Imperial Diet

Otto can be seen scribbling furiously on some parchment. He had looked up when Maximillian addressed the Diet, and his eyes widened when the Bavarian Steward mentioned taking Rome. Otto places his quill down, stands and speaks to the Diet:

My fellow Electors, I apologize for my delay in my response, but I wish to speak as clearly as possible, and it took me several drafts of this speech to do so.

First, I will respond to the comments on my proposal to reunite the Reich. Duke von Saxony has implied that I would immediately send an unprepared army out on a fool's quest and then we would all be excommunicated. Let me respond by quoting from my original speech:

Quote:

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It is a very noble goal, but how do we do it? First, we must finish our consolidation of the rebel lands. Second, we must improve our standing with the Pope so that we may move unhindered against our fellow Catholics. Third, we must increase the size and quality of our military. Then, and only then, can we begin to take back our greater Reich!

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These were the goals I set before we began reunification, this noble task would not start until they had been accomplished, I set no time frame. As for whether there are florins enough to have the Pope "indulge" us, I think there will be.

The Duke also mentions a "three front war". This is inaccurate. What I proposed was a series of one front wars, Milan, then France, then Denmark. Not all at once.

As for the accusations of nostalgia and raising lost empires. . .

Otto pauses, some of the restraint he has shown dissipates.

There are dreams worth rebuilding my Lord! There are Reichs that should come again! Maximillian speaks true, Milan is only recently lost to us, but should it always be so? The Capetian usurpers reign in France, with not one drop of Carolingian blood in their veins, should we allow this to stand because it has already come to pass? The Danes have taken Flanders in the last few years, should we let them tread upon our ancestral lands because they have the most recent claim? I say no!

The unified Empire fell not because of a military defeat but because Louis the Pious had three sons! The old Franks did not practice primogeniture as we do. Kingdoms were split among the sons, not inherited in full by the eldest.

Otto smiles sadly.

As a second son, I am regretfully aware of this change, but it is for the best. We shall not repeat that mistake. Our Reich shall not split. We shall not rebuild the old Empire, we will forge a stronger one!

Otto pauses again to collect himself.

You spoke well Duke von Saxony, but your wit was matched by your lack of specifics. How is this "new" Empire to work? What would be its goals? How would we accomplish them? Are we to sit within our realm until we are struck by our neighbors? . . .Yet, we both agree that the Reich must be readied before embracing its destiny, however we view it. Perhaps I speak too harshly. I apologize.

Otto turns to face the Steward of Bavaria

The audacity of what you propose in seizing Rome is breath taking my Lord! I know that Pope Gregory humiliated our Kaiser, making him stand in the snow clad only in a hair shirt for four days, just to gain admittance to see him and beg forgiveness, and that act of hubris sickens me! Yet, if we move against him the price will be high, very high. Even if we do put a pontiff more to our liking in power, they are rarely grateful for long. This is just one mortal man, powerful as he may be! Unless he provokes us with a new act, let him rot in the Lateran palace.

Thank you my lords.

Otto sits.

OOC: Edited for grammar and spelling.

There is a smile on Dietrich's face, he doesn't bother standing this time, he just speaks.

"You're counter arguments are well made and take the facade of direct rebutal to my statements, which would, to many men who could not look more directly into the nature of the rebutal themselves, seem a successful maneuver."

He stares at the elector for a moment.

"You have good potential to be a strong statesman, Otto, but maybe it is your youth that still troubles your understanding. Let me explain.

While you have, correctly, quoted yourself on your intention to consolidate our lost land, improve papal relations and the quality and size of our military before we embark on a reconquering of Charles's empire, you must understand the swiftness with such a task can be completed. Such a task could be easily completed within the next ten years, but, for the sake of arguement, let's make it twenty.

Assuming, in the next twenty years, we have accomplished these goals and then seek to retake Milan, there is a severe error in believing the world will not change around us. As I have stated, this is a whole new world than we've ever dealt with before. Times are changing, quickly. The world around us living, breathing, and reacting to every movement we make, the same way in which we react to every one of theirs. I leave you with this potential problem.

Firstly, we accomplish your goals within the next twenty years, the error there is that within the next twenty years, all of our neighbors will have done the exact same thing, and we stand to have no advantage over them that we did not have before. Then, secondly, we move on Milan. Where will the riches of Milan's trade routes have gotten them in twenty years? Far beyond the confines of northern Italy I'm sure, they already spread deep into the heart of Burgundy and the isles south of their mainland shore. But we attack them, regardless of their position in twenty years time. What happens then? If we score several successes, the Pope will see the tide coming, and will threaten us, if not outright declare, our excommunication. Excommunicated or not, Venice, the Pope, Sicily and France will directly stand to suffer from a stronger presence of the Reich in Italy. Venice, the Pope and Sicily being directly affected by our actions there, they stand to lose the most. If they feel threatened, they will strike when we are at our weakest, that point being immediately after our conquests, in the rebuilding process when our florins are diverted, our soldiers depleted, and our morale in that lingering state of relief that the battle has been won, but grief over the loss of so many friends. A war coming at this time against people previously assumed to be neutral, would be devastating to the resolve of our armies. Depleted regiments, defending battered cities, with no florins to spend on swift reinforcements, would be a disaster waiting to happen. You see, even in an intended "one front war", two or more fronts could swiftly open beside it. War is like a vacuum, it sucks everything in.

My ideas run contrary to yours only in that I believe we should be more careful and prudent in our choice of time and place to engage in foreign campaigns. Strike Milan when it's standing with the Pope is low, or excommunicated, hit them where they are weak or where we have superior strength and can stand to fight more enemies than we had initially prepared for. Do not overexpand too rapidly. Conquer, stabilise and rebuild, plan and reinforce, then move on.

You are also correct in saying that the Frankish Empire fell because Louis had three sons. Exactly as I said, it fell of its own volition. Louis chose to divide his empire, his sons chose to bicker and squabble over it. Louis's faith in his progeny was ill placed, and the empire fell of its own internal, familial squabbles. Brother no longer saw brother as brother, just as an unrightful neighbor. So, in this respect, are we not both correct?

You also said yourself, we will not rebuild an old empire, but a new one. Is this not what I have clearly proposed?

In regards to how this new reich will work and what its goals are, why change the workings and the goals from what they are now? I believe the intelligent debate that occurs in this diet is exactly the kind of debate that will be required to deliberate the runnings of a much larger empire, and why change our goal from being the leader of the Christian world? As far as accomplishing that goal I have already outlined that. Patience, prudence, wit and wisdom. Take our oppertunities when they present themselves, but don't go in over our heads.

As well, in speaking of the old Frankish lands. I have never said that these lands should not be taken into the fold of this new reich, only that when and if they are, it should be done as all our conquests should. Wisely. They are rich agricultural lands, and we will not be the only ones with our eyes on them.

The general reasoning for my urge towards caution and prudence is that we no longer have the safety Charles enjoyed. In his time there was no unified power in England, in Italy, in Iberia or in the east. We live now in a time where our actions can provoke an enemy on any potential corner of our borders, and in doing so, there is no guarantee that our expansion will swing one way or the other. It is entirely feasible that we may only ever retake a portion, or maybe none of Charles's old western lands, but may stretch across the whole of Italia and a conflict with Byzantium could arise out of our contradictory claims to the Roman title. Our resources could be sucked south, and our attentions focused in the Balkans instead. And then there is the holy land, which is sorely in need of being rescued from heretical control.

This talk of our expansion is, mind you, solely hypothesis and conjecture, they do not necessarily reflect my views or desires, but they are very real possibilities given the situations that can emerge.

It seems then, Otto, that the only point upon which we disagree is a definate goal for the reich's expansion. You say retake the old lands.

I say stick with prudence and take the circumstances as they come. We may well be able to retake Charles's lost lands, but we may also see an opening to expand into previously uncharted territory for the reich instead, and if that oppertunity arises we should take it, not ignore it in favor of throwing florins and lives away at a potentionally much more difficult undertaking.

My warning is much more of a deterrance to laying too many plans too early. For even the best laid plans last but a few seconds when the world is changing around us. Hopefully, now, you understand my original intentions."

Otto listens intently to Dietrich's speech. He mutters something under his breath, ". . .sounds like my father. . .", while he rises to speak:

Thank you for your response Duke von Saxony. I see your views more clearly now. I only hope that caution and wisdom do not turn into passivity and folly. I would not abandon the initiative to our neighbors, yet it would not hurt to watch and wait, for a while at least, for a moment of weakness.

As for being a statesman, God forbid! I would much rather have a sword in my hand and a saddle beneath me.

Otto chuckles to himself and sits.

Dietrich, still smiling, can't help but chuckle.

Brother Otto, what more is a statesman than a warrior who is also adept at wielding the quill? It's a compliment, trust me.

You'll have to forgive me if my speech sounds like a lecture, I was just trying to touch on all points.

As far as caution and wisdom turning into passivity and folly, well, even I have a more anxious sword arm than that. And I imagine we'll all be given the oppertunity to use them soon enough. Besides, it would make me a fool to do all this lecturing on striking only when the time is right, then watching that time arrive only to do nothing when it presents itself. You can trust the lust for valor and honor to get the better of me when the time is right, as I believe I can trust that from all of you.

Oh, and Otto, I hope this little misunderstanding wasn't taken too harshly. I will be looking forward to meeting you and Steward Mandorf in the near future.

Gruß Gott Mein Kaiser, esteemed Lords of the Reich,

Due to a small administrative matter in Vienna during the week, I would like to introduce myself as the new 4th Elector for the House of Austria.

Unfortunately my predecessor Lothar von Austria has had to take an unexpected leave of absence.

So with those administrative duties completed I would like to echo my Liege Lords concerns regarding the east.

Without a regional castle in the near future, I fear for our ability to exert and maintain influence against the Poles, Viennese and Magyars will be tenuous at best.

With our expansion opportunities against rebel provinces now completely exhausted due to the Keiser confirming Breslau has fallen to the Polish, any further eastern expansion by the House of Austria will be at the expense of our neighbours. Doing this with Militia and peasant archers will not bring results in an offensive war.

Additionally if things turn defensive, I’d like to draw the gentlemen of this Council’s attention to the map on the wall behind us.

https://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b...ap/KOTR009.jpg

If you would please note the distances needed to rapidly respond to any future threat from our current castles in Innsbruck and Staufen…that is some distance is it not?

I am entirely sure Prince Leopold will capture Prague, however the fact that he needs to conduct an unorthodox assault should not be lost on anyone gathered here today. Some here have made remarks regarding the delay in taking Prague but, having read the reports I can only say Prince Leopold is an astute and gifted commander given the situation. The fact that rebel settlements are fielding superior troops must be of concern to all.

I realise the expense, but I believe we must seriously consider our general position on this matter. Most, if not all Houses have a regional castle…if we don’t pursue this in the east…then…well…lets just say property prices might start dropping in Vienna soon.

Given most of my esteemed colleagues here have summer holdings in wonderful Vienna, that can’t be good for anyone…can it?

I would propose a more aggressive covert solution for the moment. That being spies for the regions of Venice, Poland and Hungary. The border towers are excellent, but static. We would have a much better chance of responding both tactically and strategically if we knew more about our 3 eastern nations.

Finally, I’d like to commend the Kaiser on his selection of wine. It really is excellent here in the Diet, far superior to what I am used to in Vienna.

Otto looks up from desk and rises to answer the new Elector:

Greetings Fourth Elector of Austria, welcome to the Diet!

You raise a valid point, the closest Castle to Vienna and Prague, may God grant it to us, is Innsbruck. As Castellan of Innsbruck I can assure you that troops raised and armed there are available to the entire Empire, not just Bavaria. Even now we near completion of a Smithy, which will make the Sergeant Spearman we arm the finest foot soldiers in the Reich. Yes, they are few years march from your frontiers, but I'm sure the Kaiser will see to deploying them before they are needed. If we are caught flat footed, may I suggest we could recruit routiers, mercenaries, to fill the gaps until the Castle trained reinforcements arrived.

I know this is not an ideal solution for Austria, but the alternatives available are less desirable. Your House would be within it's rights to convert Vienna or Prague to a Castle. However, that new fortress would only be able to arm and recruit peasant rabble and a few knights until better quarters were built. Considering that spear militia from either city would be superior to peasants and that we would lose revenue from converting the Town, it would be a poor trade.

Other Castles in the area, such as Magdeburg, already belong to other powers as you pointed out. I would advise patience. It can be a bitter pill, but sometimes it is necessary. I'm sure the Kaiser has this situation well. . .

As Otto is speaking a messenger arrives in the Diet and runs up to him. They speak in urgent whispers. He claps the messenger on the shoulder and sends him running out of the chamber. Otto turns to address the Diet again:

Pardon me my lords, I must leave! The next time we meet I hope to give you good news! Farewell!

Otto turns and sprints out of the chamber yelling for his horse to be saddled.

Greeting to you von Kassel, thank you for such a prompt response to my inquiry. Although, as you have now left and I am essentially speaking to a rapidly closing door, I'll address my follow up comments to the rest of you.

von Kassels words are both concerning and comforting.

I am greatly appreciative of his immediate support of troops should our eastern borders be threatened in anyway.

However he did say it would take “Years” for these troops to arrive…now that is sobering.

This is certainly not ideal for Austria as he has mentioned. Or might I add, for the Reich as a whole.

In my deliberations it comes down to this. I realise that converting either of our holdings into castles would not be beneficial to the realm as a whole. However, for our own immediate well being we must have a solution in the east.

I ask our Kaiser and the gathered Lords for their opinions on the matter?

As I have just arrived…can someone please tell me were von Kassel is going in such a hurry??

Kaiser Heinrich: I welcome the new Fourth Elector of Austria, may he bring much honor to his house.

Sir, I am very much aware of your concern. Austria is indeed somewhat cut off from the rest of the Reich, but as Elector von Kassel has just stated before he left to take Bern, you will not be alone in this fight.

The way things are shaping up in the east, it seems that we will soon see ourselves in a conflict with Poland. Two armies are already in that theater, one commanded by Duke von Saxony and the other one by Duke Leopold. In addition, as you most likely know, watchtowers are present on Vienna's southern and eastern border, allowing us to see far. Once Prague is taken, I also intend to place watchtowers on the borders, as well as our spy into Polish territory.

Rest assured, Austria shall not be lightly abandoned or even surprised by the enemy should the worst come.

Sigismund der Stolze slowly gets to his feet and adresses the new Austrian:

Greetings, noble elector of Austria, I am sure that your presence here at this Diet will be beneficial to the Reich.

You speak about the vulnerability of Austria; it is true that she does not, as yet, have a castle in her realms. Surely that, however, is up to Duke Leopold, is it not? Your point, however, is a valid one and I am sure will be appreciated by the Diet here assembled.

I know that the Poles threaten our borders. Why then, did we foolishly sign an alliance with these people? Surely the elector who proposed this edict must have been misguided in his sincere attempt to benefit our Reich. Nevertheless, I have no doubt that brave Austrians and Franconians will beat back the foe.

Dietrich looks aggitated as he stands to engage Sigismund's blatant insult.

"I am far from misguided, nor am I foolish. If anything, you, young knight, are misinformed. I am not convinced that Poland truly desires war. I am staunch in my belief that they desire peace, but there are other forces here in the Reich who it seems are working against this. I still believe they are making a simple, predictable responce to our own swift expansion as a precaution to protect themselves from, what they, as earnest Papal follewers, feel is an uneasy situation developing in the Reich. The Pope does not trust us, and his distrust spreads such words to the ears of all Christian men, and makes us look like enemies to the faith.

Let me backup my claims.

Firstly, we have strong garrisons in Hamburg and Prague, a deterrant to any potential action by the Polish.

Secondly, the Polish have responded to our forces in Hamburg and Prague favorably. Their own garrison in Magdeburg consists of a single unit. How could we expect war from such a pitiful force? Like I have said, they are there because Poland fears us, not because they want war. It's a precautionary measure, meant to slow down an assault. It's really a very simple tactic, but an effective one.

Thirdly, Kaiser Heinrich has not yet sent a diplomat to Poland in order to negotiate the alliance the edict requires, so we, as of yet, have no alliance with the Poles, one they would surely accept.

My concerns are not limited to this, but the Emperor has also failed to fulfill edict 2.6. We are six years into the second half of the Emperor's term already and yet he has consistently held me at Hamburg despite the edict's time frame, and has informed me I will not be receiving the requested units, which, compared to the allotment given to our other generals, was a pittance. In four years time we could have marched, and by 1110 Stettin would have been ours. Instead, we're being forced to sit around in Hamburg, waiting around and doing nothing. For what purpose? We cannot reach, besiege, and take Stettin in four years, it's not possible. Perhaps, given the order to march immediately, we can reach Stettin before the Danes set their sights on it, and before too many years past the edict's required date. Then, perhaps this issue can be overlooked.

However, my immediate concern is the purpose for holding me back. Kaiser Heinrich has pushed for war with Poland, and held me back from Stettin despite the edict. It would appear that this is an attempt to scare Poland into going after Stettin, in an attempt to give us a reason to attack them contrary to the diet majority's wishes, but in congruence with the Kaiser's.

Also, we still lack a spy in Milan! This edict was proposed as edict 1.16, but has yet to be fulfilled, despite the enormous amount of time we've had to accomplish it in! However, the Kaiser has clearly stated his intention to send a spy to Poland as soon as possible, despite edicts pushing for an alliance and peaceful trade rights with the Poles. Why is the Kaiser's attention not focused on fulfilling diet edicts? It appears that recent events are instead moving in a manner that appears to be contrary to the diet edicts, or at the very least more favorably to someone's private ambitions than for the good of the Reich? I do hope there is a rational explanation for the Kaiser's actions, despite how this situation looks."

He pauses, taking a deep breathe, and does not sit. Instead, he remains standing, an action implying that he will hold his ground, and will not budge until he is pleased with the answer he receives.

Castles, hm, my fellow Elector?

Conrad shudders visibly at the thought.

Nice drafts in the evening, while you're surrounded by nothing but cold stone and the only place to warm is a fire burning in the hearth. The only diversion from freezing is to watch your men exercise, flogging straw puppets to death.
Do you really want to sacrifice the warm interior of an Alehouse, the merchants haggling on the market and the splendour of theaters and bard tales for that?
Well, everyone to his liking, I say. This is indeed a matter of the House of Austria and should not trouble this Assembly any longer.
I extend a warm thank you to our fellow House of Bavaria. They're mighty castle at Innsbruck has always offered protection for our merchants and I'm convinced it will do so in the future.

Conrad coughs politely.

I'm glad to hear that all of you seek glory for our Reich and my old bones grow warm at the though that the fate of my ancestors rests in such capable hands. I can't wait to see the day when we finally see the Duchy of Milan brought back into our domain.

But troublesome news reach us from the East. Breslau has succumbed to the vile Poles. How convenient for our Emperor, who now doesn't have to stand by his word of giving that County to the House of Austria. Maybe he should have granted lands that were already ours instead of promising foreign ones? The sparrow in the hand is better than the dove on the roof. Is this not what they say in these parts?
I say we leave those Poles to try to cultivate those harsh lands, they seem much more used to it than we are. We, who have tasted the fruits of Romes former glory should focus on their fruits. Our interest and our position in Italy must be strenghtened. I may look old and wiry, but I have campaigned in Italy for many years, who better to attend to the land than someone knowledgeable in the Italian customs? But alas, it seems like my requests fall on deaf hears.

On another matter, I hear that a strong force is assembled to take Bern soon. How great to hear. It's led by a Bavarian commander, I beleive? Now I'm wondering what our Kaisers plans are for the future of it's surrounding lands. As much as I would like to grant the Bavarians a well-earned reward for their oncoming victory, it would seem hasty to other houses such as Swabia or Austria, if Bavaria be given yet another province, a castle at that.
Of course my fellow Elector would clearly like to see Bern in our hands, which I'm not opposed to, but seeing that we have no stakes in the coming assault it might be imprudent. Still there are newly given lands to the south of Bavaria. The cultivated plains surrounding Bologna. Surely Austrian merchantship can take care and multiply the profits of that city, while the Bavarians can focus on their military leadership within our Empire. Someone has to fight, and someone else has to finance those wars.
I think the possibilities are clearly given for our Kaiser to act in a manner that would be statisfying for all participants, it's only a matter of whether he decides to do this.

Conrad bows slightly to the fellow Electors and a little deeper for Emperor Heinrich before settling down.

Kaiser Heinrich:

Now look here, Dietrich.

Your boundless ambition and goals are simply impossible to fulfill. You would have the Reich bankrupt in order just to have enough men to take one measly castle.

First of all, you specifically asked for two units of mounted sergeants and four units of peasantry before an attempt on Stettin was made. This takes time. It also takes money, of which this Diet seems to have little grasp of the importance of.

You must remember, dear Dietrich, who cannot even father one measly child, that Franconia is not the only house. I must obey the wishes of the governors in what to build. Building up the interior of the Reich is most critical. Once that has been managed, recruiting units, such as your ridiculous demands for taking Stettin, as well as the stupidly large amount of priests this Diet has required me to take along with Cardinal Scherer, and the spy (never mind that none of the governors nearby will build the buildings that allow for the recruitment of these) becomes secondary.

So Dietrich, something must give. The timeframe you set combined with the troops you requested was impossible to do. So you will either be content with the progress we are making, or you will not and further action will be taken against you. I urge you to take the first option if you know what's good for you.

Kaiser, My Lords,

Firstly many thanks to the warm welcome and honourable comments by Kaiser Heinrich and Sir Sigismund,

It seems that while having a brief luncheon things have developed quite rapidly here in the main hall.

I must first concede the need for a castle in the holdings of House Austria for the time being and defer to 2nd Elector Conrad.

I am please to hear the Kaiser will send a spy to Poland. Equally a diplomat might be wise in order to force the outstanding issue of Poland’s intentions towards us. With a request for alliance on the table we could dispense with the “theories” about Poland’s intentions here in the Diet. Either they ally or they don’t. Which ever they choose will allow us to react accordingly.

I will note this idea down as a possible edict request.

My only other thought is that we should begin to formulate our opinions on the Reich’s “Standing Armies”. I firmly believe a number of house controlled standing armies in conjunction with smaller city and castle garrisons would be most efficient in the future. What say you all to this idea?

I must also say that things seemed to have diverted to other topics rather rapidly.

I understand Duke Dietrich’s intentions and desire for expansion but I believe the Kaiser is correct. We have limited resources at this time and we must wait our respective turns at achieving goals.

A small bite to eat and some refreshments might be prudent at this time. It seems tempers are starting to fray.

Gentlemen, as is custom in Austria might I invite you all to sample some of the excellent wine I brought with me from Vienna?

There is a wry look of sarcasm of Dietrich's face as raises an eyebrow to the Kaiser's retort, particularly the comment on children. There's a look in the Duke's eye that implies the Kaiser knows far from the truth on that matter.

Actually, if you look at the facts, my supposedly ridiculous demands for raising two meager regiments of peasantry, and three regiments of cavalry sargeants could have been accomplished in 4 years time, the regiments of peasants in the first two, and the sargeants in the next two. The fall of Stettin could have occurred in the next 6, hence the ten year timeline outlined in the edict. In total, increase in our previous upkeep would have been a meager 705 florins. The fall of Stettin, according to my reviews of the area's demographics, prior to the castle's conversion to a city, would still have netted us over 700 florins every two years. The upkeep increase, with the recruitment order I mentioned, would, for the entire time prior to Stettin's fall, have cost us 2,295 florins in total. Stettin would have repaid this in its entirety in a mere six years.

This was the purpose of the ten year timeline. Nothing I do, and nothing I propose, is not without its purpose Kaiser. All I have requested, is that you explain why so many of these recent events are seemingly so closely related. And why, if my requests were so outlandishly absurd, am I sitting around Hamburg very well past the time I should be, waiting for the arrival of what my scouts tell me are two militia regiments that are nothing but an unnecessary expense and an unnecessary waste of time.

And as far as things costing money. I need no lectures on costs, as you can clearly see. Just as well, let me deliberate and explain my position! You will see that it is clearly, far from the strain on our coffers that you imagine it to be. The Reich pulled in just shy of 5,000 florins of profit every two years. In the ten year timeline for capturing Stettin we would have made, roughly, 50,000 denarii, in profits alone. A measly 2,295 florins over the entire course of that ten years comes out to an average of 459 florins every two years. The bottom line, is that the capture of Stettin has been grossly delayed, diet edicts have been ignored, and even if every one of our settlements were to spend 1,600 florins on projects every two years in the same four years we could have recruited the peasants and sargeants, we would still have had twice the entire increase in the upkeep cost due to the recruitment to spend as we pleased and even more money beyond that. And these estimates even include all our other upkeeps thrown in as well!

So you see! My supposedly boundless ambition and goals are far from "impossible", and instead are extremely plausible. Besides this, I must wonder what ambitions and goals I have Kaiser? What have I ever done that has not been to the benefit of the Reich? What have I ever done that has not strengthened our overall position? And do not wrongly accuse me of being ignorant of our other noble houses needs. I have been, and will continue, to be in communication with our other houses at various times to work out what is, overall, in the best interests of the Reich.

Now that I have spoken my mind, do kindly answer my questions, and don't snap at me like some child.

Dietrich leans forward, the look of an inquisitor about him.

I respect every man in this room Kaiser, but there is one man that is mandated to follow the edicts this diet passes, and that man is the chancellor. So answer me now, not as the Kaiser, but as the chancellor, explain to this diet on what grounds the wishes of multiple houses are being ignored?

Why has Stettin not fallen? Why has Milan not been infiltrated by a spy? Why has the distribution of lands not been more in line with the earnest requests of some of the houses and their interests, their expertises? Why is your focus not on fulfilling the diet edicts? Why have recent events contradicted, delayed and ignored them? What is your rational explanation for this string of occurrances?

while remaining seated the 4th Elector for Austria raises an eyebrow

....I presume then...

...that drinks are entirely out of the question at this time my lords!!??

If so, then I think I need to order some Scotch to get myself through this session...

turning with great exaggeration, the Austrian 4th Elector flags down a passing page man, and whispers

a bottle of that irish stuff I saw earlier today...and make it snappy old chap...I'm in great need of a drink!!

Kaiser Heinrich:

Dietrich, the bottom line is that we have not had 705 florins. I have sometimes seen our florin count fall in the double, even single digits after fulfilling the wishes of the governors. I understand the profit that would have occured, but I cannot spend the money that does not exist. Before you get all whiny and angered at me, I suggest that you review the basic lessons of economics.

As for your other "complaints," let me address them simply:

The time has not passed yet.

Unless the Diet rules have suddenly changed without my knowledge, I believe that I have until the end of my term to fulfill the required edicts. So stop crowing needlessly to this Diet and shut up.

I will not tolerate this insubordination. Every man here aside from you knows that my greatest desire is to see the Reich prosper. Yet you continue to needlessly pressure me and then dare to insult me in front of this entire Diet for failing to fulfill edicts that have not yet expired.

Maximillian Mandorf will now lead the attack on Stettin. And before you yell at me for saying that Edict 2.6 called for you to lead the attack, please realize that it only recommended that you lead the attack. Well, I took the recommendation into light and disagreed with it.

Your new duty is to fulfill the requirements of Edict 2.9, since you are so concerned with me executing them. Hopefully during that time you will come to realize the importance of loyalty.

The duke, were he staring an enemy in the face on the field, would be cleaning his sword of blood right about now. This was precisely the blatant display of incompetance he was hoping to get out of the kaiser. Admittance of misunderstanding an edict that blatantly stated Stettin "shall be taken in 10 years", not two, or four, or six after, but within the clearly worded time frame of ten. When an edict mandated a time period, there was no waiting beyond that. Then to remove him from the position at the head of the army for the purpose of slowing the Reich's progress even further by forcing the conquest of Stettin to wait for Mandorf to arrive only added to the Kaiser's own injuries. And what was more, was the Kaiser's total misunderstanding of what the Chancellor's duties truly entailed. Governor's build queues were suggestions, they were not mandates, they could be ignored for the good of the Reich when there were more important things at hand, and Dietrich would have traded a few years of Hamburg's build queue in order to take Stettin and make up for it exponentially in the next few years thanks to Stettin's fall in a heartbeat. It was all Dietrich could do to avoid from laughing in the Kaiser's face.

"If that's what must be done, then at least one important edict will get done." Dietrich, content with the Kaiser's self ridiculing display, turned and departed the diet proceedings. He would have to lay low for a while, keep out of the fool's hair. When the elections came soon enough he would have to run for chancellor, if not to right all of the kaiser's foolish errors than to at least place somebody in the position who understood the law and what their duties entailed. As the diet doors closed behind him, he looked towards the sky.

"God save the Reich if that fool doesn't die soon. Henry must bring an air of competance back to the throne. How can we follow a man who claims to be the lord of the Reich when he doesn't even understand the law?" Dietrich shook his head, then departed to make his plans for the necessary watch tower placements.

Kaiser Heinrich:

If I may direct everyone's attention to the Imperial Charter. Then we will see that I am not, in fact, an incompetant leader.

Quote:

---

2.1 The Chancellor... moves all the units and agents on the map; he decides all the buildings and which units/agents to be trained.

---

Here it would seem as if the Chancellor (me) had full power over what to recruit as well as build, and perhaps you are right. But the next provision corrects that:

Quote:

---

2.2 However, he... follows the build queues and tax policies of players with governors.

---

Notice the numbering of that provision. It is 2.2, and comes before the following provision:

Quote:

---

2.3 He also must obey Imperial edicts and the constitution (these rules) or face political consequences.

---

Now, it seems we have a dilemma here. There are two contradictions in the Charter, because my fulfilling one provision would make it impossible to fulfill the other one. Keeping that in mind, as well as the fact that the "must obey governors" provision comes before the "must obey edicts" provision, I made the executive decision to follow the wishes of the governors. It was clearly *not* an illegal move considering the financial situation the Reich was in, so I had every right to delay the move on Stettin in order to keep us in the black.

It seems now as if I made a terrible mistake in marrying off Agnes to this fool. At least he has spared us all of the misfortune of having idiot offspring trouble the Diet in the future.

....are there any consitutional lawyers in the house, I think we are in need of some at this point...

there's a pause for some minutes...not a sound is heard

...alright then, that's a no I take it.

Into the next gaping silence, the 4th Elector from Austria breaks the tension yet again

I still think drinks are in order gentlemen...would anyone care to second the motion??

Prinz Henry stands, unsure of himself, clearly appalled at the situation.

I remind the Diet that constitutional disputes are decided by the Emperor and the Emperor alone.

For my part, as someone who helped draft the constitution, I would volunteer the view that governors' build queues are, in a sense, optional. If the Chancellor wishes to build any building in a settlement, they must build what is first on the build queue. However, the Chancellor is quite entitled to build nothing in a settlement.

On the wider issues of Poland, Stettin and the speed of our expansion, I would caution the Diet. We have expanded rapidly already. My father is to be congratulated on orchestrating this. However, all good things must come to an end and it is inevitable that the easy gains will soon be exhausted - whether by our hand or by that of our neighbours. Florins do not lie on street pavements for long.

Kaiser Heinrich:

I would like to congratulate my son Leopold on finally taking Prague. Well done, son.

Also, I advise the Diet that currently, none of our cities have the capacity to recruit a spy. If you wish that particular edict fulfilled, I request the governors, especially those around Milan, to revise their build queues.

-edit- Nevermind, I'll do it myself. Florence could use a brothel. (heh-heh)

I'd like to formally congratulate My Lord, Duke Leopold in taking Prague.

With that skirmish concluded, we are now finished with over running rebel settlements to the east.

Given Prinz Henry's comments it would seem obvious that constitutional issues can only be argued between Duke's, and men of lower station in the realm.

As the Emperor has final say in all constitutional matters there is no point taking issue directly with him as it will be a short discussion to say the least.

Conrad applaudes lightly as he hears the message from Emperor Heinrich.

I have to agree with your gratulations my Lords.
Concerning your desire for an extended spy network, mein Kaiser. Vienna will not oppose the building of a brothel. I'm sure my liege would have mentioned this to you, but it seems he was preoccupied with his siege. I hear our merchants are already craving for distraction. Counting florins can be quite boring, at least that's what I'm told.

Dietrich bursts into the proceedings.

"This is intolerable!" Dietrich's tone is far beyond angry, though he retains his composure, his voice his booming.

"This man has, up to this point, done everything in an attempt to circumvent the laws of the diet and has blatantly proceeded to act contrary to the edicts in pursuit of his own ambitions! This is not diplomacy, this is tyranny! May I call the diet's attention to the location of Maximillian Mandorf. The Kaiser has deliberately sent him through Polish territory in order to take Stettin. Our diplomats report our relations with them have dropped to poor! The edict demands and alliance, yet this fool continues to antagonize and instigate war with people who have shown nothing but predictable responces of someone with concern for their own safety, not the intention of harming others."

Dietrich shakes his head, looking to the floor. "I will not follow the whim of someone so ignorant as you...build your own god damned watch towers. If I am needed I will be at Hamburg, unless I am needed by the kaiser, in which case you can meet me in Hell."
With that, the Duke storms out of the diet proceedings, adamant in his refusal to follow the kaiser's orders.

Kaiser Heinrich:

Hmm, now things are a bit different, aren't they?

First of all, it seems as if you are now the one disobeying edicts by refusing to build the watchtowers. Not very sporting for one who has the office of Chancellor in mind.

Second, now all of a sudden you are not concerned with the speed of the capture of Stettin. Through Poland is the quickest way for Mandorf, and I thought that you were particularly concerned with the speed of its fall. This is how this argument started, is it not?

Third, no edict has been passed with the ban on our forces entering Polish territory. Therefore, I am in violation of no edict and the diplomat is on his way to offer an Alliance with Poland, which you so desparately crave.

There is mumbling from side of the House of Franconia. Then outright laughter, nobles, statesmen, even their secretaries can see through the Kaiser's pitiful excuses.

"Does he actually think we can't see through that nonsense?!" One man yells.

"He's deliberately lowering relations with Poland so they'll deny the alliance!" Another angry voice barks.

"The duke isn't refusing the edict, he was never ordered to build them, in fact, Franconia is the only house that had the foresight to erect such constructions prior to the edict! Each duchy should construct it's own towers! It's stupid to have a man with no knowledge of other houses building their watch towers!"

"He's a baboon!"

The rauckus laughter, after that last comment, only grows worse.

"He violates edicts! Argues that he didn't, then tries to make the Reich's situation WORSE by ignoring intelligent council and proceeding to deliberately act contrary to the diet's wishes!"

The Franconian section of the diet, now in an uproar, begins to angrily storm out of the diet, following their duke.

"This is not a diet! This is a dictatorship!"

"Tyrant!"

"Any man who thinks this dummkopf is an honorable man is ALSO a dummkopf!"

It takes little time for the entire section of Franconia's diet seating to be empty.

Otto von Kassel quickly strides into the Diet. His riding clothes are splattered with mud and the worse for wear. A bandage is wrapped around his head, with a hint of red showing through the gauze at the right temple. Otto speaks:

Mein Kaiser! Lords of the Reich! Bern is ours! The Reich is victorious! I have ridden three horses into the ground so that I could bring you the news myself!

Having made his announcement, some of the elation leaves Otto. He appears grimmer than you remember.

It was not without cost, however. The commander of their garrison, Helmut, knew his business and his walls were strong. Almost 400 of my men gave their lives for this victory. None of those bandits, however, lived to brag of it, I sent almost 700 of them to Hell!

Otto turns to Prinz Henry and the Swabian delegation:

Sigismund and his men fought like Lions my Prinz! Without their valor, I fear the day might have turned against us. All the men should be commended for their bravery!

Otto faces the Kaiser:

I bring with me 1500 florins for the royal coffers mein Kaiser. They were crafty and well armed foes, but not all that rich. Still, we are in commanding position in the Alps now.

Otto addresses the new Fourth Elector of Austria:

I thank you for the gift of wine you gave me before I left good sir. Sigismund and I drank it in the great hall, and it was excellent. I have a few choice bottles from the castle's cellar that I will send to you.

Otto turns to face the Franconian delegation, only at this point does he notice their absence. One of his eyebrow raises a bit, but he says nothing. Otto addresses the remaining members of the Diet:

I will present a battle report soon my lords, but I am very tired now from the road. I am going to rest. I might have something to say on the morrow.

Otto turns on his heels and wearily exits the Diet. He returns much later, rested and in a change of clothes, and begins writing a battle report at his desk.

Kaiser Heinrich:

Wrong again, Franconia. The watchtower that Dietrich requested was to keep watch over the Danes, not the Reich.

And you were not the only house to have placed watch upon outsiders, either. Austria has done so with both the provinces of Vienna and now Prague too, and Bavaria has done so with a pass through the Alps leading into Italy, serving both as an interior and exterior view.

I suggest to the electors and their staff that they review the latest maps thoroughly as well as constitutional procedure before they... grace this Diet with their presence again.

Count Sigismund der Stolze strides into the Diet building. He has not had time to change from his coat of mail into more suitable attire.

Mein Kaiser, fellow electors, and honourable lords of the Reich, I offer my heartiest congratulations to Otto von Kassel. He fought admirably at Bern and kept calm even when the day looked as if it may go against us. He is a credit to the Reich and the Duchy of Bavaria; it was an honour to fight alongside such a brave and shrewd general.

I apologize for the state that I am in; I received a mere scratch on mein arm from a Swiss spear.

Sigismund bows and quiety leaves the Diet.

Conrad had once again been suspiciously absent from the Diets meeting and now that he returned the reason for his absence was obvious for everyone. His skin was now drawn tight across his skull, like thin parchment, with his eyes set back . His hair has grown even less and thinner, dangling spindly in a small fringe around his head. It really was a sight to be reminded of ones own mortality.
His voice was also thinner as he spoke, but still managed to carry to the farthes corners of the Diet:

Much has happened, while my health has kept me from joining this Diet.
I must applaud our great military leaders for rewarding the Reich with these victories. My greatest respect belongs to Duke Leopold, Duke Mandorf, Otto von Kassel, and of course Sigismund der Stoltze, without his help the taking of Bern would not have been feasible, or so I've heard. Finally those treacherous Milanese dogs have been restricted by...
A short fit of coughing interrupts the Elector and it takes some time before he regains his composure.

I also have to apologize for the Absence of my Liege. He is quite busy in the East, building watchtowers and what not. Those uncivilized lands can not be left to themselves for just one month, I guess, not like our Italian holdings, where few of our esteemed Electors have visited recently.
Duke Leopold intends to return at the next formal Diet meeting the latest. In the meantime I shall do my best to represent the House of Austria.

Exhaling heavily he lowers himself back in his seat, relying completely on the support of an ornately carved walking stick, to do so.

Prinz Henry: I would like to congratulate the House of Bavaria on leading our men to twin victories at Bern and Stettin. Both sieges were hard fought and I am pleased that the House of Swabia was able to contribute in some small way, with the gallant Count Sigismund riding at the side of Commander Otto. I hope the Emperor will bear Sigismund in mind to command the next battle of our forces, as I believe he is the only knight of renown who has not yet had a chance to lead us in battle.

I would also like to comment on the severe losses we suffered in the two sieges. I wonder if, in future, we should consider starving out garrisons rather than throwing our men against their walls? After all, a besieged garrison cannot go anywhere, and I would rather face the defenders in a sally (or even fight off a relief force) than storm city walls to get at them. This is particularly true while our assault forces consist of only horse and spearmen. Things may change when the day comes when we can provide a siege train or even persuade our proud knights to dismount to scale the walls. But until that time, I wonder if we should be more patient and not expect such rapid gains as we have become accustomed to.

Otto, at the mention of Bern, rubs his right temple and winces. He rises to address the Diet:

Mein Prinz, you speak truly. It is much better for us to fight an enemy who sallies out than assaulting their walls.

However, after taking Bern my clerks inventoried the castle's stores. According to them those schwein had enough provisions to last them another 10 years! (OOC: 5 turns) Sigismund and I would still be sitting outside Bern in our siege camp dicing if the Kaiser had decided to starve them out! Yes, we would have saved lives by waiting them out, but we would have had the largest field army in the Reich immobilized for the entire time. The sooner we seize a settlement, the sooner we can collect revenue from it and build it up, and the sooner we can replenish and redeploy the army that assaulted it.

In the future it would be wise to strike a balance between conservation of our forces and strategic interests when choosing in a siege between assault or starving out an enemy. I see this balance shifting depending on many variables such as the state of our treasury, proximity to reinforcements, and whether a relief force is close. Towns, particularly, are vulnerable to prolonged sieges.

In the case of Bern castle, however, the Kaiser ordered the assault at the right moment. I do not believe we had the time to wait until they sallied out, edict 2.5's deadline would have passed. Waiting a few more years, but not enough to starve them out, would have only reduced their numbers by a pittance. I had the siege equipment I needed and all the men I was going to get. The presence of Milanese forces in the region a few years later shows that the timing of the assault was correct.

Otto's expression becomes grim, his voice comes out in a low rasp:

We must not shy away from bloodshed if it is necessary for victory!

Otto's mood lightens a bit.

I agree with the Prinz's suggestion that Count Sigismund have his own command. He has fought well in two battles already and deserves a chance to lead an army of his own!

My lords.

Otto sits.


OOC: I think I'm enjoying that new point of dread. :whip:

Maximillian Mandorf strides into the Diet with a stern look on his face.

Pardon the intrusion, but perhaps have any of you seen an infantryman around? I have been looking for one for some time now. Perhaps they are mythical beasts, for they are spoken of often, yet do not seem to be native to our lands.

Mandorf slams his fist down on a desk, causing a ceramic inkwell to tumble off and shatter on the floor.

Are we damned Turks?! Do we marry our horses and fire arrows out of our arses?!

The Steward of Bavaria looks around the room.

NO? Then why in the hells are our armies composed of nothing but cavalry?! Not only are they poorly suited for assaults on cities and castles, but they are also more costly to maintain.

How about this, fellow nobles; let us give some sharpened sticks to the peasants and put THEM in our armies. They certainly could not perform more poorly in a city than our pompous cavalrymen!

Mandorf takes his seat; a sullen look etched his face.

Fifth Elector of Swabia stands up and says:

"I agree with Duke Mandorf here.We need to keep our armies in good order and balance. Ofcourse if our enemies were men enough,they would meet us in open field on a set time and place agreed by both parties, but this is not the case. They are hiding behind their walls like cowards and we need troops that can scale those walls. Or should we just hire our infantry from wandering mercenary parties and be dependant of foreigners with no loyalty to anyone.?"

Swabian elector bows and takes his place.

A message is posted for all to see in the main chamber of the Diet:

Attn Sigismund der Stolze

As you are now the governor of Bern please notify Kaiser Heinrich of your plans for that settlement. Do you wish to convert it to a city or keep it as a castle?

(OOC: Base your decision off of kotr1114-2)

Sigismund der Stolze stnads up and speaks to the Kaiser.

Heil, mein Kaiser. I think it is in the Reich's best interests to keep Bern as a castle. One never knows what those Milanese are capable of and it would be best to be well prepared.

I would also like to construct a Small Chapel and a Mustering Hall there.

Gazing into his 4 finger glass of whiskey the 4th Elector of Austria says to know one in particular;

Ahh Bern remains a castle to thwart the Milanese...

...I presume there is a cunning plan to ensure the Poles, Viennese and Hungarians never raise so much as an aggressive look in our direction...

...maybe we just keep the entire population of these nations drunk to ensure this never happens...

Sir Sigismund!!? Was that wine I gave Otto strong enough to ensure a man is drunk for weeks on end if given enough??

Kaiser, do we know the official diplomatic status with these three nations? Have our diplomats finished with this work?

Kaiser Heinrich:

Outrage! The people of Milan have brazenly and openly declared war on us by besieging our new castle of Bern! Sigismund and his garrison are trapped inside, and nothing may be built or done until these people are sent back home.

https://i113.photobucket.com/albums/...R/kotr_045.jpg

"To arms!! Im sorry but when my fellow Swabians are in danger i cant sit on here and do nothing.Mein Kaiser how many are the Milanese? Can Siegfrieds men hold them at bay? I suggest to strike the milanese straight to the heart by counter sieging Milan itself."

Fifth Elector of Swabia remains standing staring the Kaiser and waiting for an answer.

Kaiser Heinrich:

The Milanese outnumber and outclass Sigismund's forces. I have dispatched Otto von Kassel and some cavalry to assist him in the inevitable assault, but I fear that they will not arrive in time.

As for a direct counter-attack, that can be arranged but it may take some time.

"Mein Kaiser.
Do we have any troops on striking distance towards Milan? Or any knowledge how strongly its garrisoned? If the sieging force is too strong for Siegfried i doubt sending troops towards Bern does any good for us. Our chances to save Bern in my mind are either heroic defence of Siegfrieds forces or quickly sieging Milan. I think that if we Siege Milan itself,the Milanese army could lift the siege and march back to save their capital. Which could give us time to strengthen the siege force in Milan enough to fight a deciseve battle outside the walls of their capital."

Kaiser Heinrich:

Good Swabian elector, I appreciate your concern. As we speak I am preparing a report that will detail everything, including the situation and my plans. I ask for patience.

(OOC: Report will be up probably in around 30 minutes, maybe less)

"Thank you mein Kaiser. I will wait for the report,so we can see the full seriosnes of the situation."

The Fith Elector sits down and curses silently: "Damned.I shouldnt be here.I should be in Bern or somewhere where i could help my countrymen with my own sword."

This is outrageous! The Papal lapdogs will be crushed! The House of Bavaria will not rest until every last Milanese bastard lowers his head before the Kaiser. Those who do not do so on bended knee will do so with a severed neck.

No doubt the Usurper will refrain from interfering in this matter, as it is surely his work. I have refrained from revealing this information as I was unsure of its truth, but these actions make its validity unquestionable. While I was in Stettin, Bavarian agents brought me the following document:

https://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b.../popemilan.jpg

As you can plainly see, Pope Gregory was personally meeting with the Milanese just before their move on Bern! This cannot be a coincidence. The Milanese are acting under his express orders! Yet he has surely blundered. By unleashing his urchins to strike at us first, all nations will view our overwhelming retaliation as fully justified. First we will deal with the puppets, then we will deal with the master.

A messenger hurries into the Diet. He is out of breath and looks exhausted.

He bows before the assembled Diet.

Noble electors, I bear this message from Count Sigismund der Stolze. I managed to slip through the Milanese lines besieging Bern.

"Noble elcetors, I will hold Bern to the last, I will not surrender to these Milanese dogs. I feared that Bern would be attacked; I am now sadly proven right.

Sigismund der Stolze, Count of Burgundy"

The messenger is carried out by a couple of guard to be attended to.

Fifth Elector reads through the new report carefully and asks permisission to speak:

"Mein Kaiser.The situation is indeed threatening. But as i poundered our forces in Italy and distances to Milan i came to an conclusion that Immediate siege of Milan in order to divert the Milanese force besieging Bern is indeed possible. I suggest that Kaiser sends all his troops from Bologna to siege Milan immediately and rides speedily from Florence to lead them, in order to keep order in our Italian areas i suggest the redistribution of the forces of Florence to keep order also in Bologna. After this season we can then move more capable units to the siege force and return the militia units back to the Bologna. If we send also reinforcements from Innsbruck we have soon a mighty host sieging Milan. This should enforce the Milanese force to lift the siege of Bern and the dogs will find out that their siege effort has turned into siege of their capital by Imperial forces."

Kaiser Heinrich:

A good idea, Elector Kagemusha. However, I am not sure if we would be able to keep Bologna secure long enough for the militia to return - public order has been annoying with them.

Anyway, most of it is moot. I have received intelligence that Sigismund is attempting a sally in order to drive the Milanese from Bern. I ask that your prayers go out to him and his men.

(OOC: Ig, I forgot to put this in the PM but make sure you send me a screenshot of the casualties afterwards. Your inbox is full)

After hearing Kaisers words about Sigismunds plans on sallying out. Fifth Elector looks into his feet for a moment and then raises his head up and speaks:

"I hope that Sigismund is succesfull on his sally. But sometimes bravery walks hand on hand with foolishnes. I pray the Lord that this will not be the last message we hear from Lord Sigismund."

The fifth Elector of Swabia sits down on his place,places his head between his hands rubbing his temples and stares the floor without blinking.

Fredericus von Hamburg enters the diet with a fraction of the Franconian delegation, who take their seats.

It is at times like these that the entire Reich must stand united. I am uncertain that Sigismund's decision to sally was wise, but I pray that his judgement is proven correct, and that he crushes the enemy.

We are somewhat fortunate that we have a diet session within one turn, so that we may in detail discuss what is to be done in light of the new developments. I urge the Kaiser to leave all non-urgent tasks, such as the Papal request that we break our alliance with Sicily, who, incidentally, is an enemy of Milan. Of course, the Kaiser should perform any military maneuvers that may be immediately necessary. What that will be in the south depends on what happens at Bern, but we should not get completely distracted. I hear reports of a large Hungarian army near Budapest, and notice that Vienna is virtually undefended. Leopold should think about returning to Austria with some of the troops.

A messenger from Otto von Kassel arrives in the Diet. He's in better condition than Sigismund's, but not by much. Pausing to take a breath he unfolds his message and begins to read:

Mein Kaiser, my lords.

This is not how I wanted Sigismund to have his first command! For those who argue that God does not have a sense of humor, I say this is proof that He does.

By the time my man reaches you, the sally should already be under way. I lead a small contingent, but we are fast and heavily armed. The Milanese force appears to be nothing but infantry, perfect for a siege but not ideal for action in the open field. I look forward to trampling many of the traitorous bastards beneath my war horse! I'm almost insulted that they did not deign to send one of their "nobles" to lead this force against us. Do they think us children?! They shall lose that impression when we send their Captain's head back to them on a pike!

As for the Kaiser's plans after this battle. I know he does not want to hear this, but our standing with the Pope is only slighter better than those merchants. If we move against their territory, we may suffer excommunication or he might try to call a halt to the war. If this is the price the Kaiser is willing to pay, than so be it. But, I would suggest bringing a majority of the Innsbruck garrison to the Bern region. We sit astride their supply lines to Dijon here. Let us fight on the strategic defensive, striking at their forces that dare show their face in the Bern area. Bleed them, weaken them and once they have fallen out with the Pope, then strike at their cities! There are only a few years left until Chancellor elections, perhaps it would be best for the next Chancellor to decide our long term strategy.

I must finish this letter as a messenger from Sigismund has arrived, we attack soon! I did not take Bern, lords, to allow it be lost a few years later! Milan shall pay for their insolence with blood! I am sending Sigismund's and my own messenger on to Frankfurt with our messages. Wish us luck.

Otto


OOC: Ignoramus, let me pass on the sage advice you gave me, "Don't kill my character!"

:2thumbsup: Good luck!

Fifth elector mutters to himself as Von Kassels messenger leaves:

"Good luck to you also Von Kassel. Our hope lies in our cavalry."

The same messenger rushes into the Diet. He wears a joyous expression.

Victory! Count Sigismund and von Kassel have trampled the Milanese militia. All but 17 of the Milanese were either dead or taken prisoner by our forces. Count Sigismund, in an act of generosity and respect, released the 272 prisoners we took on the field. It was a hard fought battle, and looked doubtful until von Kassel and his knights arrived.

Glory to the Reich!

" Praise the Lord! But i will have to warn this diet.One day we will face enemy force strong enough, that it will teach us a lesson,if we replace strategy with reckless bravery.Now if you will excuse me i will retire to my quarters."

The Elector greets the diet and walks away from the room with an expression on his face that shows he is thinking something intensively.

Prinz Henry: Chivalrous Count Sigismund has performed valiantly in driving back the aggressors from Bern; I salute him!

I am within marching distance of Bern and humbly petition my father that I be sent to the front. I propose that my archers and knights from Staufen join with the spearmen from Innsbruck to march straight on the settlement of Milan itself. Milan is the not only our foe's capital, but it also divides our lands, leaving our Emperor cut off from most of his territory. Milan is, however, relatively lightly guarded. Our response to this unprovoked aggression from the Milanese must be swift, overwhelming and uncompromising.

Having recently acquired a fine guard dog in my retinue, I must disagree with Commander Mandorf, however. To call the Milanese dogs is a vile slur on canines everywhere.

Count's Sigismund and Otto have yet again proved their skill and bravery for the Reich!! This news is excellent, well done both of you!!

I must agree with His Highness Prinz Henry's proposal.

We must strike back quickly against the Milanese!! Their capital is a perfect choice, it will not only cripple them, but bring us one step closer to reuniting our Italian holdings with those in central Europe.

Attack!!!

Conrad von Schüsselen has again not been seen during the troubling events of the recent days, but rumour had it that his screams of outrage coul be heard in the entire wing occupied the Austrian delegation when he heard of the Milanese attack.
Somewhat composed he stands again in front of the Diet.

I have to agree with all of you that this is an outrage! First they shake off our rule and now those treacherous money-lovers dare to attack us in Bern castle. Were it not for the courageous defense of Count Sigismund and von Kassels support it would have been a grim hour for the Reich! Let's seize this opportunity now to put an end to the Milanese scum! Rip out their heart I say, and finish them off for good. Were I younger I would lead the assault on the walls myself to personally cut the throats of every traitor I can find!!

Conrad has spoken himself into a fury, his hair in disarray and his stick flailing wildly about. His voice has grown harsher by the minute and now finally the withheld coughing comes to the fore and shakes his body violently. His right hand already rises to his mouth a velvet red handkerchief at the ready. But he no longer has control over his actions and slowly folds, while fine specks of blood appear at the corner of his mouth. With a final cough he collapses on the Diet floor.
Immediatelly secretaries and servants from the House of Austria rush forward to carry Conrad out of the Diet. All that is left is a sprinkle of blood on the floor and a velvet red handkerchief lying beside it, the crest of the House of Franconia set in one corner.

Not long after the events around Conrad von Schüsselen, Duke Leopold storms into the Diet.

Mein Kaiser, Dukes, fellow Electors!

I came from Prague as soon as I heard of the attack on Bern. Praise be to the gods that our valiant heroes succeeded in driving the Milanese back. Every House should be proud to have such capable men within their ranks.

I'd like to apologize for my few visits in the past, but Bohemia has kept me occupied. You would not beleive what you find in those lands. Pagans and Heretics everywhere, it seems like every idea, however crazy, falls on well prepared soil there, maybe be we should send some of our Priests to pray there too.
I hope Conrad von Schüsselen was able to speak on my behalf, although I fear his condition has taken a turn for the worse. He may just recover, but he will no longer be able to perform his functions as Second Elector of Austria.
I hope we can find him a nice little household somewhere around Florence. He's always dreamed of ending his life in a quet little country home overlooking the rolling hills of Tuscany and I think he deserves nothing less.

Alas, we have more important matters to turn our attention to. I would gladly take my host right to the gates of Milan itself and show those Milanes what happens to traitors, but as Fredericus von Hamburg has rightfully mentioned,is the fact that the Hungarians are casting envious glances across the Danube. In this time of trouble it is important that we appear strong to our neighbours lest they take an example on Milans actions. If that attack really met approval from Pope Gregory, the ever pious King of Hungary would surely see the time to improve his standings with the Pope if he managed to sack Vienna.
So while I will be busy showing no possible weakness for our enemies to strike at, I wish the generals leading their assault on Milan the best of luck and god's praise that the head of the venomous snake poisoning our lands will be swiftly cut off!

In unison the loud and deep voices of the Austrian benches can be heard bellowing their agreement.

The 4th Elector of Austria leads a loud banging of the tables from the Austrian delegations benches...the din slowly subsides after some minutes.

Otto von Kassel, returning from the front, walks into the Diet and sits. He listens to the debate for a while and then rises to speak:

My Lords, I am heartened by this talk of striking at our new enemies the Milanese. Sigismund has brought their surprise attack to nought, and we now hold the initiative. We can strike where we wish!

Many have called for an attack on the city of Milan. It would be a glorious accomplishment to bring this city back into the domain of the Reich, yet we have failed to consider the consequences of a march into Milanese territory.

I almost certain that the Pope would frown on two Catholic nations fighting each other. I would not be surprised if he has already sent a messenger to Milan ordering them, under pain of Interdiction, to cease their actions against us. If we attack into Milanese territory, I would be even less surprised if the Pope gave us the same warning. Unless our strike against the city of Milan is incredibly swift, we will have to choose between excommunication or lifting the siege on the city. Our standing with Rome is not high enough where we can ignore Papal requests without dire consequences.

Does this Diet wish to pursue this war with Milan at any cost? Are we willing to suffer excommunication? If we are, we will be a pariah in Europe. Those Hungarians gazing across the Danube will see it as God's will if they march on Vienna. The Venetians, never trustworthy to begin with, will receive a request from the Pope to cancel their alliance with us, as we have received the same request concerning Sicily. What will stop them from turning on us then? The same will happen with the Poles as well.

I was surprised to see the Prinz himself call for an immediate assault on the city of Milan, this from the wise man who proposed edict 1.1. It has not accomplished its task yet, Mein Prinz. We are not high enough in the Papacy's favor to move unchecked against our neighbors, even if they attacked us. The Prinz made several convincing arguments as to how we were to use the Papacy to our advantage, are we throwing that strategy away now?

Let no one doubt I wish to crush the Milanese! But first we must isolate them from Rome and the rest of Europe. Let us, in the beginning, fight a defensive war. Let them send armies into our territories to be slaughtered. We have terrain and shorter supply lines on our side. Let them waste their strength on attacks, while their aggressive actions anger the Pope. We should continue the work of edict 1.1 at this time, to improve our standing while worsening Milan's.

Once they have fallen out of favor with the Pope, or better yet been excommunicated, we can move with a free hand against them. Then we will assault and sack their cities! Then we shall drive them into the sea! The same goals we all seek, without the mess of excommunication.

If, however, the Diet still seeks an immediate attack on the city of Milan, we should bear in mind the likely consequences of our actions and start making plans to deal with them.

My lords.

Otto sits.

My Lords,

Count Otto's comments are not without serious merit.

Given the latest information our Kaiser has just outlined in his Chancellor report there is something I believe should be considered.

Sicily is currently excommunicated. Keeping that in mind, if we fight a defensive war against the Milanese we maybe able to provoke the Pope into excommunicating them also. With both of these nations out of the Pope's favour we would be ideally able to exploit this to our own gain without fear of being excommunicated our selves.

I think we can all agree that our current standing with the Pope is not ideal. In fact I think he is looking at taking every opportunity to discriminate against us. Lets not fall into his trap.

The 4th Elector takes a seat

Kaiser Heinrich:

I believe it is too early to determine Pope Gregory's opinion on this conflict. If the Pope had given an order to the Milanese instructing they lift the siege, then they would have done so. Otherwise Sigismund would not have needed to drive them away himself.

I am still anticipating an order from the Pope instructing me to cease and decist with the hostilities (OOC: Most likely I'll get this in 1120, if at all). Whether that order comes or not will tell us much about how active of an interest he is taking in this conflict.

-edit- Report is up.

Kaiser Heinrich:

It is now 1120, and the corresponding session of the Diet has now begun.

In a moment I shall inform you all of our current situation with an official report. In the meantime, I suggest that you review the latest maps yourselves:

http://www.totalwar.org/patrons/pbm/kotr1120.zip

Begin the session! *bangs gavel*

Kaiser Heinrich:

I may as well start this off myself:

Edict 3.1: The Chancellor shall seek to have Milan cease to exist by the conclusion of his term.

Edict 3.2: The Chancellor is keep his alliance with Sicily, thus disobeying the Papal Order.

Edict 3.3: This edict authorizes (not instructs) the Chancellor to declare war on Hungary.

Mein Kaiser, mein Prinz and my fellow electors, first let me thank the Kaiser for his service as Chancellor! He, despite many obstacles, has led the Reich to a rebirth of glory and conquest!

I feel I must alert the Diet to some events that might effect our deliberations:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

https://img179.imageshack.us/img179/...esitalydj4.jpg

It seems the Pope is returning to Rome from whatever business he had in Genoa. It is the second time he has violated our territory. Yet, I find this second report more disturbing:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

https://img179.imageshack.us/img179/...rviennaed2.jpg

What in God's name are those Venetian dogs doing there!? What do they hope to accomplish? It is a small force, but it is inside our territory and close to Vienna! I am glad the Kaiser had the foresight to recruit and move troops into the city. I hope such an act of strength will encourage those wayward schwein to withdraw back into their own lands!


On the issue of possible Papal condemnation of our war with Milan, I believe the Pope would only order us to cease hostilities if we move into Milanese territory. That is why I advocated for a temporary defensive strategy until they are cast out of the Church themselves. The Venetian incursion into Austria supports this policy. If we move into Milanese lands, we will be less able to defend against Venetian treachery, the "dire reason" Conrad von Schusslen spoke of in edict 2.4.

I look forward to the candidates for Chancellor presenting their manifestoes, particularly their plans for the war with Milan and their approach to the Papacy. I would be honored, as the Kaiser suggested, to lead an army against the Milanese! But we must consider the broader implications of our actions before we strike. Now matter what course the Diet chooses, we must keep our eyes open and our weapons at hand!

This issue is worthy of a vote in the Diet, therefore I propose the following edict:

Edict 3.4: A defensive war will be fought with Milan, no incursions into their territory, until they are excommunicated or our standing with the Pope is "very good" or higher.

Like all of you, I wish to crush the Milanese! But we must be patient in how we do so, lest the conflict widen.

Edit: I will second edict 3.1, as I have said, there is no conflict between destroying the Milanese and doing it wisely.

Count Sigismund der Stolze rises to his feet and addresses the assembled Diet.

Mein gut electors, Prinz Henry, and Kaiser Heinrich, first of all I would like to reaffirm mein allegiance to mein Kaiser and mein Duke, Prinz Henry.

Sigismund turns first to the Kaiser and raises his right hand.

I solemnly swear to serve and obey mein Kaiser, Heinrich, in all that he bids me. Even unto torture and death I shall be loyal.

Sigismund then turns to Prinz Henry, Duke of Swabia.

I once again pay homage and swear allegiance to mein Duke, Prinz Henry of Swabia, for the County of Lorraine. I swear to follow and obey him in all that he bids me. Even unto torture or death shall I remain loyal.

Sigismund again turns to face the Diet.

Now, fellow electors, I must get to the things at hand. I, Sigismund, Count of Lorraine, and Elector of Swabia, do offer myself to govern our Reich for the next term.

My overlord, Prinz Henry, Duke of Swabia, has graciously given me his consent and approval.

I have seen now how our traitorous foe, the Milanese, can fight. They are not natural soldiers, but rather burghers and merchants. Nevertheless, even though they cannot threaten a fully equipped Imperial army, they are still brave fighters. I came across these burgher militiamen outside of Bern, and they fought bravely against our superior skill and arms.

However, though they be brave, they are still traitors; traitors to the Reich and Kaiser. We cannot allow these city dwellers defy the might of our Reich any longer. I therefore intend to extinguish the very name of Milan from the map. We must strike hard and fast. Our magazines at Innsbruck, in Bavaria, can now supply more soldiers than any other Schloss in our Reich, and, what is more, I have heard from Otto von Kassel, that the drillmaster there can now train Sergeants armoured in mail. Innsbruck also controls one of the major Alpine passes. Crossing the Alps under the leadership of a Tyrolean such as Otto von Kassel, therefore, ought to present no problem.

And also, Sigismund motions towards the Kaiser, there is the Kaiser at the city of Florence. Although the Florentines are but poorly trained in the arts of warfare, I am sure that under Kaiser Heinrich's leadership that they ought to better the Milanese garrison of Genoa.

But, despite all the the insults that the Milanese traitors have hurled at us, there is one insult that cannot go unpardoned. The Milanese have taken the city of Dijon. That city, and the Duchy of Burgundy, once belonged to our Reich, before that fop in Rome incited them to rebellion. What's more, the usurper, the self-appointed Duke of Milan, has taken to residing there. I humbly, therefore, intend to take the act of punishing this insult by retaking Burgundy for the Reich.

Sigismund takes a sip of his beer before continuing.

Secondly, mein electors, we have the issue of His Holiness the Pope. Twice, mein electors, twice, have they arrogantly violated our borders. His Holiness has no love for the Kaiser, and his hatred against the Reich is well known. I therefore agree with our Kaiser and I intend to disregard the orders of the Papal Court. If they disregard our orders, then we are under no obligation to follow theirs. What is more, Pope Gregory has excommunicated our ally, King Roger of Sicily, and placed his lands under interdict. To not come to the aid of our ally would reflect badly upon the Reich, and open us up to ridicule from the English and the French. I therefore seek permission to attack his Holiness if the Diet, in their wisdom, elect me as Chancellor.

Therefore I propose Edict 3.5:

"Sigismund der Stolze, Count of Lorraine, requests permission of the this assembled Diet to attack the court of Rome, should he become Chancellor"

Sigismund then turns to Leopold, Duke of Austria.

Duke Leopold has expressed concern about the actions of the Magyars of Hungary on our eastern border. I, however, am doubtful whether they would attack. They seem to be more likely heading north to Krakow. I would instead concentrate on securing our borders against the Venetians.

The Venetians have been spotted intruding into Austria. I suppose they are on another picnic again and intend to admire the scenery? These Venetians may be city dwellers, but that's hardly an excuse for forgetting where the border is. However, we have given our word that we are allies, and I shall not break that word.

Sigismund again sips his mug of beer and wipes his forehead.

Finally, gut electors, there is the question of what to do with the Poles. We have concluded an alliance with these people, and they have no sizeable force near our borders. Therefore, I doubt that there is much to be worried about them. But we must not drop our guard, lest we fall prey to a sudden assault.

That, my gut electors, is all I have to say. I thank you for listening to me.

Count Sigismund bows to the Diet and returns to his seat.

An messenger races into the Diet area, worry on his face, and stops short of the crowd
"Good Day Sirs, The Second Elector of Swabia, has been un-able to attend these meetings as he was attacked by an angry peasent near by, and has been treated to by healers, he shall hopefully be back at the Diet soon, but now he is recovering from his wounds" finshed the messenger, and he raced out.

Maximillian Mandorf rises and clears his throat.

My fellow Electors, Germans, Romans.

Mandorf bows to the Diet.

We come together today at the crux of history. What we decide in this Diet will impact the fortunes of the Empire for a thousand years. There are important decisions to make, important debates to be had, and we must unite in a single purpose against our common enemy.

Yet for all that, there we have a more important duty at stake here today. We must elect a Chancellor to guide us through the coming trials. It will be a difficult period and no matter how well we legislate, there will certainly be many unpredictable eventualities. It is thus of the utmost importance that the man who takes the burden of Chancellor has the wisdom to chart the proper course and the strength to hold the rudder steady during the storm.

I can think of no better man for this duty than Count Sigismund der Stolze. The policies he has proposed are wise and reasoned, but above all, he has demonstrated his ability to choose the proper course of action in a time of crisis. Who here can say that, were they faced with the Siege of Bern, they would have chosen the same course of action as der Stolze? I for one know that I would have attempted to hold the walls and wait for reinforcements. Count der Stolze chose the more tenuous path, the one this body believed was a greater risk. There was much fear in this Diet while we waited for news of the battle after his decision had been announced to us. Yet, our timidity was misplaced and it was Count der Stolze whose course was the right one. In a time of crisis, he analyzed the situation, made the proper decision, and then acted on that decision without hesitation. These are the attributes we need in the years to come.

I wholeheartedly support Count Sigismund der Stolze for the position of Chancellor. All who wish to benefit the Reich would be wise to do so as well. Accordingly, I will also second Edicts 3.1, 3.2, and 3.5. I do not oppose Edicts 3.3 and 3.4, but I will have to think on them some more.

Mandorf pauses and looks around the room.

There is another matter that I must discuss with you today, brothers of the Reich. I wish to address you on a matter of honor and justice.

As Steward of Bavaria, I have been entrusted with the welfare of my entire noble House. I am not a man of royal blood or with royal ties, but I care for the nobles of my House as much as Prinz Henry, Duke Leopold, and Duke von Saxony care for theirs. It is my duty to ensure that their rights are upheld and that they are treated with the dignity and respect that is accorded to every last Imperial noble.

It is with great regret that I must report that I have failed in my duty to my fellow Bavarians. The rights to land and title are basic ones which are essential to the operation of feudal government. Yet, the Bavarian electors have been deprived these rights and I am incapable of aiding them.

Bavaria lacks a Duke. This is through no fault of any party, but it is fact. Not only do we lack a Duke, but for various reasons not worth discussing here it does not appear that we will be gifted with such a noble leader for many years to come. This regrettably means that it will be impossible for any Bavarian to be appointed to the rank of Count for many, many years. I wish to emphasize the time period involved. At a minimum, it will be 20 years before Bavaria is provided with a Duke and such a situation could possibly even continue for the next 40 years.

This is a unique difficulty which will never befall any other House. Swabia, Franconia, and Austria all have Dukes to fulfill these sacred duties. Due to the nature of hereditary titles, none of these houses will ever require the services of a Steward ever again. The Bavarian nobles who are here in the Diet with us today are the only men who will ever be subject to this most unjust of laws. I believe that honorable conduct between nobles requires that such a prejudicial disparity be resolved promptly.

I wish to emphasize that I personally do not seek, nor would I accept, any other Ducal powers or privileges. I do not wish for the ability to appoint my successor. I do not wish to have a voice in the eventual appointment of our Duke. I do not wish to gain additional ‘Influence’ over what I now possess. No, my lords, I wish simply to be able to do justice to the Bavarian nobility by endowing worthy members with the title of Count.

Accordingly, I propose the following Charter Amendment:

Charter Amendment 3.1: Stewards may bestow the rank of Count on nobles of their House. This Amendment does not give Stewards any other Ducal power, it does not give Stewards additional Influence, nor does it allow Stewards to be Counts themselves.

As honorable gentlemen, I ask that you all look into your hearts and ask whether such a request can be justly opposed. There is no one to blame for the inequity, but it exists all the same and honor dictates that it be rectified. I humbly request your aid to allow me to do justice to the noblemen of my House.

My dear Kaiser, Dukes, fellow Electors!

It is indeed an important hour in which we meet here today. First I have to applaud my father, our Emperor Heinrich who has led us through the last years. Our hopes were down and our Empire at it's low-point, but he has managed, together with our guidance, to lead us back once more towards the glory that we deserve. May the next Chancellor be as successful as Kaiser Heinrich the Champion!

So far only Sigismund der Stoltze has stepped forward to take this duty and I also beleive that he would be most capable of leading our Empire. If my brother Henry puts the faith in him to let him stand for election, I think he should stand up to the critical looks of any man in this Diet.

However, I have to disagree with some of his political proposals and would like to echo Otto von Kassel to some degree, when I say that we have to be cautious. I don't need to remind you of the perils of excommunication and yet you propose us to take it on us once again.
Excommunication, gentlemen, would open our borders for every would-be invader that comes along. Some may even be inspired by the word of Pope Gregory to attack us, although they had no ill will against us beforehand. We may disagree with Pope Gregory's decisions in the past but let us not forget that he still is a mighty man and his word holds sway over the various Christian rulers of Europe. Incurring their wrath is something that we can not allow in our current situation. Our armies may be strong and able to defeat our foes even though they outnumber us, but were half of Western Europe arrayed against us, no courage and no bravery would save us.
I urge you Electors to consider these things, before you propose actions that lead us towards excommunication or even dare to attack Rome itself!

Now, the matter at hand is the war with the Milanese and you know that I want them wiped off the face of this earth. But we have to be careful. Patience is a virtue that we should not discard. An attack against the city of Milan is vital in our current situation. The attack on Bern can not be unavenged and the Duchies capital is under-defended and well within striking distance of our armies. An army from Innsbruck under Otto von Kassel joined by forces from Bologna should be able to attack the city within two turns. This should be our only offensive action against the Milanese for now. It will anger the Pope enough, of that I'm sure, but if we are fast he won't threaten with excommmunication until after Milan is firmly under our control. With the head of the Milanese snake cut off, we can rest back and allow Pope Gregory his will and let the Milanese come at us.

I think the essence of my intentions can be summarized by two Edicts.
Edict 3.6: The Chancellor has to avoid excommunication to the best of his abilities, by agreeing to the following: No offensive war may lead to excommunication and no attack on Rome is to be made.
Edict 3.7: A combined army under the lead of Otto von Kassel is to attack and take Milan as soon as possible.

Our other military forces should stay put and ward our borders. The Milanese may very well try to attack Bern castle once again and it would be a shame if Count Sigismund were halfway on his way to Dijon instead of putting his capacities towards the defense of Bern.
Me, I will stay in Vienna and amass a sizeable enough force to persuade any would-be attacker into rethinking his ambitions. I don't know what our allies are up to, marching troops through our countryside,but rest assured that I will watch them closely and destroy them utterly should they seek harm for the Reich.

Furthermore, I second Edicts 3.1 and 3.2.

Leopold looks around the Assembly quietly, passing each of the Houses with his glance to drive home the points he just made, before taking a deep breath and continuing a note mor jovially.

Maximilian Mandorf raises a valid point concerning a flaw in our current Charter and I have to agree with him. I second Charter Amendment 3.1.
While we are at the matter of Charter Amendments I'd like to put another small piece of legislation forward to this Diet. The late Second Elector of Austria Conrad von Schüsselen has thought up this Amendment, after discussions revolving around the distribution of settlements have arisen during our first Diet session. I owe it to this esteemed member of the House of Austria to at least present his deliberations to this Diet.
While we were able to agree on a common course during our first discussion, much of it revolved around the Kaiser following notions put forward in the Diet. While noble in thought it does not give any guarantees in case a Kaiser would be unwilling to listen to the Diet.
That's why I would like to put the following up for discussion:

Charter Amendment 3.2:
The House of Austria proposes a Charter Amendment which will anull §5.3 and change §4.3 to read the following:
"The allocation of settlements is decided upon in the Diet session that follows the capture of the settlement. Until then the captured settlement remains under direct control of the Reich. The voting for settlement allocation will follow these rules:
Each House has one vote, which will be placed by the respective Duke.
A majority is required for a settlement to be allocated to a specific House.
If there is a draw in votes, the Emperor may break the tie and grant the settlements to one of the tied Houses."

I would be especially interested in the oppinions of my father, Emperor Heinrich and my brother Henry who will eventually lead our glorious Reich as Kaiser. The intention behind the Amendment is not to wrest power from the Kaiser and give it to the Dukes, but to formalize the decision process for settlement allocations, while at the same time broadening the field of particpants to involve all parties concerned, equally. I'm looking forward to your honoured oppinions on all matters put forward by me and the House of Austria.

He bows slightly to the Assembly, before settling down again.

Prinz Henry: I would like to propose:

Charter Ammendment 3.3 Replace point 3.10 with

"Influential players get bonus votes (max +5 bonus)

Appointed Influence (Max 3 points):
Duke: +2
Count: +1
Chancellor, ex-Chancellor, or Prince: +1

Stat Influence (Max 2 points):
15 or more total stat points: +1 (I thought about a lower number, but all avatars are given a base 3 piety and base 5 loyalty, which means those points are freebies. So, 15 is only 7 from actual traits, plus the 8 piety and loyalty freebies)
6 or more ranks in one stat: +1 (In the unlikely scenario where a character gets 6 or more in 2 stats without having 15 total, they get this +1 twice)

The player who is Emperor gets bonus votes differently, being equal to his authority."

Replace 4.5 with:

"Counts are governors of their settlements. Dukes govern settlements that are allocated to their Houses but not to a Count. The Emperor governs settlements that are not allocated to any House."

OOC: These are TinCow's proposals already discussed OOC. Let's keep discussion of them there, but they should be seconded and voted on in the Diet.

The Second Elector of Swabia walks in with an walking cane, then sits down, where his Fellow Electors brief him on the situation
I see, I have no long speeh to bore you with, i have an short sentence to say. That is this; Sigismund der Stolze is an noble man, and he shall lead this empire onto glorius things. Just as kaiser Heinrich has done.He bows to the Kaiser I support the decision fully that the Count Sigismund should become Chancellor, thank you for listening
The Elector sat down, feeling his stomach where he was attacked

Prinz Henry: I am proud to support my adopted son and fellow Swabian, Count Sigismund, in his candidature for Chancellor. I believe a term of 20 years (10 turns) may be an appropriate term of office, given the rigours of war.

However, I confess, I am reluctant to sanction an attack on Rome at this stage. It is true that sooner or later, we - the Holy Roman Empire - must occupy Rome. It is only right and fitting. But I had thought that we should delay such a move, until we stand as the clear and unchallenged leader of Catholic Europe. At present, our position, although strong thanks to my father, remains fragile and I fear we could be torn down if our many Catholic neighbours all turn on us following our excommunication. As I have indicated before, I would prefer us to use the Papacy and benefit from the wave of religious zeal that is engulfing Europe.

In this respect, I see much tactical advantage in Sir Otto's proposal to sucker the Milanese into attacking us again repeatedly and let them become excommunicated. Were that to happen, we would be free to strike at all their cities without being ordered to desist by the Pope. And indeed, we could call a mighty crusade to crush Milan, attracting fine zealous fighters to our cause. I would ask Count Sigismund to ponder Duke Otto's strategy and perhaps see Milanese excommunication as the trigger that will allow him to achieve his rightful goal of crushing Milan without risking a wider conflagration.

I second Constitutional Ammendment 3.1. It is unjust that Bavaria is denied Counts due to the absence of a Duke. Remedying that injustice is a simple matter.

However, I strongly oppose Constitutional Ammendment 3.2. I confess, I do not see how this is supposed to work, given the naked conflicts of interests between the Dukes when making such decisions. In my mind, I have an image of a newly acquired settlement as a captured fox and see the Ammendment as proposing it be thrown to a pack of hounds. I fear hounds may behave decorously by comparison to how men will squabble over the division of the spoils. Such naked competition may foster conflict between Houses and division that weaken our empire.

It may be that the Dukes could come to some non-competitive solution - perhaps agreeing on an allocation on geographic lines. They may then come to behave less like hounds and more like those slothful reptiles from Africa and Asia who lie idly even when thrown fish or meat. Such an outcome may rob the Empire of some of its dynamism - Houses will no longer have to distinguish themselves to achieve rewards. Or it may skew our statecraft so that it becomes directed towards territorial expansion in the area of influence assigned to the most politically powerful House.

So, fellow Electors, I have deep unease with Ammendment 3.2. I would prefer to see the Emperor remain free to reward Houses with settlements. He will allocate them as he judges fairest and most conducive to the good of the Empire. Aside from anything else, the Ammendment would seem to rob my father of his one real power and reduce our Empire to something more properly corresponding to a Republic, albeit one fractured on geographic lines. We have constructed a more subtle system of checks and balances, with a separation of powers. I would like to see evidence of the system failing before supporting such sweeping change.

Prinz Henry sits down, then Sir Otto approaches and whispers something in his ear. Henry thinks for a moment, then rises again.

On reflection, I second Edict 3.4.

Kaiser Heinrich:

This is not the time to make use of tactical maneuvering or diplomacy. This may shock the Diet, I know, but now is the time for something different.

In the twilight of my Chancellorship, the Pope had the audacity to twice -twice! - violate the Empire's borders and instruct me on how to conduct diplomacy. He flaunts his power and authority openly. He knows that we have not the resources to seriously challenge him, so he prances through Imperial territory with the largest army he can find, knowing we can do nothing. The Milanese, our former subjects, seek to now make us their subjects. They have brazenly besieged Bern, which we at the time had just conquered.

Now is the time to show the world our power.

I admit, good Electors, that I am to blame for the reason that we have had to reclaim our glory in the first place. I have made some errors in the past, if you will. The Investiture Controversy threatened to shatter our Reich and change the way Europe has worked forever - in a way the second scenario has already happened. However, I do believe that the actions that this Diet and I have taken in my just-concluded Chancellorship have prevented the gradual crumbling of this great nation.

What we have accomplished in the previous years is no small feat. Under my Chancellorship, we have doubled in size. We have grown in power, and we have financially stabilized ourselves. Why should we still be taking orders from Pope Gregory and fighting passively against the Milanese? These people had the nerve to attack us, to publicly humiliate us! We must strike back with a fury. We do this so that all the world knows that they are subservient to us!

I remind the Diet that we have been given an oppurtunity to shine on the world's stage with the Milan and Papal situation. I beg to them that we do not squander it.

If we properly make a statement now, then I assure you, we will have to worry about very little for quite a long time.

Edict 3.8: Milan is to be crushed by an offensive campaign, one that does not wait for Papal opinion or any other outside factor to strike. Kaiser Heinrich is to have a major role in this campaign.

Edict 3.9: Edict 1.1 is hereby repealed.

I second Edict 3.5 and Charter Amendments 3.1 and 3.3.

I also support good Sigismund der Stolze in his bid for Chancellorship. May he lead this Reich into a golden age more golden than the world has ever seen.

Maximillian Mandorf jerks to his feet with a gleem in his eye, his arm snapping into a stern military salute.

Mein Kaiser! I can walk!

Mandorf pauses and shakes his head from side to side, as if he had walked into a spiderweb.

...my...apologies... gentlemen. I do not know what came over me.

Mandorf regains his composure and continues.

Kaiser Heinrich shows the courage of a true Emperor! We must seize the opportunity presented to us and strike deeply into the hearts of our enemies. We must, of course, despose of the rebellious Milanese, but if we do so and leave the Usurper intact, he will send another one of his subjugated Kings against us. If the Reich is ever to be truly secure, we must ensure that the Papal throne is fully within Imperial control.

Some of you propose restraining our assault, fearing the Usurper's power. Some of you want immediate action. I believe there may yet be a way to assail Rome without provoking severe retaliation from those Catholics who have bent knee to the false Pope. I have heard rumors that the Pope is considering calling a great Crusade to return the eastern lands to Catholic control. I feel as if this event is over-due and may well be called soon. Once the Pope calls for this mass campaign, he will be unable to assemble sufficient resources to ask for a second one against us!

We should move against the Milanese now, restraining our wrath only on the threat of immediate excommunication. Yet, once Gregory's Crusade is launched, we should strike at all remaining Milanese forces and then take on Rome itself. We will certainly be excommunicated by the false Pope, but with all of his followers responding to his first call to arms, no friendly nation will raise arms against us. Perhaps some may take advantage of our disfavor to attack, but any who would do so would likely strike soon anyway.

Let us destroy the Milanese and return Rome to the Empire! As a final measure, it would be my dying wish to see the Kaiser himself cross the floor of the holy basilica in Rome. Let us send a message to all Christendom that the laws of God cannot be violated!

Edict 3.10: If Rome is assaulted and Kaiser Heinrich is alive, he must lead the attack.

Kaiser Heinrich:

Naturally, I second Edict 3.10. I would be honored to fully redeem myself.

I remind the Electors that if they agree with Edicts it is not enough that they vocally support them, but officially second them. Otherwise the scribes could get confused.

Standing slowly the 4th Elector of House Austria composes himself for a moment:

Kaiser Heinrich, Prinz Henry, Dukes of the Realm, fellow electors,

Gazing out the great window above the heads of the assembled nobles, the 4th elector says absently

Attack Rome you say...

Very few things in life are absolute gentlemen, however, if we attack Rome, then this course of action will provide for some absolutes in our life time.

Raising his voice and beginning to pace in front of the Austrian benches the 4th Elector continues

First, WE WILL BE EXCOMMUNICATED...fact!

Second, our Reich and the people WE lead will question us and our actions...we will need to spend far more resources controlling our own population than we currently do....fact!!

Third, we will be surrounded by 7 Catholic nations of which only 1 is not able to attack us with the Pope’s backing. The military options open to our enemies will be unlimited. Are we really in a position to conduct a potential war on such a scale?

Fourth, our trade and current financial status will drop sharply.

The pacing continues, however his voice lowers to a normal level again

Without try to sound like a bore my lords, WHY are we considering attacking the Pope?

Forgive me if I am not overly impressed by the words of outrage and such. Whether we like it or not, the POPE is the POPE. Spitting in his face, taking his city, slapping his arse will not change that!!

To openly defy him has never brought ANY nation ANY benefits. Are we not able to learn from the past? Is anyone able to outline ONE benefit to this Diet?

I think it`s time gentlemen, to put aside our personal ambitions, our hidden agendas, our outrage and our egos and keep in mind the normal people of our realm, and THEIR condemnation of US if we were to take this course.

Stopping for the moment and standing quite still, the 4th Elector smiles to the gathered nobles

I personally think it's time we cease drinking the Absinth Duke Leopold has brought back from Prague...go outside and do one of the following things...or, both if they really take your fancy...

...strip yourselves naked, and have each of your page man throw a bucket of cold water on you from the battlements...or, go to the jousting range and have Helmut, our local jousting champion, slam his lance once or twice against your Great Helms, and NOOO, that’s NOT the great helm on your head gentlemen...I mean the OTHER great helm we all have!!

I say this my lords, because it’s that level of pain and suffering the people of our nation will surely feel if we allow our secular ambitions to convince us, that attacking Rome is in the best interests of this Reich and the people we have the privilege to govern.

I therefore second edicts 3.4, 3.6, 3.7 and Charter Amendment 3.3

My God rest our souls!!!

Otto looks tired. Over the course of the speeches calling for an assault on Rome he has sunk lower and lower in his chair. After hearing the speech of the newest member of the Diet, Otto seems to come to a decision. Clenching his jaw he rises to speak:

My lords, before I return to the topic that seems to have dominated this session let me propose a somewhat unrelated edict:

Edict 3.11: The Chancellor will endeavor to construct naval forces capable of blockades and transport of mid-sized armies in the Baltic and especially the Mediterranean. Dukes and Counts are encouraged by the Diet to build port facilities in their domains, if applicable.

What ever course we choose fellow electors, we are no longer an inland Empire. Our current and future foes will posses navies, and we must build one of our own for both offensive and defensive actions.


As much as I would like to leave this topic behind me forever, I must return to this Rome adventure.

Otto pauses, a picture of confliction, he takes a deep breath and speaks again:

I hope you understand, my fellow electors, that my opposition to seizing Rome and our subsequent excommunication stems from my opinion of what is best for the Reich at this time, and not any sort of regard for Pope Gregory himself. I respect the power of the office, not the occupant.

This reckless scheme would perhaps not fill me with so much dread if those who proposed it had a specific plan in mind for the aftermath. My Steward's thoughts on using a Crusade as cover for our actions are clever, but we do not know when this will occur. How long will we wait under Interdiction Maximillian?

What would we do after taking Rome and "deposing" the current Pope? We would still be excommunicated, we would still be at war with the Papal States and most likely a few other Catholic nations. We have no Cardinals among the Preferati, so we cannot guarantee a friendly replacement. What do you think would happen if a Milanese Cardinal was elevated to the throne of Peter!?

The next Pope would most likely still oppose our war with Milan and we would find ourselves back in a similar situation. So the way I see it is, we invade Rome, suffer excommunication, and possibly bring the combined forces of the Catholic world down on our Empire, and for what? Revenge against one man. . .one man. This is hubris.

So I ask you Kaiser Heinrich, Count Sigismund, and Steward Mandorf what do we do after you have had your vengeance? How will we restore our relations with the Church and our fellow Catholic nations? What will be the final price for your pound of flesh?

I await your answers.

But know this, no matter the outcome, I serve the Empire!

Otto sits, miserable and clearly drained.

Duke Leopold has been shaking his head to the speeches following his and now finally, after Otto von Kassel has spoken, a thin smile creeps on his features. His hand steepled in front of his face, his gaze travels to the mentioned persons, awaiting a response.

Prinz Henry: Thanks to the sterling efforts of Gunther of Eichstadt (dlain), a list of current edicts and ammendments has been posted at the front of the Diet:

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showp...92&postcount=1

(I also note that I second Edicts 3.6 and 3.11).

The closing time for seconding edicts will be Thursday 9am UK time. There will then be a 24 hours period of voting.

Otto, his head in his hands, glances up and sees the smile on Duke Leopold's face. Trembling with rage, he leaps up, nearly knocking his desk over.

Ah, yes, I had almost forgotten! Duke Leopold please take my name off of edict 3.7! I will not be your catspaw! It's the same trick von Schusslen tried years ago. We agree on Rome and Milan, my lord, but not much else.

Otto sits again, rubbing his right temple and muttering to himself.

(OOC: Gunther von Kastilien is Dutch_guy. Dlain is Otto von Kassel.)

Maximillian Mandorf meets Duke Leopold’s gaze, unblinking.

Excommunication…
Vengeance against one man…

These are statements of fear and submission. One the subject of excommunication, there are only two issues; our immortal souls and the consequences in this life. The former will not be imperiled, as Gregory is a False Pope, without the blessing of God. His words and deeds carry no influence in the Heavens. However, it is wise to take the latter into consideration before acting.

As has been stated, there will be turmoil within the Empire and without. We can certainly expect those who have fallen under the sway of the false Pope to cause trouble in our cities, but this is of little concern to us. Many of our provinces are castles, which will have no problems controlling such individuals. Our cities are for the most part extremely well governed and controlled. Few, likely none, would even require a reduction in taxes to keep the citizens content.

Of our neighbors, few have any real potential of harming us. Poland and Venice are our allies. They will not strike at us. Milan will soon be crushed no matter what. Denmark has little power to speak of and I am certain that the most noble House of Franconia could seize their lands in short order if called upon to do so. Despite all of the concerns raised over the many enemies that would attack us, there are really only two nations which have the potential to cause us problems: Hungary and France.

Our borders with France are minimal and they in turn share borders with 5 other nations, excluding ourselves. I find it hard to believe that they would choose to attack the strongest of their neighbors, given their situation. Hungary, however, is of legitimate concern. We have already seen their armies prowling around Vienna. It is clear that they desire the wealth of the Empire. I believe they will strike us no matter what we do. As such, moving against the Pope does not put us in any worse a situation than we are currently in.

On the contrary, I believe taking Rome now will be of great advantage to us. If we do not return the Papal throne to Imperial control, we will be bending knee to every whim of every Pope for the next thousand years! If the Pope were a properly ordained and appointed man, then we would have to respect his orders. Gregory is not such a man! He is invalid and his laws are invalid. He will do everything in his power to obstruct us and the rightful order and his successors will likely do the same.

If we move on Rome now, we will perhaps experience short-term difficulties, but in the long-term we will benefit the Empire. If we coordinate our assaults properly, Gregory’s army can be destroyed and Rome itself can be seized in a very short period of time. Once this is achieved, we can then create a new home for the Papacy in a place of our choosing. This will make the next Pope extremely grateful to us and put him physically within our control. Surely the Emperor will approve of his appointment beforehand, thus making his rulings valid law which we must obeyed. The Empire can then freely donate money to the Church knowing that it will be spend in God’s work rather than funding a minion of Satan.

As for where to locate the new Papacy… I would be willing to give up Nuremburg itself for the properly appointed Holy Father. Nuremburg is completely surrounded by the Empire, ensuring that our control over the Pope will never again be questioned. While Nuremburg is a beautiful city and a current financial center to our economy, it is landlocked and has limited trade potential in the long-run. Any loss of income from Nuremburg will surely be negligible in comparison to the prosperity we will gain from Rome itself.

I propose that we continue with the planned attack on Milan and wait to see if there is a call for Crusade from the Pope. If the Crusade is called, we should then immediately assault the Eternal City and the Pope’s forces with all available strength. If the call for Crusade does not come by the mid-term session, we can discuss whether or not to proceed at that point.

The coming years will likely result in many unpredictable events. I have been loathe to formalize this strategy into an Edict, but it appears that for clarity it might be necessary. I do not believe this Edict is necessary for this plan to succeed, but I shall propose it anyway to allow for proper discussion.

Edict 3.12: The Reich will immediately and aggressively attack Milan, ceasing the assault only under threat of immediate excommunication from Gregory. If a Crusade is called before the Diet session of 1140, the Reich will immediately and aggressively assault the Pope’s army, Rome, and any areas still under Milanese control. If a Crusade is not called before the Diet session of 1140, the assault on the Pope and Rome will be discussed again at that time.

Edict 3.13: If Rome is taken at any time during this Chancellorship, the Papacy will immediately be given a new home that is within Imperial control. In that event, an Emergency Session of the Diet will be called to determine which province is to be donated. As the Pope will then once again be approved by the Kaiser, regular funding will be properly given to the Church to allow it to continue God’s works.

Do not shy away from difficult times, my fellow noblemen. We will be opposed, to be sure, but we pursue a holy cause, ordained by God. Let us weather the difficulties so that we may restore Heaven’s influence on earth and benefit the Reich for centuries to come.

Mandorf crosses himself and sits down.