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THE ENCYCLOPEDIA

Caught in the Crossfire

CAMPAIGNS & SCENARIOS · AGE OF EMPIRES II ONLY

CAMPAIGN · THE MOUNTAIN ROYALS

Caught in the Crossfire

Balance a fragile tribute agreement with the Seljuks against a campaign to seize Templar fortresses. Taking two Castles triggers a shift in alliances and brings the Seljuks into open conflict; Simon de Raban can be escorted to safety for an additional base.

Caught in the Crossfire Age of Empires II campaign artwork
Caught in the Crossfire Age of Empires II campaign artwork

Overview

Balance a fragile tribute agreement with the Seljuks against a campaign to seize Templar fortresses. Taking two Castles triggers a shift in alliances and brings the Seljuks into open conflict; Simon de Raban can be escorted to safety for an additional base.

Player approach

Caught in the Crossfire changes its diplomacy during the mission. Pay tribute to the Seljuks while they remain passive, then trigger the side switch only when the army can handle the new coalition.

Step-by-step plan

Protect the starting base and keep troops outside Seljuk territory while paying the required tribute. Weaken Reynald’s position by capturing two Templar Castles or destroying his southern Castle or Town Center, but do not completely eliminate the initial enemies before the diplomatic trigger. When the truce changes sides, regroup quickly and defend the exposed approaches against the new Seljuk front.

Risks and adjustments

Moving soldiers too close to Seljuk territory or allying with the Christians can end their neutrality early. Fighting all opponents at once is costly, so plan the switch and preserve a reserve force.

Focused strategy page

For a dedicated version of this plan, open Caught in the Crossfire tribute and alliance timing.

Mission overview

Balance a fragile tribute agreement with the Seljuks against a campaign to seize Templar fortresses. Taking two Castles triggers a shift in alliances and brings the Seljuks into open conflict; Simon de Raban can be escorted to safety for an additional base.

Objectives

  1. Pay the Seljuks before each tribute timer expires; if the arrangement ends, defeat them.
  2. Capture at least two Knights Templar Castles by reducing each below 1,000 hit points.
  3. Optional: escort Simon de Raban to the waiting Transport Ship on the northern coast.
Focus
Scenario · Thoros II
Signature / category
Story & scenarios
Release / context
The Mountain Royals
Classification
Scenarios
Ⅱ

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