The years that followed the capture of Jerusalem in 1099 showed a huge enthusiasm for westerners to make their way to the holy land. The road tither was ultimately made a whole lot safer for pilgrims since the first crusade had cleared most of its hazards, although not all entirely safe. Unfortunately, thieves and enemies still roamed the area looking to make the average traveler’s passage a nightmare. Although the Turks had seen a huge loss in Anatolia after the crusade had cut their way through, they still were of abundance in the area. After the loss of their Turkish capital, Nicaea, and the defeat at Dorylaeum by the crusaders, their spirits were harshly dampened and morale was at its lowest. Picking on small bands of westerners travelling through the new Anatolia was not only easy and profitable for the Turks, but also served as a small portion of the revenge they sought…
STORY
The year is 1102 and you are at the head of a small force of 150 crusaders looking to purify their souls by setting foot in the holy land of Jerusalem. Your men have experienced nothing but good luck and friendly gestures amongst the inhabitants of Anatolia ever since the crossing of the Bosphorus. Morale is high and supplies are plenty, you and your men can already envision walking through Jerusalem’s gate, despite the distance.
After discussing it with your men, you decide to take a northern detour somewhere near the city of Iconium in hopes of shortening the passage. This decision proves near fatal. Taking more of a northerly route, you and your men mistakenly bypass the border of Byzantium and enter enemy territory. The young Turkish prince of the area is notified right away and puts together what he can muster to annihilate your small band of men, for he is unsure of your business.
Not knowing of this new threat, you carry onwards as normal. You pass the ruins of what seems to be of an abandoned Byzantine fortress overlooking its surroundings on top of a hill. You march past the fortifications admiring them, when suddenly you walk straight into an ambush set up by the Turkish prince. A volley of enemy arrows is shot your way and you are pierced in shoulder, incapable of wielding your weapon. Your men are surprised but nevertheless ready to receive the infidel. They quickly rearrange into battle formation giving you, accompanied by some archers, enough time to make it to safety in the nearby ruins. What ensues is a bloody battle…
Scenario
Your men will fight the battle and win, but not without huge losses… Hold up a position in the ruins of the old Byzantine fortress until the enemy’s attacks come to a halt or terms are negotiated with the Turkish prince. The land around the hill is abundant with recourses and fertile land so make good use of it. As for the fortifications… they are close to rubble, whether you chose to construct new walls or work with the existing structures that is your choice. There will be absolutely no trading since the enemy has you surrounded from all sides.