Borna was a kind nurse within the next days, but danger wasn't broken, too soon they found themself back on Battle-Field because of the hunting enemies.

The Battle at Gelderland was as she had expected, it had concentrated the attention of the enemy on her and the fellowers while supply brought to favourite positions. If they were able to stand the trap was closed, if they fail... well, as her father said no plan survives first battle.

She knew what she had to do, she just could pray Borna would understand...

After she recovered, what happened extremely fast, they started chasing enemy. Borna knew they stand no chance against them in Gelderland.

And so it was, battle was lost, and they again retreated to East Friesland, and in few days report came that, as expected, enemy is approaching.

Morale of his soldiers was still high, and so was the morale of his allies knights. But town garrison was too tired and weakened from previous battle, and that brought them another defeat, defeat which was so hard that even he couldn't bring order back to his troops while retreating, and entire host disbanded. They finally rallied in Bremen, but home was needed.

Borna knew that Jessica retreated to Friesland, and that meant that they will be separated for days since he was going back to Croatia.

He knew that she worked on peace treaty hard, and he hoped next time they meet, they will meet in peace, without burden of war.

Peace was concluded. There was no more great war in Europe. It has become past. And now, Crusade was waiting for him and his troops. Battles were already raging in mediteranen sea.

Croatian fleet was ready to sail out. Although there wasn't many troops to carry, the squadron was big. It consisted of many warships, and even more transport ships. Borna was abroad on his big war galley "Champion". Borna was curious how his fleet will look in naval battle. He didn't have much oportunities to participate in naval battles.

Champion had 2 catapults and dozen balistas. Borna decided he won't even try to handle them, he will leave it to more experienced sailors and will instead wait for boarding enemy ship. Borna didn't like even how it looked to fight on sea. Croatian fleet had time to train a bit and there were mock naval battles. He missed his horse and didn't like chance to fall from ship to sea while Champion is opening fire on every enemy ship in range and of course taking fire. But he will get used to it.

Fleet was now on sea, waiting for Saxon and Burgundian troops and ships. Borna couldn't figure out with what ships will Saxony and Burgundy come. Saxon fleet was far in north, and Burgudny didn't even have a fleet. He concluded they will buy some ships in Rome, or hire some mercenaries.

Muslims were waiting for them, battles in mediteranen sea are already in full swing, he was sure that muslims will fight to last man.

As they got out of Adriatic sea to Mediteranen, on request of Grandmaster Alexander, Croatian troops landed in Akarnania. Borna had to wait for the rest of the fleet and troops anyway so he decided to help in defense of Greece. Croatian fleet landed in Akarnania and troops were carried to land by boat. Captain of the Champion and Admiral of Croatian fleet, Domagoj, remained on ship with it's crew if fast reaction will be necesary. That means not a single sailor left the ship, only Borna and his ground force.

As they reached Akarnania, they joined with troops of Grandmaster of Templars, and waited. Nothing interesting happened, but Burgundian troops came to, and so did Saxon troops. As news came from King Black Raven that French troops and ships will be on rally point soon, Borna decided to sail out.

They spoted French ships soon. They joined with rest of the fleet, and sailed south, to encounter Fatimid fleet that was noticed weeks ago. In only 5 days, Fatimids flags were on sight. But not only Fatimids, there were Sarazens and Bedouins flags too. Big fleet was waiting for them, bigger then their own from what Borna could see and Champion was sailing toward them in big speed.

Borna ordered every man on ship to be on deck in five minutes. He had something to say to them. In the meantime, he looked Domagoj and Kristian.

"Well Admiral, I hope you are ready for the battle of your life."

"Your Grace, I will do my best."

"I expect nothing more."

When he turned around, he could see deck full with sailors and his troops. He was surprised, he said five minutes not five seconds. Well, at least they are all trained well Borna thought to himself.



"Here we are, on a Holy Mission, to liberate the Holy City of Jerusalem from infidels. As we all know, it will be a difficult task and there are many chalenges on our way to succed in our mission Enemy is strong and well organized. It will be a difficult task also because we are going to unknown.

BUT HERE AND NOW,ONE OF THOSE MANY CHALENGES IS WAITING FOR US, NOW, IS TIME, TO SHOW THEM, THAT THEY HAVE VERY LITLE TIME REMAINING TO DESECRATE THE HOLY CITY AND TOMB OF JESUS CHRIST BY HAVING CONTROL OVER JERUSALEM. NOW, WE FIGHT IN NAME OF THE LORD, IN NAME OF ALL CHRISTIANS, AND IN THE NAME OF ALL THAT GOT KILLED WHEN CHRISTIANS LOST JERUSALEM AND IN ALL BATTLES THEY BRAVELY FOUGHT IN ATTEMPT TO RETAKE IT.

AND NOW, DO YOUR DUTY TO THE LORD AND HOLY CHURCH."

Borna turned to admiral again and said: "Battle stations."

Admiral then ordered battle stations, drums started to beat, all horns were blown, and in only few seconds, Borna saw sailors loading balistas and two of catapults Champion had. He saw them positioning on broad sides with bows in their hands, he saw flags, signaling to the other ships in the fleet that battle should commence soon and to prepare themselfs and get themselfs in battle formation. With all that, came a lot of noice, battle roars.

Champion was sailing to enemy ships, and when they got in range, it made sharp turn to the left...

Battle turned up to be disaster. Lack of experience of his man and larger numbers of enemies brought defeat to Borna. Fortunately, great number of his man survived the battle, and Champion was still able to sail, after he disengaged from melee retreat signal followed.

After long journey to Istria and then again to Holy Land, his troops finally disembarked in Adana. After spending some time in smaller border raids and maneuvering, Borna took his army in assault of small town of Adana. Bedouin host waited them there, and during the siege it got reinforced and battle was lost.

Borna retreated to Lebanon. After spending weeks in Lebanon, holding last stronger stronghold Christians had in Holy Land, enemy decided to attack, and won. Crusaders were defeated, and Crusade was over for Borna and Croatian troops.

Borna went to Lebanon, where Champion and dozen of dromonds waited. Al though 60% of Croatian fleet was destroyed including some of most respected and strongest ships, Borna still had decent number of good and strong warships at his disposal, including Istrian Pride who also survived recent battle near Crete.

On his way home, Borna received much news. Many recruits joined Croatian army, and also news came to Borna that son of his brother in arms, Ban Moroplovac, came back to Croatian realm and signed in for duty.
Borna was aware that he already had skills about warfare, diplomacy, administration, and he had to have some fighting skills too, so Borna immediately sent letter to Istria, and to Ban Matej Moroplovac about his promotion to Vojvoda of Rijeka, and minister of foreign affairs.

Ih he had his father talent, and temper, and better control of that temper, he was a great potential.

Also sad news about slaughtered Saxon peasants by Englishman and further defeats of Christian forces on all fronts reached Borna. He was home soon, then he will be able to do something about it. Till then, he can use that time to think of what to do.

It was good to be home again. Borna was happy to see high towers of Istria as Champion was docking in port. There were many people waiting for King's return. Many were waiting for their fathers and sons if they were alive. Many got disappointed and sad. Casualties were big. However Borna proudly rode, slowly, toward center of castle with his army behind him. Rest of Croatian army was on other fronts, aiding Saxon allies, taking more land for Croatia.

Borna needed some rest. Enjoyment in peace, at least for few days. He was always in battles and war for last 10 years. He didn't see his wife for long time by now. Duties to their countries separated them.

But Borna had no time for rest. He gave his soldiers a week of rest, and he himself had some administration things to solve. After that week passed, troops reported back for duty. Grof Svaboo was still coming home with his knights from Salzburg. Borna organized some extra training for his troops so they don't get out of focus. He used Istrian garrison as opponent

Duke Matej was leading Croatian forces to battle in Saxony. He was curious about it so he sent him a letter:

QUOTE:
To Duke Ban Matej Moroplovac


My lord,
I am curious about progress and condition of our troops under your lead in Saxony that are participating in defense of Saxony.
I expect report about it as soon as possible.


Borna
King of Croatia
Knez of Arlberg and Salzburg

Borna didn't had a relation with him as he had with his father, but Borna respected him. He was curious about his leadership skill and warfare skills. Well, soon he will find out.

Some time passed. Matej was already given a high position due to heavy expectations since he was the son of the first Croatian king. Not wanting to disappoint the current king, Borna, he had mustered all his determination and courage and set sight for one goal, to prove he is a worthy successor of his father.

His first tasks were simple ones. He was sent to make the embassy of Croatia and make it function again. That didn't last long because he was quickly sent to the front lines within Saxony to protect it against the invading English. He has proved his fierce skills in numerous battles but he wasn't satisfied enough.

Then the true test had come. The fight against the arch nemesis of Croatia, Serbia, was imminent. Matej was filled with joy when he was given an opportunity to fight side by side with his king.

Now Matej enters the local tavern, covered with sweat. All eyes turn to his strong body and heavy armor. The men in the tavern all cheer and raise their jars to greet the Croatian Duke. Matej replies with a smile and a gesture with his hands. He hangs his coat and approaches the bar. He is immediately met with a jar of his own and he cheers with his brethren.

Matej is still young for this. His face and muscles tell the whole story that he has lived for less than forty summers. Even though he is young he is respected among his brethren, at least within his own unit.

- Pour me another one! - Matej exclaims as he sees that his jar is now empty.
- Right away. - And before he could reach for the jar the bartender withdraws the jar quickly. - But first the price. Tell us some war stories.
- Well that is a fair price. Don't you say lads?!
- Yes! - The men cheer and their voices echo in the tavern.
- Should I tell our wonderful bartender the battles in Zahumlje? - The men cheer again, although some grumble. Matej smiles at that and sighs deeply, and while looking at the fireplace starts recounting the past.

The first battle of Zahumlje happened after the liberation of Dalmacija. The people rejoiced at the return of the Croatian King. But Borna surprised his enemies even further. Instead of attacking Bosnia, the crucial strategical position on these lands, he attacked Zahumlje, the mighty port of the Serbian Empire.

Even Matej was surprised by this decision. The army in Zahumlje outnumbered theirs by 3 to 1. Matej was not part of the plannings of King Borna and was left out of the war tent. Since he knew nothing of the battle plan he could only train and prepare for what it is to come. What he saw in the following days is outstanding. The Croatian fleet blockaded the Serbian port and set it on fire. The people ran screaming and running to the castle that stood proudly on a high mountain overseeing the town. King Borna used this confusion to strike the enemy hard. He had built trebuchets and catapults. The castle was almost torn down but an unexpected thing arrived. Serbian knights hurried and gathered a big army. The castle guards left the castle and proceeded to flank the Croatian army.

Matej still couldn't understand why Borna only dispatched a small regiment to take down the castle, which he was a part of. A letter arrived before he could make any tactical decisions. King Borna ordered his retreat. He was furious at this cowardly command and refused to retreat. Almost all of his men deserted him and he was left with a handful of men. Seeing that this is utterly pointless he sounded the retreat but not before he was shot down by archers that ambushed his retreat. One of his knights even fell and was knocked unconscious. Seeing that he was surrounded, Matej stood fast and defended his position with his men. When he saw the big Serbian army coming over the hill his morale faltered. The Serbian army initiated a small charge at his position and then salvation.

It is as though Borna predicted his actions, horns of another charge were heard. The Croatian army appeared at the flank of the big Serbian army. The Croatians charged right in and seized their opportunity. The Serbian formation was divided into two, the one that was still on the hill and the other that was in the open plains. Matej ordered that the charge be sounded and he charged head first into the broken formation.

- You're lying! - A soldier interrupted Matej's story telling. - There is no way you would have survived on your own and even wounded by arrows.
- I was wounded in my leg and shoulder. I couldn't wield a shield anymore and I couldn't even walk properly. That is why my horse was my legs and shield from then on.
- Quit interrupting the duke, you're being disrespectful! - The men rained down upon the soldier insults. Matej stopped them with a motion with his hand and continued the story.

With the Serbian army confused and leaderless it fought like barbarians. Although the Croatians used the surprise attack it was not without cost. Several good knights fell to the Serbian rabble called militia but were quickly dispersed with the arrival of the King himself. He rode with his own battalion right into the heart of battle and killed numerous foes.

The great knight Dragan fell and that was the point it was known to everyone that the Croatian forces had won. The rest of the battle was easily won and the Serbian army ran for their lives. King Borna received a letter from his scouts and it said that an even larger force of Serbian armies was already in the area. King Borna sounded the retreat and withdrew near the border where he intended to make a stand.

The second battle was pure horror. Both sides were during the battle supplied with numerous reinforcements which made the battle look like Hell on Earth. Both armies made formations of their own and the battle proceeded like in a textbook. First the archers, then small skirmishes and then the real battle. Matej was now in awe with the valorous King Borna who always fought side by side with his men. He was always the first man in the charge and valued others lives more than his. This proved to be fatal.

In the next few hours King Borna was surrounded and was fighting with his own battalion against a stronger opponent. Matej was observing that from his own battle on top of the hill. Making a quick kill to his opponent he saw that the forces sent to kill him were dispatched quickly. He quickly got back on his horse and ordered the charge. It was almost impossible to do so. The forest was the big obstacle to his cavalry charge but nevertheless they reached King Borna. Much to his horror no further reinforcements were on their way to help them. King Borna fell and Matej stood alone alongside another of the knights called Ladislav. They both held their ground and fought back to back near King Borna's body who laid there unconscious. It was not until the unseeingly reinforcements arrived that they fell. Ladislav was pierced in his chest with a spear and he also fell unconscious. While the Croatian reinforcements were approaching, the small band of Serbian knights tried to take the life of King Borna. Matej slashed at least two more enemies before falling down to his knees from his wounds. With the small Serbian army forced to retreat the relief force of the Croatian armies quickly picked up their wounded and retreated all the way back into Dalmacija.

- Again you're lying! You're trying to make yourself look bigger and tougher all the time. There is no way such a young excuse for a warrior is able to be the last man standing in a fight. - Matej gripped the jar that the Bartender was offering him, drank it in one single try and wiped off the alcohol from his beard.

The night ended up with one soldier crying for his mommy as Matej putted back his coat and exited the tavern gracefully. He was summoned by King Borna for yet another mission...

As army retreated to Dalmatia Borna decided to hit Panonia. No matter of lost battle in Zahumlje much good came of it. Defending forces of Panonia were gone and were now only small rabble of peasants and the port was also destroyed which meant that only exit Serbs had on sea now was port in Duklja.

Panonia felt with no big problems. Captain of guards did his best in defense but he couldn't do much against cavalry charge once gates were breached.

Slavonia was next. On the way there after army encamped for some rest Borna went to train with his Count Dominik Slunjski. Dominik was much better than Borna thought and Borna was injured. He had a broken rib. He was saddened when medic told him that he won't be able to participate in attack on Slavonia.

Small Serbian army reinforced garrison. Borna commanded his army but couldn't participate in battle. But no matter of all efforts of all his troops and Italian allies that helped in assault attack was repulsed several times until attackers had no more strength to continue with it.

After retreating to Panonia army went to Istra to resupply. But Borna was shocked when he found out that all stashes were almost empty. There was small amount of supplies that would be sufficient for only two weeks.

And it got worst. Borna received news from Panonia that Polish army appeared on border and will soon cross it. Borna had no choice but to go on meet them with what he had.

While army was encamped near town of Panonia Borna went to his war tent. He summoned for his war council to make plans for on coming battle. Poles did not outnumber them because Borna knew that there will be some smart ass among peasants that will raise his pitchfork and that than some other will join them.

Borna summoned for Count Matej Moroplovac to join other war veterans of Croatia. Among them were Count Svaboo and Count that always answered Borna's call for arms and always brought all of his knights from Arlberg and General Kristian, commander of Borna's personal bodyguard. There was also young Vidak, who was still a boy, but boy with great potential so Borna gave him Chancellor position and include him in war council to learn. After Count Matej joined them they all discussed what would be best to do.

It was decided that all cavalry forces hide in nearby forest while all others man the walls. Count Dominik that usually commanded archers will now command the walls, while Vidak will lead peasants and other knights that will defend the gates. Borna sent Vidak away immediately to prepare the peasants for battle. Rest would join him next day.

Borna dismissed all of them except for Count Matej.

"You did hell of a job in last months lad. You fight well, and so does your knights.
You will replace Svaboo as 2nd commander of Croatian armies. He already knows about it and is approving it.
And lad, you saved my life there in Zahumlje. Thank you. You truly are your father's son. Now go, get ready, hard and long battle is waiting for us."

As Count bowed and left, Borna sat in his chair and memories about his dead brother in arms came back. Borna didn't sleep that night.

It was by now pretty long time as troops were in Panonia. Only small movements were made to transport resources to Panonia.

Borna was walking on the walls of Panonian fortress, that was now fully rebuilt, and fortified. He saw Count Dominik training archers, Vidak's soldiers were still young and lacked experience, but they all trained hard and with time they will become great force. Ladislav's troops were well equipped but they also lacked experience. Matej's troops on the other hand had soli amount of resources and were all very well equipped. Borna saw them training fast re-deployments and fast changing formation training.

Borna's soldiers were already hardened veterans, and only fought between them self for fun and prestige. They would eventually go and train recruits.

Borna now already reached citadel, which was actually strong tower and from it's top the sight was amazing. He went to the top thinking what else could be done in order to improve Panonian defenses. Italian troops were also ready for battle and were training. Some en camped beneath the castle walls, but most of them were in the castle.

As he reached the top he saw everything. As the fort was being rebuilt, it had some changes. There were no more southern gates, there were now only western from which road led to Istra. Moat was dig around the fort, and Borna was quite confident that when someone fell in it won't get out of it.
Drawbridge was in great place to defend, because walls were forming U with it. In case drawbridge is passed there was also portcullis waiting for attackers. There were three more big and strong towers as long with 6 smaller ones. Ballistas were placed on towers.

Citadel it self was another story. There were no walls. It was a square construction with portcullis as the only entrance in it. Just in case, Borna ordered digging of tunnels 3 kilometers north, to the small fort on border with Poland. Horses were to be left there in case troops retreat to the fort. Unfortunately tunnels weren't high enough so one can ride on horse, but walking is doable.

Borna did not plan to close him self in to the fortress and wait. He intended to wait for them on the open field, and if things go badly retreat to fort.

As he analyzed everything dusk came, and all soldiers were slowly finishing their duties for today, people were going home.

He went to barracks and hoped to meet Vidak there. And so he did.

"There is some wine and beer. Assemble the troops and you all have fun tonight. That's an order. Give the hookers to the boys and you all get drunk tonight. It's on my personal account.
Oh and, you can also summon Italians to join you."

Vidak just smiled and bowed as Borna passed to his room.

He felt old and missed his wife. It's been too long from last time he saw her...

Derg recieved a letter ..

He called Despot Popovic..

"Can you imagine,croats digging long tunnels and trenches scouts reported,rats always be rats! Such length, can you imagine,rats always seeking for holes to hide!

In panonia,you know the soil there,its muddiest dirt around as in banat also.