Thanks for that post...I read every word and yes, it is helpful. I'm completely map ignorant when it comes to M2 so any and all information is nice.

I spent a lot of time familiarizing myself with the UI and Venice's starting position. I'm going full blast tonight playing so I'll send pm's to update where things went before I open an AAR later.

I'm honestly, stumped as to which direction to go first. You're right, Italy probably IS more lucrative and attractive...as well as religiously in line with my faction.

I have to say though that Bologna is just so isolated and the Emperor of the HRE is in the settlement. I'm tempted to launch an attack there, while securing all the bottlenecks that lead north toward the HRE's main lands. I would imagine capturing a Faction Leader this early and also taking the province, would bring in a lot of money.

The one thing holding me back from starting any war right now is the total lack of intelligence. I have to get some agents moving around and see who has what and where. I know the HRE is isolated in Bologna but I really don't know how hard they'll fight to retake it (if at all) or if they would continue to attack me on principle. What I do know from the HRE is that they really can't afford to be in a full blast Italic war early..or the rest of the "empire" fractures. So I may become diplomatic with France and Denmark/Poland etc and just start a war with the HRE...and then we'll see where Milan stands on things.

I really would like to win the first papal election though. Do more churches built effect this- as in, a higher overall Christian population throughout your Kingdom raises your reputation with the Pope?