I was hoping for CBs much earlier though, like <10 years... Read that PU seems to be the best low BB way to expand, could I get PU by marrying into Firenze and Ancona (and possibly Siena too) and then claim throne and inherit? Probably got to be very lucky to pull it off without huge penalties. Was thinking of releasing the non-core provinces (Pisa and Siena) as vassals then annex them back when Milan becomes emperor so I won't get the prestige hit and Liberation CB against me, but Pisa and Siena both have universities and I don't want to give up the extra research and income. A bit weary about attacking Papal states too, will I be excommunicated if I take Roma by force?