A New Duke of Milan

You start out in the SW sector of the map, surrounded on all sides. Milan (yellow) lies in the middle, with various allies (Milanese countryside - gray, and a red Italian city) backing it up. The goal is not to siege Milan directly, but go after it's supporters. The main threat initially is red, who own a city just west of Milan. Shortly after starting you will be given three peasants.

You will come under attack frequently, but you can find gold, stone, and other resources nearby. Set up an initial defense (one castle just north of your starting position on a hill, flanked by guard towers) to hold off enemy attacks. Garrison your archers for added firepower, and build a monastery to recruit monks so you can convert a defense force to your cause.

It will be rough going for a while, as you will have to consistently ring the town bell to call your peasants in from attacks by green and red. Green is untouchable (they are located in Milan itself), while red will send a steady stream of attacks. Fortunately red stays in the feudal age throughout, so their troops are weak and easily convertible to your side.

After holding off dozens of attacks and building up your economy, it's time to strike. Red is your first target. If you haven't found them yet, send a scout N/NW of your starting position, in the upper corner of the map. Beware Milan's defenses, they have cannon towers, cannons, and lots of archers (if your scout gets too close to the walls, that is). With your army, head up to red's town. Once you destroy their town center, they'll surrender. They also have a relic, so steal that away from them.

Once red is destroyed, you'll get some messages talking about cutting off Milan. This is a three part objective. After destroying red, you have two smaller targets to destroy as well. There is a trade outpost (guarded by towers and soldiers) SE of your starting position, and granaries (also guarded by towers) in the far NE of the map. These are your next two priorities. Alternatively, you can take these two out first, as doing so will grant you regular food and wood tribute. Either way, red is a much more irritating target, as gray will never attack you.

Keep building your defenses, however. Once you eliminate the remaining two targets, thereby cutting off Milan, some important dialogue ensues. Venice betrays you, and sends troops to your base. Hightail your forces back ASAP, making sure your castles and towers are garrisoned with archers or peasants to hold off the Venetian attacks.

After about 10 minutes of attacks, Milan will offer a truce, and ask Sforza to come to their castle. You're in the clear and the scenario is over.