oops, double post, oh yeah and one more thing, what are you going to do with the czechs?
-
We have updated our Community Code of Conduct. Please read through the new rules for the forum that are an integral part of Paradox Interactive’s User Agreement.
This is a great AAR! 
btw: I hope there's more beatings for the Austrians in the future, they deserve it.
btw: I hope there's more beatings for the Austrians in the future, they deserve it.
Austria should be annexed, and that's all there is to it. Then Hungary should be set free as a vassal. And Transylvannia, Bosnia, and Serbia too if you're not allowed to give a vassal that much territory.
Shawn, I really like the conversations, like that one and the one concerning Prussia from earlier. Well met
Shawn, I really like the conversations, like that one and the one concerning Prussia from earlier. Well met
Sharur,
Sorry, I have my own plans for Austria. I'm not sure you'll like them. But they worked for me. Thanks for your complimens on the conversations too. They take work, but I try to give a little color to what I think the world must be thinking of us through them--or what the von Rad's are thinking when they share their thoughts, as they will at the start of the next chapter.
Kaiser,
I'll be posting a diplomatic map again either after this next chapter or the one after, I have to check what year it had up. I may put it up as a little prelude of things to come in either case. I have more Czech land than I wanted. But Moravia is too convenient a land to hold, for strategic reasons, to let go of. It'll be a thorn in my side from here on out, but on the other hand, it is a great jumping off point for invasions, as you shall see. We still have expansion in all directions before we are done, have no doubt.
Thank you all again for your support. All I can say is, wait until Freidrich Der Grosse.
Sorry, I have my own plans for Austria. I'm not sure you'll like them. But they worked for me. Thanks for your complimens on the conversations too. They take work, but I try to give a little color to what I think the world must be thinking of us through them--or what the von Rad's are thinking when they share their thoughts, as they will at the start of the next chapter.
Kaiser,
I'll be posting a diplomatic map again either after this next chapter or the one after, I have to check what year it had up. I may put it up as a little prelude of things to come in either case. I have more Czech land than I wanted. But Moravia is too convenient a land to hold, for strategic reasons, to let go of. It'll be a thorn in my side from here on out, but on the other hand, it is a great jumping off point for invasions, as you shall see. We still have expansion in all directions before we are done, have no doubt.
Thank you all again for your support. All I can say is, wait until Freidrich Der Grosse.
Chapter 23
Chapter XXIII- Troubles and triumphs (January 1681- 1694)
Gerhard von Rad brought his son Reiner into the Halls of Brandenburg. "Do you realize, my son, that when our illustrious forefather Rudolf von Rad was High Councillor, the Great Hall hannover pledged vassalage to us in was half the size of the Throne Room today? that none of this was built yet, that the realm only consisted of Brandenburg and Kustrin, that he conquered Magdeburg to add it to the realm? But now we possess half the heart of europe outright, and Saxony as a vassal, who will, if I do not miss my guess, join the relam in a few short years. Son, when you enter your duties, you will preside over what at last can truly be called a German state. No longer are we merely the servants of the Emperor, we dictate power today in Europe."
"Father, whay have we accomplished so much, could not all the nations have stopped us?"
"Indeed so, at one time they could have, and perhaps if they all gathered in one coalition against us they still could. But we are, just as we always have been, patient. we never spoke of the Old Lion's dream openly until the Silesian question. we didn't even trust all of our Kings with the dream son. But I think in your lifetime, or at the longest your son's, it will be a reality. There are difficulties yet, make no mistake. But we are indeed within sight of our prize, our destiny, the Great Vision of Glory."
"And then father?"
"Then we form a new vision while we keep hold of wat we have gained. Whether or not we grow in territory in Europe or not, there are lands overseas to be explored and colonized. So far we have lived only in this corner of it. But soon, are horizons can afford to become broader indeed."
"But father, our strength is based entirely on our armies. We have never even been to sea for more than a few days. How will we do this?"
"Son, we will simply learn to do things we have not done before. Don't be too concerned about this. Our people are brave and hardy, they love adventure and are ambitious. They will respond when the time is right. Now, my son, let us see what the King desires of us today, shall we?"
As I watch my son Reiner enter the halls for the first time. I remember what it was like the first time I laid eyes on this splendor as a lad. So much of a von rad's life is spent in these halls we forget often the beauty and magnificence of it. Yet I have never lost the pride or sens of honor and duty of serving here, and I hope I never do.
"Good Morning Chancellor Gerhard, and you, Master Reiner. I haven't seen you since I came to visit your father on our annual hunting trip. I though it time to let you see the beauty that the families Hohenzollern and von Rad have created."
My son bows low, "Thank you, My Lord." He looks up at the marble and ivory columns, the gold trim, the beauty of the Throne Room set in rubies and garland and the sense of wonder cannot escape his face. He looks at me, "We did this, father?"
"Many people did this son, the Kings of Brandenburg none the least, but the ordinary people of the realm as well. But yes, my son, we have had a part in it."
"Don't let your father's modesty and humility fool you, Master Reiner, the von Rad family is greatly to be thanked for all that you see here. Perhaps even more than our own--though of course, I'd never tell that to anyone else." He says the last with a mischievious grin.
"Son, let another man's lips praise you, and not your own." I say quickly. And I allow myself a burst of laughter in the presence of the King.
Chapter XXIII- Troubles and triumphs (January 1681- 1694)
Gerhard von Rad brought his son Reiner into the Halls of Brandenburg. "Do you realize, my son, that when our illustrious forefather Rudolf von Rad was High Councillor, the Great Hall hannover pledged vassalage to us in was half the size of the Throne Room today? that none of this was built yet, that the realm only consisted of Brandenburg and Kustrin, that he conquered Magdeburg to add it to the realm? But now we possess half the heart of europe outright, and Saxony as a vassal, who will, if I do not miss my guess, join the relam in a few short years. Son, when you enter your duties, you will preside over what at last can truly be called a German state. No longer are we merely the servants of the Emperor, we dictate power today in Europe."
"Father, whay have we accomplished so much, could not all the nations have stopped us?"
"Indeed so, at one time they could have, and perhaps if they all gathered in one coalition against us they still could. But we are, just as we always have been, patient. we never spoke of the Old Lion's dream openly until the Silesian question. we didn't even trust all of our Kings with the dream son. But I think in your lifetime, or at the longest your son's, it will be a reality. There are difficulties yet, make no mistake. But we are indeed within sight of our prize, our destiny, the Great Vision of Glory."
"And then father?"
"Then we form a new vision while we keep hold of wat we have gained. Whether or not we grow in territory in Europe or not, there are lands overseas to be explored and colonized. So far we have lived only in this corner of it. But soon, are horizons can afford to become broader indeed."
"But father, our strength is based entirely on our armies. We have never even been to sea for more than a few days. How will we do this?"
"Son, we will simply learn to do things we have not done before. Don't be too concerned about this. Our people are brave and hardy, they love adventure and are ambitious. They will respond when the time is right. Now, my son, let us see what the King desires of us today, shall we?"
As I watch my son Reiner enter the halls for the first time. I remember what it was like the first time I laid eyes on this splendor as a lad. So much of a von rad's life is spent in these halls we forget often the beauty and magnificence of it. Yet I have never lost the pride or sens of honor and duty of serving here, and I hope I never do.
"Good Morning Chancellor Gerhard, and you, Master Reiner. I haven't seen you since I came to visit your father on our annual hunting trip. I though it time to let you see the beauty that the families Hohenzollern and von Rad have created."
My son bows low, "Thank you, My Lord." He looks up at the marble and ivory columns, the gold trim, the beauty of the Throne Room set in rubies and garland and the sense of wonder cannot escape his face. He looks at me, "We did this, father?"
"Many people did this son, the Kings of Brandenburg none the least, but the ordinary people of the realm as well. But yes, my son, we have had a part in it."
"Don't let your father's modesty and humility fool you, Master Reiner, the von Rad family is greatly to be thanked for all that you see here. Perhaps even more than our own--though of course, I'd never tell that to anyone else." He says the last with a mischievious grin.
"Son, let another man's lips praise you, and not your own." I say quickly. And I allow myself a burst of laughter in the presence of the King.
"Gerhard," the King addresses me more seriously. "Are you aware of the recent edicts of the French?"
"Yes, My lord. It is as we have long feared, this 'edict of Tolerance' is more political nicety than a true declaration of protection for the rights of relgious minorites in the various realms. Especially when the French and their Inquisitorial brethren are concerned. My counsel is this, that we honor our word, open our borders, and publish to the people of Europe that any follower of Luther or Calvin that needs a place to find shelter in may coem to us with open arms as long as they pledge loyalty to you and pledge to live peaceably in our realm."
"I agree, High Councillor, I am afrid Koln and Kleves will be unhappy again with us, but should that suprise us at this point?"
"Of course not, My King. Publish the Edict, and let the world know that Christian fellowship and charity is alive and well in Brandenburg. Let them know that they are free to worship the Living God however they wish as long as they obey the Laws of the realm."
"Well spoken. It shall be done. Thank you again old friend. And thank you for visiting us, Master Reiner."
(Historical event choice- Protestants expelled from France- Choice is to welcome them with open arms. +5000 population in Hannover, Mecklemburg, Kustrin, and Ansbach. +1 tax value in all, and +1 stability).
"Yes, My lord. It is as we have long feared, this 'edict of Tolerance' is more political nicety than a true declaration of protection for the rights of relgious minorites in the various realms. Especially when the French and their Inquisitorial brethren are concerned. My counsel is this, that we honor our word, open our borders, and publish to the people of Europe that any follower of Luther or Calvin that needs a place to find shelter in may coem to us with open arms as long as they pledge loyalty to you and pledge to live peaceably in our realm."
"I agree, High Councillor, I am afrid Koln and Kleves will be unhappy again with us, but should that suprise us at this point?"
"Of course not, My King. Publish the Edict, and let the world know that Christian fellowship and charity is alive and well in Brandenburg. Let them know that they are free to worship the Living God however they wish as long as they obey the Laws of the realm."
"Well spoken. It shall be done. Thank you again old friend. And thank you for visiting us, Master Reiner."
(Historical event choice- Protestants expelled from France- Choice is to welcome them with open arms. +5000 population in Hannover, Mecklemburg, Kustrin, and Ansbach. +1 tax value in all, and +1 stability).
On Febuary 26th, we form royal ties, once again, with double-minded England. But on April 20th, we receive a diplomatic insult from the Polish. We cannot afford the war right now. But we do publish the contents so as to give us a valid Cassus Belli if the opportunity were to arise later on. On January 13, 1682, some merchants request the opportunity to form a trading company to look into colonial ventures. we agree, though we inform them that the venture must, at this point, be self-supporting and they are going to have to make the efforts to acquire the maps of the world. The result is the Prussian African Trading Company (Manufactuary in Memel, +5 merchants, +100 trade).
But, on April 6th, we are afflicted by fools who think a light in the sky means it is going to fall (meteor sighted, -1 stabilty to +1 once again). This is coupled with a step towards encouraging innovation in the realm (-1 stability to 0).
On January 1st, Munster revolts, and somehow they take the fortress. We raise 8000 mercenaries to aid in putting down the revolt. On August 30th we marry into the Navarran house as well. On March 12th, there is a peasant revolt in Kustrin (random event), it is put down on April 4th. On May 1st, Bremen revolts, it is put down on July 18th. Finally on April 7th, 1683, the rebel stronghold in Munster falls to seige. On Sptember 1st, memel revolts due to the peasant unrest and Sudeten joins in as well. Both of these are put down rapidly. but unfortunately they manage to burn down the factory in Memel in the process.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Duke of Memel extends us a 200d gift as a personal apology for his loss of control of the rabble in his realm. We are thankful for this, as it allows us to put down the first manufactuaries of our building program, a Fine Arts academy in Berlin, and weapons factories in Kustrin and Ansbach.
On April 2nd, I discover yet another scheme of the nobles, this time trying to align with France--it seems they become less discerning in their dance partners--we are forced to execute these traitors (-2 stability, back to +1, CB with France for 24 months). On July 4, 1486, we reform our legal system to allow chief judges in all the provinces (lvl 4 infrastructure).
On October 13th, the French declare war on our vassals of Luxembourg. But we come to their aid and call for allies. as soon as the French see our mighty legions marching for Alsace, they immediately decide cowardess is the better part of discretion and pay 17d in reparations to Luxembourg.
But, on April 6th, we are afflicted by fools who think a light in the sky means it is going to fall (meteor sighted, -1 stabilty to +1 once again). This is coupled with a step towards encouraging innovation in the realm (-1 stability to 0).
On January 1st, Munster revolts, and somehow they take the fortress. We raise 8000 mercenaries to aid in putting down the revolt. On August 30th we marry into the Navarran house as well. On March 12th, there is a peasant revolt in Kustrin (random event), it is put down on April 4th. On May 1st, Bremen revolts, it is put down on July 18th. Finally on April 7th, 1683, the rebel stronghold in Munster falls to seige. On Sptember 1st, memel revolts due to the peasant unrest and Sudeten joins in as well. Both of these are put down rapidly. but unfortunately they manage to burn down the factory in Memel in the process.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Duke of Memel extends us a 200d gift as a personal apology for his loss of control of the rabble in his realm. We are thankful for this, as it allows us to put down the first manufactuaries of our building program, a Fine Arts academy in Berlin, and weapons factories in Kustrin and Ansbach.
On April 2nd, I discover yet another scheme of the nobles, this time trying to align with France--it seems they become less discerning in their dance partners--we are forced to execute these traitors (-2 stability, back to +1, CB with France for 24 months). On July 4, 1486, we reform our legal system to allow chief judges in all the provinces (lvl 4 infrastructure).
On October 13th, the French declare war on our vassals of Luxembourg. But we come to their aid and call for allies. as soon as the French see our mighty legions marching for Alsace, they immediately decide cowardess is the better part of discretion and pay 17d in reparations to Luxembourg.
On October 21st, we conclude a trade pact with Austria. On Jan 9, 1687, we make further naval advances (lvl 8). On Febuary 1st, a monopoly company is formed and contributes 100d to the royal treasury. And on arch 12th, we score a diplomatic coup, bringing our long-time Austrian rivals into our alliance against the French meddlers. The balanc eof power decisively shifts in favor of us as a result of this move, and the two most powerful armies in Europe are united in purpose. Let all the fools who stand against us now tremble in fear.
Alos on that day Bavaria annexes Savoy. On Sept 1st, we send a letter of introduction to our new allies. We intend to make them allies in heart as well as on paper, so that we have no fear of their commitment to the exertions ahead. October 1st brings a short-lived revolt in Bremen. November brings another stability damaging event as our clergy express displeasure over our leniancy with Catholics in the realm, we tell them that we may fight our enemies, but we will not become them (-1 stabilty to 0).
Feb 1, 1688 brings another letter sent ot our allies in Vienna. we also make another advancement in naval technology (lvl 0). But the event of the year is the ascension of Freidrich I as King in Brandenburg. He appears adept in every way. he introduces himself to the Austrians upon his ascension, and on May 28th we invite the Dutch back into our alliance and they accept, ringing the French with foes.
On Jan 2, 1689 I examine the writings of John Locke with interest--or at least as much interest as I spare an Englishman. On the 1st of the next year we appoint a new general von Dessau (4,4,4,3). On august 1st the obligatory revolt in Bremen occurs, and it is rapidly put down once again. On December 30th the King orders some much needed reforms of the army (+250 land investment).
Alos on that day Bavaria annexes Savoy. On Sept 1st, we send a letter of introduction to our new allies. We intend to make them allies in heart as well as on paper, so that we have no fear of their commitment to the exertions ahead. October 1st brings a short-lived revolt in Bremen. November brings another stability damaging event as our clergy express displeasure over our leniancy with Catholics in the realm, we tell them that we may fight our enemies, but we will not become them (-1 stabilty to 0).
Feb 1, 1688 brings another letter sent ot our allies in Vienna. we also make another advancement in naval technology (lvl 0). But the event of the year is the ascension of Freidrich I as King in Brandenburg. He appears adept in every way. he introduces himself to the Austrians upon his ascension, and on May 28th we invite the Dutch back into our alliance and they accept, ringing the French with foes.
On Jan 2, 1689 I examine the writings of John Locke with interest--or at least as much interest as I spare an Englishman. On the 1st of the next year we appoint a new general von Dessau (4,4,4,3). On august 1st the obligatory revolt in Bremen occurs, and it is rapidly put down once again. On December 30th the King orders some much needed reforms of the army (+250 land investment).
But on November 1st, the mark of the new King's skill is evidenced by his maneuvering Saxony at last into entering our realm. Our first ally, our oldest willing vassal, our closest friend of nations at at last accepts the wisdom of our dream and enters the realm of Brandenburg through diplomatic annexation.
OOC--I hear Storey screaming NO! From here. :-^)
There are problems of course. There are revolts in Wurzburg on April 1st, and Saxony on November 1st. But both are put down. On Jan 19, 1692, we get another example of our new King's brilliance, as many nations express their open affection for our Great King at a Arts exhibition we put on in Berlin (Great Reputation +10 Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Bohemia, Poland and +20 Netherlands). It seems the star of destiny shines on our realm again. On Febuary 15th, we send a personal gift to our vassals in Luxembourg to smooth any ruffled feathers after our annexation of Saxony. We follow this with a gift to Austria on March 20th for similar purposes.
On October 10th, our naval technology improves again (lvl10). On January 4, 1693, a weapons factory is built in Mainz, and on the 28th of 1694 an internal trade ordinance is passed in Prussia to streamline tax-gathering in that province (+1 tax value in Prussia proper). On Feb 1st, we send yet another letter to the Austrians. On April 1st, the Saxons revolt again, but it is quickly put down, adn the crushing of the revolt marks a good time for Reiner to ascend to the office and come into hsi own. For me it is time to retire, work on my memoirs, and refine the legacy for the future. There are challenges ahead, but we are established in the heart of Europe with a firm hand on the Throne, and aside from duplicity, no one can harm our realm.
OOC--I hear Storey screaming NO! From here. :-^)
There are problems of course. There are revolts in Wurzburg on April 1st, and Saxony on November 1st. But both are put down. On Jan 19, 1692, we get another example of our new King's brilliance, as many nations express their open affection for our Great King at a Arts exhibition we put on in Berlin (Great Reputation +10 Sweden, Poland, Lithuania, Bohemia, Poland and +20 Netherlands). It seems the star of destiny shines on our realm again. On Febuary 15th, we send a personal gift to our vassals in Luxembourg to smooth any ruffled feathers after our annexation of Saxony. We follow this with a gift to Austria on March 20th for similar purposes.
On October 10th, our naval technology improves again (lvl10). On January 4, 1693, a weapons factory is built in Mainz, and on the 28th of 1694 an internal trade ordinance is passed in Prussia to streamline tax-gathering in that province (+1 tax value in Prussia proper). On Feb 1st, we send yet another letter to the Austrians. On April 1st, the Saxons revolt again, but it is quickly put down, adn the crushing of the revolt marks a good time for Reiner to ascend to the office and come into hsi own. For me it is time to retire, work on my memoirs, and refine the legacy for the future. There are challenges ahead, but we are established in the heart of Europe with a firm hand on the Throne, and aside from duplicity, no one can harm our realm.
You can see both Poland and Austria are huge, France at this point is fairly unified. Lithuania has a couple provinces to the east off the map, but isn't the huge beast it normally is. Russia exists, but isn't huge either, and Venice is in a world of hurt.
By allying with Austria, we have created a strong front that can expand either east on Poland and Lithuania, or west on France.
Or both of these...
By allying with Austria, we have created a strong front that can expand either east on Poland and Lithuania, or west on France.
Or both of these...
Look's like you've almost gotten the German Empire...
Seems like all you have left is the Franco-Prussian War, the Partition of Poland and the minor anoince of Pommern, Oldenburg, and Bayern not recognizing your supremacy.
Good job.
Seems like all you have left is the Franco-Prussian War, the Partition of Poland and the minor anoince of Pommern, Oldenburg, and Bayern not recognizing your supremacy.
Good job.
Finally! Saxony is our, eehh, yours... Sorry, Storey.
Good job, now the map of Europe looks more appealing. And your economy comes up, too! Interesting times are coming up, I believe.
And I agree: the conversations are a pleasure to read, your work is worth it.
Sorry, Storey. Good job, now the map of Europe looks more appealing. And your economy comes up, too! Interesting times are coming up, I believe.
And I agree: the conversations are a pleasure to read, your work is worth it.
Nooo not the Habsburgs!!! Ack, I guess even Austria has a use sometimes. Keep it up, I love it.
Ack, I guess even Austria has a use sometimes. Keep it up, I love it.
Chapter 24
Chapter XXIV- National Glory, Family Tragedy (Jan 1695-1710)
Reiner von Rad was now 28 years old. He had married young, and had a son of 9 whose name was Thomas. But for the time being all Thomas had to do was concern himself with the normal matters of a 9 year old son of aristocracy. But Reiner had the concerns of the realm to deal with.
Fortunately, on January 16,1695, he was receiving good news for a change. The Duke of Magdeburg had taken the initiative in upgrading the fortifications of the province. I send a letter of introduction to Austria, but it has little effect on our tepid relations. But on November 28th, another diplomatic move yields better results with Venice (Randome Event +50 Venice, +1 diplomat). On December 1st an advancement was made in land technology as well (lvl 19).
On Jan 1, 1696, Saxony revolts, and it is quickly put down. On August 1st Wurzburg revolts, but it is not put down until Sept 15th. In October we are forced to suffer through a wave of corruption amongst our merchants (+10% inflation). On April 1, 1697 Bremen revolts, but it is put down on the 15th. On June 20th, we negotiate military access with Austria. But on August 1st, our merchants express unhappiness with our open trade policies (-200 trade).
On May 17, 1698, we step to centralize the realm (+3 cent. +2 stability). In June, Anholt revolts, and in both July and August Wurzburg does as well. All are quickly put down. OnSpetember 19th, we renew royal ties with Sweden, btu we remind them that if they try to act dishonorably in this marriage we will ensure they are unable to manipulate us again.
On December 1st, we decide to try for a rapproachment with Bavaria. The state gift helps considerably, but there is still much to do (-120). On June 24th, another gift, this one more personal, makes relations less frigid, though still quite neutral.
Chapter XXIV- National Glory, Family Tragedy (Jan 1695-1710)
Reiner von Rad was now 28 years old. He had married young, and had a son of 9 whose name was Thomas. But for the time being all Thomas had to do was concern himself with the normal matters of a 9 year old son of aristocracy. But Reiner had the concerns of the realm to deal with.
Fortunately, on January 16,1695, he was receiving good news for a change. The Duke of Magdeburg had taken the initiative in upgrading the fortifications of the province. I send a letter of introduction to Austria, but it has little effect on our tepid relations. But on November 28th, another diplomatic move yields better results with Venice (Randome Event +50 Venice, +1 diplomat). On December 1st an advancement was made in land technology as well (lvl 19).
On Jan 1, 1696, Saxony revolts, and it is quickly put down. On August 1st Wurzburg revolts, but it is not put down until Sept 15th. In October we are forced to suffer through a wave of corruption amongst our merchants (+10% inflation). On April 1, 1697 Bremen revolts, but it is put down on the 15th. On June 20th, we negotiate military access with Austria. But on August 1st, our merchants express unhappiness with our open trade policies (-200 trade).
On May 17, 1698, we step to centralize the realm (+3 cent. +2 stability). In June, Anholt revolts, and in both July and August Wurzburg does as well. All are quickly put down. OnSpetember 19th, we renew royal ties with Sweden, btu we remind them that if they try to act dishonorably in this marriage we will ensure they are unable to manipulate us again.
On December 1st, we decide to try for a rapproachment with Bavaria. The state gift helps considerably, but there is still much to do (-120). On June 24th, another gift, this one more personal, makes relations less frigid, though still quite neutral.
On July 1st, Saxony again revolts, and it takes until August 20th to put it down this time. However, on October 9th, we manage to recruit yet another nation into our alliance against the French menance. Bavaria joins us, seeing this as a means to protect their Italian holdings. But the truly great event comes on the 19th day of 1700.
Because of our acquisition of Prussia, which technically lies outside the boundaries of the Holy Roman Empire, the Emperor has acknowleged the right of us to operate as an indepedant kingdom, although we still have a voice in electing the Holy Roman Emperor. Thus our claim to Kingly status, long offically denied, is now accepted, the only condition being that we name our Kingdom after the area lying outside of the Empire. We consider this a small diplomatic price to pay. So on Jan 19, 1700, Friedrich I ascends to the Throne of "Prussia" which remains in Berlin and still contains all the same lands we had control of before. The red and white eagle is replaced with a black cross on a white background to represent our new status. (Creation of the Kingdom of Prussia +150d, Austria -40 relations, +3 diplomats).
Our first act as an official Kingdom is to renew royal ties with Scotland on Jan 22nd. On Febuary 8th, some of our merchants express displeasure with the way the Poles have treated them in Danzig. We choose to settle this matter quietly so that we may concentrate on the threat in the West (+25 relations with Poland). On the 23rd of the same month, we send a personal gift to the Habsburgs to assuage their displeasure at having to acknowledge the inevitable. With that, they view us as friends once again. On the 28th, the youth of our new Kingdom express their joy at the recent events by rushing to arms (enthusiasm for army +5000 men). But July demonstrates that not much has changed in Saxony, as once again they revolt.
However, some revolts go better than others. On the same day, Aragon declares indepedance from England, in truth, they have attempted this before (and failed), but we shall watch, as this seems to have promise and leadership this time. Also, on August 1st, our royal marriage with Poland expires, and they do not seem to be willing to renew it, and we are not necessarily in a big hurry to thaw relations enough to take care of it either.
Because of our acquisition of Prussia, which technically lies outside the boundaries of the Holy Roman Empire, the Emperor has acknowleged the right of us to operate as an indepedant kingdom, although we still have a voice in electing the Holy Roman Emperor. Thus our claim to Kingly status, long offically denied, is now accepted, the only condition being that we name our Kingdom after the area lying outside of the Empire. We consider this a small diplomatic price to pay. So on Jan 19, 1700, Friedrich I ascends to the Throne of "Prussia" which remains in Berlin and still contains all the same lands we had control of before. The red and white eagle is replaced with a black cross on a white background to represent our new status. (Creation of the Kingdom of Prussia +150d, Austria -40 relations, +3 diplomats).
Our first act as an official Kingdom is to renew royal ties with Scotland on Jan 22nd. On Febuary 8th, some of our merchants express displeasure with the way the Poles have treated them in Danzig. We choose to settle this matter quietly so that we may concentrate on the threat in the West (+25 relations with Poland). On the 23rd of the same month, we send a personal gift to the Habsburgs to assuage their displeasure at having to acknowledge the inevitable. With that, they view us as friends once again. On the 28th, the youth of our new Kingdom express their joy at the recent events by rushing to arms (enthusiasm for army +5000 men). But July demonstrates that not much has changed in Saxony, as once again they revolt.
However, some revolts go better than others. On the same day, Aragon declares indepedance from England, in truth, they have attempted this before (and failed), but we shall watch, as this seems to have promise and leadership this time. Also, on August 1st, our royal marriage with Poland expires, and they do not seem to be willing to renew it, and we are not necessarily in a big hurry to thaw relations enough to take care of it either.
On September 24, 1702, the Kingdom of Prussia goes to war for the first time. Our Bavarian allies have been decalred war upon by the insipid French, and the Spanish perform their usual trick of heeling to their French master's whims. Austria and Luxembourg honor the alliance, but the Netherlands does not, we will have to work on them later.
We march 27000 men from Baden to Alsace, 28000 from Koln to Lorraine, and 10000 from Kustrin to the north of France for whatever destination seems appropriate when they reach the border. On January 28th, we choose to consolidate forces on the Lorraine/Alsace border to engage the French, and 56000 Prussians prove their worth against 51000 French. The French seem to be attempting to reform, but the Spanish, cowardly as ever, duck out of the war as soon as their ally gets its nose bloodied (OK, they do wait until March 7th, a whole two weeks after the French are defeated ).
On March 24th, the French attempt to engage the 35000 surviviors in Lorraine a second time, but we mover the army from the north into Lorriane as well, and reinforce the army to 44000 men as a result. The French do not commit to an open battle, but attempt to force us into a poor position, as a result we do not engage them until the 1st of May. the result is still in doubt on the 2nd when General von Dessau receives word that Bavaria has accepted a status quo peace with France, which as a point of honor we must accept. We return to Prussian lands, but we are also confident that we have taken the measure of the French and found them a paper tiger. When we next face them, they will fall before the might of our steel and lead.
On June 25th, there is a revolt in Holstein, adn we are forced to march troops north to deal with this. But in August, the King recognizes the positive economic policies I have instituted in the realm (Good government policies Random Event, +1 stability, +250d Infra and trade research). On October 1st, the revolt in Holstein is put down.
On March 13,1704, Newton publishes "Optica" in England, and it aids scientists throughout Europe understand the "book" of natural revelation we have been given. On July 13th, we send another gift to Bayern, they now call us "Very Dear Friends." On August 18th, we reaffirm our friendship with Austria by gift as well.
On september 29th, the Prussian African Trading Company informs us that they have not been able to make inroads due to our lack of exploratory missions and maps. Unfortunately to get good maps one has to be able to offer a nation somethign they do not already know, and no one is in a big hurry to share their maps with a nation that has never explored. (Historical event trading company bubble bursts -400 trade). This also impacts our ecomomy negatively (Poor government policies -1 stability, -250 trade and infrastructure), but we reassure the King that this is only a temporary difficulty, and in due course, we will begin to colonize.
On November 1st, Bremen revolts. we must march troops in, so it is not until January 2, 1706 that the revolt is put down. on the 3rd, we erect a more modern fort in Holstein (lvl3). And in August, we make further advances in our military prowess (land tech 20). On October 13th, the nobles assert that we are intruding too much on their rights, and we are forced to rethink how to centralize the realm (back to 2 centralization). On November 13th Navarra becomes a vassal of England. 1707 is uneventful until October, when a plague breaks out in Sudeten, claiming 5000 souls. On december 1st, Anholt revolts, but it is quickly put down. On May 8, 1708, we quietly move to restore power to the throne (back to 3 centralization, +2 stability). On July 2nd, we improve fortifications in Munster (lvl2). And on December 2nd, we renew our royal ties with England.
We march 27000 men from Baden to Alsace, 28000 from Koln to Lorraine, and 10000 from Kustrin to the north of France for whatever destination seems appropriate when they reach the border. On January 28th, we choose to consolidate forces on the Lorraine/Alsace border to engage the French, and 56000 Prussians prove their worth against 51000 French. The French seem to be attempting to reform, but the Spanish, cowardly as ever, duck out of the war as soon as their ally gets its nose bloodied (OK, they do wait until March 7th, a whole two weeks after the French are defeated
).On March 24th, the French attempt to engage the 35000 surviviors in Lorraine a second time, but we mover the army from the north into Lorriane as well, and reinforce the army to 44000 men as a result. The French do not commit to an open battle, but attempt to force us into a poor position, as a result we do not engage them until the 1st of May. the result is still in doubt on the 2nd when General von Dessau receives word that Bavaria has accepted a status quo peace with France, which as a point of honor we must accept. We return to Prussian lands, but we are also confident that we have taken the measure of the French and found them a paper tiger. When we next face them, they will fall before the might of our steel and lead.
On June 25th, there is a revolt in Holstein, adn we are forced to march troops north to deal with this. But in August, the King recognizes the positive economic policies I have instituted in the realm (Good government policies Random Event, +1 stability, +250d Infra and trade research). On October 1st, the revolt in Holstein is put down.
On March 13,1704, Newton publishes "Optica" in England, and it aids scientists throughout Europe understand the "book" of natural revelation we have been given. On July 13th, we send another gift to Bayern, they now call us "Very Dear Friends." On August 18th, we reaffirm our friendship with Austria by gift as well.
On september 29th, the Prussian African Trading Company informs us that they have not been able to make inroads due to our lack of exploratory missions and maps. Unfortunately to get good maps one has to be able to offer a nation somethign they do not already know, and no one is in a big hurry to share their maps with a nation that has never explored. (Historical event trading company bubble bursts -400 trade). This also impacts our ecomomy negatively (Poor government policies -1 stability, -250 trade and infrastructure), but we reassure the King that this is only a temporary difficulty, and in due course, we will begin to colonize.
On November 1st, Bremen revolts. we must march troops in, so it is not until January 2, 1706 that the revolt is put down. on the 3rd, we erect a more modern fort in Holstein (lvl3). And in August, we make further advances in our military prowess (land tech 20). On October 13th, the nobles assert that we are intruding too much on their rights, and we are forced to rethink how to centralize the realm (back to 2 centralization). On November 13th Navarra becomes a vassal of England. 1707 is uneventful until October, when a plague breaks out in Sudeten, claiming 5000 souls. On december 1st, Anholt revolts, but it is quickly put down. On May 8, 1708, we quietly move to restore power to the throne (back to 3 centralization, +2 stability). On July 2nd, we improve fortifications in Munster (lvl2). And on December 2nd, we renew our royal ties with England.
On January 1, 1709, the cities protest that we are too strict in our governance, and demand a resotration of old rights. Thus again we are forced to undue progress (back to 2 centralization). On April 12th, we also improve fortifications in Hannover (lvl2). October 22nd brings a renewal of our wooing of Bavaria, and on Jan 22nd, we continue this effort. But on March 24th they decline vassal status with Prussia.
On December 19, 1710, Reiner von Rad was sitting at dinner in Waldendur with his wife Claudia, Thomas, assorted guests, and the French ambassador. Reiner says grace over the meal, and looks at his wife, still pretty despite her 50 years, and smiles. He then takes a sip of the champagne the ambassador had brought with him. One of the guest, seated to his right, where Thomas would usually sit, drinks as well.
"Thomas! Don't!" Claudia screams as he picks up his glass. Already Reiner and his friend to the right are gagging and fall out of their chairs. Thomas rushes around the table to kneel by him, and the guards surround the Duke of Brandenburg and his father's body. Thomas watched as his father's eyes roll back in his head and he died. Then he stood up.
"Detain the ambassador at once!" He commanded the guards with full, yet remarkably measured authority.
"I had nothing to do with thees, you canno think such a thing? No?" The ambassador replies.
Thomas replied sternly, "We shall see about that very soon." He kept his bearing until he left the Dining Hall, and then stormed down the staris and found the taster in the kitchen. He threw him to the ground and searched him.
"French!" He said, as he pulled out the purse with the 50 gold coins. "50 gold pieces to sell out your lord. Well I see he was worth more to you than Jesus was to Judas, at least." Throwing him to the guards, he commanded them, "Take him to the dungeon, we will deal with both of these murdring scum at once!"
Returning to the dining room, where Clauia was weeping for her husband as the swords of the guards went to the throat of the ambassador. "Tell me, Henri, who commissioned this murder?" As he throws the pouch in his face.
"A Frenchman needs no commission to kill the enemies of his people, who defile his land and rape his women. If only you had sat at the proper place, then your wretched line would have ended!"
"Very well. take this filth and his companion to the dungeons and have them hanged immediately."
"You cannot hang an ambassador without the King's permission!" The Frenchman replied.
"First of all, coward, you forget who I am. You have made me Chancellor of the realm. I have all the authority I need to put a murderer to death. But even if I lacked the office, I am still Duke of Brandenburg. And a noble in his home province needs no authorization to put the criminals of his land to death and carry out justice. Take them, immediately."
On the same day Thomas presented himself as the new High Councillor of Prussia to the King (random event, assasination of a noble, -1 stability to +1), he was 24 years old.
On December 19, 1710, Reiner von Rad was sitting at dinner in Waldendur with his wife Claudia, Thomas, assorted guests, and the French ambassador. Reiner says grace over the meal, and looks at his wife, still pretty despite her 50 years, and smiles. He then takes a sip of the champagne the ambassador had brought with him. One of the guest, seated to his right, where Thomas would usually sit, drinks as well.
"Thomas! Don't!" Claudia screams as he picks up his glass. Already Reiner and his friend to the right are gagging and fall out of their chairs. Thomas rushes around the table to kneel by him, and the guards surround the Duke of Brandenburg and his father's body. Thomas watched as his father's eyes roll back in his head and he died. Then he stood up.
"Detain the ambassador at once!" He commanded the guards with full, yet remarkably measured authority.
"I had nothing to do with thees, you canno think such a thing? No?" The ambassador replies.
Thomas replied sternly, "We shall see about that very soon." He kept his bearing until he left the Dining Hall, and then stormed down the staris and found the taster in the kitchen. He threw him to the ground and searched him.
"French!" He said, as he pulled out the purse with the 50 gold coins. "50 gold pieces to sell out your lord. Well I see he was worth more to you than Jesus was to Judas, at least." Throwing him to the guards, he commanded them, "Take him to the dungeon, we will deal with both of these murdring scum at once!"
Returning to the dining room, where Clauia was weeping for her husband as the swords of the guards went to the throat of the ambassador. "Tell me, Henri, who commissioned this murder?" As he throws the pouch in his face.
"A Frenchman needs no commission to kill the enemies of his people, who defile his land and rape his women. If only you had sat at the proper place, then your wretched line would have ended!"
"Very well. take this filth and his companion to the dungeons and have them hanged immediately."
"You cannot hang an ambassador without the King's permission!" The Frenchman replied.
"First of all, coward, you forget who I am. You have made me Chancellor of the realm. I have all the authority I need to put a murderer to death. But even if I lacked the office, I am still Duke of Brandenburg. And a noble in his home province needs no authorization to put the criminals of his land to death and carry out justice. Take them, immediately."
On the same day Thomas presented himself as the new High Councillor of Prussia to the King (random event, assasination of a noble, -1 stability to +1), he was 24 years old.
Last edited:
