Beluaterra/Eight Age/The Agyrian Civil War

Beluaterra at the start of the Agyrian Civil War.

Thalmarkin had always been hostile to the Shattered Vales. Therefore, when the realm ceased to exist and its nobility found refuge in Ar Agyr, they felt insulted when the Shattered Vales expanded into their now abandoned lands. The refusal of King Rogan McGahee to wage war with his western neighbours, caused General Lahta Komurov to initiate a rebellion, which would spiral into a civil war as more parties got involved.

Background

Thalmarkin merges into Ar Agyr (2023-10-17)

Thalmarkin was the oldest realm still standing, tracing its history back to the shortly after the 2nd Invasion, securing its place north of the Golden River and east of Ossmat. In recent year it had grown close to Ar Agyr and hostile towards the Shattered Vales, which had taken possession of Ossmat. However, the loss of noble blood caused Thalmarkin to abandon Sandefur and merge its remaining territories with Ar Agyr.

Margravine Lahta Komurov (2023-10-28)

General Lahta Komurov became the first Agyrian Margravine of Vatrona, the former bastion of Thalmarkin. She becomes deeply loved by the local people due to her interest for Thalmarkin history and culture.

The Sandefur Expansion (2023-11-09)

The Shattered Vales claimed the areas now left empty due to the disappearance of its former enemy and seizes control of Sandefur. This is an insult to the Thalmarkin people and their hatred focusses especially on the General of the Shattered Vales: Imperator Arjan de Zueww.

The Blockade (2024-01-05)

In order to force the Shattered Vales out of Sandefur, Ar Agyr expands to Pomatim and revokes access to the Shattered Vales.

The Shattered Vales backs down (2024-02-12)

Unable to support Sandefur, Emperor Imrahil Mormont decides to abandon the city. Het also decides to abandon the isolated fortress at Keffa, which happened to be the fief of Imperator Arjan.

The Sacking of Keffa (2024-04-07)

An Agyrian expedition attacks the now free people of Keffa and its surroundings. The brutality shock the people of the Shattered Vales and when murderous troops are even reported to operate within the realm's borders, Imperator Arjan expels the attackers from the area, forcing to return east. It is widely believed the looting was organized by General Lahta to spite Imperator Arjan.

Lahta's Rebellion

The Proclamation (2024-05-03)

Lahta Komurov called for an uprising against the government! In a passionate speech she said:

Nobles of Ar Agyr,
I, General Lahta of Ar Agyr, hereby declare myself in active rebellion against King Rogan. I do this not for my own power, but for the benefit of our realm as a whole. Below I will list out my reasons for taking this action, as there have been a number of issues which have made me resort to this action. After that I will list my planned reforms should I succeed.

1. Failure of King Rogan to fulfill his role as ruler. King Rogan has sat silently for most of my time as General. He rarely took action for the realm, and when he did, it was without my input or in spite of it. Most often it was done without discussion. The example I will provide is his improving our relations with Shattered Vales to Peace. He did this without regard for the opinions of the rest of the realm, and without my input. I have organized the armies, gave them direction, objectives, purpose. All without his help in finding a direction for our realm. Not once has he given such direction, content to sit and let others struggle at the weight of giving our nobles direction and purpose. This has put all the pressure and responsibility for providing our nobles opportunity for action on myself and the military commanders of the realm. We did not become Generals and Marshals to run a realm, but to command the armies of it.
2. When it comes to Shattered Vales, he has shown himself to be soft. His threat to ban anyone who loots their land is proof of that. First he provides no direction for our nobles, then he has the temerity to threaten to ban any noble who directs themselves in his absence. He does nothing when their own nobles demand the heads of our nobles, such as the Imperator of Shattered Vales. The very least he could do as King is ensure none of our nobles need fear an outside party attempting to harm our own. He sat idly by while an infiltrator made an attempt on Vice-Marshal Erik Estrall's life. That is not the action of a ruler, that is the action of a coward.
3. I have repeatedly recommended that the other council positions be put up for election just as the General position is. He has either ignored me or refused every time. I frankly find it frustrating in the extreme that these positions are protected from being challenged by other noble candidates who wish to serve our realm. I have had my city nearly starve and yet there is little recourse for myself besides to abandon my duties with the armies and return to a city in order to ensure that I have food even after I have informed the Chancellor that I had needed food while on campaign.

For all these reasons, as well as other minor ones not worth mentioning here, I now declare this rebellion.
My aims for this rebellion are the following:

1. Overthrow King Rogan's ineffectual rule. Should he step down I will allow him to keep his dukeship. I do not believe him disloyal, merely a poor ruler whose time as King has ended.
2. Reform the realm into a Republic. The current Council, outside of the General position, is currently ossified by the lack of other nobles able to challenge the incumbents and attempt to provide new energy to the positions.
3. A reduction in Duke taxes overall. Far more gold than is needed is being taken away from the Dukes and Duchesses, who could instead invest that gold into their own regions and the lords of their duchies.
4. I will take the Ruler position, whatever its eventual title ends up being, for one term upon the success of the rebellion, to ensure the creation of new institutions. I will then allow elections to replace me and run once more for General. I take this action out of necessity, not out of any desire to rule the realm myself. I do not desire power, I wish only for our realm to have direction and clarity of purpose. Without these, we will be weak, and there is no greater sin in the eyes of the Wolf Lord.

I ask that those who feel similarly to me either rise up or stay neutral. This is a grand risk, a gamble to change the realm's direction. We will only get one chance at this.
Lastly, for those who remembered, yes this does replace the State of the Realm for this month. For obvious reasons I will not be writing that this month.

Lahta seizes the Capital (2024-05-04)

Having prepared her grab for power well, General Lahta ensured only rebel troops would be in the capital, while potential loyalist troops would be far away. She therefore easily gains control of the government. But in order to secure unity, she allows Rogan to keep his fief, which happens to be the capital in Unger. Rogan orders his subjects to continue to adress him as King - this also includes the government officials who live inside Unger.

The Battle in Unger (2024-05-05)

Since Rogan refuses to cooperate, Lahta decides to attack the palace. However, by now Rogan has assembled his own forces. During the Battle in Unger the 442 soldiers of Lahta are, however, outnumbered by the 614 of Rogan and the battle is won by the loyalists. But the loyalists do not celebrate their victory: during the battle Khurst Fylkir manages to capture Rogan.

Rogan surrenders (2024-05-06)

Having retreated to the Tomb of the Kings, Lahta forces Rogan to sign a document in which he renounces all his possessions. Despite the loyalist victory, the rebels have won, but the war has only just begun.

Clyde's Coup

War with the Shattered Vales (2024-05-19)

A tournament is organized to celebrate the new government. During the revelling Grand Duchess Lahta held a speech and declared war on the Shattered Vales.

Imperator Arjan demanded the heads of two of our nobles. He attacked our nobles as we travelled to clear the area around Keffa. A Shattered Vales noble attempted to assassinate Marshal Erik, and finally Imperator Arjan and another noble of Shattered Vales looted the region of Pomatim when Ar Agyr was dealing with internal conflict.
Despite all of this, I attempted to speak with Emperor Imrahil Mormont and come to a settlement that was extremely light for the damages and provocation caused by all of these events. I requested 500 bushels of food for the damages, either as a lump sum or in weekly amounts of 100 bushels until a total of 500 bushels was paid. In return I would overlook the past events and our realms could move forward amicably. He refused this offer. Therefore I put before my realm a referendum for war. This referendum passed by a sizable amount. Ar Agyr goes to war. Shattered Vales shall either submit to the war goals, or we shall burn their regions and destroy their armies until they agree to the demands. They have brought this upon themselves in their stubbornness and scorn for both Ar Agyr and myself.

Clyde's election (2024-05-23)

In order to focus on the war, Lahta steps down as Grand Duchess and orders Clyde Wilde to organize the first election for Grand Duke in the new Republic. Clyde immediately sees to his duties and elections are held the very same evening. Clyde gains a convincing 168% of the votes and becomes the new Grand Duke.

Irondale joins the War (2024-05-25)

Emperor Imrahil deliberated with Hierophant Ryosuke Guile of Irondale and issued the following proclamation:

Those involved in the rebellion in Ar Agyr and those that the Shattered Vales consider the rebel government of Ar Agyr has planned to war against the Vales for a long time. The Rebellion itself was motivated by the desire for war with the Vales. Prior to war breaking out the forces aligned to the rebel government crossed our borders freely. They pillaged Keffa knowing full well that it was still aligned to the Vales and was only lost because of control problems. This region previously belonged to Imperator Arjan and was targetted due to his love for the region. These Argyrians also looted Vales lands which is the reason I refused to pay compensation. I consider the looting justice for the rebels looting of the Vales.
Furthermore the Vales do not consider those loyal to the deposed King as enemies. We consider the rebel government and those aligned to it as our enemies and will fight any who invade our Empire. We will also loot the regions aligned to the rebel government and it's supporters as long as they war on the Vales. We have balanced our war goals based on Grand Duchess Lahta's goals. We have no interest in expanding into Ar Agyr and will fight a defensive war against an aggressor.

To honor his alliance with the Shattered Vales, Hierophant Ryosuke also declared war on Ar Agyr:

Having been a staunch ally of the Shattered Vales since before their relocation from the Gods-forsaken south, Irondale will not stand idly by and watch our friends and brothers fight alone. We reiterate the war intentions of the Vales, as well as their reasoning for going to war.
Irondale will not be waging a war of aggression, but coming to the aid and defence of our ally.
That being said, those who wage war against us open themselves to reprisal in full military fashion.

Clyde reaches out (2024-05-28)

Letter from Clyde Wilde to the rulers of Beluaterra

Rulers of Beluaterra,

Please pardon my late introduction. Ar Agyr is currently experiencing internal strife and tensions that have demanded my immediate attention. If any of you enjoy a good soup, I cordially invite you to visit Ar Agyr and partake in it. Bring your own spoons.
My name is Clyde Wilde. I have been around for quite some time and had the pleasure of addressing Hegemon Tiberius and Hierophant Ryosuke in this forum during my tenure as King of Thalmarkin.
To Emperor Imrahil Mormont and Depraved Prince Hendrick Armsworth: I look forward to getting to know you both better, regardless of the ongoing circumstances.
It is no secret that the future of Ar Agyr looks uncertain given recent twists and turns. My success is anybody's guess—but like the fool Emperor Imrahil wishes me to be, I am betting on happiness.

Emperor Imrahil Mormont,
Considering that I am the only one who rebelled, what effect does this have on your current stance on looting? Is there a list, a book of grudges of sorts, that you use to keep track of who is part of the rebellion government and who is not?
As of now, I have appointed the former King, Rogan, as my Lord of Justice upon his own request. Is he part of the loyalist force or the rebellion?
For the record, I am by no means a supporter of Lahta. Prior to the first rebellion, I saw that Ar Agyr had started to tread the same path as Thalmarkin before them, and something needed to be done to avoid a similar fate. I am not seeking to justify my actions per se, just to distance myself from being seen as a staunch supporter of Lahta.
However, Lahta was not the answer Ar Agyr needed, as she lacked the grit to stand by her ideals. I could go on about Lahta forever, especially since she is currently busy kissing the feet of those she once sought to dethrone.
Now, am I what Ar Agyr needs? I do not know; time will tell.

Hierophant Ryosuke Guile,
It is great to see you back in office again. A long time has passed since I served as your Minister of the Interior. It is always good to see you stand by your allies, even if it does add to my challenges.

Best regards,
Clyde Wilde
Grand Duke of Ar Agyr

Bob's Secession

Beluaterra after the secession by Bob.

New Ar Agyr (2024-05-31)

Believing Clyde has betrayed the cause, Lahta reaches out to Rogan. They agree to meet at the court of Duke Bob Baceolus of Agyr, where they agree the former government is to be restored. Duke Bob then formally renounces his ties to Clyde's governmentand establishes New Ar Agyr, issuing the following statement:

We, the true Ar Agyr, have risen up in revolt against the illegitimate pretenders claiming to be the leaders of Ar Agyr and acknowledge that King Rogan is the true monarch and ruler of the lands!

We seek the removal the government of Grand Duchess Lahta the government of the day currently holding onto what was King Rogans throne.
We seek to restore the land under it's former, pre-rebellion pre-revolt, borders (or as close as possible) and under the rightful rule of King Rogan.

Clyde signs peace with the west (2024-06-06)

Letter from Ryosuke Guile to Clyde Wilde and Imrahil Mormont:

I have signed the ceasefire on behalf of the Arcane Republic, and await word of King Clyde’s Arrival to Gethsemene.

1000g to be paid upon arrival to Firbalt, otherwise the Noctan Legion will return to the fray in full force with orders to retrieve more than 1000g from the Nor’east however they are able to.

Vox Noctis,

Ryosuke Guile
Hierophant of Irondale

Khurst's Mutiny

The Battle for Fronepu (2024-06-12)

In order to break the siege of Fronepu, 630 Clydite forces attack the 930 Roganite besiegers.
The Angry Agyrian Army (Clydites), sponsored by Duchess Nostalgia Fate, were led into battle by Marshal Erik Estrall.
The Agyr Immortal Army (Roganites), sponsored by King Rogan McGahee, were led into battle by Marshal Rogan McGahee.
Keeper of Justice Bergelmir Crownguard is spotted wearing the Singing Necklace of the Barony of Makar.

Defender Victory!

Clyde disappears (2024-07-02)

Holding Clyde responsible for the loss of Fronepu, General Khurst Fylkir ensures his disappearance and reforms Ar Agyr into a republic with himself as King.

The Shattered Vales resumes the War (2024-07-09)

Emperor Imrahil Mormont of the Shattered Vales has declared war on Ar Agyr, giving the following reason:

Ar Agyr started te last war but sued for peace agreeing to pay tribute to match our war goals. This was 2000 gold, which was paid and 3000 food to be paid in installments to be agreed. Since then King Clyde stepped down and was replaced.

I approached King Khurst when he claimed the throne asking for the 3000 food to be paid. He suggested that I may be making up this agreement with King Clyde. I directed him to check the previous war declaration. He said that hecwoukd consult his council. This was some time ago and I have heard nothing. Ar Agyr have defaulted on the agreed tribute and we now return to war until we are paid what was agreed.

Events

2024-05-03 Lahta iniates a rebellion to depose the pacifist King Rogan.
2024-05-05 The Battle in Unger: 614 loyalists are successfull against 442 rebels.
2024-05-06 Lahta captures Rogan and seizes control of the Agyrian government.
2024-05-19 Lahta declares war against the Shattered Vales.
2024-05-21 The Skirmish in Pomatim sees the first involvement of the Shattered Vales in the war when the troops of Erik Estrall are ambushed by Arjan de Zueww and Charl Bayemvee.
2024-05-25 Irondale honors its alliance with the Shattered Vales and declares war on Ar Agyr.
2024-05-31 Duke Bob secedes to form New Ar Agyr in order to restore King Rogan to the throne.
2024-06-02 The Shattered Vales take possession of Pomatim.
2024-06-03 With Agyrians fighting each other, Vatrona is unprotected. The citizens try to arrange their own defence, but are defeated during the Sack of Vatrona.
2024-06-02 New Ar Agyr takes possession of Lloringel, thus isolating Fronepu from the rest of Ar Agyr.
2024-06-06 Ar Agyr ends hostilities with the Shattered Vales and Irondale.
2024-06-10 The Battle in Tepmona marked the first clash between the Clydites and the Roganites. Erik Estrall lead an expedition to contact isolated forces in Bisana and clashed with the forces lead by Duke Bob.
2024-06-12 Together with troops from Bisana, an attempt is made to break the siege. The 630 Clydites lead by Erik are, however, not enough to defeat the 930 troops lead by King Rogan.
2024-06-15 Fronepu surrenders to the Roganite forces.
2024-06-23 Saul Dixon returns with 620 Clydites and manages to defeat the 780 Roganites at Lloringel. He immediately continues and ambushes 510 Roganites in Seven Rivers.
2024-06-25 King Rogan leads 700 men to destroy the Clydite base in Bisana. Saul leade 430 men to regain control, but is defeated. Mhed is now completely isolated from the rest of the realm.
2024-07-02 Believing Clyde to be a weak leader, General Khurst Fylkir deposes him and reforms Ar Agyr into a republic with himself as King.
2024-07-09 King Khurst does not uphold the tribute agreed to by Clyde, after which the Shattered Vales resumes the war.