M2 HRE Test Imperial Diet Deliberations

**Lucjan** · 11-30-2006, 21:33

Much thanks for your congratulations Leopold. But fear not the Hungarians or the Poles, we have a diplomat on the way to secure fair relations between us, and while we do have a spy already position in the east near Magdeburg, the thought of keeping a bit of a better eye on all of our borders with nations of significant status is appealling. Though I have to say I don't think the Imperial Coffers need be overly spent to do so in the long run. Do you think watch towers may suffice? I think it's strong enough in the Empires interest to warrant an edict transferring the necessary funds for their construction.

Thanks also to Otto for his congratulations. You'll have to forgive me on my lack of reporting in regards to Hamburg, I'm new to the chancellory and the learning curve has taken a fair bit of my time. As for Hamburg's fall, we hired a local band of mercenary spearmen before the siege and I bade the army construct a battering ram while they awaited my arrival, the swifter Hamburg's fall the better. Initially we had wanted only to make use of the mercenaries, but the cities archers were unexpectedly taxing on our men, so we had to retaliate with our own missiles while our mercenaries and spear militia dealt with the city's defenders at the gate, which, ironically enough, they raised right before our ram reached it in an attempt to block it with their spearmen instead. A false sense of bravado urged them to attempt a sally I guess. We lost more men than I had wanted, but the city fell regardless. As for right now, I have no immediate plans for the Imperial Army and they will remain in Hamburg until a small militia group can arrive to take over the guard duty, at which point they'll move out and construct a fort near the castle where the army will be stationed until required.

Also, if you are thinking of temporarily delaying a castle project, this could give the Imperial coffers time to accrue the necessary finances to take the whole of the construction costs beneath its wing.

**Strappy Horse** · 12-01-2006, 18:48

I hope this message arrives in time, you all know how difficult it is to cross the Alps this time of year.

Leo,
thanks for your fine words.
Mother has been very well, she has been enjoying the Italian weather and sends her regards.
It took some 'convincing' before Gregory agreed to crown me as Emperor though,
Still, it's only my presence, at the head of a sizeable army, here in Italy that's keeping him from more 'bold' moves. I may need to appoint a new pope, sooner rather later.

Congratulations as well to the Chancellor, with the swift capture of Hamburg. It adds to the glory of the Reich, as well as your personal glory, Lord Diettrich.

I am sorry to hear about your reluctance to ally with King Philippe, the knights of France would make a noble ally. Then again, proving our own prowess in battle against such a renowned foe, accounts for much more glory!
Your skill as a politician astounds me again, surely you are the right man for this office.

**Lucjan** · 12-02-2006, 00:03

My thanks to you for your kind words Emperor Heinrich. May I ask though, what is your initial opinion of the Danes?

Personally, I think these seafaring cousins of the Germans could provide us with some unique trading oppertunities, and having a small ally to our north could prove beneficial in at least that our attentions could be better aimed at solidifying the Reich's borders where they are more likely to become volatile.

**Strappy Horse** · 12-02-2006, 09:43

The Danes, it's hard to judge them from southern side of the Alps, I fully trust your judgement in this matter, Lord Chancellor.
Their pagan and violent history does not bode well though, and I hear rumours from Venetian merchants that those Danish Hanse merchants use the same vigour and aggression in trade as their ancesters did on their raids.

One a slightly different matter, my son Henry has now reached an age of 21 years, it is due time for him to get a wife.
I received letters from the Kings of Hungary and Denmark, to talk about a potential marriage.
I hear Princess Pioska of Hungary is a pretty girl, and a marriage-bond would ensure a safe border in the east.
Princess Ingrid of Denmark is supposed to be as enthralling as any princess, and an alliance with King Knud would settle the northern borders. Unless ofcourse those Danes sell their womenfolk as just another trade good.

**Lucjan** · 12-02-2006, 14:07

Personally, I'm not much of one to engage in arranging marriages, but maybe some of our other Dukes have an opinion on this?

**Tamur** · 12-02-2006, 14:34

I know only what the common folk say regarding Princess Pioska, which is all good, and I think she and Henry would be a good match.

Ingrid is worth, from what I have heard, less than the roads she travels. She attempts to use her charms to lure in men and then she turns on them with the vigour of a Hanse merchant attempting to put someone out of business. No, I think Henry deserves better than this wench in fine clothing.