In fact, most of the principalities were, at this time, entirely independent of the grand prince of Novgorod, whose supremacy was, in general, but an empty and powerless title.

As Daniel was one of the nearest neighbors of Andre, and reigned over a desolate and impoverished realm, the grand prince was disposed to bring him into subjection.

But neither of the princes dared to march their armies without first appealing to their Mogol masters.

Daniel sent an embassador to the Mogol camp, but Andre went in person with his young and beautiful wife.

The khan sent his embassador to Vladimir, there to summon before him the two princes and their friends and to adjudge their cause.
In the heat and bitterness of the debate, the two princes drew their swords and fell upon each other.