Duchy of Bavaria

Matthias is grim. He sits through the proceedings in silence, with only a raking cough breaking through now and then. With Friedrich's declaration, he stares down at his own hands and then up at the empty seat where his Father sat just a year ago. Finally, jaw set, his gaze turns to Lothar.

You have the truth of it. . .mein Duke. Father would want us to reconcile. I realized this when I announced his death in the Diet, and so I was the first to hail you as the new Duke.

You have my fealty, but you do not have my blind obedience. We have found common ground before despite our differences, and will again, more so now. You will find me a loyal vassal as long as your orders are wise, and your rule fair. But I reserve the right to disagree with you, brother. I am a Steffen, a Bavarian and Chancellor, it is my right. You are Duke, my Liege, but you are not an Eastern Potentate, reason not force or position, will win my support.

Such disagreements, if any arise, I will express privately. You are the face of Bavaria, and I will not drag you or the House through the mud in the Diet. We all lose that way.

Matthias smiles wryly.

As for the extra County, I will think on it. My hands are a bit full at the moment.

Bavarians,

With the next Diet session nearly upon us, I urge you to begin considering whether there is any legislation you wish to propose. The earlier that it is discussed amongst us Bavarians, the easier it will be to have the proper number of seconds to allow me to propose it as a Ducal Edict in the Diet.

I would like to see Naples and Palermo incorporated into the Reich. Palermo is a mighty Citadel in a strategic location and Naples would give the Reich complete control of the Italian penninsula and the Adriatic. To give either up would be folly.

I suggest:

Charter Amendment 13.X: Palermo and Naples are to be incorporated into the Reich.

We could gussy up the language, but their utility is plain to see.

I do not believe much discussion of this Amendment is necessary. Only a fool could fail to see the benefit of the incorporating these provinces into the Reich. It has my support.

I too support such an edict, only's a fool wouldn't.

I would also humbly ask Duke Lothar for a Countship, I wish to serve the Bavaria and feel I could serve her better if given, even some small authority. (OOC: or maybe waiting for my recruited general would be better?)

I would back it as well, if only it were needed.

I also support the 4th Elector's plight for a Countship. It is not for nothing that he is an Elector, and if he wishes to serve Bavaria that way, then so be it.

Welcome, 4th Elector. Another hand managing the affairs of the Duchy is always beneficial. I will offer you the choice of either Marseilles or Ajaccio as your County. Both of those provinces are nearer to our enemies than any other and I would feel better knowing that a noble Elector was overseeing them. If in future times you prove yourself worthy of higher honors through service to Bavaria, I will offer you the choice of any province you desire. For now though, I hope you will be satisfied with what I have presented you.

Speaking of provinces, Matthias, have you decided on whether you would like a second County, and if so, which one?

Why thank you mien Duke you honour me with any choice at all, I shall choose Ajaccio. I promise not to disappoint you, and to uphold the values of the Reich and Bavaria.

Duke Lothar, may I humbly put forth an edict to have myself Knighted in Battle, I have prayed long and Hard for such a chance, and now I have been named an elector, I wish to serve the Riech where ever I am needed, and by god's grace that place will be on the battlefield.

Edict 12(I think).X

By the end of his term, The chancellor will see to it that Fredericus Erlach is blooded in battle.

I will certainly support that legislation, Count Erlach. Furthermore, even if it does not pass I will do all in my power to ensure that you are given the chance to prove your worth on the battlefield. For now, I have asked my brother Matthias to send you to Florence, to train with HA Gerhard. When the next Diet session is over, I will then send you to HA Otto, if it is needed for offensive operations. If HA Otto is not dispatched on a foreign mission, I will personally lead HA Gerhard to the French border near Marseilles and see if I can stir up some trouble. One way or another, you will see battle.

Please do me the favor of keeping yourself intact though. Many Houses have recently experienced unexpected deaths in battle and I do not wish to have Bavaria added to that list. The death of my brother, Markus, was bad enough. Furthermore, both Matthias and I are fond of our sister and we would be greatly saddened to see her widowed. If you treat her well and serve Bavaria loyally, I assure you that you will achieve much in this House... but you will need to be alive to benefit from it. If there is ever anything you need, or if you simply wish to exchange words, please feel free to contact me at any hour. I will always make time to listen to high-born Bavarians.

Matthias enters the Bavarian chambers looking sallow.

Duke Lothar, I am curious where we should stand on this Thessalonica adventure? History seems to indicate whenever a HA strays too far from its homeland that there are dire consequences. Obviously the Kaiser attempted to use the donation of Cagliari as a br. . .good will gesture to assure our support, but it is an empty gift, literally.

Why should we send half the forces of this Duchy outside our lands? This makes little sense for our Duchy. If the Kaiser wants to "liberate" Thessalonica for our allies, why doesn't he use his army? It's been sitting in Rome inactive for many years.

I do not mean to sound petty or ungrateful, but why should we support Edict 13.4?

I expect much the same debate is going on in the Chambers of those concerned by Edict 13.3. Whilst I do not wholeheartedly agree with the Kaiser's view of Byzantium, if he says they are allies of ours, then they are. However, if he asks us to give our lives for allies who aren't showing any support, and probably won't, then I begin to wonder things. Things that Fritz von Kastilien said. Things that may seem true, in the end.

I know that I will not vote for Edict 13.4, or 13.3. Unless mein Duke demands it, of course.

I had been pondering the same question in my head, How could one HA defend the entirety of Bavaria, from the shores of Sicily, to the south of France? I would be gravely Concerned that if some combination of Sicily, Spain, and France were to attack, there would be little we could do.

I also doubt the worth of the Thessalonica adventure. That said, it would provide an opportunity for battle for HA Otto which might otherwise not appear. As well all know, battle brings with it the possibility for gaining respect and prominence in the Diet. In this matter, I believe it is the opinions of the Bavarians who would make the journey that is most important. Friederich would lead the army and Fredericus would be his second. I will abide by whatever decision they wish to make on the matter.

I want to make it clear that my Dukedom will not be one of inflexibility and authoritarian rule without reason. I do expect all electors to vote according to my desires, but you will always find me open to reason and debate, so long as the end result is what is best for Bavaria above all else. What matters to me is keeping Bavaria strong and her Electors united as a single entity. In this case, Bavaria's interests would be represented by Friedrich and Fredericus. Whatever decision they come to will be mine as well.

If we do choose to engage in this adventure to gain a territory for our "cousins", one by the way they have had years to take themselves, the least the Kaiser can do is make his army available for the defense of Bavaria.

While he may be in Constantinople, his army isn't, it should be put to use.

If needed this should be made into law.

Edict 13.X: If Edict 13.4 passes, the Kaiser's army, currently in Rome, will be made available to aid in the defense of Bavaria as well as the capital.

Thoughts?

It appears that Edict 13.4 has passed.

I have read in the Governor Reports that the Otto von Kassel army would lead the attack if the Edict passed, and if I agreed to it.

So as to not waste time, I agree, mein Duke. I will conquer Thessalonica. However, I would demand that:
-I am sent immediately,
-I am recalled as soon as Thessalonica is conquered.

If Fredericus Erlach wishes to accompany me, he may. He should be knighted, and this would be a good opportunity for battle.

Very well, I will inform the Steward/Chancellor of your decision. I wish you God's speed and blessings. Do not risk yourself, Fredericus Erlach, or the army in any risky maneauvers. One drop of Bavarian blood is worth more than all the Byzantine Emperors who have ever lived. I will not see Bavaria weakened for the sake of those pompous purple bastards.

Has the Kaiser been aflicted with a madness? He seems to show utter contempt for Bavaria, 'offering' us Caligari, giving away our Victories, ordering our armies away from our boarders. And he has the audacity to bring our commitment to the riech into doubt just because we refuse to defend settlements that are no longer legaly the Riech's. Something must be done.

I promise you all this: no Bavarian lands or peoples will be given over to the Byzantines so long as I draw breath. Whatever else may become of the Reich, Bavaria will remain strong and united. I urge Friedrich Karolinger to make haste in the conquest of Thessalonica, if only so that he may return with HA Otto to Bavarian lands. With the exception of that expedition, I want our armies kept close to home and available for service to the House.

Indeed, I would like to make an open invitation to Matthias to return to Bavaria. I know you have achieved much in Outremer, but with the political situation growing increasingly uncertain, I would feel much better knowing that all Bavarian electors were within our borders. I cannot protect you when you are in Outremer, Matthias, should any danger befall you.

I have expressed my feelings about Edict 13.4 already. They are negative, of course. But, as a soldier of the Reich, I will do my duty. I will besiege Thessalonica, conquer it, and then retreat to good, German, Bavarian lands.

There is one man, I'm afraid, who must be blamed for Palermo and Naples. And that is the Kaiser.

If Byzantium is unable to defend those two counties from Sicily, the foe will be at our doorstep, worse! At the doorstep of the Reich's most important city, of Christianity's most important place!
I will not let that happen. All because of some so-called "reunification", which has for now amounted to nothing good for us!

But now, I will calm down... The results are yet to be seen.

I have decided to return to Bavaria. My work in Outremer is done, and I see no further reason to stay.

Perhaps one of the younger Bavarians wishes to take my place at Adana. I would strongly urge one of them to do so, it is a good place to make your name and to serve the Lord.

Lothar, I will go where you choose to send me. I could aid the attack in Thessalonica or return to Bavaria, I will leave it to your discretion. Of course, Count Zirn and I will be returing on the same fleet, most likely, so that might effect our plans.

I share your concern over events in the Reich, it is time I come home.

I am very pleased to announce that Fredericus Erlach is hereby knighted for his victory against the rebels near Marsailles. While his force was stronger than the enemy, the rebels outnumbered him and included a large number of professional soldiers. Emerging from such a battle with almost negligable casualties shows military prowess that is far more valuable than even the most audacious displays of personal bravery. Congratulations, Fredericus, you have earned it.

I hereby name Fredericus Erlach the new commander of HA Gerhard. As I am currently occupied with other matters (OOC: unable to fight battles), I shall retire to Florence to manage Bavarian affairs. Fredericus Erlach will continue to lead HA Gerhard in the mission to keep Bavarian lands secure.

I also note that my brother, Matthias Steffen, has chosen to return to Bavaria after many years of service in Outremer. This leaves the Bavarian Crusader County of Adana available for any man who wishes to take the post. Should any man wish to journey East, please notify me and I will make the proper arrangements. Should no one choose to do so, Adana will remain empty and King Jan will have to make do with the men he has left. I will never order a Bavarian to Outremer against his will. (Ignore this, I am now being told Matthias is staying.)

Thank you Mien Duke, it is an honour to serve You, my house, and my country. I shall use HA Gerhard to defend the interests of Bavaria, and the Riech. I shal Make defence of Bavarian Homeland my priority.

Bavarians,

It appears that vandals and brigands have destoryed a Holy Church in Genoa. This activity will not be tolerated in Bavaria! I do not care what any man's religious beliefs are, but there will be no tolerance for those who destroy Bavarian property so long as I am Duke!

I hereby order all Electors to immediately execute, without trial, any man or woman who destroys or attempts to destroy any Bavarian structure! I am a generous man to those who behave properly, but I am also totally intolerant of those who rebel against their feudal lords! These wild beasts must be taught to fear for their lives if they take a torch to any structure within Bavaria!

I'm afraid we've got the reunification of Church to thank for that. I mean, destroying a church must mean something. It could imply that these brigands disagree with what the State is doing, religion-wise. And I partly agree.

I understand and I will openly state that I do not seek to suppress religious sentiment. As long as they are worshiping Christ and not some filthy Eastern god, I will tolerate nearly anything. Religious authority figures are not flawless, as was shown by Pope Gregory's actions. That said, the destruction of the church in Genoa was a direct attack on Bavarian authority. Religious dissenters are free to complain about whatever they damn well please, but I will not tolerate any destruction of property within our borders. Law and order will be maintained in Bavaria if I have to draw my own sword to do it!

I understand that perfectly, mein Duke. I didn't say anything about punishments because I agree with what you demand.

*Lothar Steffen dispatches a letter to every Bavarian Elector.*

Quote:

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Bavarians,

The Reich is crumbling around us. While we are not officially at war with Byzantium, Tancred's sacking of Constantinople will surely not be forgotten by the Eastern Emperor. I note with great displeasure that Bavaria itself now shares a border with Byzantium due to the gifting of Palermo and Naples. With our armies abroad aiding the Swabians and... the Byzantines of all people... we are very vulnerable.

I am officially ordering both Count Erlach and Count Karolinger to return to Bavaria with their armies. Count Karolinger, I do not know whether you will receive this message before you assault Thessalonica. If you do, then you may continue with the assault if you wish, so long as it is done immediately and you begin the journey home immediately afterwards. No matter what occurs, I want both HA Otto and HA Gerhard on the road to return to Bavaria before the year is out.

Make haste, fellow Bavarians, for the sake of the entire Duchy.

Duke Lothar Steffen

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Mien Duke, I've failed you, I vowed to protect your brother's grave site, and have failed. I will accept what ever punishment you deem appropriate, a man who fails his Duke does not deserve lienency.

In my defense if it wasn't for the cursed financial mismanagement, there would still be a fleet available to save the Island.

If you'll hear me out, I have a plan for saving the settlement, I could take Masilla, and use the proceeds to hire a some ships, and re-take the Island, although, getting back might be somewhat of a trick.....

Count Erlach, do not apologize for your actions. In truth, I am glad you are not trapped in Ajaccio with the rest of the garrison. While it may be the site of my brother's grave, it is more of an outpost of Bavaria than a proper part of our territory. The people there are still demon-worshipping Milanese at heart and they are not worth the lives of honest Bavarians.

The main worth of Ajaccio is its citadel, not it's people. While that fortification is a grand structure that helps us secure our coastline, it is vulnerable as you have just seen. The citadel itself is useless without control of the seas, and that is something that we do not have. Even if you had managed to get across to the island and hold it against attack, our enemies would likely have stranded you there, isolating you from the rest of Bavaria where your strength is so desperately needed.

That said, Ajaccio is your County and I would never order a man to abandon his seat. If you wish to attempt to retake the place, I will not stop you. However, I urge you to reconsider. Strategically, it makes more sense to hold the mainland provinces alone until the fortunes of the Reich change. If it is concern for the people that motivates you, remember that they are notorious devil-worshippers and are responsible for the curses on the Steffen family. If it is concern for your own station, I will gladly offer you another County to rule until such time as you can reclaim your preferred seat.

I suppose this is as good a time as any to discuss military strategy. What concerns me most is the protection of the Bavarian lands in Italy, specifically Milan, Genoa, Bologna, and Florence. These, along with the Austrian province of Venice, are the main trade centers for the entire Reich. We must protect them at all costs. Even Marsailles can be abandoned if attempts to hold it only weaken our defense of Italy.

Thus, I propose the following strategy: Marsailles and Ajaccio are to be abandoned for the time being. We shall withdraw to the Northern Italian plain and defend Italy from attack. One army shall guard the roads through the Alps to the west. By using the mountains to our advantage, we should be able to defend against far larger hosts. The other army shall guard Florence against attack from the coast and the south. If it is outnumbered and in danger of defeat, it will make a fighting retreat north, leaving behind rear-guard detachments to delay the enemy at the various river crossings.

While I love Florence with all my heart, it is not crucial to the existence of Bavaria. We must preserve Bavaria's fighting strength above all else, even if that means abandoning cities such as Florence and Bologna. If we do so, we will eventually be able to regain all that we have lost. However, if we sacrifice ourselves and our men, even Nuremburg may fall to the enemy.

Finally, if our lines are breached and Italy in danger, we will fall back towards Innsbruck. There we shall make another stand in the Alpine mountain passes. Innsbruck is our citadel and our strength. If it falls, we will be totally lost. Therefore Innsbruck, and only Innsbruck, is to be defended to the death. So long as we hold it, we an strike out to reclaim any Italian holdings that have been lost. Without it, we will have no way to rebuild our armies and Bavaria will be truly lost.