Imperial Diet IV

[Ignoramus]

A Swabian page enters the Diet.

"Mein lords, mein lord, Wolfgang Hummel, urges you to vote for Count Hans as Kaiser. He is the true heir, being directly descended from the late Kaiser Henry.

Jobst was crowned Kaiser because he was Sigismund der Stolze's adopted son and heir. Sigismund, in turn, was Henry's heir before his sons came of age.

Siegfried, however, has no blood-right or legititmate claim save that he says that Kaiser Jobst made him his heir as he lay dying. Kaiser Jobst had no authority to appoint his heir, so that point is duly invalid.

Noble electors, choose conscience above profit!

The page bows and leaves the Diet.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

*shaking silently*

You fool...

It was Kaiser Henry's wish that the crown passed out of his family's hands; after what happened with his father and the close call with him, who can blame him? But instead, you make us look weak. You make us look like doddering old fools to the world, who can't even pick a leader! It is clear that Kaiser Siegfried has the majority of votes; your defection changes nothing! All it does is needlessly drag out this issue further! Surely you recognize it!

[Privateerkev]

Wow, I thought I was the only one that could make the King that mad...


Well, at least when this is over, its over. And we can get on with the business of governing. I am still stunned in utter shock that the same man who lead a fizzled revolution, was able to vote on the Duke Council. Is this man even allowed back in Germany? I hear he is traveling back to go to Swabian lands. Isn't he and his pages still banned from the Diet? Who even let that page in?

Oh I can't wait till this is settled...

[Stig]

Ansehelm comes walking into the Diet after being at the Ducal Council

I suggest that Wolfgang goes into hiding, purely to protect himself. I've got an army heading for Moscow, but I don't care visiting the Hummel family castle on the way.

Hans has no evidence of being the real Kaiser, he only threatened he would bring some, but where is it? No where.
On the other hand, my little brother has loads of evidence. Kaiser Jobst last letter, Dieter and about 200 others who fought in Jobst's last battle.

[FactionHeir]

OOC: I only just manged to get online, which might be somewhat late, but I just wrote out the followiung PM:

IC:
My lords.

The evidence is as follows:
Dieter von Darmstadt who presented both the letter/will of Jobst and said he was the only one other than Jobst who knew of Siegfried to be his heir is a traitor to the empire and as such his words are naught but conspiracy.

Let me explain.
I have run several investigations during my own chancellorship and during the last diet session on his involvement in the Danish incident and with several living witnesses, among them Jobsts former right hand and Dieters accomplice as well as my own agents who had been investigating and a survivor of Jobsts bodyguard, who with their stories together draw the the following picture:

Dieter had bribed using Hugo, the Danish rebels in the crusading army to take the side path in the forests near Frankfurt (or was it Metz, OOC) lightly armed to attack another bribed German scouting force of Jobsts army to lead to the greater battle. Earlier, a man who seems another of Dieters accomplices brought Jobst a letter allegedly from Henry to tell him of the side path and to move there without giving a reason.

The battle was supposed to be Jobsts doom as he was outnumbered and only through skill and luck did he actually survive. With that plan failed, DIeter arranged for French agents later to ambush Jobst on a hunting trip and before the last survivor could spill any evidence, he was shot down by Dieter who was nowhere to be seen during the ambush battle.

There you have 2 pieces of evidence that Dieter wanted to have Jobst dead for some reason but Jobst for some reason was not aware of it due to his subterfuge. Taking his accomplice prisoner and interrogating other invovled members as above, netted this web of conspiracy Dieter plotted.

Also, there are reports of pistol murders recently of men who were of foreign descent, and knowing that guns are rare, and the above information, it is easy to conclude that Dieter wanted them silenced.

Now as for Siegfrieds claim, the bodyguard of Jobst confirmed that Jobst did in no way mention Siegfrieds name when he died, but nearby troops thought that he did because Dieter raised Siegfrieds hand.

Also, once Siegfried dispatched himself to the diet with no evidence, and Dieter arrived many days later, it is very likely that Dieter, who had access to Jobsts chambers and posessions being his right hand and "trusted aide" found Jobsts will and forged it to his liking to create some evidence for Siegfried and to draw away attention from himself.
As you can conveniently see in the will, Dieter would follow the new emperor around and seeing how Siegfried is so young, inexperienced and was not knighted by Jobst even for the earlier battles, it was Dieters plan to elevate unsuspecting Siegfried through this chain of unfortunate events in the recent battles to the position of emperor and himself to the puppet master.

There is no valid evidence thus backing up Siegfrieds claim other than soldiers incorrect hearsay, and the will/letter that is likely forged by Dieter who had access to all of Jobsts posessions.

If you require, I will let to interrogate my witnesses personally.
They include: Athalwolf, Jobsts bodyguard member
Hugo von Heidelberg, accomplice of Dieter von Darmstadt
Luka, Jobsts pagan magician and former right hand
Adolf der Bartige, spy in Imperial services during my chancellorship on confiential mission
Dietrich von Hamburg, low council official investigating the battle scene

This should make Siegfried abdicate, I believe, as there is thus no rightful claim to the unlikely event of the young, unexperienced, fourth son of Gunther to the throne.

Steward Hans of Swabia

[Stig]

Wait wait wait wait wait. All you do is say why little Siegfried has no claim to the throne. But why would you have?
Next to that why would I believe you?

You accuse Dieter of something very serious, it's simply you against him, and you think you'll win because you are the Count and he isn't.
Look at the votes, it's 10 to 1. Only that idiot Hummel decided to vote against Siegfried, be wise and don't throw away your career over this matter.

If what you say is right Siegfried has no right to the thrown, but who has? No-one actually, which leaves you in a position to claim it, doesn't it?
You won't get that far, simply because the Diet seems to be on Siegfried side, not on the side of a sad Swabian, hungry for power.

[Warluster]

Dieter stands

I am overly offended of being accused of these things.

It seems, Count Hans, you are trying to attack me.

Dieter looks around, laughing

Is not that enough? Why go for me, is there something you wisht os ahre mein lord? Hm? I own no guns, and you can search my hmabers many times. And as for killing, I have only killed a man in battle.

But let me say, bring forth a witness, I say? Nothing, nothing, can prove it!! And as for the letters, why don't you prove there real, rather than talk about it!

Lukas, Lukas was blinded most of the time. He only saw him, and his rise to supposed glory. Hugo, Hugo? WHo is he I ask!? And as for the rest, low council members, you must've done a lot of researching, or thinking, as I am aure these people do not exsist!

Do I need to prove anythoing more?

[FactionHeir]

While some may question why most my evidence is aimed at Dieter, the simple fact is that Dieter is the only one who bears anything remotely considered to be evidence for SIegfrieds claim. There is no other reliable source that proclaims Siegfried Jobsts heir other than Dieter and his forged will.

Thus, I bring you, my witnesses.
*Hans claps his hands and Adalberth opens the doors to the diet*
Hans' witnesses enter the diet, all alive and even Hugo relatively unscathed. Hugo, upon seeing Dieter, immediately points his finger at him and cries "That's him, he set me up for all of it, he was the mastermind behind all those plans to get the emperor Jobst!"

I believe my lords wish to interrogate my witnesses and ask them questions? Please do. It seems that all Dieter has is a piece of forged writing and no living witness to back up its truthfulness while I have many who all agree that he is a traitor.

To Ansehelm:
Of course, the vote is against me, but only because I was hindered from presenting my evidence to the council in time - which is why I presented it now, on the diet floor, for all to hear.
As for what would make me claim the throne? While I may not have some forged writing proclaiming me to be the emperor, I do have bloodright, which is what our empire has gone by for many centuries as a tradition.

[AussieGiant]

Arnold

All I've got is a he said this, and he said that. It's one mans word against another mans word. How do you expect us to make a decision on that?

And your blood right is what exactly Hans?

Can you please state that?

[Stig]

You have bloodright Hans, because that's what we've been using for centuries?
Remember that we decend from the Great Franks. According to their laws everything should be distributed under all male sons of the father, you don't want that do you?

[Privateerkev]

Jan looks at poll numbers while listening to everyone speak and when they are done, gets up.

My lords,

I would like to proclaim that the matter is now legally settled. While I believe the Kaiser is chosen by divine right, not everyone agrees. But a majority, myself included, voted for CA 11.1 and Edict 11.9. A Duke council formed to choose the Kaiser according to CA 11.1 and they have concluded by a majority that Kaiser Siegfried is the Kaiser. Since it was not unanimous, Edict 11.9 called for a Reich-wide vote. And, after looking at poll numbers, a clear majority of the voters have already voted for Kaiser Siegfried. So, Kaiser Siegfried has been legally declared Kaiser of the Reich. I think it would be best now to put this matter behind us.

Thank you

42 out of 82 have voted. 42 > 41

[Stig]

No vote has ended before pre-maturaly, for me little Siegfried doesn't become Kaiser Siegfried till the voting is officially over.

[Privateerkev]

Well, true, the matter is not really over till the poll closes. But there are so many votes in favor of the Kaiser, that it does not matter. Even if every remaining vote voted no or didn't vote, it would not change the eventual outcome. Kaiser Siegfried will be Kaiser.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

As much as I hate to say it, bloodright was thrown down the privies when Kaiser Henry ascended to the throne. If I can recall he selected Jobst over you while you were of age. I believe that the selection process now consists of merit and the Kaiser's whim.

[FactionHeir]

Considering I had less than 13 hours to present my evidence to the Ducal council after naming a representative, I would not be surprised if this vote were to end prematurely as well.

Regardless, it may be word against word, but all Dieter has in a forged will I remind you and nothing else to back it up. Why would Jobst have only told him about the choice of heir and not anyone else including Siegfried I ask?

And does the diet not care about Dieters attempts to assassinate our emperor Jobst? Maybe it even sponsored Dieter to do it, considering he needed considerable funds to bribe the Danish rebels to attack the German force led by the German emperor? Afterall it would be highly unlikely for one man, Dieter, to have accumulated such wealth for this with the Danes in an internal struggle and unwilling to start another war and the English our close allies ever since? Would it not beckon anyone that the only other sponsor thus would be a German noble or the traiterous French?

I am truly surprised that the diet would remain so steadfast behind Siegfried due to this snake's words that will throw our empire into doom instead of reports gathered from ever since my chancellorship investigation into this matter as well as living witnesses who can confirm this chain of events.
Perhaps I should forge Jobst's will as well with no consequence?

This is truly apalling.

[Cecil XIX]

The fact that you hadn't bothered to speak at all until the matter was virtually settled speaks volumes. If you didn't care enough to present evidence when it could have actually affected something, why should we care that you're presenting it now?

Indeed, since the Siegfried now has only to wait for the polls to close there is no large incentive to disprove your claims. Quite convienent, isn't it? Whereas if you had said something publicly during the Eleventh Diet, during the council, or even when the vote was still in question it would have come under much closer scrutiny. And then there is the matter of your evidence, which is little more than hearsay, speculation and witnesses that could have easily been bought off.

I'm sorry Hans, but the circumstances surrounding your evidence are more suspicious than the Kaiser's claims.

[Stig]

Do you want to know what I think of you Hans? I think you are the lowest of the lowest kind. First you present all sorts of "evidence" that my little brother is not the Kaiser, and Hummel really supports you in that.
However, now, when everything is happening you turn is back on him. He voted against Kaiser Siegfried, while you, low as you are went hiding somewhere. Be a man, stand firm together with him, but you couldn't. You didn't dare to.

You Hans are one of the lowest creatures that walks on this earth.

[Ituralde]

Emperor Siegfried enters the Diet Chamber, adorned in the full regalia of the Kaiser of the Holy Roman Emperor. His head is slightly raised and an arrogant stare escapes his eyey, while his mouth is twisted up in a confident smile. He settles on the throne overlooking the Diet and addresses the assembled nobles.

King, Dukes and Counts!
Nobles of the Reich!

I thank you all for your confidence in my person and into the last wish of Emperor Jobst. You have chosen wisely to end these disturbances and clarify the matter once and for all. The matter is settled and there's no need for further talk among this in the Diet.

He waves a hand absently.

Could you remove those men from the Diet, Count Hans? They're services are not needed anymore. Their lies will not be heard. Nor will I listen to anything more you have to say on this matter.

He never so much as glanced in the directon of Hans, but his smile had turned unpleasant. The smile returning he continues.

I thank Duke Steffen for his loyalty and service to the Reich. The House of Bavaria is given the lands of Ajaccio and the surrounding island. They deserve nothing less for the sacrifices the Steffen family has endured to take it.

I thank Duke Arnold for his loyalty and service to the Reich. The efforts for finding you a suitable bride shall be doubled, and I am sure the future shall give me opportunity enough to reward the House of Austria.

I thank Steward Ansehelm, who acted on behalf of Duke von Kastilien for his loyalty and service to the Reich. The Russian Crusade and your constant vigilance on the Eastern border should give enough opportunities to reward the House of Franconia in the future.

I thank King Salier of Outremere for his loyalty and service to the Reich. It shall not be forgotten when the time comes to appoint the new King of Outremere.

Although I have said it before, I will repeat for clarification that Prince Elberhard will follow me on the throne. I hope this official announcement will stall any attempts at invoking CA 11.1 again and we can leave the memories of those horrendous voting marathon forever behind.

[AussieGiant]

Standing dramatically Arnold raises his hands to the vaulted ceiling of the Reichstag and proclaims

PRAISE THE LORD WE HAVE A KAISER!!!

Grinning from ear to ear Arnold raises a massive wooden gavel and pounds the benches

*Whack whack whack*

Hear ye Hear ye!!

Charter Amendment 11.2 has now been completed, you may now all breathe a sigh of relief.

Men lock up you daughters because he's not married; therefore he's the most eligible bachelor in the known world.

Those of you who have mistresses, ban them from any social events, he's bound to wink at one of them and turn them to jelly in an instant.

Having run completely out of breath Arnold collapses into his chair. Raises his goblet and continues

Three cheers to the new Kaiser!!!

Thunderous cheers erupt from the Austrian Benches in response.

Hip RAH!!

Hip RAH!!

Hip RAH!!

[FactionHeir]

(A week later - refer to Warluster's story)

The Swabian benches are mostly deserted as the doors to the diet suddenly slap open and a bloodied Luka storms in
Murderer! Murderer! Dieter attempted to kill me just now and he is battling a city watch sergeant who tried to protect me as we speak! Help someone, anyone!

[AussieGiant]

Looking up from a stack of reports

And exactly who are you?

And will you please stop bleeding on the Diet Chamber floor!!?

[Stig]

If you got attacked go to the local count or city watch, don't come bursting in here.
Who are you and what gives you the right to enter this place anyway? Speak, before I finish something a certain "Dieter" couldn't do.
Keep your troubles out of here.

Sides aren't you one of Hans' little minions? I thought my little brother, who happens to be Kaiser told you to sod off, don't you follow the Kaisers orders? Do you want to be hang from the highest tree?

[TinCow]

By the Heavens, a man comes stumbling in bleeding and shouting about murder, and he is greeted with threats of execution? It is a sad day when a German cannot even receive aid in the Diet itself!

*Lothar turns to the bleeding man.*

I assure you, sir, that you will be safe in here so long as I still draw breath. If there is a murderer roaming the streets, tell us of him so that the rogue can be caught.

[AussieGiant]

Chuckling to himself Arnold can't help but eventually laugh out loud at the exchange of pleasantries

[Stig]

Lothar I don't have the time to attend to petty criminals, there are more important things in life than just a simple murder, they happen every day ... and if you look at things like this like our pious friends Arnold and I are murderers as well.
If he got attacked let him go to some city watch, not to the highest chamber in the Reich, we have more important things to settle than hunting little criminals, if you want to do that, be my guest, but I have more important things to do. Russians and Poles for example.

[FactionHeir]

Luka backs off at the threats from several nobles, but speaks, encouraged by Lothar's calming words.
I..I know Siegfried wishes not to see us again after he was confirmed, but his henchman...D..Dieter..he tried to kill me! He's out to silence me! You must believe me! I ....need... protection lest you wish me end ...like..like the other witness that was ..murdered in Frankfurt last week! Please!

[Stig]

The matter is settled, my little brother is Kaiser, I see no use why he needs to kill someone as low as you. Next to that why would he want to kill someone as you like that. I would simply execute you and your little friends for treason would it be my decision, simple as that, no need for sneaky murders. Big townsquare, loads of happy townsfolk, big party.

[AussieGiant]

Laughing for some time Arnold eventually composes himself, straightens his face and throws the gentlemen a silk cloth

Will you please bind that gash and tell Lothar and myself what happened.

Steward, there's no need to be so harsh man.

Looking confused for a second

Did I just say that!!? This bloody priests been following me around lately. He seems to be brain washing me.

Turning to Grom and Bane

Where going out tonight and make sure that bloody priest thinks where playing cards or something!!

Turn back to the bleeding figure.

Forgive the Steward, his brother has just recently become Kaiser and he's seeing treachery at every turn.

Come, tell Lothar and I what happened.

[Stig]

Oh no need to forgive me, it's been clear that my brother is Kaiser for quite some time now, only few of them spoke up against them, and as could be expected they were wrong.
Next to that he said he wouldn't listen to anything more Hans' minions have to say on the matter, and that they should leave the Diet. I don't care if he's faking some attack or if it was real, don't let him waste my time.

And believe me Arnold, I could be far more harsh ... and seriously you should get rid of that priest, you're turning soft.

[AussieGiant]

Turning quickly to the Steward Arnold raises his finger to his mouth


Shhh, keep your voice down Steward. It's not as if Grom and Bane haven't suggested that already.

Last night they hung him by his feet out a church tower trying to teach him how not to scream like a girl everytime something crazy happens!

Poor fellow hasn't spoken to me all day.

[Privateerkev]

Jan walks in, in full Crusader regalia

My lords,

My time is short here but I wanted to say a few words in regards to the latest Chancellor report.

First my uncle, Duke Gunther, has passed away. I would like to call for a moment of silence from the Diet.

waits for a full minute in silence.

And I would like to give my heartfelt condolences to the Kastilian family and to let them know that my prayers are with them.

To all of my cousins, I wish you to know that you can come to me with anything in this time of grief and sorrow. Let me know if I can be of any help or service.

The next thing I wish to discuss regards my brother-in-law Jens-von-Kassel. My sister's husband is a traitor. I wish I was available to hunt this man down personally, but I unfortunately am not. I want to state right now that you will hear no complaint from me in regards to his punishment. He is a Russian agent operating behind in our lines in a time of war. He needs to be stopped immediately.

Thank you

[Stig]

Ansehelm walks into the Diet again, looking down

Meine Herren, today far worse news about reached me than this playing around we have here. Gunther von Kastillien, Duke of Franconia and mine and the Kaisers father, has died of old age in the city of Thorn.
Even though my fathers dead was expected, we mourn for him, but in true Franconian spirit it should not stop us of what we want to achieve. Therefore we will continue hunting down Poles and Russians trying to enter the Reich even more than before.
Gunther von Kastillien will be buried in the Kastillien Family Chapel near Stettin, which was once his city.

Next to this sad news I also bring news from the Franconian Crusade, it is due to start this year and it's planned to breakthrough the Russian border in the year 1266 AD.
As for the news of Jens von Kassel, I would gladly wait for him in Moscow, so I can supprise him. There will be true Germans, even in the heart of Russia. Let him know that. However I think it's better for us that he is hunted down, an army should engage him before he can escape from the Reich.

[gibsonsg91921]

Father...

I had expected that he was getting on in years, but I had not really realized he was going so soon.

I swear fealty to the Duke of Franconia, Ansehelm von Kastilien!

[Privateerkev]

Now that he is here, I will also swear publicly my fealty towards Duke Ansehelm.

May God go away with you on your journey!

[Tamur]

Fritz stands and nods to Ansehelm, then addresses the Diet

I also swear fealty to Duke Ansehelm. Long may he live. I share my brothers' grief at our father's death, and remain in good hope that his soul is winging its way to its eternal home...

Fritz trails off for a moment, then snaps his gaze upward again

...with God! With God.

And, I wish to remind you all, not that there is any question in my mind, but simply remind you, that we, none of us, or indeed any person in the Reich, can look forward to the same happy journey without fully honouring his memory by falling behind Kaiser Siegfried and doing their duty for the Reich!

Fritz nods quickly around, and seats himself again

[Cecil XIX]

Duke Gunther was an honorable man. He will be sorely missed. Ansehelm, I'm sure you'll show the Russians that the new Duke of Franconia is not to be trifled with either!

[TinCow]

Duke Gunther von Kastilien was a true and noble German. His martial and political prowess kept the Reich safe during the most desperate times. We are all the poorer for his loss.

[gibsonsg91921]

My father was the restraint on the House of Franconia - we are all to warmongering, too belligerent. He was the wiser one always, and we will miss him.

[FactionHeir]

Luka, holding his neck, slowly makes his way to Lothar and Arnold for a private conversation.

----
Letter from Hans:
While I would like to say it in person, the siege of Jerusalem leaves little time for travels.

I am greatly saddened by the death of venerable Duke Gunther, may his soul rest in peace and he find a less troubled world in god's haven.

It is also saddening that the diet deems Dieter's words to be a divine mandate, but to keep the empire intact and in full integrity, I wish Siegfried a prosperous reign, but ask him to be mindful of what Dieter poisons his thoughts with.

[AussieGiant]

On behalf of House Austria I extend my sympathy to the Franconian House.

Gunther was a true German until the end. He will be missed greatly.

Arnold is then handed multiple reports, and after quickly scanning them his face turns from anger to amusement

Right then a few points to discuss.

Firstly, I'm more than happy to hunt down the rebel scum through the interior of the HRE!! Jens von Kassel needs to be exterminated and I believe I am the man for the job. Any thoughts would be welcome.

Secondly, well done to the men in Outremer for removing the Mongol threat for the second time and additionally to all those involved in taking back Jeruselum.

Count Zirn should be commended for doing an excellent job.

[Northnovas]

A messenger arrives and walks up to the Speaker. He is given permission to read the letter to the Diet...

Electors! I bring word from the Outremer. As you are already aware Jerusalem has been recaptured by Count Zirn and the Crusading Army. There is a rebuilding phase to the holy City and some minor clean up of enemy forces.

The Count would like to bring to your attention the following...
..that the men and nobles leading the battle fought with bravery and skill. In particular our Chancellor Mathias Steffen. He has truly demonstrated the skills of a knight and exemplified the bravery that the men of Bavaria are well known for.
I am letting this body know that Sir Matthias is truly a knight of the Reich and ready to lead his own command.
God save the Kaiser and the Reich,

Karl Zirn

[Stig]

Ansehelm stands

Meine Herren, I bid you a fond farewell. I am going now to join up with the men from the Teutonic Crusade. Next year we will break the Russian border, and I expect to have past Riga in about 1270, from that point on there will be no turning back. If things go as planned Moscow should come under siege at around the years 1280-1285 and we should return to the reich during the start of the new century.
Goodbye, meine Herren, I will see you all in 40 years or so. Note that we'll be putting up one heck of a messenger service so message will reach the Heimat about what is happening, and visa versa.

I salute you.

Ansehelm leaves the Franconian benches and walks out the Diet, mounts his horse and speeds out of town. He's happy, not having to come to Rome for many years.

[OverKnight]

Matthias arrives in the Diet looking tremendously sea-sick. He takes a swig from a glass vial and slowly regains some of his color.

Godspeed Duke Ansehelm. It's about time we sent an army into the Steppe rather than have them invade us.

Will you be naming a Steward in your absence?

Matthias turns to the rest of the Diet.

My fellow Electors, the Mongol threat has been ended. I wish to thank Count Fredericus von Hamburg. Without the rebuilding of the Outremer armies and the many attacks wearing the Mongols down during his term, our victory today would not be possible. I also salute King Salier and Prinz Elberhard, who also have been central to our triumph.

I also wish to congratulate Count Hans, Count Karl Zirn and Count Jan von Hamburg. Because of them the Third Crusade has retaken Jerusalem and taught the Egyptians a hard lesson. Victory is ours this day, no one shall doubt the superiority of the Reich!

[Ituralde]

Ah, so much good news, but yet one so sad. I mourn for the passing of my father and in his memory I will be lenient with the intruder into the Diet. You may stay and speak your piece. I will see to it that you are placed under protection from the Roman garrison and I shall speak to Dieter about this.

I congratulate the Crusaders for completing their task and defeating the Mongol threat. Hopefully those Horse Lords won't bother us a third time.

[AussieGiant]

After being handed a battle report Arnold smiles broadly

Ahh, another foul mouthed, swearing laced report from Elberhard!!

Good to see the man back in form finally.

All those priests and pink suited knights over there are starting to worry me.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

Duke Arnold, you will find that very few people in Outremer wear the pink suit. Indeed, the only reason we came out here is to kill as many people as we can without fear of reproach from the Papacy.

[AussieGiant]

With clear startlement in his eyes

I'm pretty #$^#ing surprised to hear you put it like that King Sailer.

Grinning widely he continues

I feeling a vibration...a pull if you will...and it's not the local tavern wenches charms...it's the thought of going to Outremer...the sun, the sand, the swearing from Elberhard...it's all very tempting.

Plus, plenty of killing...battles, mayhem.

What do you think of me requesting a little trip out East Sailer?

[OverKnight]

Matthias smiles.

Outremer already has a capable Austrian representative Duke Arnold. There is plenty to be done in Europe. Besides with the vanquishing of the Mongols and the retaking of Jerusalem, I'm sure Outremer will be quite peaceful for years to come. There might be a border skirmish or two with the Mohammadans, but nothing that would hold your interest.

You wouldn't want to leave Sigismund as the only Austrian General left in Austria would you?

A messenger rushes into the Diet and makes his way to the Chancellor. After a brief conversation, Matthias frowns and speaks agains.

Excuse me, there are some. . .rumors I have to check into.

Matthias walks out of the Diet at a quick pace.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

*watching as Matthias walks out of the Diet*

Well, Duke Arnold, Matthias sums it up pretty well, but if you were set on coming I'm sure we'd find something for you to do... I can't speak for Jan or anybody else but I'd be happy to have you.

Who knows? The Horse Lords might even come back for another round. Hah!

[AussieGiant]

Arnold is handed a note by his first advisor the ex Count of Venice and Merchant Master. Skimming through the note, he laughs

Ahh, there seems to be a small issue out East again.

As I said;

I feeling a vibration...a pull if you will...and it's not the local tavern wenches charms...it's the thought of going to Outremer...the sun, the sand, the swearing from Elberhard...it's all very tempting.

Plus, plenty of killing...battles, mayhem.

What do you think Sailer? I'd be quite good roaming around knocking heads and generally terrorizing our enemies.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

Hmm, it seems as if some people know something that I don't.

If there is, as you say, "a small issue out East again" then of course you are welcome to come and combat it. I think further discussion with your House before you act on this impulse would be good as well. Coming East is no small commitment.

[AussieGiant]

Arnold

I'm sure Lord Zirn wont mind me coming out for a visit. I'm not replacing him.

I'm not going out to go on Crusade or become a Crusader Count. I'm going out as myself.

That's why I'm asking Sailer.

[Privateerkev]

I can't speak for Jan or anybody else but I'd be happy to have you.

Happy is such a relative term...

Duke Arnold, what I wrote in our last exchange of letters still stands. I would never deny someone the chance to come visit the Holy Land. We can always use skilled fighters. The only one you really had to convince was the King and you've already done that. If it is ok with him, it is fine by me.

Just one thing...

Jan says the next with a wry smile

You may want to suggest that Grom and Bane refrain from hanging priests from church towers during the course of their stay. People in Outremer are touchy about that sort of thing...

[OverKnight]

Matthias walks slowly into the Diet and speaks.

The Mongols have indeed returned. They lay siege to Baghdad. I refer the Electors to my updated report (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1628321&postcount=240).

An iron resolve enters the Chancellor's features.

I say let them come. Let them come with all the forces of Hell behind them and we will still crush them! Let them empty the Steppe and they will still all die on our swords! Let them keep coming until they learn the simple truth, that to face us in battle is to perish!

[Warluster]

Athalwolf von Salza stands, nervous at speaking in front of the Diet for the first time.

I have been persuaded to say... we have no reason to fear these men who rain from the steppes. We've defeated them before, I see no reason it can not be done again?

Gaining some confidence, he continues

I also hope, that while we are somewhat... saving our behinds in Outremer, we do not lose control of the situation in Christendom.

Athalwolf sits

[OverKnight]

Matthias nods at Athalwolf's words.

The Mongols are the primary threat, but I will take steps to ensure the Egyptians do not recapture Jerusalem. I believe a small to mid sized army could be used to break an Egyptian siege by fighting with the Papal garrison against the Saracen. Acre would be the staging area for this force.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

Their weakness is overconfidence. The past two waves have plowed through the lands between Outremer and the Steppes, but when they reached us we were a challenge and they were not prepared. They believe that they can simply steamroller over us, but this is not the case.

Ideally they would take Baghdad and use it as a base of operations, including possibly a source of reinforcements. Considering that Baghdad is once again sacked, it appears that they did not learn their lesson. Therefore, considering that we are even stronger, I see no reason why we will lose.

[Warluster]

Athalwolf coughs and stands again

But, we are worried about them coming at these small nuymbers already, what if more come?

lets sa, we have hundreds of armies these sizes, they can oming roaring through, and wipe all in its path. Most unlikely, but we do not know there numbers.

Or, or they, if they were smart, come elsewhere? How do we know that they're coming up from the Moorish Lands? What if they come through Russia and into Christendom?

I say, DUke Ansehelm, when you somewhat capture Moscow, you send at leaat a Regiment of men, to scan the known horizon. Just to mkae sure.

Athalwolf sits, fingring his sword nervously

[Privateerkev]

Athawolf,

First off, let me welcome you to the Diet. I am glad to see those so young get politically active.

Second, if hundreds of armies come, we will still make our stand in Outremer. The more we can stop there, the less all of you will have to fight them in Germany. I am sure at some point, those of us out east will be overrun, but we can make a dent in their forces. It will become a war of attrition. This is one of the points that tends to be lost on those that believe Outremer to be a folly. One of the purposes for having Outremer, is to be the front line against the barbarian hordes that come from lands far far East. It is just not the Holy Places of Christiandom that we protect, but our very homeland as well.

This group of horse lords will fall just like the last ones did. Then we will continue to be the wall that watches over the western world as is our duty.

[Warluster]

Athalwolf stands, a smug look on his face.
But Mister von Hamburg, may I please clearly state, every wave is as diffrent as the next.

To be able to overun the fcountless counties and countries before it, you have to be a able General, and a able army. Outremer is coruppted I say, and we should not trust the populace. They shall do anything to save their own, filthy skin.

I say we have to be certian, Io shall not repeat again.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

We only look to "save our own, filthy skin" as you so nicely put it so that the Horse Lords do not come rampaging throughout Europe and threatening the heartlands.

Please get an idea of Outremer's purpose before you continue to besmirch its name and its people, Athalwolf.

[TinCow]

King Salier is completely correct, Athalwolf. You have clearly forgotten that the purpose of Outremer is to drain all of the florins and professional soldiers from the Reich itself so that the 'Crusaders' can enrich their estates. Protection of their own skins is merely a happy coincidence.

[Privateerkev]

Count Lothar,

Were not you the one that so kindly advised me to look after the affairs of my own house? So funny that you consistently fail to take your own advice. Kind of like how you keep failing to vote. I guess those voting booths are hard to find...

As for enriching our estates, are you including your own brother in that calculation? All expenditures for Outremer go through him. Now that you can not accuse us of accumlating influence, you have to find something else. So now we get too rich? If we do, I have certainly not seen any of that money. If we all took vows of poverty, you would probably just think of something else.

So, yes Lothar, I have just gotten so filthy rich from this. Now if you will excuse me, I am going to go put on my solid gold armor that is painted pink and go fight people so you will not have to.

[TinCow]

Need I remind you, Jan, that Outremer is not a House of any kind? It is a simple Reich protectorate and therefore its management is the concern of all electors.

As for enrichment, I suppose a fortune in 'holy relics' and command of the best armies in the Reich counts for little. As for yourself, you have gained a County there, something which you have not managed to achieve in your own House. If you do not believe that you have personally gained much from your presence in Outremer, I can only conclude that you are still a minor figure, of little importance in the East. I am sure that once you grease the proper palms, wealth will flow to you just as it has done to all of your colleagues.

As for my brother, you are clearly an immense fool if you believe that I approve of his conduct of affairs. Perhaps you have been smoking too much of King Salier's Eastern tobacco and have forgotten the most recent election.

[Privateerkev]

It seems that it is you that needs reminding that Outremer is not a house. Your the one that pushed for legislation that only strengthed that claim.

As for where I have lands, that is up to others to decide. Luckily for me, it is not up to you. Again you are failing to follow your own advice. Continue to do that, and I will not be as inclined to take you so seriously like I do now.

And I have gained much from my presence in Outremer. It is just that material wealth means little to me. There are many ways to be a rich man. They do not all have to involve florins. I would explain it to you if I was confident that you would understand it.

As for my fellow Crusaders being rich, I am going to have to insist that they start letting me borrow the gold armor and diamond swords.

As for the chancellor election, it is fairly obvious that you threw the election. Anyone who thinks that you "lost" anything is not paying enough attention...

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

Feel free to insult Outremer all you wish, Lothar, for I am used to it. But please do not insult the Chancellor's conduct of affairs. So far, he has continued the work of Kaiser Jobst and Fredricus in getting the Reich back on its feet. The only thing you have to match for it is getting your brother killed under your watch at Ajaccio.

[Privateerkev]

Jan says this with a smirk

My King,

Lothar has made it clear that you have been holding out on me. I want my gold armor and diamond sword. And I want them right now.

[TinCow]

*Lothar's grin vanishes from his face and his voice grows icy.*

You will regret those words, Salier.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

Yes, I'm sure I will.

This discussion has carried on for too long. The recent Chancellorship election and the passage of Edicts should have settled this matter. The great majority of Electors view, as I do, Outremer as a part of the Reich worthy of sustained defense. All you are doing with this continued blasting of Outremer is bringing up an issue few people wish to discuss, while the matters more pressing fall by the wayside.

[Cecil XIX]

Much as it pains me to come to Count Steffen's defense, I must agree that King Salier went to far. It is an insult unworthy and uncharacteristic of the King.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Conrad Salier:

Everyone has a breaking point. The man has worked tirelessly to bring down what I and many others have dedicated our lives to. He brings up my former, unfortunate habits, insults my Crusader Counts, and questions all of our morality. Woe is me if one of my responses has a bite to it.

[Privateerkev]

My King,

Not only did your response have a bite to it, but apparently you sit on a pile of gold, bathe in a pool of diamonds, and take long walks on your personal mountain made of spice barefoot so you can feel it squish through your toes. If you are going to live such a decadent lifestyle, then I must insist that you share.

[Tamur]

Fritz grins so widely that his grin joins up with the scar on his jaw

Or, as the stylish English nobility would have it currently, put that mountain of spice in a large bowl, light it on fire, and let us sniff the smoke!

Fritz' ears turn red for a moment, and he resumes his scribbling on a scrap of parchment

[OverKnight]

Matthias's eyes narrow as Lothar spins his theories about Outremer. He smirks a bit at Jan's jests, but grows cold at the mention of Markus by Salier.

With all due respect King Salier, do not besmirch the memory of my fallen brother by bringing his name into this pointless argument.

Matthias turns a baleful gaze on Lothar.

Since my term began, I have not heard one complaint, one complaint, about the strength or composition of the House Armies, the Army of the Interior or the Teutonic Crusade. These forces outnumber those in Outremer by over three to one. I have assigned the needed men for each command, with no preferential treatment.

Save your anger for the Milanese, brother, for you will need it. You land in Sardinia next year and a strong army awaits you. You are the heir of Bavaria, start acting like it.

We all face challenges, we all have our battles to fight. Our enemies are numerous and belligerent, our focus should be on defeating them rather than these hollow debates.

[AussieGiant]

Arnold

Nice gentlemen. We seem to be avoiding pulling blades which is always a good start as far as I'm concerned.

Smiling at the Chancellor with obvious mirth

When can I kick the Sicilian's out of Austria Lord Chancellor? I actually don't have any battles to fight and my regiments and retinue are becoming harder to control with each passing month.

[OverKnight]

Matthias turns to Arnold.

Duke Arnold, you have the right to declare war against the Sicilians who are trespassing on Austrian lands. However, I would ask that you not do this. While our alliance with Sicilians is over and according to our diplomat can't be reestablished at this time, they are still valuable trade partners.

Also, I believe a Hungarian incursion into Zagreb might be in the offing, so your impatience might soon be alleviated. Count Lothar will be busy with Milanese as well and and my Father will be pursuing some rebels in the Alps. This means that if we declared war on the Sicilians, there are currently no forces to send against them.

We have enough enemies without adding another. The Sicilians may be foolish to have offended the Papacy, and they may be incompetent besiegers, but they have never done the Empire wrong. I would be loathe to war against them when we have others more deserving of our "attentions".

[AussieGiant]

Arnold

So...I sit in my Citadel and watch a Sicilian army camp outside it's walls for a year and I'm meant to clean my finger nails and play hopscotch?

I've got unreast, floggings, and Grom has taken to hanging my Priest out windows again...not to make a point, but simply because he's got nothing better to do.

Plus, I don't even want to know that Bane is doing in his spare time. At least he's not hunting down von Hamburg in Outremer, so that's a relief.

Their violating basic laws of the land and getting away with it.

Objectively I see your point Lord Chancellor, but can you please contact them and ask them to leave my lands?

[OverKnight]

OOC: There is no "Get of my land!" diplomatic option. I wish there was.

IC: There is a Sicilian fleet south of Ragusa, if this fleet does not remove the Sicilians in the next few years, I will consider other options. I might commision a diplomat to approach them to "convince" them to leave the service of Sicily, or I might go with your preferred course of action Duke Arnold.

If you are having discipline problems with your garrison, I suggest you take care of it. Surely a Duke with your fearsome reputation can enforce order?

[AussieGiant]

OOC: I know but I'm not really roleplaying that with Arnold

IC:

Scowling at the Chancellor

I said I have floogings and unrest. I didn't say they were a problem. The men a restless. They need something to do that's normal.

Believe me Chancellor there is no need for me to enforce anything other than looking at the men the wrong way. They get the message quick enough.

[Privateerkev]

Well, it probably would not be a good idea for Bane to wander around Outremer without you. There are scores of Teutonic Knights that would just love to get their hands on him. Not to kill him mind you, just to pull some pranks on him. Now I know you think Teutonic Knights are humorless dour men, but I assure you that they have a healthy and somewhat sick sense of humor. Maxmillian was just telling me the other day that one favorite prank they love to play is called the "Camel Toe." He says it involves a camel...

I don't think I want to hear the rest...

[Tamur]

Fritz stands tall, fire in his eyes

Those of you who have not heard, the Danes attempted to do away with my brother and our Kaiser, Siegfried! We must punish them by every means possible. I do not care what the consequences!

He pounds his fist on the table before him and sits.

[Tamur]

Fritz stands again, his deep-sunk eyes shining

And furthermore, let me say that I am sick, sick, sick of the Polish walking into my family's hard-won lands as if they had nothing better to do than tromp over ripening crops and savage innocent townsvolk. I want Krakow!

Fritz lets out something between a grunt and a sneeze, and seats himself lightly on the bench

[Stig]

A strange looking man comes walking into the Diet. He has a big beard and wears the armour of a Teutonic knight.

Meine Herren, mein name is Gert von Runstede, I am the infantry commander of Herzog Ansehelm von Kastillien. I have come to bring you news from Russia, and some other messages Ansehelm has for the Diet.
The first message reads:

Meine Herren,
My loyal comrade in arms Gert here brings you the latest news from Russia. When and if you get this we will have past Riga and we are on our way towards Novgorod. As it is now we had only have to fight one major battle, in which we have beaten the Russians with everything we got. I intend to fight some Russians near Novgorod in near future, however for now I would like the Russians to come to me, instead me coming to them, yes we can easely defeat the garrison in Novgorod, but Moscow is out target and has main priority, on the return run we can see for other cities.
Ansehelm also gave me a message concerning Thorn:

Meine Herren,
First of all I wish to annoy you with a complaint. Some time ago I gave the chancellor a build queue for Thorn, that the best barracks should be made in the city, as it would need them, we can't even properly recruit Armoured Sergeants in one of our most important castles. Next to that, instead of building nothing building has begun with an Armourer, against my personal orders, at that time as Count of Thorn, no as Duke.
About the Poles, Thorn has always been dangerous territory, that is why I requested countship there. As for the Poles, we should easely be able to beat them. My little brother Peter is one of the most potential commanders in the Reich, and my other younger brother Fritz is making some headway as well.
And here is a message concerning unser Kaiser:

Meine Herren,
I wish to inform you to I'm pissed off, to say the least, with the attempt on the life of my youngest brother, who happens to be our Kaiser. If I would be in the position to do so I would strangle the Danish king myself. He does not deserve to live, he who gives such orders. I have nothing against murder, but one does not kill a ruler, kill his helpers if you want to, but going after a Kaiser is not done.
I suggest we send one of our top assassins to return the favour, and next to that I suggest we send some reinforcements from Thorn to the Imperial Army and march into Danish territory, mainly to annoy them.

I have to return to Russia now gentlemen, but someone will come soon, as I heard that shortly after my leave Ansehelm has send another messenger to bring some news about Ducal matters.

[OverKnight]

Matthias reviews the build queue for Thorn and mutters an oath under his breath. He speaks to the Diet.

A barracks will be built immediately in Thorn.

Edit: Thorn can actually recruit Armoured Spearmen with the current buildings. The next barracks building would give them a boost in experience. Still, I will accede to the Steward's request.

As for an assassination attempt on the Danish King, our only assassin is currently near Krakow. I will, however, send a spy to join the Kaiser's army to ensure his continued security.

[Tamur]

Gentlemen, my apologies for my outbursts yesterday. I... I must admit that I was deeply shaken by the news of the attempt on Siegfried's life. Our father, were he alive, would have been devastated by this news, and...

Fritz pauses and squints, then breathes deep

I will work to contain myself better in the future.

[Cecil XIX]

You needn't apologize, Count. Both myself and the Steffen family have already lost brothers, and I think I can speak for them as well when I say we would not hold someone's outrage against them.

[Stig]

Another messenger walks into the Diet, wearing a fur hat and coat, strangely looking in Rome

Meine Herren, I have come to bring you a second series of messages from Duke Ansehelm, as he did not want to send all messages at once, in case either Herr Gunther or I got intercepted by the Russians.
His first message is concerning his brother Fritz:

Meine Herren of the Diet,
I hereby inform you that my younger brother Fritz has been named Count of Stettin, and that he, by this inherits the County of Stettin from our father Gunther von Kastillien.
And his second message concerns the naming of an heir to the Duchy of Franconia:

Meine Herren,
By various means I have heard that some people, a certain, obvious one in particular, want me to name an heir. I however did not wish to do so, as I want it so that my oldest son or daughter would inherit the Duchy. It is however so that I am on a dangerous mission and might die. However I call on this:

4.7 Dukes and Counts should name a successor, who will take over their titles and settlements when they die. If no successor is named, the oldest natural son inherits, (if none, oldest adopted son; if none again, then the oldest son-in-law).
Charter Amendment 8.1:
Clause 2: Amend 4.7 by adding: If a Duke resigns, the Kaiser appoints a successor.
Would I die the Kaiser, who happens to be my little brother, will name a successor.
If anyone from Franconia calls on some sort of dispute over this, may he rot in hell, if that even exists.

[Privateerkev]

Cousin Fritz,

Sigismund is right. Passion in the Diet is normal. I for one would be sad if everyone lacked emotion. As for the attempt on the Kaiser, the Chancellor has made it clear that he is seeing to the Kaiser's security and I have faith in him and his abilities. We lost one Kaiser to the Danes. We won't let them take another. What I find ironic is that this assassination was sanctioned by the same man that paid us to assassinate his father. Maybe he is trying to tie up loose ends. Maybe he needs to alleviate the suspicions of his own nobles. Maybe he is afraid that we will do it to him too. While I would love for there to be peace on our northern border, they need to learn that they can not do this with impunity.

[Tamur]

I wish to publicly thank Duke Ansehelm for my appointment. I hope to carry it off with as much heroism as our father did.

And I thank you greatly Sigismund and Jan for your consoling words. You are true friends.

The small smile that had formed on his face disappears as Fritz continues

That said, I agree with you wholeheartedly Jan. I will not pound my fist on the table today, but the Danes cannot be allowed to continue such acts.

It will be some time before this Diet meets again to determine policy. Until then I will be as the slave of the ancient Scipios, whispering into your ears after dinner, Arhus delenda est. Such behaviour cannot go unpunished.

[Warluster]

Athalwolf von Salza stands, staring at Kaiser Siegfred

One Kaiser has already been brought down by the Danes, if it is the last thing I do, I shall make sure no one ven trys to think of assasinating you mein Kaiser.

He looks away, a twinkle in his eyes.

If you wish, be could go north and use some, lets say, burn and churn tactics? We could pay back the Danes for every they've done, go inot our land, kill German Men, and kill my father...

Athalwolf sits

[Cecil XIX]

The Chancellor's report for 1270 is troubling. I fear the Byzantines repudiation is a direct result of the ill will the Reich has gathered from our numerous wars. So, the time is right to make peace with one of our numerious enemies, specifically the Venetians. These men are unique in having the good sense to stay out of our land, something even the Sicilians can't seem to to understand. I also think that we could go even further by convincing them to submit to us as a vassal state, so that they could pay us the tribute that we deserve as the Holy Reich. I urge the Diet to debate this idea, as proof to the world that we can accept a former foe who treats us justly will serve as an excellant example alongside the fate of Milan.

[Stuperman]

This news of a Sicilian war is most troubling indeed, but something that I have suspected was inevetable ever sonce the Sicilian attack on the pope. With the Spanish presence on Sardinia it further complicates the situation. Infact I warned about this very situatuation in the Bavarian Dutchies offices, our army stranded away from europe, myself stuck in the north dealing with some 'swiss' rebels. Rome, our capital is effectively undefended.

I think we should give up caligari, trade it to the spanish for florins, maps, an alliance, what ever we can get from them, and Lothar and the BHA should sail on Naples or Plamero Immediately. (OOC: this would have 2 effects, gaurding our southern front, and strengthening the spanish, IIRC we were hoping for a strong spain to fight later in game. I also know that an alliance might be impossible cause of the whole HRE>Spain>Portugal diplomatic triangle)

We can't afford to share a boarder with such trecherous Italians, and with little papal objection the timing couldn't be better.

[TinCow]

*Lothar nods in agreement.*

My father's plan is a sound one. Cagliari is of little benefit to the Reich as a citadel, since Ajaccio is better developed and close by. Furthermore, it will take a great deal of time and money to convert it into a profitable trading center. The resources of the Reich would be better spent on other things. By disposing of Cagliari, the Bavarian Household Army would be freed to defend the Imperial Capital, and the entire Italian mainland, from Sicilian attacks.

If I might offer one small alteration to this plan though: let us tear down the citadel of Cagliari and make it a simple city before handing it over to the Spaniards. This will remove the threat of the island being used as an army recruitment center, should we ever find ourselves at war with Spain. It would also prompt the Spanish King to improve the profitability of the island. This would benefit us if we ever found the island in our possession once again.

[Northnovas]

Karl Zirn:

I commend young Lothar for his deeds of removing the Milanese blight. They are no longer an issue to the Reich. I support the words of the Bavarian House. The fortress has no use but if we can use it for peace with the Spanish then so be it. I do think we should convert it to a city before the exchange. Let them have some economic gain from it and not a military advantage against us.

[Stuperman]

Lothar and Karl bring up good points, I couldn't agree more with them more, turning Caligari into a city would add appeal for the spanish king, and lessen the threat to the HRE.

[Privateerkev]

Jan von Hamburg walks into the Diet. No longer baring the full regalia of the Crusader but still bearing a small subtle patch on his armor marking his participation in the Holy cause. He nods to his cousins and brother-in-law. He stands at the Franconian table to speak.

My fellow electors,

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I say this, but Fredericus the Crusader died peacefully not long ago. My father lifted us up from the dark Chancellorship of Ulrich Hummel. He fought in the Crusade to take Damascus. And is directly responsible for defeating two waves of Mongol hordes. He believed in the Holy mission of Outremer. He was a true German and we are all the lesser for his absence. I hereby call for a moment of silence in the Diet out of respect for this man.

Jan waits a full minute. The Diet is still as a tomb.

Thank you and God bless the Reich

[OverKnight]

Matthias bows his head and after the moment passes nods to Jan.

Your Father will be missed, Count Jan.

Matthias thinks a bit and speaks again.

As for the previous discussion. . .

I would need permission from the Kaiser to convert or donate Cagliari. It became an Imperial holding once it was seized.

Unless we donate Cagliari to Spain this year, I believe their fleet near Corsica will make landfall and they will attack Ajaccio. Even gifting them Cagliari might not be enough to head off a war. I might be wrong, but if their intentions are peaceful, why send the fleet to Corsica, rather than to Sardinia to pick up their men?

Part of me wishes to attack the Spaniards now while we have the initiative, but for that I again need the go ahead of the Kaiser, for the Spanish are trespassing on Imperial lands.

Until there is a decision on this, I will not leave Cagliari undefended. This will delay our strike against Sicily, but my spy near Naples tells me there are no Sicilian forces threatening our land borders. They can't even backstab correctly.

[Ituralde]

Emperor Siegfried raises to adress the Diet, he looks especially cheerful.

Chancellor Matthias, your judgement and your leadership of the Reich have been outstanding so far and your ideas ring true with me. I leave the final decision to you and you may decide the fate of Cagliari. A war with Spain would directly involve the Bavarian Household Army, so you should maybe talk with your Duke about this matter. Either way I authorize whatever action you have in mind.

May I once again repeat how pleased I am about your diplomatic success with the Byzantine Empire! Finally our two great Empires are joined by royal ties. The wedding ceremonies will require much preparation though and I fear the Byzantine protocols are very strict on these matters. I may not find the time to adjucate on every little squabble raised within this chamber for some time. I appoint the Prince to oversee the order of this hall in my absence.

If you will excuse me now, my ship will soon leave for a visit to Constantinople.

[AussieGiant]

Arnold

Chancellor!! It's a mixed bag of results sir.

While I am pleased we are at war with Sicily and I'm more than happy to now get involved with splitting heads again, I can't say I'm happy with the nuptual's I see.

Dear Chancellor, while I'm aware the Kaiser needed a wife...and you have done a splendid job getting the wedding organised, I must strongly point out that the "Line of Austria" is dangerously close to being extinguished.

I need an Heir sir, and I need one now!

[OverKnight]

A flash of irritation comes across Matthias's face as the piercing voice of the Duke of Austria shatters his contemplation of the many important issues facing the Reich.

Enough! If you wish an official heir so badly, why not just legitimize one of the legion of bastards you've most likely fathered. I'm sure there are candidates in every whore house, tavern and pig sty from here to Thorn!

I have the defense of Outremer to plan, war on every front, crumbling alliances that need to be shored up, a silk monopoly to break and armies to rebuild. I'm sorry that your marriage bed is not a priority!

If an oppurtunity arises to get you married off, you'll be the first to know Duke Arnold. Now leave me be!

[AussieGiant]

Standing slowly Arnold is restrained to some degree by furious whispering in his ear by Bane and his Priest, never the less his voice carries the familiar tone of foreboding

ENOUGH!!! ENOUGH YOU SAY CHANCELLOR!!

Leaning forward with both mailed fists pressed into the Austrian bench the transformation of his demeanour is chilling

So yet again I find myself insulted by nobles of this Empire!! This time, from the Chancellor himself no less.

Smashing his fist in exclamation Arnold continues with a cold edge to his voice

If I didn't believe it otherwise I'd assume it seems too easy to demean and throw insults at the smallest house of this Reich.

While I've never made comment before and have always assumed it would be a priority of this Empire to ensure the ancestral house of Austria and the structure of the Reich remain as designed by our forefathers, it seems I am mistaken.

While Franconia and Swabia expand en mass the fate of Austria and to a lesser extent Bavaria seem to be nothing but after thoughts.

Pausing for a moment, and casting his gaze steadily at Matthias

So Chancellor, while you have many tasks to manage like myself, I caution against marginalising my request and...finally, if you want to make base comments about House Austria’s lineage or suggestions about my options that are a complete @#$%^&!!! ing disgrace to you and your position...

…then I’m more than prepared to cut out your @#$%^&!!!ing heart you sack of @#it!!!

And if you want me to leave you be Chancellor I'd suggest you drop the conceited tone about running the Reich and refrain from insulting me!!

And before anyone jumps to take sides, please keep the chronology of the insults in perspective!!

[OverKnight]

Matthias smiles coldly.

Are you sure you wish to threaten the life of the Chancellor in the Diet, Duke Arnold?

I did not insult the House of Austria, I proposed a solution to your particular problem. In fact I hold Karl Zirn and Sigismund von Mahren in high regard, and I have no quarrel with them. Perhaps my choice of language in my suggestion was too colorful. If that is the case I apologize.

But if you do not retract your death threat against me, I will be forced to request that the Prinz bar you from the Diet. I may have breached the decorum of this Chamber with my comment, but your response has gone beyond the pale.

What say you Duke Arnold?

[Cecil XIX]

I apologize to House Franconia for not speaking sooner about the death of the noble Fredericus von Hamburg. He fought admirably against the mongol and as chancellor he provided the stability we so desperately need. Let us rejoice that he has ascended to Heaven alongside the most chivalrous and skilled Imperial Generals.

[AussieGiant]

Leaning back in his chair, Arnold steeples the fingers of his mailed hands and continues in an even and quiet tone that is in stark contrast to just moments before

I'm not sure how YOU determine my response is worthy of suspension but your own unprovoked comments towards me are not?

Maybe the stress is getting to you Chancellor?

If you are apologising then I would consider doing likewise.

Of course I can't quite FEEL that from you when you lace it with threats of asking the Prinz to suspend me?

I'd say the Prinz should also consider having you barred from the Diet as your comments are also breaching the decorum of this chamber.

As you are the protagonist, then I'm merely responding, so if you don't like the response then I'd recommend taking some thought before speaking.

After a moments pause

As for your suggestion of a death threat...then that was not my intention. It's merely a suggested course of action as a reaction to your comments about my heritage which began this little exchange.

Are we finished?

[OverKnight]

Matthias casually inspects his fingernails as he responds.

I will accept the judgement of the Prinz if my suggestion that you have bastard children and that one of them could be made your heir breached the decorum of the Diet.

I mean you do have bastards correct? Surely all this todgering and such has produced some sort of issue? You speak about it in the Diet so much, I assumed you had a by blow or two. If you have failed to produce a tavern-spawn, than I do apologize.

I have tried to find you a wife, truly. But your reputation proceeds you Duke Arnold. A nobleman would have to be very brave to be your Father-in-law or to entrust his daughter to you. Odds are even that at some point the poor man or his family would be beheaded, perhaps even at the wedding feast if the toast displeased you.

It is what it is, I will continue my efforts, but I can only do so much.

[AussieGiant]

Grinning like a cat looking at a small defenceless bird Arnold's tone is conversational to the point of amusement

Likewise I'm also prepared to see what the Prinz has to say about my request to have you barred also.

Now that you are talking so politely about the subject I'm more than happy to converse with you on the topic.

At this point, the tension of imminent violence felt by the Dukes retinue is clearly over. In a startling show of familiarity the Dread Knight Bane, can be seen to visibly relax and pat the Duke on the shoulder in encouragement of the change in atmosphere between the Duke and the Chancellor.

Much to your obvious amazement and I assume pleasure, you'll be pleased to know that I have not had the joy of siring any offspring out of wedlock.

As much as my own sisters children are a joy to behold I have not had to do that myself.

Please understand that while I have the privilege of talking about my own exploits on and off the various battlefieldsss I fight...

emphasis was placed heavily on the plural at the end of the word "battlefield"

...some descriptions are clearly not acceptable from other people.

Now that you have apologies...it seems...then I would of course not want to forcibly remove any part of your body from you..unless you asked nicely. As you have not asked, then I retract my suggestion of removing your heart.

Pausing again for effect

I look forward to your continuing effort on this matter.

With that final sentence, Grom can be seen wiping the sweat from his forehead with a small white cloth. The priest is simply sitting in stone silence white as a sheet.

[Privateerkev]

Jan walks in to pick up some of his paperwork from the Franconian bench before heading back to Outremer. He walks in right when the argument between the Chancellor and Duke Arnold started. He first watches with amusement to see the Duke bite off more than he can chew. He then is alarmed when the Duke threatens the Chancellor's life. Then Jan relaxes when the two assume a more reasonable tone. He pauses and considers saying one of many jokes about Duke Arnold's elephantine balls and the likelihood that with such large equipment, he must have fathered thousands of children by now. But, he thinks better of it. There is far too much to do right now and a spat with Duke Arnold would be fun at first but largely unproductive. Jan quietly leaves the Diet without saying a word.

[Cecil XIX]

I have just been informed that the wife of the late Duke Leopold, Ulgarda, has passed away this year. The entirety of Austria mourns at the death of the noble lady who bore both Duke Arnold and Count Zirn's wife Meckil.

[AussieGiant]

Arnold

I'd like to extend the sympathies of House Austria to our Franconian brethern over the passing of Fredericus von Hamburg.

My mother has also passed away, may god rest her soul.

He dying wish was to see me wed. I pray that comes to pass.

[OverKnight]

Matthias turns his focus from trading insults to matters of state.

My lords, as you might have read in my latest report (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=1634700&postcount=243), our allies, the English, have laid siege to Bruges. The city is defended by the French, our long time enemies. I admire the courage of the English, and I am glad to see them finally strike against the French, but they are outnumbered.

Duke Scherer with the Swabian Household Army could move to support them. If the French attack, we could lend our assistance to the English defense. This would allow us to weaken the French, and possibly strengthen our alliance with England.

However, I have a few concerns about this. First, the Swabian HA would be leaving the Duchy, though there is no direct threat to Swabia at the moment. Second, if the English are successful in taking Bruges, that would mean we would share a border with them. Past experience has taught me that this could be dangerous.

I am undecided on what to do, and I would need Duke Scherer's permission to send him outside Swabia anyway. I ask you Electors, what course should we take, assist the English at Bruges or wait and see?

[Ignoramus]

A Swabian page rises to face Matthias.

Mein lord Chancellor, mein master, Herr Hummel, thinks that the English mean well. They have staunchly fought against both the Danes and the French, and have been most loyal to us. Indeed, have they not lost Caen to the French because of this? Ought we not, then, secure some measure of compensation for them for their pains?

The page bows and resumes his seat.

[Cecil XIX]

The page makes good sense. I do not belief we should begrudge the English for what might happen, and anyway offering military aid to one's ally is a noble and just cause. I am sure that if we take precautions by permanently doubling the garrison of Paris and Rheims, the English will know to leave well enough alone. Good fences make good neighbors, after all.

[Privateerkev]

Jan walks back in to pick up something he forgot.

First of all, I wish to extend my condolences to the Austrian house for the loss of Ulgarda. May her soul rest peacefully in Heaven.

Second, if weakening the French will help out Swabia, then I say give it a try as long as Duke Scherer approves.

Third:

Jan looks at Hummel's page

What are you doing here? Didn't the Kaiser ban you and all of your master's minions? Has your master renounced his ill-thought revolution? Is he prepared to kneel at the Kaiser's dais and accept him as the one true Kaiser? Bah, until I hear otherwise, your words here mean nothing.

[Ignoramus]

The Swabian page rises and bows.

Do not judge mein master too harshly, Herr von Hamburg, he is reconsidering his views while we waits to make landfall in Provence.

The Swabian sits down.

[OverKnight]

The corner of Matthias's mouth quirks upward in a half smile.

Ah yes, Wolfgang, I believe he threatened me with death as well.

Hmmm, as the Kaiser is away, the Prinz can rule on whether or not he can be readmitted.

Speaking of the Prinz, I withdraw my objections to Duke Arnold's comments. I'm sure he spoke out of passion when he said he would rip my heart from my chest.

One of the hazards of my current position.

[Privateerkev]

Jan looks at Wolfgang's minion.

No, you have to leave. Now.

I point to these words from the Kaiser,


I hereby expell Wolfgang Hummel from this Diet until he apologizes for his insubordination and refutes his allegiance to Count Hans!

Unless Wolfgang has apologized to the Kaiser's satisfaction, he can not be here.

Period.

OOC: Ignoramus, unless the Kaiser has told Wolfgang that you can post here, you really need to stop posting here. Econ said something about it in the OOC thread that he would delete your posts in here. I don't mean to be a jerk but I really think you should stop posting in the Diet until the Kaiser says Wolfgang can come back. Your using OOC limitations to keep doing something IC that your character normally wouldn't be able to do.

[Ignoramus]

The Swabian page smiles as he once again rises to his seat.

I am sure that mein master, too, spoke in passion when he called for your death. I would trust that treatment in this Diet is equal?

The page sits down.

[Privateerkev]

Jan sends Gunther to go find the Prince so that he can get the page ejected.

Bannings include servants. You have to go now.

[econ21]

The Prinz wanders into the Diet, dishevelled and clearly the worse for wear.

Elberhard: Right, morning ... I mean, afternoon, all. What's going on 'ere then?

A clerk whispers animatedly in the Prinz's ears, as the Elberhard's expression changes from pained discomfort to pained bewilderment. After a moment, he waves away the clerk.

Count Jan, may I add my condolences for the passing of your father. He was a fine bloke, who brought the Reich back from some of the darkest times in its history. We will miss him in the eye of the storm of the horse lords approach. But no doubt you will do him proud acting in his stead at Edessa.

You raise a fair point, Jan, about the exclusion of Count Hummel. Now that the Count is returning to the homeland, I believe it is time to look again at that issue.

Page of the Count of Metz: be a good lad and seek out your Master. Ask him if he accepts the authority of the Kaiser and asks his forgiveness. Come back if he says yes. Better yet, bring 'im with you so he can apologise in person. I would not recommend coming back if he says no.

Duke Arnold and Chancellor Steffen ... Elberhard pauses and rubs his head in his hand, thinking better of it... @#$%^&!!!ing nice weather we are having innit?

Elberhard wanders out of the Chamber, muttering something about needing a drink while the clerk folds up the old bulging record of Diet proceedings and goes to fetch a new one.