i've been wondering if the honour rating of emissaries makes any difference to the outcome of their missions (like assassins), or whether it just makes them harder to kill. i've had many instances where repeated attempts to get the AI (especially the Pope!) to ally, marry, accept ceasefires and whatnot have failed despite there being no obvious disadvantages for the AI faction, particularly if i've just given their dastardly sneak attack a good shoeing and want to make friends again cos i'm busy elsewhere.
i can understand the AI refusing to accept diplomatic efforts if i've just conquered half their provinces or duffed up their crusade, but are there ways to increase the likelihood of them accepting diplomatic offers? does sending a level 4 emissary instead of level 0 help? is using a bishop more or less effective? when the Almohads are knocking on the door and i need France and the HRE to stop attacking my Anjou estates, can i do anything to influence them into joining with me, their fellow Christian?