Quote Originally Posted by OlafTheBrave
I wouldn't worry too much about influence especially as the HRE. Nobody is going to like you anyway. :D Now as far as crusades remember they dont "have" to be dirrected at the GA goal provinces. Those pagan and orthodox provinces to the north will work just as well.
I never thought of this until you posted it previously , what
a magnificant stategy . Gets you the desired provinces, plus
very good troops that are not usually available early in the game .

Thanks again for the tip.