they had the upper hand, because our men were gathered too much at one place (mainly at the southern gate) and this resulted in the lack of manoeuvre availability and our men couldn't swing their swords so easily in this dense formation. On the other hand, the enemy ranks were loose and they could manoeuvre as they like. Their general Nikulitza was riding near all of his troops, encouraging them to fight. He was wearing a goldened armour and shield and wherever he passed by, shouts and battle cries erupted. Then our commander also took out his sword and joined his ranks. The two armies charged and then stopped in one place, as two live walls entangled in one another. They pushed, they cutted, they stabbed each other, but they also melted and vanished. The sun was high in the sky and you could see where these two live walls pushed each other, how swords and spears, axes and maces, bows and arrows were flashing and shining, intertwining and untwining, raising and falling, striking and breaking. Every strike, every shout and groan melted into one common crash and rumble, which was becoming quiet, but denser, deeper, as if it was coming from under the ground. Then the Romeans started falling back to their walls. We attacked even more fiercely. Now the Romans were in our situation: they were too many, too dense in front of the gate itself, which couldn't take them at once. Then the gate began closing, which created even more panic among the Romeans. They were even stamping each other in their effort to run behind the gate. But some couldn't, the gate doors slammed and leaved its men outside to be slaughtered." That's what one of the soldiers told me later. The Romans had taken a lot of casualties and hunger was getting even worse. It seems this was almost a week ago. Since then, the local population was forced to eat whatever they could find - their domestic animals were already eaten and they started killing dogs, cats, even rats. Their situation was desperate, but they were still holding, in hope of help from Constantinople. Yesterday, when they saw our army in the distance, they cheered with their last strength. They couldn't even think our army could be something else than their reinforcements. But when we got near and they could see the banners of my men and the banners of Mercia and Sakim they realized the situation. We could easily take the city - the guards on the walls were powerless and demoralized. That's why soon after we joined forces with the besieging army a group of citizens opened the southern gate. The guards didn't stop them. Soon the citizens opened all the gates. We didn't hurry to take the city - they weren't going anywhere. I sent a herald to order all of the soldiers with their commanders to get out in front of the city walls and leave their arms near the gates. The soldiers were coming out silently, without complaining, and everyone was leaving his weapon near. Soon piles with all kind of arms were formed and the men were ranked in front of the wall. I, Angryminer, Sakim and the siege commander went to their lines. We asked first about Nikulitza. The strategus of Thrace heard us; he came and kneeled before us. He reached his hand to take his sword and to put it in front of our feet, an old custom from unwritten war laws as a sign of surrender. But I said:
- No. Keep your sword.
Nikulitza sighed and raised his eyes upon us.
- I heard you were holding the city for all this time and against the will of all in this city, and are you not a Bulgarian?
Nikulitza answered with a quiet voice:
- I took an oath to serve faithfully to the Emperor. Blood is another thing and is on second place. But what could I do alone... I stood alone against you.
- You fulfilled your oath and the Emperor has abandoned you. The oath is stronger when it is according to the voice of the blood. You think well, to whom you should serve from now on! We will wait for your answer until it is necessary.
Thus I hope we could gain the support of this man and all of the Slavs in this city, which aren't a few. I also ordered part of our army food stocks to be distributed among the population. The food convoy from the Lower Land (that's how present day Macedonia was called in those times) should arrive within three days. I only hope that the Fattimids won't come nearby until then. And if they do, then maybe this gesture could gain us some support from the city population... I've sent messengers to all the big cities to ask for supplies, but I don't know how many would react and how soon. I can do nothing else than to continue with my "history lesson". But before that, we'll gather with Angryminer and Sakim to discuss the situation...


Angryminer's Tale
Chapter 25
We have to march against Adrianople. We can't wait any longer for the reinforcements of the mercian campaign. I don't think we can surprise the byzantines with our attack on Adrianople and we will propably have to besiege the city. Anyway, a victory is crucial to the morale of our soldiers before our attack on Constantinople.
Also Adrianople will be a good place to gather our forces and ready our army for the strike at the byzantine heart. Today I will talk with Sakim. His scouts travel great distances around our army and when he concentrates his actions on Adrianople will will propably be able to learn more about the kind of garrison, near forces and find strategically superior positions if we are to start an assault. Let's see what he will say about it.
On a sidenote: Kuno became seriously ill. I don't know what kind of sickness he has, but he is unconcious and will propably need a week to recover - so I estimate.
So then, forward to Adrianople.

Angryminer


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap 20: Finally we unite.

June 25
It has been 4 days since i last wrote anything on my log as we had little rest to make haste and reunite with Dogger, whom I have heard great storys about his couage in the mercian campain and Xuca, whom I seems to be a great man as well. On the morning of the 22nd the sky cleared and we were able to continue our march, Sir Hawk suggested that we should try not to get to much rest in order to speed up our advancing. Then on the 23rd we encountered a small party of Serbian rebels, some 600 disorganized men of which we captured 400 after a short battle, about 50 got away but Hawk knights dragons catched most of them. The mens moral was busted which helped on mantaining the pase, and today during the early hours of noon we finally reached the forces of Sir Dogger and Sir Xuca. Dogger is a bald man on his early 40's, yet he seems to have the heart of an adolecent. Xuca, however was ill and I couldn't meet him, I hope he gets better soon. Sir Dogger had some worries thu, he pointed out that managing this great force of 160,000 men is going to be hard has food supplies will be extreamly scarse, and I agree. Maybe Hawk knight could help with this by bringing some supplys from Middrill, but it is going to be hard even with this supplies. The men will surley need to have strong ladders to mantain them from leaving the army, or worst reveling. I hope this campain doesn't take long, because if it those the poor peasants are going to pay the prize by paing higher taxes as the cost of manteining this great army for too long will be huge.
Sir Dogger suggested that we should begging our march south the 27 so our army can get a full days rest. This cerntanly brought some happy faces on the men.


Hawk_knights log june 25

On the way here to the camp we had a fight with some serbian rebels.We had captured also some men that we had come across that looked like enemy soldiers. we had arrived in the camp of dobber and lord Xuca. I gave my men the order to make camp to have some rest. i and sir Richard talked with dobber about the supply linei said dont worry there is a supply caravan coming from the land and from the air they will be here tomorrow. They are coming from my kingdom mithdrill. Sir dobber said that we would march on 27th of june to bulgaria. I had told my army when we would march again and that they have some days to rest and recover there strenght. i think that i will also take some rest and recover my strenght.

Adventures of Xuca


23rd june

After finishing the interrogation of the prisoner, I found out that Vladislav had everyone in ilusion. He told everybody that my army rebelled after my death, and that the new leader(the one who helped me to fake my death) wants to become the King! I always wondered how he managed to get so many followers, and I didn't even dream that he could do this! The prisoner said that he fled in the north direction, where hawk_knight and Richard are. Hopefully, they can capture him. After his execution ( ) I'll become the King, as there is no other man capable of doing this!

25th june

hawk_knight and Richard came to our camp today, bringing 400 prisoners with them, among them was Vladislav. I'm not feeling too well now, but I think I'll be better by the evening. Then I will order releasing of the prisoners, as they were inocent, and Vladislav will be executed. By tomorrow I'll be the new King, and then we could continue towards Constantinople.

A legionare`s sword for service

26th june

Finally i think i might have found someone who might need some good and experienced soldiers for hire. In days we have camped but seemingly unsuccesfully not have gotten any one intressteds ,it seems to be full scale war. Ive heard there is a new king by the name xuca in a kingdom called serbia nearby. Ive essambeld my romanized soldiers we will march to king xuca`s castle. Every man has polished his equipment , i have a feeling that we will once more shed blood on the paths of war.And it very likely might just be our own byzantine countries men and the tyrant emporers.

later on that day....

We have reached the town of ras , ive sent one of my soldiers t
o annouce our presence and state our services: "greetings noble king xuca of serbia, may we annouce our presence mighty king. We offer our swords , we have abandoned the emporer for his cruelness and his unhonorable ways of war. We pledge you to hire our service. We will loyaly follow you into battle and fight to he last man ,we only request some gold in return, we are 2 companies of 500 high equipt soldiers with good experience gained from long gone wars of the emporer . We would most humbley ask your answer mi lord"

Adventures of Xuca


26th june

Few hours before my coronation, a Greek soldier came to me, saying that he deserted from the Byzantin armies, and he offered me his services. After many attempts of my murder, I don't know if I could trust anyone. So, my reply was:
"Noble legionare, I am afraid that I cannot trust you. However, I belive that everybody deserves a chance. You have a week to prove your loyalty. Be awised that we may not be able to wait for you, and you'll have to find us."


June 23 - Log of Kuno's doctor

3 days ago we took over the city of Adrianople. Our troops are now waiting here for the reinforcement...
Sire Kuno didn't get better untill this morning. The last days he talked in fever, he often used the name "Sakim", but the words he said were confusing and without any sense.
"sakim...lalaa...wine...good morning town guard...pirates..." just to give an example.

Then this morning the fever had gone and he slept calm without talking...
Sire Kuno has his bed in the former palace of the commander of the city. The other leaders have their rooms here too. They had a meeting in Angryminers room and i went there to report them the good news about Sir Kuno's health.
They looked happy and even a bit surprised, especially Sire Sakim.

Then happend something I still can't belive. Sire kuno suddenly stood in the door behind me. He staggerd, and his red face and the sweat on his forhead showed, that it was a big effort for him to come over here. His eyes looked wild, it seemed that it was getting dark again in them...
He made some steps into the room, then he closed his eyes, opened them again and started to talk some words:

"Danger...wine....Sa"

In the middle of his last word he fell unconscious down on the floor. When I knee down beside him I could see that the fever had startet again. The effort to come over here was too big, but maybe it had startetd already before and his "visit" was the result of a new "fantasy"...

We brought him back in his bed, the illness is now again as worse as it was when it started. God may bless him...


June 27 - Dobber's Log

We are finally on the march to Adrianople to join with our Allies, and we have a new King in our midst. King Xuca, who's coronation we attended yesterday on our day of resting Hawk_Knight and Sir Richard's troops. A messenge has been sent to Adrianople to announce we will be arriving in 3 days with 160,000 troops.


Sakim's Journal - June 28th

A messenger arrived today from Comrade Dobber, announcing the arrival of the northern Allies in 2 more days. They are 160,000 strong. This news came none to soon, for it has become quite risky to remain in the Allied camp. Five days ago Kuno temporarily awakened, jabbering incoherently before passing out with the fever once again. I now know the strength of the enemy and cannot risk discovery. I pass the word that the remainder of my men are to prepare to leave.
I met with Traveller and Angryminer and told them that I was going to ride out with my men and head northwest to meet up with Comrade Dobber, and tell them of the Caliph's fleet off the coast to the south of us.
We left under the cover of darkness and headed northwest. After we were some distance from the fortifications of Arianople, we circled wide of the city and headed southeast for Constantinople where the Caliph was waiting with our Byzantine Allies.


Hawk_knights log 27 of june

we had begun our march to Adrianople. the morale of the men are high and are ready for a long march of three days. i said to dobber and richard that we should rest at night for eight hours. On day we could have a break of two hours so that they can rest a bit. So that we will not lose time that we need to get as quickly to Adrianople. I also said to dobber and richard that my men are eager for battle and that they has asked me a couple of time when they will fight.


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 21: The march to andrianople
June 27,1005
Today we began the march to Andrianople and Constantinople. Everything is going according to plans, men are eiger to fight, there are enougth supllies for 2-3 weeks and Hawk Knight send word for the transportation of more. Also I finally met Sir Xuca, he was crowned King of Serbia after we without knowing,brought the ladder of the Serbian rebels together with the other 399 prisoners we catched some days ago. After he was interroged and executed for his treason, Xuca was crowned King. He is still a little weak, but he is marching along side his man.
Also, a greek soldier Annouced his presense yesterday. I think he voluntired his small force to fight for our cause in exchance for osem gold. I don't know what was Xuca's decition, but I hope he didn't accept as it could be a trap. The man should prove himself loyal first.
On other notes I resived a letter from my beloved. She talked about the different things that have happened, My king finally destroyed the last norman resistance, but is ill from a diseace. She also seems to be still worried about that dream she had, but I wrote her that I will be with her soon and that this war will soon end, although I know it will take many weeks,maybe months to break the great walls of constantinople.
I wish this war ends soon to be with her, but I must fight, for most injustice has to be stoped withing the walls of constantinople.


Traveller's Log - Month of Izok (June) 28th
History, mystery and...

I've been so busy for the last week I couldn't even find spare time to write something here! Many things have happened, so I should report them here before I foget them.
First, fortunately, the food convoy from Ohrid has arrived. It should be enough for a week or two, including that we shared it with the local population. This would definitely gain us some more support from the locals in case of an enemy siege.
But, second happy news, 8 days have passed since we took Adrianople and there is no enemy on the horizon. Obviously the Arabs have continued towards Constantinople to join the Heretic and the Emperor and await further instructions there. Besides, if they're really such a big fleet as Kuno had told me, then they would need more than a day only to land all the troops. And would the Romeans let them all in Constantine's City? I'm not sure they trust the Fattimids enough, despite of their "alliance". Furthermore, it's clear this alliance couldn't last long - if Basil defeats us and takes care of his "Balkan problems" he would turn his face back upon the East and to the Holy City. I hoped I could talk with Sakim and that he might be able to persuade the Arabs in eventual negotiations! But we'll see about that later...
Third, it seems that our behaviour towards the people of Adrianople might pay up. A few days after the we captured it, when the food came and we shared it with the starvened population, strategus Nikulitza came to me. He told me:
- I was thinking for the last three days. About many things - myloyalty and oath I had given to the Emperor, my own blood and my duty to our Tsar... Could I ask you something? Why did you not kill or imprison me as a traitor when you had this chance? Every other commander would have done that!
- I'm not every other commander. I could hardly even say I'm a comander at all! I'm not a noble by birth, I'm a snob, as my Mercian friends joke - sensa nobilitas. I'm not a judge to convict you to prison or death. And I know the burden of war, I've seen its horrors. You were faithfuly serving your Emperor, but now it's time to serve your rightful Lord. And I think you deserve this second chance!
- Yes, I see. And I thank you! I see you have a good heart - you spared me and shared your army's food stocks with the enemy. You know that the Romeans here are more than the Slavs, but you treated them as your own folk! This made me think and convinced me of some things. I had mistaken once and now its not hard for me to return to my real path. And I promise you that I'll not divert from it! I'm with my own now and I'll stay with my own.
He told me we should be careful of some nobles in the city and that maybe we should exile them somewhere beyond the Danube. He handed me a list with the Emperor's most loyal and dangerous supporters and I'll order them to be moved tomorrow with their whole families, first to Plovdiv and after that somewhere else by the Tsar's orders.
Nikulitza also invited all of us to his quarters at late evening for a feast (if possible with these food stocks) and merriment. I believe he was honest with his remorse and that many more people will follow his example. Or at least I hope so... I'll do all my best to bring justice with us, not just to conquer the enemy's lands. But those, who serve a threat would have to go!
After our meeting I went to speak with Angryminer and Sakim and to tell them for the banquet this night. Unfortunately, Kuno's still in fever and doesn't stop to talk incoherently, so we would have to go without him. And just after we gathered and I told Angryminer and Sakim the news, Kuno's doctor came and told us Kuno's getting better and has stopped talking in his fever. That's good news indeed! And then Kuno walked in, staring his eyes on us. It was obvious it's hard for him to move, but he was standing there and said: "Danger... Wine... Sa..." After that he felt unconscious on the ground. We were all very surprised. "Haha... I guess he's heard of the feast too and wants some wine!", Sakim tried to joke. Really strange thing! Now Kuno's even worse. I hope he'll be better and soon - I have the feeling we'll need him in a short time!
Now, the fourth news: A messenger came today from Sire Dobber. He wrote that he'll be coming somewhere around June 30th with distant reinforcements - an enormous army of 160 000 men. I hope that Tsar Samuil will sent more food supplies with them when they come closer to Ohrid. And maybe he would join us soon after that, himself... But there were even more good news in his letter - it appears that Xuca is alive, he has faked his death in order to capture the assassin and furthermore - he's now crowned as king. Knez Xuca! Haha, I can't believe it! How strange is this world and men's fates...
After we read the letter, Sakim told us that he's leaving the camp immediately and will be riding north-west to meet his old friend. He'll also be taking a small group of his men, just in case they stumble upon some enemy detachment. I told him he shouldn't worry, the lands there are safe, but he insisted - there might also be some bandits and such. Allright! When he went to prepare his horse and his men, I told Angryminer I'm becoming suspicious of this guy. Just a few men have remained from his squad and we receive no real news from the direction of Constantinople. I believe he's got frightened from the sight of the Fattimid fleet or maybe he just doesn't want to fight with fellow Muslims. I don't know, but I haven't seen him in battle and I wouldn't count on him in one. I told Angryminer I'll sent 5 horsemen to look after them from a longer distance, to stay preferably unnoticed, and he agreed. We'll also send scouts in south-eastern direction on our own...
Now I have nothing left to do, so I'll spare my free time to finally finish re-writing the historical information about the war:
"As a result of the successful campaign of the Komitopuls, most of the eastern Bulgarian lands were freed. In 977 Boris II and Roman were released from Constantinople with the intention to settle the things down and take the power, instead of the Komitopuls. But Boris II was mistakenly killed at the border, because he was wearing Romean clothes and was not recognized by the border guards. Roman stayed alive and took the crown, but he was benevolent to Samuil and gave him much power over the kingdom. Roman had been castrated in Constantinople, so he couldn't have children and Samuil was the obvious next king after him. Between 979 and 985 the Bulgarian armies captured whole Epir, Tessalia, reaching Peloponesos and the Corinth isthmus. As an answer, in 986 Basil II marched through Adrianople and Plovdiv towards Sredetz and besieged it. The siege was unsuccessful and he had to retreat. In the morning of August 17th he was surrounded at Trayanovi vrata (Trayan's gates) and suffered a terrible defeat. He barely saved his life and when he came back shamefuly to Constantinople, his power was shaken. Civil war began in Byzantium. At that time he contacted Aaron, Samuil's older brother, with the intentions to draw him to his side. He promised to give him his sister as a wife and Aaron agreed with the claims to get the Bulgarian crown after his brother's been taken care of. But his betrayal was soon discovered and the court convicted him and his entire family to death. Only his son, Ivan Vladislav, was spared, due to the request of Samuil's son, Gavril Radomir. The Bulgarians continued their successful campaigns and liberated Drastar and the old capital of Veliki Preslav. In the meantime, Tsar Roman was kidnapped and taken hostage in Constantinople again, where he died in 997. When news of his death came to Ohrid, Samuil was officialy crowned as Tsar. He continued his campaign and joined Dyrrachion. The Arab invasion in Asia Minor forced Basil II to seek peace with Bulgaria and Samuil accepted. He used this to undertake a campaign in the lands of the Serbian clans. In an year he took almost whole of the Adriatic coastline, whole the way to Zadar, including the principalities of Bosnia and Raska. He captured the Serbian Knez Ivan Vladimir, but later returned him to his throne as Bulgarian vassal, together with his daughter as a wife, who had fallen in love with him during his captivity in Ohrid. Due to the Bulgarian expansion in Serbia, the Magyars declared war. And although a peace treaty was concluded, strenghtened with the marriage of Samuil's son, Gavril Radomir, and Stephen's daughter, Margareta, relations remained bad. In the meantime Basil II managed to weaken the Arabs (and as we see, even to ally with them). In 988-989 he had also concluded an alliance with the Russes, which accepted Christianity from Constantinople, although Bulgarian missionaries have been baptizing them since the times of Tsar Boris I and they were already writing on Bulgarian alphabet. Soon after the royal marriage between Bulgaria and Hungary, Basil II allied also with the Magyars, the Croats and with Venice. In the spring of 1000 the Emperor launched a massive campaign against Bulgaria. He, himself, marched through Plovdiv towards Sredetz and while the Bulgarian troops were being engaged there, his comanders Teodorakan and Nikifor Ksifius ravaged the north-eastern lands and captured Preslav and Drastar. Several months later the Romeans conquered also the fortresses of Voden, Verea and Servia. In 1001 Basil II besieged Bdin and after 8 months the Danubian stronghold surrendered. But soon after this he sailed to his Italian provinces and Samuil managed to reconquer back his lands."
We know what happened after that: Basil II launched another wave against Bulgaria, but the Balkan passes were prepared and kept the enemy away until Xuca arrived and took care of the Romeans, which had landed with their fleet to the north. After this we launched a counter-attack and destroyed the Romean forces at Matorie gori (old Bulgarian name for the Balkan mountain). The remaining Romean forces withdrew to the bigger cities, mainly in Constantinople, and our troops reached and took whole Hellas and besieged Adrianople. Now we have this city and when Dobber arrives with the reinforcements (and if our scouts reports are good), we'll continue towards Constantinople! There are much more unknown things, hidden in our future, but with such a force I believe they'll be favourable for us...


Kuno's log - June 29th

Damned where am I? And where are all the others? About half an hour ago I woke up in a unknown room. It seems that I'm in a castle or in a palace. I didn't go outside yet, but this will be my next step.
I feel a bit sick, and weak, like I didn't eat for a long time...i remembered that I woke up once and had fever, or did I onl dream it?
I'll leave now the room...maybe I will find somebody I know...

Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 22: How can this have happened!.

June 29,1005
Our march was going extreamly well and we were moving at a good pase but things have got out o hand. The Tzar of Bulgaria, Tzar samuil has stoped our march. He says he can't let such an army go pass Ohrid without proof that we are in fact allies! Apparently he fears we are allies of the Romans, but how ????? East Aglia has a standing alliance with Serbia, Bulgaria and the other kingdoms figthing the roman empire. Luckly this "Tzar" isn't a mindless barbarian and has agreed that we can send a massage to the forces in Andrinople with a bulgarian massanger. In the meantime we can stay here in Ohrid, but still this is a mayor set back. We will be delayed for who knows how much time. Sir Dobber was mad that this had happened, but he can't do anything. All we can do now is wait for one of the commanders in andrynople to come. Dobber said that Traveler, a man that used to be a servant to Sir Nike(another great hero from the mercia campain that died in battle some months ago) and that now has become a Noble to the Bulgarian court will probably come. Hopefully he won't be deleayed for long.


Traveller's Log - The Month of Izok (June) 30th
An unexpected delay

Today we were expecting our final reinforcements to reach us, but, surprisingly, people from Ohrid came by instead - a bagain (lower noble) and the khavkhan himself (commander of all the armies). The bagain gave me a letter:

"Great voevod,
urgent needs make it necessary for you to come back to Ohrid. I'm sending the kingdom's khavkhan to replace you in command of the Bulgarian troops in Adrianople and my personal bagain to deliver you further information.
Samuil,
to Christ the Lord devoted tsar and autocrat of all Bulgarians"


The bagain did told me that a large army had crossed our borders almost three days ago, but without warning the authorities. Due to that, we have diverted it and they had agreed to stop in the vicinity between Sredec and Skopie, while their leaders coming to Ohrid. It seems one of them has been recognized by the palace guards - a bald man, probably Dobber. Xuca was also there, bearing the news of the death of the previous Serbian king and husband to Samuil's daughter and those of his own coronation. And there was also another royal person there - the king of Mithdrill, Hawk Knight. The other commander is Richard from Anglia. All of them had been taken good care. Most of those people were speaking unknown languages, but they managed to communicate on the language of the Western Romeans. They had said that they're the distant reinforcements, coming to our aid, but they could not give a real proof for that and the tsar couldn't let such a large army enter the kingdom's heart, without clearing its intentions. Also considering that they might be who they're pretending to be, the tsar ordered to gather additional food supplies for them, although they were bringing some of their own. In any cases, be they friends or foes, reinforcements or Romean spies, they would have to spend some time in Ohrid. But in order to fully lift the doubt, I would have to ride to Ohrid and acknowledge or deny my familiarity with them. Khavkhan Ivac would take my place in the command of the Adrianople garrison, while I'm gone.
Hmm... I had forgotten that we would need somebody to acknowledge the friendly intentions of the great army - Samuil hasn't seen anyone of those, except Dobber for a short while and maybe Xuca. But they could also easily be enemy agents, coming to aid the Romeans, not us. Or at least, that's what the authorities might think. Alright then, I'll leave towards Ohrid together with the bagain and meet them there. We should be there till the end of tomorrow if we ride fast enough.
But there's another strange thing - we had no news of Sakim. If he rode to meet Dobber, then he should've been together with the others in Ohrid, but he wasn't. I guess my suspicions might be right - he fled with his men. But why? There's nothing to be afraid of now, when such a big army has came to our help...


Hawks_knight log 29th of june


Our march to adrianople was going as planned. When suddenly it was stopped by The Tzar of Bulgaria, Tzar samuil. We heard from him that he could not let us march through the heart of there lands with out prove that we are not there enemies. so he decided to let Traveller from adrianople come to say that we are the reinforcements and that we are allies.

I told my men to make camp for tonight and to get some rest while they can.
i said to sir richard, Xuca and dobber that we should do the same and rest until Traveller has come.


Journal of Sakim - June 30th

I have continued my travels northwest, shortly after leaving Adrianople we spooted a small group of riders darting into cover along the trail bhind us. Seems someone wisely mistrusts me. Well I will change my plans, if they are watching to see where I go, I will lead them to Comrade Dobber if I can find him, surely a force of 160,000 will not be hard to find.

We have seen a huge force on the horizon, we will approach them as friends, after all Comrade Dobber is still my friend and the other's know me not at all, so I am just a friend sent out to find the force.

June 30 - Dobber's Log


Curses, curses ,curses! Another delay! All the time we spend in camp depletes supplies we could have available during the seige. The men lust for battle! I long to see my friends. I have made new friends and have gained honor and respect from the Commanders I now travel with, and have 35,000 men under my command, but I want to be with the men I crossed the seas with.

What is that you say? A party of men riding this way! It is to soon to be Traveller, who could it be? Outside my tent I could see them in the distance, no efforts to hide their advance, so they must be friendly. Best to be watchful though. I made my way to the other Commanders and we awaited the arrival of this band of riders.


June 30 - Dobber's Log

Later in the day.

A messenger form the camp guards brought news to the other Commanders and myself that the band of riders was outside the camp, they are of Arabian descent and the leader was asking of me. Messengers from Sakim perhaps, has there been some sort of trouble? We sent a detachment of men to escort the group to us.

What a surprise, it is Sakim himself! After introducing Sakim to my fellow Commanders, Sakim turned to me:

"Comrade Dobber, I request an audience with you alone, there are some matters I must discuss with you in private!"

"Why of course Sakim, if my comrades do not object!"

After receiving approval from everyone, Sakim and I retired to my tent.

"Why the secrecy? What is of such great importance, Sakim?"

"Comrade Dobber I have some very disturbing news, but before I impart this news to you I am asking as a friend for 24 hours confidence from you!"

"Sakim, you worry me, I know not what to say!"

"What I am about to ask of you requires your silence for 24 hours, after that length of time do with it as you seem fit. We have had each others trust for some time now, I would not be here now if I felt that trust was gone."

"Sakim, you are my brother, we formed that bond when we were slaves together on that ship years ago, we escaped the tyranny of those who shaghaied us because we trusted each other as brothers would. I admit, I am somewhat disturbed and perplexed by this request, I do not understand why you have to ask such a question, that is what worries me. The kind of friendship I alsways felt we had does not require such assurances."

"Comrade, it is just, so much has happened since you left us to ride north. There are those at Adrianople that are beginning to show an indifference to me. I guess that caused me to doubt, I momentarily forgot your sense of loyalty and honor. Forgive me."

"Okay Sakim, you have my word, tell me what troubles you so."

"Comrade, I ask that you not join up with the forces in Adrianople, I ask that you resign your Command and return to Mercia as a favor to me!"

"What?? I cannot do that, you know I can't, you just answered that yourelf with your comment about my sense of loyalty and honor! I cannot believe this, what is it Sakim? You know I have never turned my back on my friends and I cannot a nd will not now. You are not the only friend I have in this! What is your motive?"

"Comrade, I do not want to face a friend on the battlefield. That is the reason for my request. I have a greater loyalty than you, I hope you can understand. My Caliph awaits my arrival in Constantinople! He is supporting the Byzantines and I am to help Command his forces there. I never meant to hurt you in anyway, Dobber. I had hoped I could persuade you to abandon the cause so we would not have to face each other on the battlefield."

"Sakim, Why?"

"You have your place of honor among your people, I also have my place of honor among mine."

"You have betrayed me, Sakim. You have abused my trust! I should have you bound and executed! Be glad I am a Knight of Honor, that when I give my word to somebody I do not dishonor myself by breaking it! I do not betray a trust! And in that I am the better man, you have your 24 hours, you are to leave camp immediately! When we next meet, it will be on the battlefield! When we cross swords you will feel my disdain for traitors! You shall know my wrath!"

"I will be there, it won't be hard to find me! We shall see who is the better man!"

"Be gone!"

With that, Sakim left the tent and rode from the camp with his men. I must control the anger within me and regain my composure before returning to meet with the other Commanders. The enemy will definitely know our strength, they probably do already, I am sure Sakim would not have left our allies before gleaning that information and I am sure it has already been dispatched to the garrison at Constantinople. But we do now know that the enemy knows our strength and we can prepare with that in mind. Sakim tipped the hat to us for we now have some idea of the preparations they will make and expect a stronger defense.


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 23: The sword of an arabian, the anger of a mercian.

June 30, 1005
Today at noon we spotted a small party of men riding this way. We though it would be our massanger that would let the tzar kow we are allis, but it couldn't be, it was too soon. Then after some time they got closer and I, as well as many others were surpriced for they were Arabic. Sir dobber,however, was buddered at all. He seem to know who they were and after they got to the city my thoughts were proven. A tall, thin man was leading them and Dobber seemed to be content when he saw him. After a short greeting he asked to talk with Sir Dobber in private and we agreed. Then they went inside Dobber's tent and remained there for about 30 minutes. After that The arab came out in haste and seemed extreamly angry. He mounted his horse and ordered his men to fallow him. Sir Dobber remained there for some time and then came out. Althought he seemed extremly angry, he tried to hide it and mantain himself calm. Now some hours have passed and he is inside the tent, hasn't talk to anyone since these afternoon. I have heard some men talking about it, which could be a bad thing. We certanly don't want the men to lose favor and loyalty to Sir Dobber nor any of us. I will go to talk to him and ask what is going on and who was that arabic man.



Kuno's log - June 29th

When I left the romm I saw that my thoughts were right, I was inside of a Castle. Soon after I made some steps outside a person came runnig towards me. I regognized him as the camp-doctor.
"Sire Kuno! You're awake, I didn't thought that it will happen so fast! Only some days ago you had still strong fever!"
"Doctor, what do you mean? What did happen to me? Last thing I can remember is that I was in my tent and felt a bit strange in my stomach."
"You had a really starnge illness, something like a flu, but worse that I saw it ever before."
"Was there an epidemie?"
"No Sire, you were the only one affected by it."
"But I didn't do anything else. I ate the same like all the others."
What did you do on the day you can remember last?"
"well, I studied some plans, had a meeting with Sakim about something and drank some wine with him...oh!...damned it was him! I'm sure! I talked with him about all his disappeared men and he told me some things who sounded like lies. And the we drank some wine...
"Are you really sure?"
"Yes I am! Where is he? All our plans are in danger!"
"you're to late Sire, he left the city this morning..."
"damned ******* ******* ********!

Just when let my anger out Angriminer came around the corner with a big smile!
"Shame on you, Kuno! Just out of bed and already talking like a creeping dog!
His smile disappeared when he saw my and the doctors serious figures."
"What's the matter?"
"sakim is an enemy spy, it was him who poisoned me!
"Are you sure? Wasn't it just a fever fantasy?"
"No, I'm sure!"
"Damned! he left the city this morning and Traveller left soon after him! I will send a messenger to him as fast as possible!"
With this words he run down the floor and disappeared...

"well Sire Kuno" the doctor said, "I would say it's the best for you if you go back to bed, you still look pale. I will order some fod for you, you look hungry."

Navater’s
Doctors log.
By all the odds that he had against him it's a miracle in happening. The king have shown sligtly improvment over the last weeks but it's even a miracle that he's still live.
I must say that he got incredible willpower to live on.
By looking at my notes i think Navatar is going to be able to stand up in only two weeks from now. If the improvment contiues ofcourse.
The queen have been at his side almost every day now and are holding his hand hard yet soft like it was as britle as a rose.
Wait, the king is starting to talk now so i must end this report.


30th of june hawk_knights log

we saw a small party of horsemen coming towards us.I thought it couldnt be traveller he still was to far away but when they came closer i saw that they where a arabic men.
When they got in to our camp they wanted to speak with sir dobber.
they went in to his camp and after some time they came out and ride away from our camp. I talked with sir Richard what maybe had happend in dobbers tent.
Sir Richard told me that when dobber came out of his tent that he looked worried he said to me that he would talk to dobber about the arabic men.
I said that i will send some dragon scouts after the arabic horsemen to find out where there are heading for.

Frankishhero
Frankish's Return

I am the son of King Frankish, his spitting image. Would they believe their eyes, when I arrived? My mother had told me what had happened to my father in my absence. I had been living in Denmark at my fathers request, he didn't want me around the war before I was 18. I was very surprised when I returned to find the war resolved...in our advantage!

Mother told me my father had died and he had passed on the crown to NaVatar. I knew NaVatar as a kind soul, although a bit shaky under pressure, and although I silently questioned whether my father had made the right choice. Then she told me about the war against the Byzantines. It was my task, I felt, to ensure everything was alright there. I had been taught how to ride and fight in Denmark, so this was my chance to prove myself.

I can see the camp in the distance, I expect to be arriving there in about an hour.


June 30 - Dobber's Log

30 minutes after Sakim left the camp


I asked for 20 of the best men in my forces to prepare to ride out and to be ready in 30 minutes.
The other commanders ask what I was preparing to do, but I told them that I was not at liberty to say at this time. I told them that if I was unable to return that a messenger would return with a message that I had fallen upon misfortune and they could at that time appoint a new commander for the forces under my command.

I had given Sakim my word that I would not break confidence for 24 hours, but I did not give him my word that I myself would not come after him.

We rode out of camp and struck out on the trail of Sakim and his men, it was not a difficult trail to follow. With a little luck we would catch up to them by nightfall or at least be close enough to smell the smoke from their campfire. No later than tomorrow we shall meet and settle the matter, I cannot take the chance someone will deprive me the pleasure. One and only one of us will walk away from the meeting.







Traveller's Log - The month of Chrven (July), day 1st

Yesterday, immediately after I received the message from my tsar, I spoke with Angryminer about it and left right away, together with 5 of my bodyguards and the bagain. We rode as fast as we could, slept on the ground and in early morning we continued our gallop. We had no time to lose, as the joined Arab-Roman forces could attack our garrison in Adrianople. And although the tsar sent his trusted khavkhan to lead the armies, I doubt he would be able to work with the foreigners very well. And what about the new army, which is camped, waiting for my acknowledgement and the tsar's orders? How will we work? Such a large army is incredibly hard to command even if it is your own, what's left if it doesn't understand your language?! And this particular army is as colourful as a Persian carpet. It's like the Tower of Babel - people, speaking on Bulgarian, Englese, Latenian, Nordish and God knows what else! I just hope the army's generals know what to do... Anyway, the Romeans would have the same worries and even bigger - how will the Arabs forget their different faith, their past and their dead relatives, killed by Roman sword. And vice versa, of course... It's like if we are to allign with them. Yes, this was done before during the pagan times of Khan Tervel, in the face of the common enemy, which was again the Arabs. What an irony! Before we joined against them, now they join against us! But we're not alone, too. We have friends, which have travelled through whole of Europe only to help us (and maybe to pillage Constantinople, too) and we should hurry to let them continue their way. And I can't wait to meet my old friends there! Hah, Xuca's alive and the new King of Serbia... Oh, what a world!
With such thoughts in my mind, we reached the gates of Ohrid just a few hours after noon. I send the guards to announce the tsar of my arrival and in the meantime I washed and prepared myself for the meeting. After that I went to the palace to speak with Tsar Samuil. In the beginning we talked about common things, as if I had come only for a friendly visit. But I couldn't just talk like that for long, I was quite impatient, and I went directly to the point. I shared with him my worries about the command of such an army, especially since he told me that Bulgarian forces will join them as well.
"Did you really think I didn't knew whether they are reinforcements or not?", the tsar asked me. "Well, maybe... In all the cases, such a large foreign army on Bulgarian soil would inspire doscontent among the nobles, even if it is friendly and especially if we're not sure would they follow our command. That's why I needed to slow them down a little, until we gather some more men and provisions and mostly, until we discuss and settle the command part. That's why I asked you to come. You should speak with them and make sure they agree with us. Of course, we won't take direct command over their armies - they're our friends and we also can't speak their language. But we need to have some, let's say "co-ordinators", to direct their commanders, so that they don't do something foolish we don't want."
"Yes, I understand.", or did I? "We can't just gather against the enemy and charge without any plan. From the little time as a commander of my own unit, I came to the same conclusion - you can't just let everyone do what he thinks. There must be some order and co-ordination, yes. But wouldn't they think that we're trying to get command over them and feel it as a threat?"
"That's your job. You already know some of them and you're the best to do it. Besides, I believe they're smart people and they've probably came to the same question themselves. We just need to co-ordinate it..."
"Allright, I'll speak with them. But when could we leave? I'm worried of leaving Adrianople alone against the outnumbering it enemy. It's true that I left the whole garrison to Your trusted khavkhan, but it's only just a little over 40 000 strong (Trav. note: Right? 35 000 Bulgarians under mine and Angryminer's command and let's say 7500 Mercians and Bulgarians (from the siege before)."
"Don't worry! You could leave as early as the sun rises tomorrow morning. And I'm sending additional 50 000 men, together with supplies and siege machines. I'm placing them under your command (of course, you can have deputies), as I also give you the title of Great Voevod. We have no time to oficially announce this in front of the councel, but I've already made sure everyone knows it."
"Oh... well... Uhm... Thank You, my Lord! It is a great joy for me to be entrusted such a serious task and position! Thank You again! But I have some more questions: I'm worried also for the food supplies. You mentioned that together with the troops there will be additional food transports, but will it be enough for the armies, if I could ask?"
"Don't worry about that, as well. I may be old, but I'm not stupid. Enough food has been prepared and, besides, the peasants carry food for themselves. The last year was bountiful and we need not to worry about the food. Now, let's go and meet your distant friends before it gets dark!"
I'm not quite sure, but I had the strange feeling he's speaking to me not as an inferior, as a servant, but as an equal. Or even as with a son... Much has happened for the last few months and he probably hasn't forgotten the death of his only son. Or maybe he really is just getting old...
Then we rode together with the Royal retinue to the "commander's camp", to the south of Skopie, to meet my old friends and discuss all our problems (and to "recognize" them, just for the formality). The sun was setting down behind the mountains when we arrived. I was so glad to see them! But I hadn't much time for that. At evening we would gather in the commander's tent for "recognition and debates", all of the high commanders together with the tsar and his closer suite. But one thing worried me: I was told that Sire Dobber is gone. He rode the previous day after a company of Arabs (so Sakim after all did came here; I should search for the "followers" I sent before), whose leadre had a meeting with him before that. Normally, I would think that Dobber's just went out with his friend, hunting maybe. But I was also told that he seemed very angry when he left his tent. What is going on? He hasn't said anything, but I'm worried. And he hasn't came back since then. I hope he will! And soon, preferably before the meeting... Oh, things are happening so fast and I begin to lose the trail of everything! Only this disturbing feeling...
Ahh, a squire just came in, calling me for the meeting. I shall go and I hope we'll settle all the eventual problems. But Sire Dobber isn't here yet...


Adventures of Xuca

30th june

That weir legionare isn't showing up. Byzantins think I'm stupid, sending spies, thinking that I'll hire them just like that. I should have sent a spy after him, and now he can perform something that looks like he's loyal to me. Probably he planned everything...

A messagner has arrived, with a peace proposal from the Hungarians. They must have been intimidated with the huge army that passed through their lands. This will free up enother 10000 soldiers, who will hurry to join us. Mostly infrantry, I already took all the cavalry with me. You can't find enough good horse riders in Serbia, we just aren't born for that...

Sir Dobber is talking to some Arabian guy right now, I was told that his name is Sakim and that he's our ally. I never liked the infidels, and I really doubt that they like us...

After the meeting

Sir Dobber seemed very angry, and has left the camp to follow Sakim with 20 men. I have a bad feeling about this...

1st july

Tsar Samuil and Traveller came to the camp this night to recognize us. It's not nice from Traveller, he didn't even say hallo to me, like that he isn't glad to see me. He thought I'm dead for a long time, and he finally has the chance to see me, and nothing! Not even a "hallo"! But maybe he was just too ocupied, we'll see...


July 1 - Dobber's Log
Last night we camped not far from the camp of Sakim, when setting the watch, I appointed that there be someone watching Sakim's camp all through the night and that I be informed if there is any move to break camp. I wanted the face-off to be as early as possible, I did not want them slipping from our grasp.

As we were breaking camp this morning the watchman came to bring news of the Arabs breaking their camp. Our horses were ready, so we set out to overtake the traitor. After an hour of riding, we were able to get around them. I had the men hide themselves in the landscape to cober me as I waited upon the trail for Sakim. I figured appearing alone upon the trail, that Sakim might think I had a change of heart and had ridden to join him.

And that is where Sakim found me waiting, there was no expression on his face, nothing that showed any surprise or any emotion whatsoever.
"Sakim, I promised you 24 hours not to tell of your traitorous ways, but I did not promise I would not come for you myself."
"Why am I not surprised Comrade!"
"I am no longer your Comrade, Sakim! Let us dismount and settle this here in this trail! And tell your men to stay out of our fight, I have men watching and any move by your men to help you will be met with an arrow or javelin through the heart or throat."

We dismounted and met there in the middle of the trail. During our time together I had sparred with Sakim on many occasions and knew many of his moves as he did mine. I knew that to defeat him I was going to have to change my attack and to respond differently to his attacks to keep him off guard and unsure of my approach. Plus I had an edge, I did not fear death, I had nothing to prove to anyone, I had not one person who would cry after me. I parried every blow and thrust from his sword, waiting my time, letting him tire. I had plenty of time, I wanted him to sweat and worry. He was in a hurry, he knew the longer he was there the more chance of being caught. He started getting careless with his movements, taking chances. I was taking my share of beating also, he had nicked me on several occasions as the blade got a little close for comfort. He seemed so tireless, I may have underestimated his strength. After some 30 minutes of fighting my opening came, he was just a bit off balance and I thrust for his heart, my blade went true, but in that moment I was open and with his enormous strength he brought his blade to bear and made one final thrust that went deep in my side. He fell to his back and I to my knees beside him. Sakim looked into my eyes with disbelief and took his dieing breath, as my sword came down upon his throat severing his head from his body.

My men came to surround me and protect me from Sakim's men. They asked what to do with the Arabs, I told the men to allow them to leave with Sakim's headless body. It would serve as a message to the defenders of Constantinople , what awaits them when we take the city from them.
I am losing blood and getting weaker, I have the men plug the gash as best they can and fix a travois to place me on, for I am to weak to ride. I send 5 of the men back to our camp with a message for a cart to be sent back to meet us. I have them place the head of Sakim on the end of a pike and send it with them to be presented to the commanders. I bid them make haste, I need medical attention as soon as possible, I may not make it as is, I have lost much blood. I have the remaining 15 keep close watch as we slowly make our way back to our allies. If the cart arrives, we should be able to reach the camp by nightfall. I just hope I am still alive when we get there.


Traveller's Log - The month of Chrven (July), day 1st, at night
Death or Life?
Just when I went out of my tent, I heard some shouts and disturbance in the camp. Five horsemen rushed towards the commanders tents, bringing something, which looked like a head, sticked on a pike. When they came closer I recognized Sakim's face. What the...?! The men were exhausted and in the same time extremely tense. I don't know because of what (the exhaustion or the tension), but they needed some time until they relax and explain why are they bringing Sakim's head on a stick. Till then they only waved hands back from where they came, but nothing senseful came out of their mouths. Finally, they did relax and managed to speak: It seems that they were from the men Sire Dobber took with him when riding after Sakim. Today they have captured the Arabian (he was probably an enemy spy) and the two leaders dueled to death. Sakim was beheaded (as we saw for ourselves), but Sire Dobber was also seriously wounded. That's why he sent them to get a cart for him. Many people had gathered around the five men and when they stopped talking I could see all the human emotions on their faces: anger, sadness, grief and even pride (from Dobber's victory). But one thing was sure - all were stunned. And suddenly everybody started searching for something: one for a cart, another for a doctor, third for horses and so on. But the people were so dense that this created even a bigger chaos. It took us some more time until order was established, cart and horses were prepared, doctors and officers (including all the generals, high-commanders, kings and the tsar) gathered and rode off, led by the five messengers. But messengers of what? Death or Life? Are we too late? Will we lose another friend? No, we must hurry, we must ride as the wind. We can't be late, we can't! We met Dobber's "convoy" sooner than we thought - his men were bringing him on an imrpovised travois, but then we found that we, with our horses, had out-galloped the cart, which wasn't here yet. Fortunately some of the medicine men were with us and they did all they could to save Dobber's life. Finally the cart arrived, we loaded Dobber's body and I, together with two doctors went up with him. On the way they continued examining him, but his life was hanging by a thread. He wasn't bleeding anymore, but he wasn't in consciousness either; just talking incoherently, pretty much like Kuno back in Adrianople. Curse you, Sakim! It was you, who has probably poisoned Kuno and now you did also this! Curse you! May your Allah show no mercy to such a traiterous dog like you! But curses didn't help Dobber. We returned to the camp, but his condition is still critical. No one dares to predict for certain would he get better or worse... Not even me...


Adventures of Xuca


1st july
I wish there's more I could do for Sir Dobber. He treated my wounds once, and it's very hard for me, knowing that I can't do anything. And I'm young, but Dobber is an old man (for medieval standards, no offence, Dobber), only thing I can do is prey...

*Frankish's Log. 1st of July*

I arrived in the camp. I'm surprised at how many men are gathered here, I haven't seen a familiar face yet. Some men ponder when they see my face, but they know my father is dead, and turn away their heads. I must make my way to Dobber or NaVatar, they should remember me...


1st july , captain`s conquerers logg
How in the mighty swords name`s did these band of thieves and bandits breach our camp while we were traning in near forests ?. When we returned to our tents . the tents and supplies had been sacked. Some of the local hunters i hired , tracked there soft trails leading into a half hidden old fort ruin just 3000foot from our camp. I prepared my veterans and equiped them of what was remaining for a nightassault . We had done this alot of times under our time in the emporer`s service , we even got so famous that our company got the name nightstalkers.

Later that night....

After a short battle we won. Those stupid unorganized thiefs were overrunned fast. This band of thieves were so bad on there proffesion they couldint even attack simple villages and farmers , instead they made big raids while nobody saw them. One of my lietaunts brought me the head of there leader. We found our supplies and our armors. They had planned to sell our possesions and equipment of war to some local smugglers and tradesmen. I sended a messenger to king xuca with our apolgizes and explained what had happend while we were traning, i hope we do not lose his trust.


Adventures of Xuca

2nd july
Doctors say that if Sir Dobber surveves tomorrow, he'll probably live. But tomorrow seems so far away, and sir Dobber doesn't look good. He lost much blood, and looks very pale, like a ghost...

A messanger has arrived bringing me note from Conquestare Legionare. He says something about some bandits and that he's been training all the time. He has two weeks to complete the quest, and spends allmost whole first one for training? This is suspicious, very suspicious. Fortunately, I know his location now, so I'll send two men: one as my official observer, and one as a spy. If something happens to the first one, the other one will know.


Knight Richard's adventure
Chap. 24: Not knowing your enemies can be deadly, not knowing your allais can be worse .
july 2nd, 1005.

Today I finally found time to write some words. Some 30 minutes after the arab left Dobber went after him with some men. I had a strange feeling of what was going to happen, and indeed the sir****ances prove to be fatal. Apparently during the first of July Sir Dobber and The arab had an encounter. They fought each other and to make the long story short the Arab ended up getting beheaded and Sir Dobber badly wounded. A massanger came asking for a cart to bring Sir Dobber as he was too weak to ride and all of us went to get him. Now he is on the tent where the doctor is taking care for him although they aren't sure of what will happen to him. I might go there soon as I think I remember some herbs that might be usefull on closing those wounds. Ah my great friend Roger, I allways remember him and his mesterious herb to cure wounds. I ordered soem soldiers to look for the herbs and when they come back I will talk to the doctor.
On other news the massanger from andrinople, Traveller arrived the same day Sir Dobber ended the arab's life. However we haven't got any chance to meet each other, nor he seems to be interested on doing so. Might be that he isn't acustom to the more noble kind, since he was a servant after all or most likely is all the comocion that occured with Sir Dobber, we haven't got much time. I hope to meet him soon, eventhough we might not understand each other it is allwas good to at least know the face of those that are your allis.
Another thing that just came to mind is how are we going to continue our advance now that Sir Dobber is weak. It is a long harsh road and he might not be able to endure it, but we can't delay much longer as the Romans will attack soon, our supplies are been depleated and I don't know if The Tzar will help us with that, the men are growin restless, even more now that Dobber is ill. We need a battle or at least a training camp to mantain them busy at least. Also another reason why all of us, the commander most meet is becaue we need to have plans, so each of us know what to do, not just wonder off and do anything that comes to mind that would end up in chaos. We need strong plans, and have signals so we all know what to do. We need to train the men as many are just conscripts that have never fought a battle. In other words we need to have more organization to boost our men's moral. I will talk to Hawk knight and he than can said this to Sir Xuca, since he knows him better than I do.


conquestare legionares logg 2nd july
Heh an observer and his assistant arrives to our camp ?! what in gods name. The king xuca surely is suspicious because of our request for traning. He suspect us in such a high grade because of our military background in the imperial army of byzantines. Well the observer has to stay with us to win the kings trust. Ive orderd my men to pitch a tent for the visitor. strangely enough last night when we assaulted the thieves camp we found food and partly some gold. That might be enough for us. I will have to finish this traning eariler then i thought so i can issue my mercenry service to the king. Ive sent a messenger to ask the king if he could lend us some smithing tools and some metal. as not all of our weapons were retrived during the assault.

*Frankish's Log

I cannot find King NaVatar, but I've heard about Dobber's situation. He is heavily wounded, he must pull through, he simply must! I have not yet found out who leads the operation while Dobber is out, I hope some men recognize me...

[hawk_knight]

the story is updated

and we have a new knight in the story knight Richard :cheers:

welcome Richard :cheers: :go:

[Richard]

Lol, thanks. May our combine forces win against our enemys.

By the way what should we name the story?

[Nike]

Just not "Love & Schemes"! I don't want Elvain to leave again! :wink: Btw how many people from the old story write in this new one?

[hawk_knight]

Just not "Love & Schemes"! I don't want Elvain to leave again! :wink: Btw how many people from the old story write in this new one?

I am one of those who had write in the old story and now i am aslo writing in the new story :cheers: :go:

:scratch: We can name the story The knights of fellowship or knights of the sword :cheers:

[Nike]

Actually, only you and I have taken part in both stories. :cheers:

I think "Knights of Honor" sounds better, but it's already taken. :wink:
"And the story ends..."
"Bard's Tale"
"Another holy war"
"Somewhere far beyond"
"War of wrath"
"Nightfall"
"The script for my requiem"
"Valhalla"
"A past and future secret"
"Punishment divine"
"Majesty"
"Welcome to dying"
"Sadly sings destiny"
"And then there was silence..."

Bah, too much Blind Guardian... :mosher: I hope they won't mind about this shameless theft of their song titles! :lol:
But I suggest we think of a name when the story's over, so that the name will reflect the character of the story better!

Btw why don't we take some things from the previous story. F.e. description and some info of the characters, maybe some pictures we've found in the Net.

[Richard]

Actually, only you and I have taken part in both stories. :cheers:

I think "Knights of Honor" sounds better, but it's already taken. :wink:
"And the story ends..."
"Bard's Tale"
"Another holy war"
"Somewhere far beyond"
"War of wrath"
"Nightfall"
"The script for my requiem"
"Valhalla"
"A past and future secret"
"Punishment divine"
"Majesty"
"Welcome to dying"
"Sadly sings destiny"
"And then there was silence..."

Bah, too much Blind Guardian... :mosher: I hope they won't mind about this shameless theft of their song titles! :lol:
But I suggest we think of a name when the story's over, so that the name will reflect the character of the story better!

Btw why don't we take some things from the previous story. F.e. description and some info of the characters, maybe some pictures we've found in the Net.

Sounds good :go:

[Dobber]

Europe, Under seige!

Brotherhood of the Fellowship!

[the knightly sword]

gurdians of mercia

[hawk_knight]

the story thread has been updated again

maybe

Brotherhood of Honor :cheers:

[NaVatar]

Brotherhood of Honor seems (IMO) like the best name so far,i think it suits the story very well. :cheers:

[hawk_knight]

The story thread has been updated with some new logs :go: :cheers: :cheers:

[Richard]

I like Brotherhood of Honor , sounds good to me. :hello:

[FrankishKnight]

Mercian Wrath (Mercy & Wrath)

[hawk_knight]

the story has been updated again. :cheers:
I had put something new in the list.
The list of the knights who died in battle

[hawk_knight]

It is updated with some new logs :cheers:

[hawk_knight]

The story thread has been updated again