Similar situation is on the Balkans too, meaning Slovenian, a Croat, Serbian, Montenegrin, Bosnian, Bulgarian and Macedonian can all understand each other 90% by only speaking in their own languages and dialects, but with some difficulties which can be easily corrected since almost every Macedonian can speak their languages, or the other way around. Lots of similarities with Italy.

Mongol General: Conan, what is best in life?

Conan: To crush your enemies, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women.