Imperial Diet II

I second Edict 7.4 as my scribes inform me it should be counted. I urge you to support this notion. I have found it to be a major hindrance during my last Chancellorship that our navies were close to nonexistant. We need to reestablish our naval supremacy and at the least be able to defend our ports and waters. If I hadn't been preoccupied with mustering enough armies to defeat our enemies on land I would have followed this closer during my term. I think this is a good proposal to be followed by the future Chancellor.

I would like to second Edict 7.4 as well. Due to the fact that our crusaders will most likely start fighting in the next chancellorship with the possibility of conquering multiple cities, our crusader state shall need reinforcements as sufficient military infrastructure is built within the Holy Lands for the states to support themselves. Walking to the Levant by land takes too long and may even cause conflict with other nations. Should our naval power be poor, our troops may be shipped without sufficient guards and be destroyed by infidels with superior fleets.

I make this proposal with the intent of updating some old legislation to accurately reflect the current situation. I understand that uses up m personal edict, but it has been discussed.


Edcit 7.5:

Edict E1.7 shall be re-written from:

For the duration of the Crusade, the Reich will refrain from conquering any Catholic settlement and instead focus on defending the borders from outside attack and developing our provinces. This Edict does not apply to Thorn, Venice, Marseille and Breslau, nor does it apply to any settlement of the Reich which is captured by our enemies. Additionally, should the HRE be attacked by any nations it is not at war with at the time of the attack, one (1) settlement may be annexed from that nation of the Chancellor's choice.

to read:

For the duration of the Crusade, the Reich will refrain from conquering any Catholic settlement and instead focus on defending the borders from outside attack and developing our provinces. This Edict does not apply to Marseille, Ragusa and Breslau, nor does it apply to any settlement of the Reich which is captured by our enemies. Additionally, should the HRE be attacked by any nations it is not at war with at the time of the attack, one (1) settlement may be annexed from that nation of the Chancellor's choice.

I urge all electors to support this modest expansion that ensures the safety of the riech and wil prevent us from being doomed for all eternaty to hell.

Gunther speaks:

My lord will second Edict 7.5

It is part of his goals for his candidacy and will serve to shorten the borders of the Reich, make them more defensible and provide a port closer to the Holy Land.

I ask that another Elector comes forward to second, so that the Diet may vote on this important matter.

The Austrian Elector stands...

I second Edict 7.5 it keeps to the spirit of the original Edict and will offer security for our borders.

Dukes of the Reich, Counts and Electors,

Greetings from Venice!!

Duke Otto must be commended for his well thought out plans and policies.

I will whole heartedly support his quest for being the next Chancellor of the Holy Roman Empire.

Duke Ulrich,

How would we reconcile with the Pope when you suggest actively attacking other Christian Nations? There is a ground swell of support for our reconciliation as you can well see, your proposal is going to directly prevent us from reaching our aim.

A defensive posture in Europe must be maintained and the edicts should support this.

If war is what you wish for, then make haste and join the Crusade. Having passed through the holy lands recently I am total sure there will be more blood shed that anyone can believe in the next few decades in this part of the world!!

Making war in Europe is counter productive. Trying to trade when everyone around you thinks you are going to hell is extremely difficult gentlemen. As the Count of Venice you are tying both arms and one leg behind my back…the potential for our nation to acquire wealth is enormous, but it will remain unrealised until we are back in the fold of the Pope's good graces.

All relevant edicts have been seconded so I await any further edicts for my consideration.

At this time I would like the Lords of this Diet to think about formulating an edict that organises legislation based on a report I sent recently to a number of Dukes.

“My travels have shown that our goods are especially valuable in regions far removed from our own. I can recommend any two or three merchant caravans be sent to the furthest reaches of Russia, South Western Africa and also sent with the crusade to the Holy Lands. Any of these locations will prove very lucrative to our Imperial coffers. Be warned my Lords. In these remote parts of the world our merchants must be very canny and resourceful. Foul means are employed by many nations and I have had many “near fatal” encounters. Our merchants must be of sufficient skill such as myself to avoid meeting an untimely end”.

I would also like to point out that I completely understand Lord Mandorfs position regarding further violence towards the papacy.

I would like to implore all of you to find alternative methods other than violence in achieving our aims.

To my Duke Leopold, I would like to once again state my gratitude for bestowing Venice to me.

As such I would like to invite the attending Lords to my newly appointed Estate after these Diet proceedings. Carriages will be waiting outside immediately after we have finished.

2nd Elector Austria, Count of Venice.

Ah, Dear 2nd Elector,

The passings of the last months have made one important official announcement within this Diet chamber slip my mind.

The 2nd, Third and Fourth Electors of Austria have been granted the title of Count for the respective settlementsof Venice, Zagreb, and Prague! This is to reward their outstanding service for the Reich in general and Austria in particular.

Another thing that I have missed and now like to put forward is the following Edict:

Edict 7.6:

To ease our relations with the Byzantine Empire an additional 400 florins per turn for a period of 10 turns will be given to our allies. This is to make up for the inconvenience caused by our Crusading Armies. This applies if no Military Access can be achieved with moderate means.


I urge the next Chancellor to follow this proposal even if my late proposing is slimming the chance of seconders. It is important that we don't alienate our allies more than absolutely necessary. Our relations are already at a low point and we have to redeem this situation.

I also like to add my support for Edict 7.5.

Diet Speaker: The list of Edicts has been updated. Voting will begin at 9pm (UK time) tonight.

Gunther nods toward Duke Leopold:

It is true that the Byzantines are displeased by the presence of the Crusade on their soil. Duke von Kassel has informed me, however, that our forces will be leaving their lands in 2 to 4 years.

The Duke would very much like to support our allies, but the possible passage of edict 7.3 could place an enormous strain on Imperial finances. Whoever becomes Chancellor would need flexibility to spend florins as needed, with as few mandated commitments as possible.

As the Byzantines do not neighbor us and the Crusade will be outside their territory soon, my lord does not view this as a high priority. He would support the edict if the sum was lower, perhaps 200 florins a year. I, personally, do not like to quibble over such a small difference but it would save 2000 florins.

I have made the expierence that the 200 florins we are giving them now hardly make any difference. If we truly want to better our relations with the Byzantines we should go all the way and donate at least 400 florins. Adding another 200 won't make much difference. So either we give them enough to make a difference or we don't give them anything.

My Lords, Gentlemen,

I would like to second edict 7.6

I'm sure under my tutelage Venice can foot the bill for such a small sum.

I would also like to propose the following edict;

Edict 7.7

A "Holy" flotilla is to be created of such size and strength as to secure safe passage for at least 5 priests. Secure and safe size means more than 5 ships. Once both groups are created they must then leave for the Holy Land in support of our Crusade. This will ensure our advancement in the Colleague of Cardinals over a period of time.

This edict can be repeated as necessary to ensure ongoing presence and advancement in the Colleague of Cardinals over time.

Gunther speaks again:

I will second edict 7.7 as it is consistent with my Master's stated goals. Though it might take a while to assemble the needed ships, as they are expensive when compared to recruiting a priest into the Imperial service.

I also hope that this will satisfy 7.1 as well.

Yes I would agree with you Gunther.

The ships are on the agenda regarding the fleet edict, so it is more a combination of both edtics to ensure we have a long term plan to ensure we elevate our standing in the Colleague of Cardinals no matter what the outcome of our Crusade.

Ideally the priests would make use of the ships once they become available in sufficient numbers. The fleets are the priority in order to protect our habours, but once they are large enough we can then begin production to fullfil this edict and to send a consitent number of priest to the Holy Land until such time as our Crusading army can establish a foot hold and educate our priest locally.

*A minor Bavarian noble from Nuremburg stands up.*

I believe Edict 7.7 is consistent with my Count's policies. Accordingly, using the authority given to me by Count Mandorf, I will also second it.

Austrian electors stands....

I would like to second Duke Leopold's Edict 7.6 to be brought to a vote.

Sits back with the Austrian delegation, though the Count of Prague is conspicuously absent and there is some concern to.....

Raising his head from a document he is reading

I don't mean to be rude my Lords...but where in god great earth are the Franconians??

Have they all been slaughtered by rabid Polish pigs, or have we all come to the wrong hall??

Congradulations to Chancellor Otta Von Kassel and his election victory, may fortune smile on the riech.

Diet Speaker: Indeed, congratulations to our new Chancellor! This 7th full session of the Diet is closed, although we may expect to hear from the Chancellor once he has become fully acquainted with our situation.

Gunther rises to read a letter from Otto von Kassel:

Greetings Prinz Jobst and my fellow Electors. News of the election has reached me in Anatolia and I am honored and humbled by your decision to make me Chancellor. The messenger I sent with this letter will first reach Duke Leopold outside Zagreb, and he has been ordered to engage the Hungarians, I'm sure he has crushed them. Once that is done, Count Gerhard Steffen and the Count of Venice will combine forces to meet the Venetians who are marching, once again, on their former capital. I am confident those stubborn merchants will, once again, come to grief in northern Italy.

Now that I am Chancellor, let me spell out how I will proceed.

First, with the passage of Edicts 7.2 and 7.3, I will pursue immediate negotiations with Pope Filippus. The second part of 7.2 will not be enforced unless I have a viable plan in place to achieve reconciliation. I will keep an eye on the progress of the Sicilian Cardinal in the College. All possible paths to reconciliation will be pursued, but I ask for the patience of the Diet. This is a thorny and complicated matter, and an immediate solution might not be possible. However, in accordance with 7.1 and 7.7, I will begin to recruit priests immediately.

In order to increase our negotiating power, I must keep a reserve of florins in the treasury. This could delay other projects, particularly in the first years of my term. It is necessary, however, though I do apologize for the inconvenience.

Second, the Crusade will proceed to the Holy Land through Anatolia. As soon as a diplomat can meet with the Byzantines, I will fulfill 7.6. This may take a while, but the Crusade will leave their territory shortly, and I hope this will lessen the chance for conflict.

Third, when funds are available I will bring more merchants into Imperial service. I will recruit them in cities that have the appropriate guild. I have asked Gunther to conduct a survey of guilds in the Reich, that way our agent recruitment will be more efficient. Once recruited, these merchants will develop their skills on local resources and then, when ready, they will be dispatched to trade more exotic and lucrative goods.

Fourth, again when the funds are available, I will fulfill 7.4 and 7.7 by rebuilding our navies. They have fallen into disrepair since Chancellor der Stoltze created the Imperial Navy, and this will be remedied.

Fifth, I am recruiting a diplomat in Hamburg to seek peace with the English. I hope they will be in a receptive mood after being decimated by Count von Hamburg. Good relations with our allies and non-hostile neighbors will be maintained when there are opportunities to do so.

Sixth, with the revision of E1.7 by edict 7.5 in place, I will seek to stabilize the frontiers of the Reich. The first steps in this process will be the conquests of Breslau and Ragusa. However, if our current settlements are threatened, their defense will take priority. Also, that skillful and obstinate French spy must be eliminated in Dijon to help free up Swabian forces.

Of course, our enemies will have some say in these matters, and plans may change as events dictate. Still, with Imperial bravery and skill, we will triumph.

Godspeed good Electors,

Chancellor von Kassel

A messanger arrives from Venice

My Lords,

I wish to congratulate our new Chancellor, Duke von Kassel!!

Having said that, the turn of events from merchant to the Count of Venice has been extreme to say the least. Russia now seems safe in comparison.

I have sent one of my most trusted Captains to assist Count Steffan in destroying the Venitian army.

Good luck and good hunting Count Steffan.

Prinz Jobst stands and whispers

A good battle for Chancellorship that one was...

Jobst's feelings within show quickly, but is covered by a beaming smile

I like this idea of a fleet, we need more safer,secure waters, so when we assure Trade Rights over water it is no longer declined in fear of pirates.

I will also send a message to the Crusaders urging them to hurry up, as oter nations might get there first!

Gunther stands, bows to the Prinz and speaks:

Ah, ummm yes. . .well, your Highness, the Crusade isn't sanctioned by the Church due to our umm. . .status. So no other Catholic nations are taking part.

My lord has assured me, that if we are reconciled that he will seek an official Crusade as soon as our standing within the Church is high enough to do so. At that point, if it happens, we will have quite the head start over the other nations.

Without stand, Jobst speaks

Oh, I see...

All the same it is fortunate that we have no competors.

But I still wonder, do we go on this 'Crusade' to gain the liking of the Catholic Church, or is it for personal glory?

As if its for the liking of the Ope, then we have a very small chance of pleasing him. If its for personal glory, then I wish you more luck in that grassless country.

Gerhard Steffen walks in covered in blood from head to toe. He throws a scroll on the table showing the preliminary battle results.

"Every last one of the Venetian Rebels foolish enough to take up arms against the riech have been executed, that should teach the bastards"

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

http://www.imagehosting.com/out.php/...venice16bb.JPG

Duke Ulrich Hummel angriliy gets to his feet and glares at the Chancellor.

Mein Chancellor Otto, you are a dummkopf if you think France is no threat! Swabians are dying relentlessly for no purpose, other than to drive the Franks from our lands. I cannot stand by and allow you to give the French no retribution for Sigismund's death. Indeed, you are doing the opposite! You are allowing them to pillage our lands.

I feel disgusted at the "wise" electors that pass edicts harnessing retribution for a murdered elector who once led this Reich.

Duke Ulrich motions to Prinz Jobst to take his place as he storms out of the Diet.

The Count of Venice stands to speak

Lord Gerhard,

My man has sent a message to your quarters regarding my most humble gratitude.

You victory has been the total annihilation of the Venetians forces on the main land.

I thank you for your service to the Reich.

My dear Duke Ulrich,

as one of the Reich's "wise" electors, it has never been my intention for you to be disgusted. I'm sure in due course the French will feel the might of the Reich. For the moment though things will have to remain as they are.

*the messenger, receiving yet another letter, looks highly nervous before addressing the diet*

Ermm my noble men, my Count wishes to ask whether it was... wise to pay the English a total of 18500 florins for an alliance after they had attacked us and we are even allowed to take one of their cities? Would a lower amount not have sufficed?

OOC: The balance on that was very generous. Generous alone would have raised the relations and made em accept. Could have saved over 4-5k florins!

Gerhard Steffen

I got your message Count, and thank you again.

Good luck to the Franconian armies pursuing the polish in the north.

Peace with the English was expensive, I genuingly hope that it was worth it.

With the English as our allies, we might even be able to get them to attack the treacherous French and teach them a lesson.

Gunther of Eichstadt speaks to the Diet:

An interesting proposal Elector of Swabia. I am sure my master will pursue it in the next year. We shall see if the long standing enmity between the English and French can be exploited.

Yes, the alliance was expensive, but I can assure the Diet that the Chancellor drove as hard a bargain as he could. The English were loathe to ally with us and any protracted negotiations could have resulted in failure.

My lord hopes that this alliance will benefit us spiritually as well as temporally, and that is why he sought it.

As for Duke Hummel's withdrawal from the Diet, I hope he is aware of the steps that have been taken to reinforce the Swabian Household Army and to root out the French spy in Dijon. None of the Duchies stand alone.

Prinz Jobst stands, staring at Gunther of Eichstadt,then speaks quietly
Hm, this is much appreciated... we know no house stands alone, its just the favour of all.
Jobst clears his throat and speaks aloud

We offered all of those florins for a say of word!? They shall break the alliance easily!!! They should've cpme begging on their knees before we even THOUGHT of an alliance!!!

Jobst sits angrily

It is well known that the English and French have thier differneces, one aspect missing is the fact that the English also have a long boarder with the Danes, I'm sure this could be put to our advantage.

*A Bavarian nobleman stands, his eyes blurry with tears of joy.*

Peace! Peace at last! We are reconciled with the Pope and returned to the community of God! All praise is due to Chancellor von Kassel for seeing to end of our exile from the light of Christ! I must notify my lord Mandorf of this immediately!

*The man rushes from the room. A faint, receding cry of "Peace! Peace!" hangs in the air to show his passing.*

*Shifting through several letters that recently arrived from the crusader camp, the messenger addresses the diet*

My dear lords. My count wishes to congratulate the chancellor officially on his feat to reconcile us. He wishes to also ask the diet to join him in his call to have the pope call a true crusade towards Jerusalem.

Duke Leopold rises from his stand, applauding loudly!

Praise the Almighty!

Duke Otto von Kassel has succeeded where I have failed. I have had my doubts about the costly alliance with the English, but the diplomatic skill of our Chancellor seems to be superb. Fourty Years of damnation and purgatory have passed over our lands, but now we are finally back in the graces of Christendom!
I can only pray that this will help end our wars with our Christian neighbours.

I support the Chancellor in any peace negotiations he will make in the future. Approach the Venetians, approach the Poles, the Milanese and the French! Peace can be had at last and we can focus on saving our souls. I will gladly end the siege of Ragusa, if it brings us peace with Venice.

I congratulate Chancellor von Kassel once more on his accomplishment!

A confident smile on his face and looking visibly reliefed he sits back down again.

Riding up to the doors of the Diet Chamber, the Count of Venice leaps of his steed and roughly embraces Duke Leopold. Realising his catastrophic break of protocol he quickly steps away from the Duke with a shocked wide eyed expression...

...he begins to speak...stops...starts...stops...then simply waits...for a reaction

Jobst stands, smiling broadly

Finnally, a light amongst the dark clouds! If Hungary or Poland or France attacks us again, then their the ones excommunicated!!

Jobst looks at Hans Messenger

The idea seems very good, if we get a Offical one then we can gain even more popularity!

Gerhard Steffen

A Stroke of Pure Genius Chancellor Von Kassel. Reconciled without giving up any land is quite amazing.

Gunther reads a message from the Chancellor:

Electors of the Reich,

It is indeed good news that we are reconciled. It is a joy to be savored. Yet as Chancellor I must now consider the practical aspects of our readmittance into the Church.

We must now take into account the opinion of Pope Lanbertus on any actions we might take. Several of our enemies stand higher in his favor than we do, the French and Venetians for example. If we wage an aggressive war outside our current territory with them, we risk excommunication again. This cannot happen!

We have two options available to us, we strike quickly enough and take what we can before a Papal edict compels us to stop, or we engage in an active defense against these powers. Eventually, if they continue attacking us, their standing with the Church will fall, and they themselves may be excommunicated. Both strategies have worked for us in the past.

The conquest of Marseille and Breslau may have to be delayed while we pursue the latter option. Ragusa is the exception, I will attempt to have this lightly defended castle taken quickly before any outside interference can stop us. This will shorten our land border with the Venetians by hundreds of miles, deprive them of their major recruiting center, and will provide our closest port to the Holy Land. These strategic concerns outweigh the risk of displeasing the Pope. However, if ordered by the Pope to cease an attack, I will immediately do so.

Duke Leopold has spoken of seeking peace with many of the factions with whom we are currently at war. This is a noble goal, but I am not sure our peace with the English can be replicated. The English invaded us, we crushed their army, thanks to Count von Hamburg, and then they declared war on the Danes. Also we did not hold any of their territory. These unique factors, I believe, led them to seek peace with us.

The other nations we are feuding with, believe we hold territories that are theirs by the grace of God. The merchant republics still pine for their lost capitals, the Poles want Thorn, the French seem obsessed with Dijon. Even if we grind their armies into dust, peace negotiations with them will still be difficult, and may only serve to discourage our diplomats and blunt their skill. I will seek peace, but I will not give in to outrageous demands or give up one inch of the Empire. Nor have any of their diplomats approached me for peace in my term, though perhaps in Duke Leopold's.

As for calling an official Crusade, until I can send a diplomat to the Pope, this may not be possible. As I said before our standing with him may not be high enough. I will do what I can however. If the current Pope will not grant us a sanctioned Crusade, I am confident the next one will.

I too, would like to congragulate Chancellor Von Kassel for our reconciliation. Having been the spearhead of the army that brought the last pope's demise, I can say from first hand experience that getting reconciled is not an easy task and that althought the pope is a holy man, he is not feeble and ill suited for battle.

I urge all future chancellors and electors as well to carefully think of the consequences of their actions before engaging in any activity that may result in excommunication once again.

With us reconciled, I propose that a diplomat should be sent to the newly elected pope as soon as possible in order to restablish amicable relations. Should the pope like our diplomat enough, he may even be inclined to support our current crusade towards the Holy Lands.

Gunther is handed a message and he noticeably pales. With his shaking hands clutching the crumbled letter to his chest he speaks in a quavering voice:

Treachery! Foul betrayal. . .I direct the Diet to the latest update of the Chancellor's report. . .

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showp...&postcount=107

A Swabian page enters the shocked Diet and glances to the Speaker. Receiving permission to speak, he stands up.

Noble electors, I bear a letter from Duke Ulrich.

"Fellow Electors,
For too long have I borne the insult of Sigismund's death gone avenged. No matter what you may say, Sigismund shall be avenged! Before I am finished the whole of northern France shall be laid waster under the Swabian banner.

Ulrich Hummel, Duke of Swabia, Elector of the Holy Roman Reich."

The page bows, and exits the Diet.

prince Jobst stands, beaming, and bows his head, then quickly walks from the Imperial Diet, heading to Dijon to relieve the siege, and possibly crack a bottle of wine...

Standing to speak the Count of Venice raises his voice to harsh levels while turning to the Swabian benches

Has the House of Swabia and it's Duke gone completely insane!!!

Attacking France who is vastly more favored than ourselves after being freshly reconciled with the Papacy!!

I move we immediately sanction Duke Ulrich and strip him of all military forces until such time as he can follow orders, and NOT PLACE this Empire directly on the path of being excommunicated!!!

HIS actions have already been noted by our Cardinals and Bishops!! As of now I am receiving dozens of letters from our clergy and merchants regarding the matter!!

*A representative of the Count of Nuremburg stands.*

The Duke of Swabia's actions are an outrage to this Diet! They are made all the more insensible as he could have freely marched on Marseilles, if he so wished. His complaints about a lack of advance on the French are preposterous given this Diet's direct authorization of action against that city!

Duke Hümmel must be restrained immediately, in one manner or another! If the Chancellor cannot exercise his power over this betrayal of the Reich, I demand that the Kaiser call an Emergency Diet session, so that we can strip the Duke of Swabia of his army until such a time as he has repented for his treachery or died of old age!

Friedrich Scherer stands up after lurking around the Diet quietly

The French were treacherous pigs not unwilling to resort to treacherous strategies to win the war against us. While the other fronts were extremely active with immediate action against the Milanians and the Venetians at first and then proper defenses and counterattacks against the Polish, the western front has been neglected with only defensive measures taken. That could have been allowed and reasoned out if it weren't for the assassination of Sigsmund which required brutal revenge yet we have yet made any significant forays into French territory. The House of Swabia has stood down long enough and now we must seek for revenge and teach the French a lesson.

Friedrich Scherer quickly leaves afterwards

Conrad Salier:

Congratulations, Duke Ulrich. You have singlehandedly compromised the entire position of the Reich and have worked to undo what all of us have worked so hard to achieve these past years.

I too demand Kaiser Henry to call an emergency session for the specific purpose of censuring the Duke.

*The representative of the Count of Nuremburg stands again.*

This is preposterous! The Swabians did not even ask the Diet to approve the conquest of any French territories at the last session! The Austrians requested an alteration to the Edicts to allow for the conquest of Ragusa, and that request was granted easily. A similar edict proposal by any Swabian would likely have received the same level of support. It was only through their own laziness and negligence that such legislation was never proposed. Yet now they stand before us complaining of injustice and bias by the entire Diet!

Madness has overtaken the House of Swabia and the Imperial Diet must act! I demand an Emergency Session be called immediately to temproarily remove the Swabian Household Army from the command of any Swabian!

The Count of Venice stands again

The action of the Swabian house are totally selfish and without rational thought or reason!!

Sir Sigsmund was murdered 40 years ago!!!

Was anyone in the Swabian house even alive when it happened??!!

This thinly veiled attempt at destroying the wishes of the entire assembly is totally at odds with what has been written in the amendments and edicts of this body of lords!!

One can only wonder if the house of Swabia is working for some other party or realm, because it is certainly not the Holy Roman Empire.

If a few small extremest wish to carve out sheer lunacy then they should be expelled from the Diet and stripped of all titles and rank.

Using Sir Sigsmund's murder as a justifiable reason to conduct this course of action would have him turning over in his grave!! And I say this with all authority having meet the man numerous times!!

Any senior member of this Diet will confirm this.

An Emergency Session is needed forth with and action must be taken!!

Diet Speaker: The Kaiser is sympathetic to the calls for an Emergency Session of the Diet. His main priority at the moment is raising our standing with the Pope and offensive actions by Swabia against France are having the opposite effect.

However, the Kaiser is of the opinion that the Chancellor already has all the laws and powers he needs to curb the House of Swabia. If the Chancellor believes that an Emergency Session of the Diet is required to restore discipline, then it will be granted.

Otherwise, the Kaiser hopes that the House of Swabia will act with more restraint than it speaks in the Diet and bear in mind that any gains by conquest will be allocated at the Kaiser's discretion. If these hopes are not fulfilled and the Chancellor unable to restore control, then an Emergency Session will be called.

Right then...I guess we should all adjourn for lunch and take a moment to ponder our choices.

Of course the two members of Swabia who have their heads up each other back passages, might want to get their hands off each others todgers, put them firmly down their own trousers, and do something sensible at this moment in time, like take out their frustrations on their mistresses and not the heathen French scum!!

I look forward to the afternoon session with baited breath gentlemen.

Striding from the Diet Chamber the Count of Venice can be heard bellowing

Schultz!! Stutz!!

Get the rest of my blood sucking lawyers together...I have some work for you!!

Gunther looks nervously about the Diet and speaks:

Duke Hummel has disobeyed orders in a time of war and defied the will of the Diet, a serious offense. Yet the Duke will not be in violation of Edict E1.7 or CA 6.7 unless he takes Rheims. My master has written him to ask that he return to Metz. If he does so, then the Chancellor will consider the matter closed, though he cannot control the reaction of the Diet.

If, however, Duke Hummel continues with his siege and we receive a Papal bull forbidding an attack against France in the new year, my master will be forced to call for an emergency session. Does the Duke truly believe that he will receive better treatment from the Diet than the Chancellor?

The Rubicon has not been crossed just yet, but Duke Hummel is coming very close to mutiny and rebellion. The Chancellor asks that he step back from the abyss.

My lord believes the Swabian delegation is entitled to their opinions and while it is natural that they feel loyalty to their Duke, they also owe their fealty to the Reich. This is most true of Prinz Jobst. The Chancellor asks that he refrain from joining the Duke in any "independent" action.

*The Count of Nuremburg's representative gestures towards a figure at the back. A man in dark, gilded robes comes forward and exchanges a few words with the representative. He then turns to the Diet and clears his throat.*

As the legal representative of my Lord, Count Maximillian Mandorf, I have been asked to point our the legal situation as it pertains to Chancellor von Kassel's most recent statements. The applicable regulations in regards to this matter are found in subclause 4 of Charter Amendment 5.1, which reads as follows:

Quote:

---

4) At the beginning of each Diet session the Duke may assign general orders to the Household Army, which are to be carried out by the Chancellor. Between Diet sessions, any additional orders submitted by Dukes are to be implemented only at the Chancellor's discretion.

---

As you may note, the clause only requires the Chancellor to follow Ducal orders for the Household Armies when they are submitted in a timely manner, namely at the beginning of each Diet session. Orders submitted later can be followed at the Chancellor's discretion. We are all aware that Duke Hümmel did not submit orders for the Swabian Household Army in a timely manner. Therefore they could only have been carried out with the Chancellor's approval...

*The lawyer looks over at the Count of Nuremburg's representative, who nods sternly, clearly ordering the man to continue.*

...the Diet must conclude therefore that the Chancellor has given his tacit approval for this... maneuver... and...

*The lawyer starts to go pale and swallows audibly.*

...accordingly he may also be held accountable for the consequences of Duke Hümmel's actions. I hope this fact is considered by all parties to this dispute.

*The lawyer turns to sit, looking warily at the Chancellor's retinue. Suddenly he straightens and some light returns to his face.*

Ah, my lords, in light of my recent statements, perhaps it would be useful to point out another legal fact. Under subclause 8, the Chancellor has the authority to detach any units from the Household Army in excess of the minimum strength level for use elsewhere. This action does not require the permission of the Duke. Might I suggest that perhaps Chancellor von Kassel could give some emphasis to his warning to Duke Hümmel by reducing the Swabian Household Army to the minimum strength requirements allowed by law. Not only would this show that the Chancellor truly seeks to restrain the Swabian illegalities, but perhaps it would also make Duke Hümmel think twice about his actions, considering he would find himself isolated in enemy territory with an exceedingly small force to protect him.

*The Bavarian lawyer bows and sits down.*

Duke Leopold enters the Diet Chamber and after a brief discussion with his Houses members turns to face the Assembly.

I am honoured to announce that the mighty Venetian Fortress of Ragusa is now under Imperial control. I hope this puts a stop to the constant Venetian attacks on their former capital. While these are indeed good news it is another matter that brings me to this Diet today.

He turns to look at the Swabian benches.

I must follow the rest of the Diet in condemning Duke Hummels actions. They put us in peril of excommunication while violating our Charter and several Edicts! This madness had to be stopped as soon as possible. If the Swabian Duke were to follow through with his plan to conquer all of Norther France excommunication will be the result!

I can understand the feelings of the House of Swabia. I also had to endure numerous attacks from the Venetians, before I could finally strike back at them. But as others I believe that this Chamber should be a suitable enough forum for such concerns. A simple Edict calling for more offensive action against France could have done the job. No such Edict was laid before this Chamber. Instead Duke Hummel has decided to wage a private war against France that is not backed up by any Imperial authority.

As a result I already demand now that every land conquered through his unrighful actions shall be returned to France once this madness his over and his rampage is stopped. I have had my past differences with the House of Swabia, but I am not one to hold a grudge. This time they have gone to far though and have rightfully cast the Diets fury on themselves. I hope that this body will find the means to punish Duke Hummel and all his supporters for his insubordination!

*Two incredibly large Bavarians enter the Diet. They scan the room and quickly locate the Count of Nuremburg's representative. He stares wide-eyed at them, as they approach and grab him by the shoulders. The representative starts protesting in an increasingly high-pitched voice, but the men physically lift him and drag him from the room. As they pass the Bavarian lawyer, one of the men hands him a note. The lawyer, who is visibly shaken, scans the note quickly.*

It appears that some individuals have understood my recent words as implying that the Chancellor was somehow complicit in Duke Hümmel's treachery. That was not my intention and I apologize for the misunderstanding. The Chancellor is most highly respected in Nuremburg and Count Mandorf's staff are under strict orders to ensure that no slurs are made against him in this Diet.

*The lawyer glances back down at the parchment for a moment before continuing.*

I am authorized to say that Count Mandorf will fully support Duke Leopold's proposal that all lands illegally conquered by the Swabians be returned to France by diplomatic means. My Lord Mandorf himself has ordered that, in the event that Duke Hümmel attacks Rheims and an Emergency Diet Session is called, an Edict be proposed which will strip Swabia of all control over her own Household Army for a period of 20 years, in accordance with subclause 10 of Charter Amendment 5.1. My Lord Mandorf will also consider proposing measures that are even more harsh if he deems them to be necessary in the future.

Striding past the outward moving scrum of men and the ex-representative of the Count of Nuremburg, the Count of Venice indicates with a wave of his hand and is escorted into the chamber by four large unarmed men who look very Slavic in appearance. In addition there are 4 lawyers in his escort.

So I see the tension levels have risen.

Please note the four gentlemen here with me are Russian and they speak only their native language. Of course in my travels I have picked a few words of the language and they are under orders from me to ensure my liberty is maintained.

Raising an amused look to the departing representative of Nuremburg the Count continues

You might call it insurance to practice free speech if you will my lords

I also see my Lord Mandorf’s resources are far reaching enough to come to the same conclusions my own lawyers have here in Rome, minus of course the implied involvement of the Chancellor. I believe Lord Mandorf has made his feelings quite clear on the matter. The poor fellow seems to be in a spot of bother at this stage of his life.

If some representative of Swabia would be kind enough to relay these findings to Duke Ulrich then this would be most helpful. I'd hate to have the poor fellow find out about all this in the field with a French Full Stack army in his vicinity and his army disappearing before his own eyes.

Based on my own council, then the following actions are required: Duke Ulrich must cease and desist from any offensive actions towards the heathen French and any other nations for that matter. Immediate compliance is needed within the year or the SHA should be reduced to minimal levels. Duke Ulirch should then present himself to this Diet in person to face this group of August men on the matters at hand.

Gerhard Steffen:

In light of the legal crisis surrounding the Swabian mutany, I think that I have some significantly important information. Before the voting in the last diet session, I contacted a messenger, to send a draft copy of the legislation to all the Dukes and the Kaiser. I was specifically looking for input on proposed changes to Edict E1.7, changes that could have easily included Rhiems, Paris or any one of a number of targets for the Swabians to legally attack. This message was completely ignored my the Swabians, at the time I wondered why. Now it looks like this plan was in motion for several years now, Active Disloyalty by an entire Household?!?! The mere thought makes me sick to my stomach, the Swabians are no longer fit to be called Germans.

Prinz Jobst walks in, looks around but then sits down. Then he wtaches the Diet with interest. Someone nearby whispers to him and tells him what the last few speakers have said,Jobst rises
Hm, Gerhad Steffen.

I woud say to shut up about now, as you are going far to anger people of mind.

I say this to the rest of you lot, that you call this a 'rebellion'? A mutinty? Do you even know what they are!? If Swabia was rebelling, we would not call ourselves Swabians. But we still do, and yes, we are Germans!

If you gerhad wish to meet Swabia in open battle, that is rebelling yourself. So how do we know your not? Hm?

Prinz Jobst swallows, has if to spit but thinks better

Conrad Salier:

How sad it is that our future Kaiser endorses blatantly illegal actions.

I will say it again - anyone who condones Ulrich Hummel's actions and defends them is either a fool or a rebel. The questionable reclamation of honor for one man, long dead, is not enough to risk the undoing of Duke Otto's brilliant maneuvers with the Papacy.

It is clear that by reading on Hummel's latest moments that the Chancellor has proven unable to control this renegade force. With that in mind, I once again implore Kaiser Henry to call an emergency session so that Hummel and possibly Swabia can be properly disciplined.

Friedrich Scherer enters the diet

I have recieved news of the pope's death and the election of new one. Due to our support of the new pope, we are in his highest favor and he has even agreed to call a crusade for us. Given the proximity of our crusader armies to Jerusalem already and our good relations with the pope, I have much doubt that he may order us to cease aggression upon the French. Should we fall into disfavor once again, surely once we have captured Jerusalem and give it to the pope, he will see our way and we shall be in his favor once again.

Prince Jobst stands

Sorry Count Salier, I aplogise.

I was sidetracked by gerhad's absurd post, I meant to say to the Diet this:

I do not speak for the whole House/Duchy of Swabia. That right is reserved for Duke Hummel.

But I speak for myself.

I aplogise for any means to offend the Imperial Diet, and wish to stay neutral in this conflict, as I wish not to be caught up in such things.

Gunther looks alarmed at the current rancor in the Diet:

My lords, please this is a legislative body, not a tavern. I must make clear, that only Duke Hummel has violated an order from the Chancellor. The Prinz and Squire Scherer, while speaking in his defense, have not acted against the will of the Diet. They are free to say what they wish in this Chamber, while of course keeping in mind the protocols and rules of this body.

Swabia is not in revolt, it is one Swabian who has taken the Household Army on a personal mission. While a very serious matter itself, please keep this distinction in mind before speaking.

Standing again

With that all said and done, I would like to therefore direct more comments to Duke Ulrich specifically and to none of the other members of the Swabian House.

Nodding to the four Slavic gentlemen they depart the Diet chamber but can be seen waiting out side the hall talking amongst themselves

But I also say, Duke Ulrich was doign what he thought right, and was doing it for the good of Swabia and the Reich, most of you might not have the same views as Duke Ulrich.

I do not doubt Duke Hümmels intentions, nor his ambitions to strike at the French. What has brought this Diet into rage was the prospect of the Swabian Duke breaking several Edicts. We have a way here, that says we promote Edicts that let us fulfill our desires. We don't fulfill our desires and then hope that the Diet will sanction them. Not even a Duke is above the law, I'm afraid.

Leopold smiles faintly.

But let us divert our attention for a moment to a more glorious announcement. Finally our Crusade has found the true blessing of the Pope! With this approval of God's representative the Crusaders might find the zeal to traverse the heathen lands even more quickly and conquer Jerusalem in the name of all Christendom!

He raises a goblet, handily supplied by the Count of Venice.

I salute those brave men, enduring the hardships of the heathen lands to bring eternal glory to the Reich for retaking the place where God's own son performed his most memorable miracles!
I salute Chancellor von Kassel to have found the energy and spirit to guide not only the Crusaders but the Reich as well and readmit us to the brotherhood of Christianity!

A page bearing Ulrich Hummel's colours enters the Diet.

Mein electors, Duke Ulrich has announced that he shall yield the Duchy of Swabia. He appoints Friedrich Scherer as his successor. After fighting his way through the French that surround Rheims, he will take the cross and take ship for Jerusalem.

The page bows and takes a seat by the Swabians.

Diet Speaker: There is no provision in the Charter for Dukes resigning. Consequently, the resignation of Ulrich von Hummel as Duke of Swabia takes us into unchartered waters, so to speak. Where there is ambiguity or incompleteness in the Charter, the Kaiser is the ultimate arbiter on what is and what is not constitutional.

In this case, the Kaiser has determined that he will accept Ulrich's nomination of Frederich Scherer as his successor, but only in the rank of Steward. At the next Diet, we should ammend the Charter to cover this matter and so find some legal means of installing a replacement Duke.

Gunther speaks:

Now that Friedrich Scherer is Steward, he will of course make his way to Swabia. I believe my master now wishes to have him serve with Prinz Jobst. I'm sure that the Prinz will get him into battle so that he may show his valor and be knighted.

I hope that with Sir Hummel's decision to take the Cross, we can put this ugly affair behind us. He has sought forgiveness by doing God's work, and my master does not wish to see any further acrimony between the Houses.

Motioning towards his group of lawyers and his four Slavic gentlemen outside the Diet Chamber doors to leave the Count of Venice stands

Excellent, now that's settled I believe it's time to celebrate the success of the upcoming Crusade and toast our brave Generals in the far east.

I'm putting on drinks in the saloon outside if anyone would like to join.

Prinz Jobst stands, and swhispers

It is your choice Hummel, your choice...

Jobst speaks louder

Well, it seems we have been deprived of enemies to prove a Knight.

Steward Friedrich, I shall send you a messenger outlining stuff.

If the Bavarian Army currently attaking Marseille, needs help, or does not succed, I am sure I and Steward Friedrich will be happy to help them...?

Prinz Jobst sits

Rupolph von Hapsburg, one of Ulrich's retainers, rushes into the Diet. It is evident that he has just returned from battle, as his mail and surcoast are drenched in blood.

Mein electors, Herr Hummel has slaughtered the French outside of Rheims. When Ulrich slew Louis, King of France, the cowards put up but a faint resistance, and we took many prisoners. Indeed, Herr Ulrich's reatainers captured over 400. Herr Ulrich had no hesitation in butchering the lot of them, though some would argue that the 3,000 florins might have been more beneficial to the Reich. Nevertheless, I can safely say that Herr Sigismund has finally been avenged. May he rest in peace.

Rupert bows and sits down at the Swabian benches. Prinz Jobst is horrified that he has not at least bothered to clean himself, and a heated argument ensues, until Rupert angriliy shows the Prinz his wounds, wherewith the Prinz is silent.

Duke Leopold sips at his wine goblet remaining in his seat after finishing his toasts. He listens glumly to the new announcements, and after he hears of the recent Duke Hümmels plans he leans back and can not help but mutter: "How convenient..."
Showing dissatisfaction on his face, this is quickly drowned by another sip of his wine.

Gunther looks up at Ulrich's messenger:

And has Sir Ulrich retreated from Rheims? Which was the given reason for the battle in the first place?

We both know that he could have retreated cleanly without battle if he had chosen to. It seems that there was an ulterior motive. The death of King Louis would suggest this, as would the butchering of the French prisoners. The 3,000 florins gained from ransoming them could have funded the Ballista Towers Prinz Jobst wanted for Dijon.

Gunther sighs

If our wayward Knight is not destroyed by the French, he will still take part in the Crusade. Though he has delayed his departure and further weakened the forces he will bring with him. The Chancellor is displeased with this outcome, but will keep to his agreement.

Messenger comes bearing a letter

Fellow electors, although the resignation of Duke Hummels was unprecedented, I shall do my best in order to further the goals of the House of Swabia as well as the Empire. I am currently making my way towards Prinz Jobst and hope to be of some help to him.

Gunther recieves a message and starts up from his seat:

My lords! Marseille has been taken by Count Steffen! Odd, I had no word of a battle. . .I refer everyone to the latest Chancellor's report.

https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showp...&postcount=114

A message arrives from the north. It is from von Hamburg.

Good electors,

I have just been involved in a skirmish with a moderately sized rebel force just north of Frankfurt, the old seat of the Diet. Though they were numerous, they were easily routed. However, there is a matter to be discussed. Please examine the enclosed document:

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

https://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y2...18/halberd.jpg

In it you will see a scene recorded at the skirmish. In it are depicted some rebels retreating before our knights. Do any of you, good electors, notice anything peculiar about the manner in which these rebels are armed? Perhaps some of you that have spent much time in Italy do not. However, I assure you that these weapons, the halberds, are far more advanced than the standard issue equipment of our militias in Germany. Indeed, there exists no smith in all of Germany who can produce these!

It would appear that the only places capable of producing these are in Rome and Venice. This brings up a question. How in the hell do rebels near Frankfurt obtain highly advanced arms produced in Italy? Well, I am certainly not surprised that those Italians would attempt to subvert our Reich. Being too cowardly to do so militarily, they are content with supplying others. That is no surprise. What is a surprise is that this is allowed to happen. Just how do these weapons get manufactured, in the cities, get smuggled outside of the city walls, across all of Italy, across the Alps, and into Germany, without anyone noticing?

Worse yet, why is none of this equipment reaching the Imperial forces in Germany? Even the rebel knights I encountered had plate armor, my knights being armored only with mail. As such, the men have been reduced to scavenging off the enemy (though unfortunately, most of the enemy knights fled the battle successfully).

I never respected Emperor Heinrich because he didn't care about Germany. He liked to pretend that he was the actual Roman Emperor. When he moved the capital to Rome, there was much discontent in the homelands, which continues to this day. But now I wonder, does anybody care about Germany? With most of Bavarian lands now actually being in Italy, the Austrians having too moved south, and the Swabians largely engaged in France, only Franconia remains German. We have fought off various invaders and insurrections, and have received little support. That isn't a problem, we don't need it. However, it would be nice if, at least, our enemies did not receive it either!

Fredericus von Hamburg.

My Lord Fredericus,

I see your point entirely.

I will immediately begin making inquiries through my merchants to determine if any arms trading has been taking place.

Your documentation is impeccable and without refute so I do not think it should be too difficult.

My Dear Electors, Nobles of the Reich!

An eventful time lies behind us. Gerhard von Steffen has shown bravery and initiative by using the uprisings in Marseille to our advantage. Conquering a city without a single fight should truly be congratulated!

News has reached me from the East, where our Crusaders have won two important victories against the heathens. They even seized one of their Castles in the process. God must truly be smiling on the Reich and Chancellor von Kassel to allow for such fortunate events. I salute Emperor Henry and Count Mandorf on their excellent victories. Along with the other noble citizens of the Reich they are ensuring that our Crusade is a success and that the infidels fear us, before we have reached the Holy Land!

This is a time of opportunity and strength! We have crushed our enemies on the fronts and can even afford to send enough men to reconquer Jerusalem in the name of Christ! The Reich is truly blessed. We should take this opportunity, this stroke of luck that has gripped us and try to turn it to the greatest benefit for the Reich. Once Breslau is taken, we should look to stabilize our borders and finally attempt to reestablish the trade routes, broken of by decades of war with our neighbours. If we use our strength wisely in our negotiations with our enemies, we will not only find peace, but the opportunities for trade will be beyond our imagination. I ask the Chancellor to not let this period of stability and strength go by unused. We can now afford to draw a deep breath and concentrate on our non-military advance for once, instead of plunging on into the next war, on the next frontier.

I believe that peace is imperative for our country to rebuild and prosper once again. Our desires for war can easily be quenched against the heathens soiling our sacred places. We don't need to ruin good farmland, destroy roads and livestock in our country. I urge Chancellor von Kassel to take this opportunity to find peace, with our enemies, and for the Reich!

A wirey looking french lad enters the Diet bearing a message with a Bavarian seal

Gerhard Steffen

Greetings from the south of France!

I took the Chancellor's advise and decided to relax in a warmer climate for a while, let me spend some time with my family. Firstly I must congradulate the Many successes of of the Riech, Kaiser Henry, and Maximillian Mandorf for their victories over the turks, which have ensured the survival of the crusade for now. My thoughts and prayers for whatever they are worth are with the crusaders.

Prinz Von Salza also deserves recognition for his many defences of Dijon in the face of the French. Maybe a few of the Frenchmen will wander south and give me something to do.

Ulrich Hümmel, regardless of the politics of the situation, your command accumen is second to none, and I personally am In debeted to you. The 'tretchery' I accused you of earlier left Mersaille totally undefended, such a stroke of strategic genius shouldn't go unnoticed.

Duke Leopold, although several years ago now, your victory at Ragusa has secured the south east, and hopefully will lead to a lasting peace.

May Steward von Kastilien's action against the polish at Breslau go off without any problems.

I would like to take this time to emplore the chancellor as Duke Leopold has, Germany is strong, rich and mostly at peace. Should we squander this opportunity it will haunt us for generations, we must focous on continued security and development. Perhaps at the next diet session we should amend the charter to include larger minimum household armies, or smaller secondary ones?

I agree with Duke Leopold and Lord Steffen,

We should make peace with our Christian brothers in Europe. There is much to be gained by re-establishing trade and alliances.

For those who wish to shed blood for the Reich then they can make their way East and defend our holdings there.