In late 1210s new power came to the world stage - the Mongols. Armies of Ilkhanate defeated post-Seljuk Emirates bordering Asia and launched quick and decisive attack into Persia. This sparked a first war between Mongols and Muslims that will characterize next 30 years. Caliph Abdullah 'The Terrible', son of Yusuf, called for Jihad to reclaim Persia. Warriors from great Yusufid dominion flocked to the armies that soon went east. Ilkhanate - with recent victories stretching their force thin, defended their recent gains for few months, but eventually were pushed back. Armies given to them by Genghis Khan were decimated and Muslim armies recaptured Persia, ending Jihad. When it seamed that the Mongol threat was defeated, another Mongol army came from the east. Calling themselves Golden Horde, they begun conquering lands north of Aral Sea, heading west. Ilkhanate wasn't done either. Within few years they restored core of their forces and resumed war with Muslim world, fighting back Yusufid dynasty troubled at the time by civil war. Eventually, in late 1230s Abul-Gafur, oldest son of the late Abdullah claimed title of Caliph, reuniting his father's Empire.
Final blow to the Ilkhanate was dealt not by their Muslim foes, but brothers from the steppe. Golden Horde took over remnants of their predecessors - including Persia. Two great Empires face each other now, gathering forces for another war.
Meanwhile Romans and other Europeans enjoy time of peace. Roman Empire reclaimed their British province after civil war (instigated by Roman Empress Zoe) that put member of the Makedon dynasty on English throne.
By now, only major Roman provinces still outside it's borders were on Iberian Peninsula - where Muslims squared against Navarra.
New Roman Emperor - Justinian IV Augustus, will have to choose - either focus on retaking Spain, or prepare to combat empire that will prevail the war between Mongols and Muslims.
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