- ARCHIVE - Ducal Court of Venice

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The Doge looking at the King for the first time thinks to himself, how frail the French truly are. With their wonderful cloths and pampered lifestyle, it almost amazed him how strong willed, an loyal a friend the Doge had. For once he has ound a friend in King Louis, one loyal, dedicated and willing to go to enormous extents to guarantee the success of both naitons. The cultural markers of the posh French meant next to nothing to him, while he thought of the bravery, and friendship that this man had provided. In a warm, large smile the Doge starts to speak.

"Ah my good friend it is so good to see you finally. I have often wondered how you would look, and it is good to finally meet. This iisland s for the current time under restoration for the most part, but I have already demanded that a set of villas refurnished, and rebuilt if need be for the pleasure of royal guests of Venezia. You are most welcome to enjoy the warm waters and climate of Crete during your stay. My ervants shall bid to your every whim.

I would like to introduce the King and Queen of Castille-Leon. They have been most patient and have long looked forward to seeing you.

As for business, I shall speak for the Minoan Confederacy if I may. We are looking for a new partner in this gerat endeavor of ours. We have hoped that you may join. The benefits are enormous. Improvements to trade, as well as honorable allieis ready to protect your state at the first sign of trouble. You know me as a man of honor, and I hope that you may take my advice and join us. With the four nations of France, Venezia, Castille-leon, and Portugal we would control all trade in western Europe. In addition No one will dare step against us. Our will is iron, and unmoveable. I would like to see the Germans attempt a movement against the Minoan Confederacy, all powerful and unstoppable. I think that our nation, and specificlly your eminence would make a perfect addition, magnify our ucrrent power, and bring a complete ora of invincibility. I hope this sounds favorable?"​

The Doge trying to turn the King drunk with the idea of power, slightly retreats and bows lightly.

 

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Franco basically cornered by Antonio Cornari must now produce a document for Don Pueblo. From nothing, without the support of the Doge. This truly could become dangerous he thought. As he finished the draft he sat back thinking on what Antonio could possibly be planning. He then halted his paranoia and sends the letter to Don Pueblo.


Aragonese-Venetian Price Fixing Agreement
Part I - Trade

Article I - The nations of Aragon and Venezia shall join in creating a price fixing policy within the Mediterranean Sea.
Article II - This document is meant to turn the competitive advantage in the signers favor so that each side does not canobolize the others profits.
Article III - When Aragon decides to trade in a nation where Venezia already has established an agreement, Aragon must consult with Venezia on a set price list to make sure that neither parties undercut their prices. Vice versa.
Article IV - This discoluser between both states is to regard both tolls, and profit percentage.​

Part II - Restrictions

Article I - This agreement supervenes all previous agreements between the two states.
Article II - This agreement shall stretch the length of five years.​

 

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Don Publeo reads the treaty and considered the matter carefully. From what he heard, that the author of this treaty is in struggle with another councilor in the leadership of the Council. So, is this a way to get the author back in good grace and absolute leadership or is this a trap for either the author, set by the rival, or is it Aragon by the author? Or even that Cornari is trying to gain his power? Or even that Aragon has nothing to do with this, only a struggle between two men with Cornari shown his leadership of the Council over Franco and that he could command Franco around. And on so.

He chucked at himself and spoke to himself,

You are getting too paranoid. It is only a show of strength by Cornari over Franco. After all, this treaty is not bad, not at all.

He smiled as he rereaded the treaty. This would go in long way of bringing Aragon and Venice closer and sewing the commerce of Mediterrean together under the leadership of Aragon and Venice. Also, that this could be a basis of expansion of trade into other regions. After all, this treaty seemed to be equally benefitful to both nations and may maxmium the profits.

He walked to the Council. There, he spoke

I have readed the treaty and it seemed to be satisfication to me. It looks that it would be extremely profitable to both of our nations. I suggest that when the agreement expired and it have been shown to be very profitable, that we should look over this treaty and create the better ones after gaining the experience in this sort of thing. That, we shall evaluate the the results at the end of 5 years. What do you think?

By the way, I have accepted this treaty. This shall bring Venice and Aragon to much closer friendship and increase our profits.

 

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A letter arrived from the Doge specifically to be seen and read to the council.

"This letter is in response to the letter sent to me by Franco Berlusconi regarding the proposed treaty that he put together. I have read it and find it acceptable at the current time. I would like Franco at this time to go ahead with the general procedures, and have it accepted into law. Upon my return I shall be debriefed on any other issues.

~Doge Francesco Foscari"​

With those words the each member of the council all took a quick glance at Berlusconi expecting to see a smirk of victory, but instead saw the cold grimis of ice. Franco then interrupted their stares and spoke.

"Well it seems Signore Don Pueblo that we may go ahead with the agreement. I hope that this shall lead us to more prosperous times. I shall be the sole liaison at this moment in the Doge's absence, so if you have any further questions, direct them to me. Otherwise I think gentlemen, that we may go into recess for the day. Thank you."​

With the last words he made sure to send shivers dont Cornari's back with a stare that would have penetrated the marbel walls.​

 

[Lord E]

Louis looked at the Doge. What was this man trying to do, he though. Well it was clear that the Doge was a loyal and good friend, and that he wanted France and Venice to work even closer in the future. That seemed nice, but... Louis though for some time and then he opened his mouth.

"My friend your words are nice, and I am trilled by this welcoming.
I most say I really like Crete, and that your workers has really done a very good job cleaning up after the war here."

They walked to the Queen and King of Castile and Leon.

"Dear Aunt and Uncle, it is great to finally see you both again! You both look good, and I hope you are good?

Well as the Doge said let us turn to business.
I find your offers for accepting France into your noble alliance very interesting, but I would like to know some more details about the Minoa Confederacy. How does it work? And might I see the details in the treaty?"

 

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The Doge responds

"Most certainly, here is a copy."​

Minoan Confederation

Upon this day in the year of our Lord 1441 the Kingdoms of Portugal, Castile-Leon, France and the Republic of Venice do hereby ratify the treaty of Minoan Confederation, and forever proclaim their undying devotion and faith in our lord and savior Jesus Christ, to the Holy Roman Catholic Church, to His Holiness the Pope, and to the Minoan Confederation.

I. Nature of the Minoan Confederation

By the will of God the great nations of Portugal, Castile-Leon, France, and Venice have been graced with great prosperity, wealth, and national pride. Recognizing that these four nations are extremely independent and proud the nature of this Minoan Confederation shall be based upon these very important ideas.

A. Venice shall greatly allow the Confederations capital to be located upon the ruins of the great Minoan capital of Knossos.

B. In order for the Minoan Confederation's capital to rival any capital in Europe the nations of Portugal, Castile-Leon, France and Venice shall each invest 200,000 ducats (2 eco) to build this new and grand city of the Mediterranean.

C. Located in this capital shall be a great palace with 5 significant wings. The center hall shall be created in the ancient style of the Minoans. Within this hall shall be located a grand reception hall with four thrones made of gold. These thrones shall be placed at the same level and be created in the same style of Minoan Civilization.

I. Spreading out from this main palace hall shall be located four wings.

1. The west wing shall be created in the style of Castile-Leon and be home to that nations leaders and citizens.

2. The north wing shall be created in the style of Venice and be home to that nations leaders and citizens.

3. The east wing shall be created in the style of Portugal and be home to that nations leaders and citizens.

4. The southern wing shall be created in the style of France and be home to that nations leaders and citizens.​

D. Also located within this grand capital shall be a great Senate hall in the Greek style. Within this Senate hall shall be offices to house 80 senators and their staffs, and a grand Hall of the senate with a dais located in its center. Placed upon this center hall shall be four equal thrones each bearing the symbol of the confederation members nation.

E. A great labyrinth shall be rebuilt in this grand complex in honor of the Minotaur. In times of war enemies of the confederation shall be placed in the labyrinth in the style of the myth. Several bulls and other ferocious animals shall be set loose upon said enemies.

II. Organization of the Minoan Confederation

A. Each nation shall enter into a non-aggression pact and that of military alliance with each other. In order for the four nations to remain independent bodies each shall send a delegation of 20 nobles as Senators to represent their nation in the Confederation Senate.

B. The power of the confederation shall lie in its senate with each nation's ruler holding an individual veto.

C. In order for war to be declared the Confederation's Senate must reach a three-fourths consensus in favor of said war.

D. Shall the rulers of Portugal, Castile-Leon, France and Venice not be present three senators known as Grand Senators shall take their place ruling the day to day doings of the Senate. However the ruler's power of veto shall not be placed in the hands of these Grand Senators.

E. Shall another nation declare war upon the Minoan Confederation that said nation will find itself at war with all member nations.

1. A state of war will be declared by all confederation members.

2. A full trade embargo shall be declared by all confederation members.
​

F. Shall a member nation decide that it is in the best interest for their nation to go to war they have that individual right, however in order for all member states to enter into said aggression the Senate must ratify the state of war with a three-forths vote.


III. Symbols of the Confederation

The ancient Minoan mythological figure of the Minotaur shall be made the symbol for the Minoan Confederation. All member states will fly not only their national flag but also that of the Confederations above all ships, palaces, troops, etc.

A. The flag shall be placed upon a dark blue background to symbolize the Mediterranean sea.

B. In the center of this flag shall be a portrait of the Minotaur, in representation of the Confederation.

C. To the west of the Minotaur shall be the shield of Castile-Leon with the lions and castles symbolizing that nation.

D. To the north of the Minotaur shall be the winged lion of St. Mark symbolizing the Republic of Venice.

E. To the east of the Minotaur shall be the shield of the Kingdom of Portugal as is found upon their flag, and the national seal.

F. To the west of the Minotaur shall be the shield of the Kingdom of France as is found upon their flag, and the national seal.


IV. Nature of Treaty

Should any portion of this treaty wish to be amended it shall be done within the confines of the Confederation's senate.

A. In order for an amendment to be added or something changed within the Confederations treaty a vote of two-thirds agreement must be reached by the Senate.

B. Debate will be encouraged within the senate hall; however outside the confines of this hall all members shall present a loyal and united front.

C. All rulers of said confederacy rulers shall be given the title of triumviri rei publicae constituendae in the style of the Roman Empire.

By the Grace and will of God shall this Minoan Confederation prosper and bring much to Portugal, Castile-Leon, France and Venice.

[x]Elionor, Queen of Castile-Leon, Queen of Granada, Dowager Queen Regent of England, Dowager Queen Regent of Scotland, Dowager Queen Regent of Wales, Princess Royal of Aragon, Duchess of Messina, triumviri rei publicae constituendae.
[x]Doge Francesco Foscari
[x]Queen Adalia of Portugal
[x]King Louis XI

 

[Alex_pharaoh]

Expedition Arrives to Crete

The ship arrives to the island of Crete, where they noticed that something was going on in the island...

"Alxandros, what is it?" -Nurim asked.

"Strange... There seems to be many sheeps in the island. There are several ships with different flags. One of Aragon, one of Castille, and even one of France..." -Answered Alexandros.

"Excellent!" -Said Muhammed.- "There is some sort of royal meeting between different rulers of Europe."

"Yes, and that means it can bring us good relations if we manage to become friends with them, so that when we go visit their countries, we could be greeted." -Said Nurim.

One of the members of the expedition, Sayeb Amhul, an Ortodox, said that they are to step on land in 10 minutes. They did, and were heading to the meeting to meet the rulers in name of the Uzbek people.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

When they got there, they were very nervous.

"I hope they are to accept us..." -Said Nurim.

"Do not worry, Nurim. They will. Remember, I know how to speak in their language, and many more. I shall speak to them in Latin, and maybe Spanish."

"Very well. I just hope to stay with my head on my shoulders."

When they got into the room, Alexandros was not so nervous. But the rest was so nervous, they were shaking. Alexandros told them to bow infront of them, and then he spoke:

"To your majesties, I am honored to be here:

This is an expedition sent by Alxud Khan of the Uzbek Khanate, a land far away. We were send by the Khan to explore the lands of Europe and search for diplomatic relations with different nations in this continent. And we saw the oportunity of this meeting to present ourselves in the name of the Khan and people of the Uzbeks.

We also found this oportunity to make trade possibilities. Recently, as we got informed, the Khan has ordered the completion of a new port in the Caspian seas, which provide a cheaper and more secure rout for merchants. I hope negotiation is available.

So please accept the presentation of this peacefull mission."

The expedition bowed again, and awaited a reply.

 

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Two guards, blocking all entrances to the meeting step infront of Uzbecks, without any word or any disclosure that the guards ever cared if the men were there. Giuseppe Foscari then steps between the guards to see the merchants.

"Gentlemen please, you are welcome in the port, and I hope that you enjoy yourselves. As for this meeting, it is private, extremely private. The Doge shall see you at another time when his business with his guests is finished. At that time I shall send a servant to fetch you in the port town. I hope this is adequate of a result, if not then I think it best that you continue your travels, elsewhere. These two guards shall escort you to the town, thank you and good day."​

With those words Giuseppe had stearnly planted his mark. A wave of his hand and the guards took one step forward, signifying their readiness.

 

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Queen Elionor had not been feeling well since her trip to the Island of Crete. Never a woman of the sea she marvelled as the Doge of Venice and her husband showed her around the ruins of Crete. Finally her composure once again came to her and she smiled at the sight of her nephew the King of France. Hopefully he would join the Minoan Confederacy. As Elionor watched the Doge speak ot the King she had a thought that quite disturbed her, for she had been sick before leaving Castile-Leon, and these sicknesses came only in the morning. Thinking to herself she quickly realized the King of France had spoken to her and she smiled and hugging her nephew responded.


Dear Louis how wonderful it is to see you here on this island of Crete. It has been far too long my dear nephew since I have seen your lovely face, and in times of joy such as this I am pleased to be surrounded by my family and allies. For that nephew is what we have asked you here for as the Doge has pointed out. You are family and I wish for you to join this Minoan Confederation. As the Doge has stated the reasons for our asking you to join, I hope you too see the wisdom in this idea. We await your response but I hope it is a yes, for I must admit your uncle and I have always been informal allies of France. If you remember before I was married to the King of Castile-Leon I sat upon the throne of England. I worked hard to keep peace between my adopted nation and France, and your uncle was the only nation who stood by France's side when Aragon, Burgandy and others attacked you. Now I say let us make our informal alliance a formal one, please join our Minoan Confederation.

 

[Mettermrck]

A letter arrives in Crete from Queen Adalia of Portugal:

”My friends and allies, I greet you in the name of Portugal and wish you felicitations and good health. I am happy to hear of your conference and express my support for the policies our Confederation has pursued thus far and my utmost confidence in Queen Elinor and Doge Francesco Foscari. Their leadership has been exemplary thus far. I regret my not being able to be with you on that ancient island, as affairs of state keep me here. Yet Portugal wants to add its hope that France will soon join the Minoan Confederation and together, we shall form a powerful bloc for the protection and assertion of our interests.”

 

[Lord E]

Louis was having a great time at Crete. The weather was nice, and the Doge had proven to be just the nice and friendly man Louis had though him to be. Also it was great to be able to meet his aunt again, Louis though. He smiled at his aunt as she spoke.

“My dear aunt.
As I have already tried to express it is with great joy I see you again. I do remember very well your years at the throne of England, and also how good you worked for a better relationship and co-operation between France and England. I know that Castile is a very good friend of France, and I hope to keep it like that.

I am very happy for the nice welcoming I have received here at Crete, and it warms my heart to see that all of the members of the Confederacy have shown their acceptance and will to let France join. It makes me happy!”

Louis then turns towards the Doge to address him as well as his aunt.

“I have seen and heard a lot in my days here at the beautiful island of Crete. It has made me understand how lucky France is to have such noble friends and partners as the glorious Kingdoms of Castile and Portugal, and the noble nation of Venice. We are trilled by your great will to have France sign the treaty, and you have convinced me. I am more than willing to make France a member of the Minoan Confederacy, and I hope that will strengthen the close bonds between all of our countries even more.
So where shall I sign?”

 

[Alex_pharaoh]

A message from Alxud Khan arrives to the hands of Alexandros, who was enjoying the nice climate of Crete. There were many, destinated to the different Kings of the region. He has send them all to the king and delegates in the Island:

"Sent this to Venice..." -Said Alexandros to one of the servants:

"Dear leader of Venice:

I send this letter from Tashkent. I am Alxud Khan of the Uzbeks, and I would like to start a trading and a diplomatic relation with Venice. I hope this letter is just the beggining of it.

-Alxud Khan of the Uzbeks."

 

[Lord E]

A ship anchors up in the harbour of Crete, and a man rushes out. The runs thru the city towards the palace, and when he arrives at the palace he demands to see the king of France. After some time he is admitted to see the King.

”Your Majesty, I come with an urgent message from the chancellor. He sent this letter, and told me to say that the English are keeping the treaty!"

He gives the letter to Louis, and Louis opens it and reads.

Your Majesty!
I have just received the English chancellor of France here in Grenoble, and he told me that His Majesty the King of England will be in Paris in 3 weeks time to hold the ceremony to return Paris back to France.
He has been instructed to wait for your return and then take you to Paris.

Written and signed by

Jacques-Philippe de Auvern, Duc de Vendee

Louis rises at once and walks out of the room. He walks quickly in to see the Doge and the Queen.

“Noble friend, and noble aunt!
I have had a great time here in Crete, but unfortunately I will now have to leave you again. I have just received news from France that the English are making preparations for the return of Paris to the Kingdom of France. Therefore I will be attending to a ceremony in Paris with the King of England.

It has been a great honour and pleasure to meet you noble Doge, and it is always a pleasure to meet you, my dear aunt, but now I will leave at once.
I hope to see you soon again!”

Louis gives them a smile, bows and walks out of the hall.

A little after the French fleet lifts anchor and set sail towards France.

 

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- EVENT -

Macedonian independence.

​

Doge Francesco Foscari of Venice rules a realm spread thin along the coast of the Mediterrenean. Harbours along the coast of Italia and on the Greek peninsula are home to the naval power of the serene republic.
But even then, distance can prove a problem. The governors and goverment officials of the more remore corners of the trading empire, such as Crete, Macedonia and Dobrudja often have to take decissions on the fly, without time to wait for confirmation from the official seat of goverment. Add to this the religious differences between the catholic Italians and the orthodox population in many of the provinces, and the Doges decissions to grant extended rights of self-governing to some of the more remote provinces seems a wise choice. Whether or not this will trigger similar hopes in othr provinces have yet to be shown.
In Macedonia, at least, both local nobility and population are happy with their newfound status as vassal state.



The nation of Macedonia is created:

Nation: Macedonia
Head of State: Duke Stefan Kantardjiev
Player: NPC
Religion: Orthodox
Culture: Greek
Stats: 1/1/4/4/2(1) --> [1/1/4/4/1]
Provinces: 1
Ports: 1
Owned: Macedonia
Venetian vassal -1 eco

 

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In the middle of the harsh February of the year 1443, a small packet of documents were delivered to Antonio Pastino, the Venetian ambassador in Piedmont. Along with the packet, a short, hastily written note arrived as well:

Amicissimo,

First of all, let me apologize for my long silence; as my duke seems to neglect the affairs of the state lately, an immense amount of work fell on my shoulders, and this prevented me from working on the Pact.
As you will surely notice, I have done many changes – some of which you may regard bad, or simply unnecesary. Please, do not hesitate to edit the treaty further on.


Yours,

Angelo Correano

* * * * *​

Pact of Italian Brothership​

Introduction – The Duchy of Piedmonte and the Republic of Venezia, upon realizing the pitiful state of affairs of Italia, now, in the year of Our Lord 1443, hereby decide to unite their forces in order to promote general political stability in the region, as well as to promote fidelity, trust and confidence among the states of the peninsula. As although the languages they speak are different, just like their culture and customs, the peoples living in Italia are indeed the descendants of common ancestors: descendants of the sons of Romulus and Remus. And hence they are brothers, and they must behave as such.


Article I – The nations that sign this pact shall never raise a state of hostilities against each other. The signing nations do hereby declare their firm belief that each and every disagreements must be resolved peacefully, via negotiations, without force used. In a case of a severe disagreement, when the war or other hostile actions seem inavoidable, the signing nations are strongly encouraged to ask for the mediation of the Duke of Piedmonte, the Doge of Venezia, or the Imperial Judge of Italia.

Article II – The nations that sign this pact shall for the time be willing to look favorably to the assistance of another nation in their times of need. This pact looks favorably towards cries for assistance when outsiders, or – horribile dictu – states of the peninsula, may risk the harmony of Italia. This article in no way construes a physical alliance, but gives the option in the case of need and necessity. Also in this spirit, no nation is allowed to speak or act in the name of other signing nations, unless she is authorized by them to do so.

Article III – Right of free passage shall be given through all nations that sign, to help bring down transportation fees, and to further facilitate the aid of a nation if it is needed.

Article IV – The nations that sign for the purpose of showing their friendship with all other nations within Italia.

Article V – The nations that join shall promise to aid in the protection of the Roman Catholic faith within Italia, and aid in its spreading whenever and wherever possible.

Article VI – Signing nations that are the parts of the Holy Roman Empire shall recognize the right of the other states to remain independent. Nevertheless, these independent states are encouraged to once again accept the protection of the Empire, as only the Emperor of the Romans is completely able to provide the stability Italia is aching for. Also, signing nations that are not the parts of the Holy Roman Empire shall recognize the right of the Emperor of the Romans to deal with his revolting vassals. Such rebellious elements, and also those states, against whom an Imperial war is declared, shall be expelled from this pact.

Article VII – Every states of Italia is welcome to sign this pact. However, these applicants shall be accepted by all other signing states.

Article VIII – The Duke of Piedmonte and the Doge of Venezia decide to found and endow the following institutes: an Academy of Arts in the Venetian city of Verona, and a Franciscan monastery in the Pennine Alpian region [with events, maybe?]. States joining later are strongly encouraged to make similar endowments.

Appendix​

– further agreements between Piedmonte and Venezia –​

Article I
– The Rebublic of Venezia recognizes the House di Savoia as the sole rightful and proper ruling house of the Duchy of Piedmont.
– The Duchy of Piedmont recognizes the legally elected Doges as sole rightful and proper rulers of Venezia.

Article II
– The Republic of Venezia recognizes the Dukes of Piedmont as the rightful heirs of the Iron Crown of the Lombards, and as legal protectors and overlords of Genoa (until 1449 or until an other time given by the Emperor of the Romans), and the Duchy of Modena and Ferrara (until 1445).
– The Duchy of Piedmonte recognizes the Republic of Venezia as the sole rightful owner of all territories she held in 1443, with the exception of Kerch, which is the legal property of Genoa, and shall be returned to that state in the year 1447. Piedmonte also recognizes Venezia as the rightful overlord of the Duchy of Macedonia and the Kingdom of Bulgaria.

Article III
– In the spirit of the Pact of Italian Brothership, the Republic of Venezia hereby promises to look favorably toward an agreement or act of cooperation with the Italian Trade Union.

 

[Gabriel Anthony]

A letter arrives from Vilnius.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Francesco seeing the French King depart safely was amazed at how quickly the island was being put together. Even now the ships from Venezia, Castile, and Portugal were docking and unloading supplies. He turns to his son Giuseppe to listen to the recent developments upon the island.

"Giuseppe what issues are there for me to handle?"​

_______________

"Currently we have some Arabs or muslims of some sort down at the port waiting to speak with you about some trade matters. They are Uzbeks, and I'm not sure how you want to deal with them.

As for some news, Giancarlo Tarun has helped us sign a new contract with the Timurids; he has done an amazing job in the desert. The only problem that he has, which I gather from his letter is that the trade agreement was for one year. I think he is working on an extension.

I am not sure about any other reports from the Muslim world or other. OH! You might want to know that the Timuirds and the Uzbeks are currently at war, as of recently."
_______________

"Ah very nice, well if you don't mind fetch the Uzbeks, tell them that currently it might be too dangerous to get involved in trade with their nation. Once the area is more secure we shall consider them. That should buy us some time. Have Tarun send a gift, and a new contract to the Timurid Khan. He has done a magnificent job and I think he has the skill to pull off a more permanent treaty.

Then son, then I want you to return to Venezia and have reports from each governor of each province, our vassals, our diplomats and some kind of trade information. I want to know where we stand and where we need to extend our reach. I shall arrive much later then you so do not worry about time. I think that shoud be all we need.

Oh and son...there is a chance for you as a politician yet. You must be proud of your report, it isn't everyday that you have been able to find the light of day outside the bed sheets of some whore. Giuseppe you have to recognize that you have a skill for knowing what information is important in diplomacy. So please concider working with me in Venezia...an aprentice let's say."
_______________

"Father the difference between you and me is that you were born for this job, it is in your blood and it consumes your mind. While with me, I honestly could not give a rat's ass about it. You have completely changed since my mother's death and I won't let her death change me like it has changed you. As for being your apprentice, well father in mind you sleep with worse sinners then any that have seen the company of my bed. I shall help you never the less, but it isn't for a love of politics, it is for love of my father.

I shall see you in Venezia. Goodbye."​

Francesco frozen stiff by his sons words, becomes abnormally emotional. For the first time in many months he has thought of his past life, his family, his deceased wife, and their son. It is always difficult to balance the responsibilities of a Doge and his family. He shakes off the thoughts and returns to his tent.

A few weeks later he speaks with King and Queen of Castile.

"My friends I hope you are enjoying your stay. This island is truly beautiful, and clearly it was a marvelous choice. Well protected, and easy to defend the confederacy has picked a perfect base of operations for future movements. I have already choosen senators for the job, and they shall be arriving in the coming months.

As for our palace, court, and the surrounding fortifications, they shall all be started within in the next three months and the construction should finish within the next two years. I shall begin building a medium arsenale here that will be copy of the giant in Venezia. We have recently gained some interesting technologies that should greatly help us.

I am apologize for my son. Giuseppe was sent last month on a scooner to quickly return to Venezia and send the orders to the Senate of what is to be prepared on my return. Which brings me to my greatest sadness my dearest Elionor. If you were any more enchanting I should think it impossible to return to my beloved Venezia, however my duties call and thusly the trumpets of my court need to be sound again. I bid you fair journey. I have detached a unit of our armada for your safe passage and return to Castile. You should have no problems, and they are under the command of my most trusted admiral. Please enjoy Crete as long as you like. I continue our communications once I return to Venezia, so farewell. To the glory of the confederacy under God."​

The Doge bows listens to the response, and then departs for Venezia.

 

[Gabriel Anthony]

Francesco, My Great Ally and Friend

It is good to be amongst friends in a temperate and relaxed place, as Venezia. Soon I hope to make my first visit to your Paradise on the Medditerenneo so that we may enjoy each others company. Sadly however, I am urged to write you not on for the sake of such splendid thoughts, but on matters of war and death. The Heretic Tartars that border both our lands, have pushed me up to and past the brink of all toleration, they have withou remorse, insulted and threatened all that I hold dear, including my beatiful wife and my son. So now I will oblidge them in their barbaric thirst for violence, as I write to you, I marshall my armies for the long and hard advance into the east with my ally Vasily of Muscovy.

Francesco, my soliders are many, their faith strong, and their will unshaken. But I lack the sufficient gold to equip them with all the provisions that are needed to wage a brutally effective campaign. So, I humbly request that our treaty be put to use, and that your vast coffers contribute to my our just cause. My treasurer has informed me that 2,000 ducats (eco) would nicely fufill any and all of our reqiurements, however, I realize that there are Venice's politics to take into consideration. So if you are not able to alot that much Gold, I would still gratefully accept 1,000 ducats in its stead. Be assured that either amount would be recieved gleefully. May God bless our peoples, and may he bless my mission.

-your friend,
Vytautas,

 

[Gabriel Anthony]

Rumours circulate around the court, foreign diplomats take notice that the Venetian Dux has yet to act. " Has he lost his will, does he have no stomach for war?" the court asks amongst themselves. Only time would tell,

 

[unmerged(17500)]

The Doge's return

A cool night in early March brings some late flurries to Il Palazzo San Marco. As he gets off the ship, the clocktower beams the time of 3 oclock in the morning down to the few miscreants out. He walks into the palace with his guard in hand. Quickly he heads to his sons private chamber to gain the most up to date information.

From down the hall Francesco can here the thunpings of lacivious sex. His steps grow stronger and more fierce as he approaches his sons room. Like the feel that a storm approaches, the lovers head the oncoming Doge, the son nalready beginning to curse his father for the interuption. Francesco stops at the door and places his hand midway on the oak door, to feel the heat. He slides his hand down the grain of the trees, peeling first his wrist, then his pawm, and finally curling his fingers in preperation for his knock. It turns out to be a bang.

"Giuseppe I need to speak with you immediately. I need a status report on our trade convictions."​

The son pulls the door open, not caring what his father has to say. In plain view is the wretch with which he is serving this night. However firm Giuseppe acts, his father cares only for the information crafted in his sons mind, cares not for the beckoning of the whore.

"Currently I am a little preoccupied father. Why do you not call on Berlusconi, or one of the other council members to bid you good morning. I must return."
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"Ah very nice....I want information now she will wait, just like all of the others. However Venezia shall not, and as much as you would like to devile that whore you shall not defile Venezia. Now the information."
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"Father fine. The Lithuanians have asked for a loan for they are in a fight with the Horde of the north, including the Crimean Hordes. I am not sure what you wish to do about them, or whether you want to get involved and expand from Kerch. With the strength of our armies it should be easy to accomplish.

Elsewhere the merchant guilds would like to speak with you.

Also we have to finish some work with the Timurids and finalize your long term treaty.

In the north we have to deal with the English and have them take over our shipping of goods there. I guess you are not happy with the 10% profit, because I have to tell you our merchants are not. They have refused to approach the area. I would assume you are planning to have the English as a middle man, have them pay a much higher rate, and then sell the goods for us in the north. At least from court records it seems that way.

Now if there is anything else I shall return to my ..... love."​

The door quickly slams on his fathers face. The Doge shocked, begins to burn in anger. In his eminence strength, the power that some humans are endowed with he slams against the door and in would kick of his leg he tears it open and heads strait for his son now on the bed. Specifically his finger points to his noise while he yells at is son.

"I DO NOT WHAT KIND OF IDIOT YOU WISH TO TURN INTO, BUT ATTITUDE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTABLE. WITH ALL THE FUCKING TROUBLE YOU HAVE CAUSED ME, SLEEPING WITH KING'S DAUGHTERS, YOU SHOULD BE HAPPY I LET YOU LIVE.

"King's daughters?​

The wench interrupts, and with out looking at her, in the dark the back of his hand blows her across the bed. The Doge then continues his rant while the girl deals with the blood flowing from her face and the shock of being hit by her God in Venezia.

"I SWEAR TO MY GOD ABOVE, THAT IF YOU CROSS ME AGAIN I WILL FIRSTLY BEAT INTO A FORM OF SOME UNKNOWN BEAST, AND THEN IF YOU ARE STILL ALIVE YOU SHALL BE BANISHED FROM MY PRESENCE FOR YOUR LIFETIME. HOWEVER LONG AND PUTRID IT MAY BE.​

The Doge then turns and normally walks out of the room to finish the work for the night. A few minutes later his son replies softly to himself.

"As usual welcome back father."​

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