Imperial Diet III

I second Charter Amendment 9.2 and will bestow the title of Count of Prague upon Ehrhart von Mahren should this Amendment come to pass. Austria is in need of young nobles and this should statisfy everybody's needs.

With our recent reconciliation I believe the Crusade towards Damascus can go ahead as planned. I will support my nephew Hans in his bid for Chancellorsip if he can ensure that the Crusade reaches Damascus swiftly.
To make this goal absolutely mandatory I propose the following legislation:

Edict 9.6
From the men assembled in Ragusa a Crusade for Damascus will be created as soon as possible. Any general wishing to join the Crusade shall be able to particpate. The Crusade will take the fastest possible route towards Outremere.

This should ensure that the Crusade won't be further delayed by any unfortunate encounters.

He looks at Prince Jobst.

Finally you shed some light on the events. If it is like you said, that you were indeed attacked by the Danish Crusade, this would be ample justification for our actions. Although as King von Kassel I find it intruiging to know why exactly a Crusade decided to attack us, the protectors of Christendom? I therefor second Edict 9.4.

I see there are many Edicts forthcoming considering the defense of our Reich. Indeed I must say that I was surprised to hear of the Emperors reform activities. While I agree that our armies must contain the best level of troops available to disband obsolete troops when there are no replacements available severly threatens our security. I agree with the intent of the Charter Amendments adressing this situation, but like King Otto von Kassel I believe that no further legislation should be possible to provide an adequate defense. During my term of Chancellorship I had to defend multiple invasions, and responded by having two standing armies for each House.
All future Chancellors should remind themselves that the Household Armies are a minimum that has to be there. If the situation calls for more defenses then by all means they should go ahead and do this.

Who leads this army and how large it is, should remain the responsibility of the Chancellor and I'm sure a capable Chancellor can prevent future losses in our defensive efforts.

Before I close let me make some final announcements:
My son Arnold shall become Count of Budapest and as soon as I join the Crusade he will become the Steward of Austria to make him accquainted with the matters of state before he follows me as Duke of Austria.
My son Karl Zirn will follow his father as Count of Zagreb, as I believe his health does not allow him to fill out this office.

Edit: Renamed Edicts, I type too slowly it seems.

Ansehelm stands again

I forgot to say, I also second CA 9.4.

*Hans reads through the list of proposed legislations and their supporters, studying the words intently before he rises to speak*

My lords, it seems there have been a great many legislations proposed, and if they come to pass, I will, given that I be elected, of course give them my utmost attention to fulfill the will of the diet.

I will however say that I will not second CA 9.3 and CA 9.4 at this time as firstly, the chancellor has control over the formation of any force already and the Imperial army recently formed by our esteemed emperor Henry is available for internal security. Similarly, there is a minimum strength limit on Ducal armies that can be expanded to up to 20 regiments if it is necessary. I certainly would do so if it becomes necessary or a hostile army moves close to our borders.

Edict 9.5 I would deem fairly expansionist and I do not know whether we have the funds necessary to upkeep several vast armies that this and our endeavors to aid our allies, create mroe armies, a current crusade to Damascus and bolster outremer against the possible mongol threat will cost us. I would suggest that you split this edict into several parts or lower the expectations on the number of targets, as the steppes are vast and taking 4 settlements within one term may not be doable. I shall say however that I would support retaliation against the Russians if we do not stretch our borders too far to the east that they become indefensible.

Now, as to legislation still lacking seconders, it seems that leaves only Edict 9.6, and I shall wholeheatedly support it as it is congruous to my own set goals.

Meine Herren, we should remember to also protect the Reich's own borders, still we want to go campaigning in the Orient, but are we forgetting that we are at war with Denmark, France, Russia, Poland and Hungary. We should focus on attacking them as well, what use do a couple of cities in the Middle East have if we have lost our Heimat?

I thus oppose Edict 9.6, the Heimat is more important then any crusade.

I will second Edict 9.6. If we don't commit troops now, the possibility exists that another Catholic realm might beat us to Damascus.

Also, Gunther, despite wondering how the Kaiser's staff keeps up, has updated the legislation list:

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showp...06&postcount=7

I also must remind everyone that there are about 46 hours left for this session, then voting will begin.

As Duke of Kassel has said, we are in a race to get to Damascus. The crusade will not be lasting long enough that we cannot strike back at our foes, and thus there is nothing to worry about.

Besides, all houses except Austria have control of their respective crusader regions as drafted by our emperor Henry. Abandoning one house's rights completely, even though it is already geared up to commence crusading, in order to spend slightly more funds on campaigning elsewhere certainly is most unwise.

The Diet Speaker whispers something to Otto. Otto slaps his forehead and speaks again:

I have been reminded that if another candidate does not come forward to oppose Count Hans, he will gain the Chancellorship by default at the end of this session.

It seems that there are those among the Diet that disagree with the Count. Will any come forward to run against him?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by FactionHeir

As Duke of Kassel has said, we are in a race to get to Damascus. The crusade will not be lasting long enough that we cannot strike back at our foes, and thus there is nothing to worry about.

---

We should remember that we have an Outremer Kingdom. We can be in Damascus in a single year, all other nations need more then 20 years.

Conrad Salier:

I fail to see the mystery in this situation. The facts are: Prinz Jobst ambushed a non-enemy army. That army was on Crusade, hence, we were not its target. He failed to show any regret or remorse for the situation. I think that's enough evidence for me.

A horse cough from the back signals Gerhard Steffen's intent to speak. He rises slowly, complaing under his breath of numerous ailments real or imagined.

See! that old dirtbag the pope even had the good sence to kick off before any real damage was done. Now we can use the church for our ends.

Prince Jobst was only acting in self defence of lands that have belonged to the Franconians for more than 100 years. The Danes hid under the banner of the Church as they raped and pillaged thier way through the heart of the Riech I ask my fellow electors, Is it right to let the slaughter of our people to go unanswered?

While some have questioned Prince Jobst's loyalty, He should be lauded for his tactical and strategic genius at defeating such a large and imposing invasion force. Given that the crusade will no doubt be completed by forces we already have in the outremer, that would leave A Massive Danish force somewhere in the eastern half of our empire without the restrictions placed on them by the pope. Do the rest of the electors think that this is a better situation? They ask for better defended boarders, but then criticize the prince for doing just that

We should strike back hard, and fast, Taking thier lands for ourselves.....we could even sell Stockholm to the English, which would no doubt improve our relations with them. Where others see a crisis, I see an opportunity, let us not waste it.

Conrad Salier:

Are you mad?! That army was on CRUSADE! If they bothered to stop and actually attack us, half of their force would desert and the Danes would face instant excommunication! They were simply passing through, much like how we passed through Byzantine land on the way to Jerusalem. What does it say about our character if we block, nay, AMBUSH an army created for a most Holy purpose?

Ansehelm von Kastilien

Herr Salier is right. That army was no treat to us. In the past years we had the remains of both English and Scottish Crusaders in our country, and they did not attack us. That army wouldn't attack us. Prinz Jobst made a mistake in attacking it.
Next to that we don't have the armies to attack the Danes. The FHA is busy in the east, where it's fighting an unsupported war because some people are obsessed by crusading ... even though they destroy their friends.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by GeneralHankerchief

Conrad Salier:
Are you mad?! That army was on CRUSADE!

---

So they had a piece of paper saying they wouldn't attack signed by man whose power's come from a 1200 year old book, is that suposed to mean something? You seem to have a lot of faith in a man who wanted us germans to MURDER HIS FATHER for him.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by GeneralHankerchief

Conrad Salier:
If they bothered to stop and actually attack us, half of their force would desert and the Danes would face instant excommunication! They were simply passing through, much like how we passed through Byzantine land on the way to Jerusalem.

---

We've been excommunicated twice now, and as a result are the most powerful nation in the World, don't you think the Danes know this?

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by GeneralHankerchief

Conrad Salier:
What does it say about our character if we block, nay, AMBUSH an army created for a most Holy purpose?

---

Bah, 'holy purposes' Gerhard Spits on the floor, it says that is for Varius.

Conrad Salier:

Quote:

---

So they had a piece of paper saying they wouldn't attack signed by man whose power's come from a 1200 year old book, is that suposed to mean something?

---

By demeaning the Bible, you thereby are doubting or even possibly denying the divinity of Christ Himself. I would just like to point that out to everyone in the Diet.

Quote:

---

We've been excommunicated twice now, and as a result are the most powerful nation in the World, don't you think the Danes know this?

---

We're the most powerful nation in the world in spite of our excommunications, not because of them. Surely you remember the rioting in Milan right after Kaiser Heinrich attacked Rome, where thousands of people were killed and we barely held onto the city?

Quote:

---

Bah, 'holy purposes' Gerhard Spits on the floor, it says that is for Varius.

---

Since you will not listen to religion, it looks as if I am going to have to resort to logic on this one.

1. First of all, the Danes were supposedly on a Crusade, meaning that they stated to the world that their target was Damascus.

2. They had plenty of opportunities to attack our Franconian cities closest to their territory but did not, continuing to proceed through our land quickly and peacefully.

3. If, in fact, they did attack us, the following would happen:
- Many of their Crusaders, demoralized by the attack on a fellow Crusading nation, would desert in protest.
- They would be excommunicated by the Pope. Not a position they want to be in considering their current state of affairs.
- They would face the wrath of the Holy Roman Empire, or as you put it, "the most powerful nation in the world."

Again, I do not see how anyone but the Prinz is at fault here.

OOC: Gerhard does have 0 pity...

If religion prevents us from defending our boarders, allows foriegn armies to kill our citizenry without cause, and refuses to recognize all the Reich has done for it, why should I listen to it?

I have served this Holy Roman Empire for decades, pushed for prosparity with the church, and I've been 'rewarded' with a blight that kills the grass benieth my feet, a face that makes my wife turn away in horror, and unending sickness.

My loyalties lie with Germany, and her empire, not to some old fart in a funny hat.

Arnold looks at the two men from the House of Bavaria and then at his father...they exchange words...Arnold then looks over at Otto the Duke of Bavaria

My lord Duke, it seems you have some internal Bavarian issues to resolve. May I suggest a solid day of jousting to calm their nerves?

Glance back at the two Bavaria gentlemen

You do realise gentlemen you are from the same house? You know that right?

I'd like to point out that Prinz Jobst attitude is more of a concern than the unfortunate accident in the forest. Having read the battle report there is no great achievement in having Knights carve up Spearmen at close quarters in a forest.

My Lord Gerhard,

You were my tutor and mentor in the last years before I came of age. Your not making sense at the moment my Lord. Your words and thoughts are not what you taught me in these last few years. I'm sure that foul witch has caused you some pain but I'm sure our priests can correct them in time.

Conrad Salier:

As I have already discussed, Gerhard, we were in no danger of attack from the Danes.

Doubling over in pain brought on my a severe coughing fit, Gerhard's nose begins to bleed at the violence of the heaves comming from his lungs. He finally regains his composure, and responds holding his sleeve to his nose.

Perhaps not, but one German life is worth more than the whole populus of the Danish kingdom. If they were really there doing 'gods work' those norsemen wouldn't need to attack and kill HRE patrols.

Ansehelm

You should remember that we, or in this case the Prinz, attacked the Danes, they did not attack us.

I am sure that the exact events of this incident will be elucidated once edict 9.4 is passed and spies are sent to Arhus and the battlesite.

I am sure that this does not matter as we know that the Prinz attacked the Danes, he said so himself:

Quote:

---

"I swaer I'm going to take the prince out myself, got it?"

---

Quote:

---

"CHARGE!" roared josb't and Fritz repeated the order. They spurred their horses on, thundering down the slopes of a hill, narrowly avoding trees.

---

Quote:

---

"I've come to kill you Harald"

---

We don't need to investigate

Prinz Jobst stands

Gentleman, I have these final words to say.

I didn't attack them, they attacked me first, so I counter attacked.

I was too kill Harald because of thought he was the Dnaish Prince, the traitor.

How am I supposed to know they were on Crusade!? I had been camping in the forests of North Germany for two years, no messages could get through, I had no clue of the happenings elsewhere!

Fellow electors, today I leave to North Germany again, I wish others to know I now have deep regret on trying to defend my own army, and also have deep regret that I tried to save myself. ANd I have great sorrow for killing Harald, I wish he had've killed me now.

I am leaving Rome, The Diet for at least another 5 years, and all of you who don't believe I was trying to save myself, I fel regret for defending myself.

Goodbye Diet, I leave for Dijon or North Germany.

Prinz Jobst gets up, and whispers in one of his aides ears, who rushes off, then leaves as Fritz escorts him out.

Conrad Salier:

Yes, it's common for those who counter-attack to ambush their completely unsuspecting foe. My mistake.

(OOC: My previous post this Diet session was before I took Lothar Steffen as my new avatar. Please pretend that post was made by Mandorf's lawyer or something otherwise there will be inconsistencies in my RP.)

*A teenager with a surprisingly bushy mustache stands, looking bored.*

After all the lecturing I have received from Godwine and Gottfried, my mentor and tutor... or is it Gottfried and Godwine? Hells, they're bloody identical except for those ridiculous hats...

*Lothar turns to a nearby servant.*

Tell Gottfried he must shave his beard immediately.

*The servant bows and turns to go.*

Wait! I'm not sure whether Gottfried is my mentor or my tutor, so that won't help at all. *Lothar scratches his head for a moment.* Nevermind, I shall deal with this later.

*Lothar sits down, seeming pleased with himself. It takes him a moment to realize the entire Diet is silent and looking at him.*

OH! Right, yes... the Imperial Diet... *Lothar gives a short chuckle. No one else seems amused. He rolls his eyes.* (By the hells this place is full stodgy old bastards. It's a wonder that half of them don't drop dead of sheer boredom every morning.)

POLITICS! DIPLOMACY! Yes, this is the wise and venerable council of the Holy Roman Empire. Let us discuss treaties and religion, certainly the watchwords of a successful life. Prinz Jobst may have violated Imperial law by his actions, but what damage has it really caused us? Excommunication? HAH! That didn't last bloody long at all! Poor relationships with our fellow Catholics? Half of them are at war with us already! Those who are not at war with us refrain from taking up arms simply because they know we would crush them. *Lothar slams his fist on a table and grins broadly.*

I forget most of what Godfriend and Gottwine (Gottfried and Godwine?) have droned on about, but two things I know well: war and money! The Reich thrives on both. One begets the other and vice versa in a never ending cycle. (Or was that virtue and piety?) It has always been this way and so it will always be. As a consequence of Prinz Jobst's actions, we are now at war with the Danes.

GOOD! Let's damned well crush them! They hold rich lands. If they are too weak to hold them, then that is their own fault. Oh yes, I suppose some of you will drone on and on about our reputation... *Lothar rolls his eyes.* Well the Danes are the enemies of our English allies! What will our oh so peaceful neighbors think if we don't come to the aid of our most afflicted friends? Surely aiding England by conquering the Danish provinces will make others think better of us.

*Lothar shrugs.* And if not, well, there's plenty of German steel to share with the rest of them! *He smiles and looks pleased with himself.* (Oh, summation! Hells, Gottwit... Godwit?... always said to do a summation at the end.)

WAR AND MONEY! YES! We need them... or want them... or something like that. Prinz Jobst's actions, right or wrong, provide us with the perfect opportunity. We should be thanking him, not scorning him. Right. That's it. I'm done.

*Lothar sits down. The Diet is still dead quiet and most of the Electors are looking at him quizzically. He leans over to the man sitting next to him.* (Is this almost over yet?) *The man clearly tries to ignore Lothar, who frowns and looks around the room. He smiles a bit when he sees Gerhard Steffen a few benches away.*

Hi, Dad!

Conrad Salier:

...oh, dear...

Quote:

---

Prinz Jobst may have violated Imperial law by his actions, but what damage has it really caused us?

---

Young Steffin, it is precisely this kind of talk that threw the Roman Republic, much more powerful at the time than us now, into a bloody civil war. Apparently your mentor, whoever he be, has not yet completed your schooling.

Quote:

---

Excommunication? HAH! That didn't last bloody long at all!

---

Next time, we won't be as lucky.

By the way, I bid you welcome to the Diet.

Tyrolia's aide:

Herr Salier, I respect your position as Count of Rome, but I believe that such harsh punishment is unsound. After all, the Prinz of the almighty Reich certainly holds enough sway to make a decision by himself.

I believe that instead of this Diet focusing on the punishment of a so-called crime, we need to focus on amending its consequences. Edicts 9.1 and 9.3 will serve to show our force and heal our relationships with trusted allies such as England and Portugal.

I stand on the side of the Steffen family. I believe we should take advantage of the Danish army's depletion and the Franconian and Swabian armies can drive them into the ground!

As for Hans running for Chancellor, I believe from reading his manifesto that he will make a fine leader of our people for the next 20 years.

Tyrolia's aide sits down with the other Austrian nobles.

Conrad Salier:

Quote:

---

After all, the Prinz of the almighty Reich certainly holds enough sway to make a decision by himself.

---

Not according to the Charter he doesn't. If he wishes to run things differently then perhaps he should run for Chancellor.

Otto stands and speaks:

The purpose of this Diet session is to propose and pass legislation for the next Chancellor's term. It is not a tribunal.

While the Prinz's cavalier attitude toward the consequences of the battle against the Danes is alarming to me, the fact remains the two armies stumbled into each other. Somehow, neither army seemed to be aware of the other's approach until the last moment. The Prinz responded to the slaying of his pickets by laying an ambush so that he could stand a chance against a larger, seemingly hostile force.

While the Danes were on Crusade, it would not be the first time a Crusade army took advantage of a holy mission to gain more temporal prizes. The Hungarians seized Constantinople while embarked on the original Crusade to Jerusalem. The Prinz knew this, and made the best decision he could with the available information. Yes, mistakes were made, but we have the benefit of hindsight when we judge the situation. To assign blame before we know all the facts would be foolish.

If, after an investigation, the Prinz is found culpable, then it will be up to this Diet to craft an appropriate punishment. However, there is no proof at the moment. Please remember this.

Thank you my lords.

Otto sits.

Karl Zirn stands and speaks ....

Electors, I must concur with Duke von Kassel on our work to be done while we are sitting. There are currently two Edicts 9.2 and 9.4 that address the Prince's actions. Let our ballots count. If we wish to relieve his command then we will vote has such and if we wish this incident to be investigated then we will vote to send the proper personnel to Denmark. There is no need to further discuss and speculate matters at this time.
I would like to give the honourable noble the benefit of doubt but we cannot make decisions till the facts have been uncovered and presented to this floor.
We have little time left to discuss laws and vote.
There may not be a vote for the Chancellor but we can discuss and vote on the mandate we wish to give him for his term of office.

The member looks around at the Electors and returns to his seat...

Otto speaks again:

My lords, Maximillian Mandorf made it known to me that he wished his son, Conrad Salier, to inherit his County after he had passed on. I have spoken with Conrad, and with his agreement, I now name him Count of Nuremburg. Of course, this leaves Milan without a noble ruler, but I wished to honor Maximillian's memory.

There are 24 hours remaining to this session. If the Electors wish to second or propose further edicts, now would be a good time.

From his seated position Arnold speaks up

Are we really going to have an uncontested election for Chancellor?

A subdued hush falls upon the Diet, as Ulrich Hummel, Prinz of Antioch walks in. Many are suprised at his sudden appearence at the Diet.

Mein electors, I am disgusted at the way you fawn and grovel at the feet of the Kaiser. Are we not the free electors of the Reich? We are lying prostrate at the feet of tyrannt!

Mein men fought and died against the infidel. I resigned mein Duchy, mein station, and took up the cross. And yet I find that I am not allowed to have a say over the very land that I won by the sword.

I hereby stand for election as Chancellor, as I seriously doubt the capacity of the Kaiser's son, who, if I might add, is cast in the same mould of his father, to govern this Reich fittingly.

Those in the Holy Land have given up everything to fight for the cross; they should be allowed to rule that which they have gained.

Charter Ammendment 9.2: "Three independent Crusader lordships shall be carved out of the Outremer:

The Principality of Antioch, consisting of Antioch itself and all Cilicia(Adana)
The County of Tripoli, consisting of Lebanon(Acre).
The County of Edessa, consisting of Mesoptamia(Edessa).

These lordships shall be autonomous parts of the Reich.

As such, they are authorised to:

Maintain a standing army of at least 8 units.
Issue orders for their standing army.
Dictate the order of construction in their settlements.
Appoint their successors.
Decide what fortifications(forts and watchtowers) shall be constructed in their realm.
Elect a King of the Outremer from among their number to oversee the Council of Crusaders.
Debate legislation in the Council of Crusaders, which if passed must be followed the Imperial Diet."

This, I say, gives such men their due, without compromising the Kaiser's authority or influence on the Holy Land.

For, how can one man govern two realms? For such is the case with Henry. Even as I speak, the Russians continue to occupy the fortress at Thorn. Our Reich is very large, and as such, the Holy Land must be allowed to govern themselves.

Remember mein words, electors, remember them, lest we fall foul of our enemies.

Ulrich bows and exits the Diet.

ARNOLD!

*Lothar grins broadly and slaps the son of the Austrian Duke on the back.*

My friend, why don't you run for Chancellor! I'll vote for you! Let's show this circus that ability is not limited to the... *Lothar gives a sarcastic bow* ...aged. Think of it! You can be Chancellor and I will be your mailed fist, leading our magnificent armies to crush all those who oppose us! HAH!

Let's go get a beer and talk, my friend!

Kaiser Henry: My Lords, it is good to be back amongst you in person, once again! I am particularly grateful to King Otto for overseeing proceeding in the Diet in my absence.

I have posted a final report on my term as Chancellor - I would appreciate any comments or reactions. Copious grovelling and fawning would of course be most welcome, but not obligatory, my dear Prinz of Antioch.

Otto rubs the scar on his face in agitation, it is unclear if his unease stems from Ulrich Hummel's declaration and abrupt exit or Lothar Steffen's continued assault on the decorum of the Diet.

Well it seems you have your wish, Count Arnold. The Prinz of Antioch's proposal will be numbered CA 9.5 as the number he gave is already taken.

I assume the tirade against the man who gave him his honorific title in the first place will count as his manifesto.

Sotto voce:

Hmmm, I could use a beer myself.

Edit: Welcome back your Majesty.

Grinning, Arnold stands

Lothar you mad bastard, I'm sure we would have just as much fun governing the Reich as we did growing up together on that accursed island with that mad witch!!

I hope you didn't go near her!!??

Somehow I just don't see myself getting elected their fella. Good thought though...I certainly like your line of thought.

How about we go out after this and get hammered on some of that Venetian wine??!!

With a sudden change in attitude and a look of dread in his eyes Arnold stands again and address the back of the departing Ulrich with a harsh and cutting voice

That's a sure way to find yourself on the wrong end of a lance Ulrich!! I'll take your old bones apart if you are really feeling that spry!!

Conrad Salier:

Sir Hummel, I believe the Crusaders fought primarily to redeem the sins of the Reich, not to conquer additional lands. Also, I believed that the subsequent conquest of further lands in the Levant were to provide adequate support to the newest Papal holdings in Jerusalem.

*Hans coughs after hearing Hümmel's words and stands to speak*

My fellow lords and electors. Do you not also feel that Hümmel's words are truly ironic? He himself was the one who 'groveled' and 'fawned' at our emperor's feet to marry his daughter, join the house of Swabia and gain position in the empire.

And was the purpose of our most holy crusade truly only to gain lands for ourselves, and not for the glory and redemption of our empire?
No my lords, it is our combined force and will, namely this diet and our charter, which makes this empire the power that it is and giving it the potential to grow and prosper - not the bickering of nobles who wish to fight only for personal gain, without regard for the unity we stand for.
And so I ask: Would we all be here today in this grand empire of one nation, if all of us were to each only stand for our own petty interests instead of that of our house or our empire as a whole?
I am hopeful the answer should be clear to all of us.

I am sorry for my lack of participation within this diet due to a lack of time. I do not have any opinions on any of the edicts yet, but choose to propose one for Swabia. Edict 9.7: The House of Swabia will be allowed to take French territories until they plea for peace or is reconciled I am still trying to read over everything proposed right now but I fear it may take quite a while to formulate my responses

The Austrian Elector stands after some reassuring words to the young Arnold....

My Kasier, let me be the first to welcome you back and see you safe from your travels. I would also like to say that your final Chancellor report was very thorough and the next Chancellor will have a difficult tasks to follow up the excellent work you have done. The member bows deeply towards the Kaiser.

Electors, the business had hand. Sir Hummel's CA 9.5 I cannot support. This goes against the initial work of why we went to the East. The Kaiser has made a proposal in CA 9.1 that will protect Christianity in the Kingdom of the Outremer as mentioned by Lord Salier.
Lord Hummel's legislation identifies three areas but there are four Houses. The Council of Crusades will dictate to the Diet! This will not do! This will lead to fragmentation of the Reich. Our Houses might as well go on there own right now and be independent Duchies!

But I digress, we can have one ruler over many lands as our most excellent Kaiser as demonstrated. We just need a strong administration in the Office of Chancellor with the plan formulated by this Diet. We work together instead of factions of interest. This great Reich has the potential to rule over many lands by God's grace.

It would be rude of me if I did not add that I commend Elector Hummel's decision to run for Chancellor. It is good for this Diet to be able to have elections for such an important position.

The Elector returns to his seat to discuss drinking locations with the young noble...

An updated list of legislation is available:

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showp...06&postcount=7

In response to Duke Scherer's proposal, I believe with the recent death of the Pope, the French, along with us, were reconciled. There standing with the new Pope is very low (0/10 I think) but they are still part of the Church for now.

Kaiser Henry: The Ninth Diet session is now closed for the proposing of edicts and amendments. Voting will begin shortly.

Ulrich Hummel strides into the Diet chambers. He quickly moves to Swabian side and begins to address the Diet.

"Mein electors, we face many new challenges and threats since we last assembled. The Russians have burst through our eastern frontier and have stormed the castle at Thorn. There are reports of strange barbarians from the east.

In such times of war and devastation, defense is not enough. I, therefore, propose controlled offensives against the Reich's enemies. If this august body deems me worthy to lead the Reich, I shall swear upon mein honour and all the Duke of Bavaria's relics that I, Ulrich Hummel, Count of Lorraine, shall lead the Reich to a glory rivalling that of ancient Rome itself!

The Romans ruled the world, from the wall of Hadrian to the edges of the Mesopotamian desert. There is no reason why we, the true heirs of Rome, and of Charlemagne, cannot achieve at rightful place at the head of the Mediterranean.

Such heights, however, cannot be attained easily while enemies lie at every corner. Therefore, I propose that we seek out and destroy those armies that threaten our borders, and force them to sue for peace while they still live.

That, mein electors, is how the new Rome shall rival the old."

Ulrich bows and leaves the Diet.

Ansehelm stands again

I applaud you Herr Hümmel, you have got my vote for the position of Chancellor. I believe that you will be able to recapture the lost city of Thorn, my city of Thorn.

A messenger makes his way to the Diet floor in the livery of House Austria. He clears his throat and begins to read the unfurled parchment

My Lords,

Now that my father is leading the Riech's new Crusading Army to Damascus, I hear by follow his wishes. I am now the Steward of Austria until such time as my father returns or god takes him from this earth.

Long live the Reich!!

The messanger folds the parchment and departs the Diet floor

The spy Dieter von Darmstadt enters the DIet,closely accompanied by Fritz,Prinz Jobst's main captain and bodyuard


Mein lords,counts and Duke,

And of course mein great Kaiser,

I have been sent by Prinz Jobst, who does not wish to be back at the Diet for some years

Dieter glares at some people from the paper he's reading

He has sent a message, which I shall read out:

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Prinz Jobst

Mein fellow electors, mein Kaiser,
I have been warded off Rome for now, but I have very joyful news.
Dieter von Darmstadt recently investigated the place where the battle between the EIA and the Danish Crusaders happened.

I sent him to report to you persoanlly,
I also welcome back mein Kaiser, we missed you much. I also congratulate mein fellow swabian Chancellor Hans on attaining the position of Chancellor.
I shall return soon after I go to help the Franconians fight off those Poles,

God be with you,
Prinz Jobst,
Count of Dijon,
Commander of the EIA,

---

mein fellows,

At the battle I found many dead, of both Danes and Germans.

I found that the Danish Family Member was killed from Crossbow fire.

And I also found that the Danish were those who struck first, several german Scouts were found dead on the edge of the forest, and with interviews with the soldiers under command of Jobst, they thought it was a invading French army, and they knew not it was a Crusading Danish Army.

If there are any inquires Prinz Jobst has said I may fill in his position in the Diet for now, until he returns.

Dieter bows and sits where Jobst usually sits, while Fritz sits behind him.

A messenger from Breslau enter the Diet reading out the following message

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Ansehelm von Kastilien

Meine Herren,

I must say that I do not believe that Prinz Jobst is free to go. Ofcourse it would have been nice if the Danes told us they were coming, but we knew that a crusade was going on, so they were free to pass through. Now we are at war with them, not because of them, but because of the Prinz.
And here he is, offering his help to Franconia. May I remind him, that he is the one that got Franconia into more trouble. We lost my city of Thorn, we have trouble with the Poles, and here is Jobst, getting us into trouble with the Danes as well. A big thank you.

If Jobst really wants to help us, I suggest he takes his men and joins the crusade. That way he'll do the Reich a favour, and he doesn't get Franconia into trouble.

Ansehelm von Kastilien
Count of Thorn
Current Governor of Breslau
Heir of Franconia

---

*Hans sighs and begins to speak*

My lords,
While I would like to believe what Dieter von Darmstadt is reporting, I should caution that the findings do neither prove nor disprove the events.
So, we know some bodies of our individuals bearing the Imperial uniform have been found at the edge of the forest, but does that really tell us anything?
And so I ask,
Were they truly Germans and if so, were they officially part of our Prince's forces? For all we know someone could have stolen these uniforms.
Were they slain by the Danes or in a dispute with their own comrades or even another group we are not aware of?
Were they the ones who initiated the aggression?
Did they truly die where they were found or were they moved there or did they even get slain during the ensuing battle, merely slightly detached from the main force?

We lack information my lords, information, that I sent this man out to forage, yet he only brings back two pieces of some importance, the second one being, that some soldiers thought it was a French invasion. Considering we have been at war with France and the French wear quite different uniforms, is the story that some soldiers tell truly reliable?

Now, while these pieces do not redeem our Prince, they also do not incriminate him. There is a lack of any credible source that could tell the true story, for the soldiers will try to protect themselves and their commander, the Danes will incriminate us and the locals will say whatever they are paid to say or they like, and the slain do not seem to give much away.

The spy Hugo on the other hand sends word that Prince Haakon of Denmark is still alive, which means that the noble slain north of Staufen is not him, unless the informant is mistaken.

I would ask for anyone who believes there may be another avenue of investigation to speak up so it can be pursued.

I, Ehrhart von Mahren, Count of Prague, believe this matter should be settled once and for all. A prosecution committee shall hear the crimes and the evidence, and question Prinz Jobst before this Diet. This committee should number in four, and each Duchy should have one representative. Then, an open vote whether the Prinz is guilty of attacking the Danish Crusaders preemptively or not, and the Kaiser Henry shall prescribe his doom, if he is found guilty.

I propose that the 4 representatives shall be those who have most strongly questioned our noble Prinz's actions, thus justice, if necessary, shall certainly be carried out.

Otto thinks a bit and speaks:

In order for such two large forces to stumble upon each other unawares, there must be some sort of conspiracy afoot on their side or ours, most likely both. Agents provocateurs in both forces could have caused the confrontation. Perhaps if we followed a trail of florins in this matter. . .though we don't know specifics, treachery of this level requires large bribes. Are any of our men, particularly in the Prinz's forces that day, newly rich? Are any survivors of the former Danish crusader force enriched despite their defeat? The army is still near our borders, perhaps if we dispatched a spy there, we might find some answers.

However, idle debate and information-gathering without action is futile. We must try Prinz Jobst for his alleged crimes, and put this madness behind us swiftly and quietly without erupting more argument.

So a show trial with little evidence for innocence or guilt is the correct way to put this behind us without causing more arguments?

I do not see the logic in this.

The edict barring Prinz Jobst from command failed. There is no new evidence to suggest his guilt. What would a trial accomplish but cause further dissent and suspicion?

I see the wisdom of your words, King Otto.

Why then do you keep uttering them if this situation is ended?

*Whispers to his retinue of advisers*

*Hans can be seen whispering something to Adalberth who nods and leaves the diet*

Ansehelm himself enters the diet, after a journey which was as short as possible

My dear Hans, after hearing from my assistant Bernhard, Freiherr von Lippe, of what you told I must say I disagree with you.
Yes nothing incriminates the Prinz, and yes nothing redeems the Prinz, however: Any good general would scout the enemy before going to battle. These scouts would have found that this was a Danish army, which was: a. not our enemy, b. on crusade. After seeing this the Prinz could have simply not attacked.

Now that I heard that there are two big Danish armies in my ancestral lands I suggest what you already said, sending the Prinz to drive them off, he caused these problems, and he can solve them.


Ansehelm turns his direction at Erhart von Mahren

My friend, the Diet has already spoken about Prinz Jobst's quilt, in Edict 9.2. And only six men, being the Duke of Franconia (your former duke), Fredericus von Hamburg, your father Jonas von Mahren, and myself, together the entire house of Franconia, in which the battle took place and Conrad Salier and your brother Sigismund found him quilty.

I was merely questioning the need for additional debate because Edict 9.2 failed.

If an Edict fails, there's a reason too

Ansehelm leaves the Diet, jumps on his horse and rides to the far lands in the North again, Thorn should be liberated once he gets there

My lords, I draw your attention to the preliminary report that I have supplied the diet *Hans motions to a pile of neatly sorted papers that is just being placed on the emperor's desk*

As we speak, Günther von Kastilien is battling the Russians to retake Thorn and Jonas von Mahren is engaging a Venetian force that separates him from Ragusa.
I hope the diet finds the speed at which I am tackling the various edicts and orders agreeable so far and pray for the victory of these two men over our mutual enemies.

Excellent! I am certain that Ansehelm will be pleased that Gunther is retaking his countyship for him.

I hope my father is brave and strong during his battle with the Venetians.

Dear Chancellor,

Is it at all possible for the forces in Ragusa to assist Lord von Mahren with the Venetian's. I know there are a few people, myself include that are keen for a battle?

I wish it were, but I am afraid the rocky terrain and limited supplies will not lead you further than the border to Durazzo.

Scheisse!!

Otto raises an eyebrow as Arnold's loud oath echoes throughout the Diet.

I understand that we need many ships to transport the new Crusade and to maintain shipping lanes to Outremer. However, with Milan unwisely landing troops again in Italy, this highlights the current lack of our own naval forces in the western Mediterranean. Perhaps we should have finished them when we had the chance.

Otto rubs his facial scar.

Still the past is the past, I hope the Chancellor will address this temporary lack of ships so that are coasts in the southwest are not subject to any more invasions or possible blockades.

Having reviewed the latest reports, Otto speaks again:

It seems the BHA is the closest army to relieve Zagreb. Due to Gerhard's illness, there is no knight leading the force. I would ask the Diet's permission to give Lothar Steffen temporary leave to command the BHA despite his status as a mere Squire. He indeed has not been knighted, but this is an emergency situation. I would not lose Zagreb to the Hungarians because we obstinately stuck to tradition.

This move would be with precedent, Prinz Jobst himself led an army as a Squire during Sigismund der Stoltze's Chancellorship.

The boy is young, but he does have a talent for command.

What say all of you?


OOC: BHA is NE of Venice, two turns away from Zagreb.

Conrad Salier:

I for one support King Otto's proposal with the BHA. Desperate times, my friends. Are we going to let Italy be threatened and not do anything about it because of procedural limitations? I sure hope not. It would be most humiliating.

King Otto.
If you read my reports closely, we have a fleet defending Italy and the west, but I chose not to engage the Milanese fleet as we currently are not at war with them and attacking them pre-emptively would require an edict of the diet. Instead, I have sunk several Hungarian fleets passing these waters. This fleet is now underway to Iberia, but if there should be problems surfacing closer to our capital, I will build another fleet.

I too am concerned about the Milanese landing party, but unless you invoke your right to hostility under the charter if a neutral army enters Duchal territory, my hands are bound in that matter.

Otto inclines his head at Hans.

Thank you for your quick reply, Chancellor. I am not overly concerned about the Milanese, it is only a small force. The Hungarians are the more dire threat at this point.

It would be Steward Gerhard's decision whether he wished to declare war against the merchant interlopers or not. Personally, I would let them strike first to bring down the ire of the Church on them and to keep our diplomatic reputation intact.

Thank you.

Dieter von Darmstadt stands,bearing a message

I have here a message from Prinz Jobst himself.

I shan't read it out, but he fully agrees with the Count of Thorn, and proposes to head north and stop the two Danish Armies coming forth.

I,Dieter, Prinz Jobst's messenger, shall notify Prinz Jobst on all things happening, andPrinz Jobst shall be back soon.

Also one of my colleagues, shall investigate the battle grohnd mre if mein lordz wish.

Dieter leaves the Diet,closely followed by Fritz

Hang tradition! It is time to act for what needs be acting. Lothar can lead the BHA to save Zagreb.

I believe the reason we only let knights lead armies is explained by the previous combat experience one gains by commanding a smaller regiment during a battle under an experienced commander. Is it truly wise to send someone who had no experience whatsoever at commandeering a small force even to organize and lead a large household army into battle?
It is understandable that some of our younger nobles thirst to lead an army, but they ought to win their spurs first.
I will endeavor to have the BHA with Lothar Steffen and Peter von Kastilien help in defending Zagreb against the ensuing Hungarian assault under the local garrison commander if the city is not taken before they can reach it.

If the Hungarians do indeed take Zagreb before the BHA arrives, I will have it lay siege at once. I believe the two of them should be able to maintain a siege long enough for Jonas von Mahren to arrive.

True, but time spent is time wasted! We cannot afford to lose more provinces to the Eastern barbarians. Several uncommitted squires can meet up with Lothar to make a battle council and they will have experience gained together. Two minds are better than one.

Chancellor, you would give control of the battle for Zagreb to a militia captain over a nobleman with extensive military training? I may not have drawn blood in battle, but I can guarantee you that I know more about military affairs than some merchant with a fancy suit of armor!

What do the Austrians have to say about this matter? Would they prefer that their city be defended by a militia captain, or a Bavarian friend with immense military training and an entire Household Army at his back?

I am from the House of Austria, and I would rather have Lothar Steffen, or any noble squire for that matter, lead the charge than some poor ragamuffin who has no ability to lead large numbers of men. I only worry for the life of the son of Gerhard, but I am sure he shall be brave and up for the challenge.

Lothar, I would send a message to Karl Zirn, son-in-law of Duke Leopold and Count of Zagreb, to hear of his opinion.

Shall we allow a minor legal problem to threaten the security of the most ancient and noble House of Austria? Bah, this is ridiculous. It seems clear to me that you will not bow to reason, but I refuse to accept this situation and I also refuse to abandon my Austrian allies.

The law says that a man must be Knighted to command an army of seven regiments or more. So be it. Give me 5 regiments of Bavarian foot soldiers and I shall do the rest. A handful of Bavarians is more than a match for a horde of Hungarians any day, not least when a Steffen is in command!

Otto raises an eyebrow, as if surprised at the direction the debate has taken.

An interesting proposal Lothar. I do not doubt your skill, but perhaps Peter von Kastilien, who is also travelling with the BHA, could lead a 6 unit contingent himself as reinforcements. We do not know if Zagreb will still be standing by the time you get there, and I would not have our forces defeated piecemeal.

In the interest of Austria, this loophole in our Great Charter should be exploited.

Good luck to you my son.

Gentlemen,

If we are going to take this line of reasoning then the forces sitting in Ragusa with my own body guard can also join the hunt!!

Jonas with the AHA can therefore engage and occupy the Venetian's to the south east and prevent any attack on Ragusa by them.

I can then travel with the von Mahren's and von Hamburg nobles with most of the Ragusa detachment and meet Lothar at an agreed point. We can them march on Zagreb and then Budapest if need be.

All I ask is that those squires that request it, become knighted in this action.

What say you Chancellor?

Inclining his head towards Otto Arnold continues

King Otto,

You have my gratitude in proposing a brief departure from tradition. I'm sure if it wasn't for your suggestion it would have been dismissed out of hand if myself or Lothar had made the request.

Looking over at Lothar, Arnold stands with a grin on his face, both young men are clearly ready to spring into action as soon as the word is given