- ARCHIVE - Imperial Diet of the Holy Roman Empire

[unmerged(2461)]

Baron von Schwarzschloß's face lights up with genuine joy as he reads the note sent to him by the Emperor. As the Duke of Kleves is replying to the emissary from the Teutonic Order, the Baron snaps his fingers to gather the attention of a waiting orderly who furnishes his master with another sheet of parchment.

The Baron eagerly writes another letter to the Emperor.

 

[Hamilcar]

The Prussian Delegate speaks

Freiherr von Schellendorff rises.

Verehrte Delegierte,

I would like to extend a warm welcome on our behalf to you, Herr Wilhelm Pledl. This assembly is in the midst of discussing several serious issues simultaneously, which at some times can be a little confusing.

I would advise you read the excellent records that the Emperor's scribes have prepared and then make Bremen's position on current issues clear to us so that we can see where you stand.

I would also like to invite you to send an envoy from Bremen to Preussen so as to further our nations' relationship.

 

[LUDWIG]

Albert turns to face the departing Steward a look of great sadness on his face.
"Farewell good friend, your service is beyond reproach.
Indeed you have spent too long within these halls, return to your wife and children for they surely miss your absence.
Your representative will be treated with as much respect your very person. The Diet shall be a more somber place without your quick wit to lighten the atmosphere, however I'm sure your representative shall bring great honour to himself and indeed to you his master."

Albert salutes the departing Duke and summons the Imperial carriage to bring the good Steward home. With the Steward safely on his way home Albert wipes a tear from his eye and returns his attention to the Diet.

"Gentlemen I am gravely concerned with the matter of Holland.
I have sent an Imperial delegation to investigate events there and have found nothing to disprove that the Duke of Burgundy is running his lands fairly. Unless Gelre and her allies can produce hard evidence of this mismanagement I will declare the matter closed. I have already spent much time and effort in ensuring the honour of the Empire has been upheld, I will not have my efforts ruined by baseless claims. "

Albert's cheeks began to redden with excitement, pausing for a few moments to drain his cup of wine before returning to his adress.

"I am also making an Imperial Decree.
To all nations within the Holy Roman Empire of Charlemagne,
as the first Prince of Christendom and Protector of the Church it is my duty to ensure the Empire can uphold her duties when called to serve. Due to the sheer number of nations involved in the Empire raising an army can be a most trying ordeal, therefore I decree that should the Empire be called to war that all Imperial nations should supply 1,000 soldiers (1 land mil) or 10,000 Imperial marks (1 econ) to the Emperor. No nation shall be granted an exception from this decree.

Some may find this Decree violates their right to rule their lands to them I say it is better that they suffer a slight annoyance then lose their lands forever. The Empire must be ready to defend the church from its enemies, rebels need to be crushed, the Muslim menace must be contained and the Empire must defend her borders from those lusting for her lands.

However I am not a tyrant and while this decree grants me enormous privilages I shall only use them when it is for the good of the Empire. Those of you who have been present since I first held court will know that I am a fair man and not given to rash calls for war. I require this authority to ensure that the Empire remains a most powerful force in Europe and the those who desire her lands are fully aware of the cost they shall pay."

Albert pauses for breath after delivering this speech, his face flushed with excitement, his voice vibrating with passion throughout the Diet.
Sensing that many might consider this to be a step too far Albert tried to rally his mind before speaking.

"I propose that to ensure the heart of the Empire be pure and honourable that several trusted members of the Empire assist me in leading the Empire.
Doge John of Genoa serves as my Military Advisor and is the foremost General in the Empire. He has the right to move through Imperial lands and to strike the enemies of the Empire with his sword. I have granted him the Imperial Banner to ensure that all who see it shall know he marches with the will of the Emperor.

Duke Fredrich of Brandenburg is probably known to most of you and serves as my second within the Empire. I have granted the good Duke the rank of Imperial Steward. Should I be unable to attend the Diet Herr von Hohenzollern is granted the right to invoke some of my Imperial authority. He has my full support and those who anger him shall face my wrath.

I intend to appoint Advisors for Trade, Diplomacy, Internal Affairs/Advisor for small nations and Spiritual matters.

Spiritual Advisor is yet to be decided between a Papal Legate or the Metropolitan of the Imperial throne.

Due to the unease many of the smaller nations feel at present I intend to appoint one of their number to ensure that they have a major role in the rule of the Empire.

As the Empire depends on the faithful service and talents of her members I shall be reviewing the performance of those present to ensure the best possible candidates are appointed to Imperial positions.

Those called to serve shall be given part of the majesty of the Imperial throne and shall work to ensure the reputation of the Empire grows.

Thank you gentlemen I feel I have made my point."

A scribe tactfully reminds the Emperor about the presence of so many guests.

"Oh yes our foreign guests present.
Each of you is welcome to attend the Diet and may present motions, however you are not allowed to vote and your presence is only granted for as long as you respect the laws of the Empire.
You are all very welcome and I trust you are enjoying yourselves wonderously. I do hope we don't alarm you overly with our behaviour but the Empire has a long tradition of passionate speeches. I imagine your own courts are somewhat similar though perhaps not as large. Some of you may have a feeling we are hostile to you, I would like to address this issue. Alas sometimes one of you may seek to address the Diet and amid the thunder of Imperial debate your request may be drowned out.
This is a most regretful occurance however I would advise that should this occur remind the Imperial Steward that you have a matter to address the Diet, this ensures you get a chance to speak. Welcome once again to our lands and it is most heartening to see so many representatives from foreign lands.
The Empire must be held in high esteem to have attracted you so far from your homes. Excuse me gentlemen but alas matters of state need my attention"

With that Albert is presented with several petitions and stately documents to read or sign.

 

[unmerged(6719)]

Alois von Bern rises and addresses the Imperial Diet:

Let it be known that Bavaria was the first to rise and accept and support the Emperor and Empire on this matter of security. Bavaria feels that as an Empire we must work together and military or economic aid in a time of trouble is only justified. Bavaria whole heartedly looks upon this Imperial decree and sees that it represents the Empire in the fullest. As she is such a small nation Bavaria sees not a hinderance by sending military or economic aid, but a gift as her defense will be guaranteed. To the smaller nations you should look upon this not as bad, but your nations will in war time go from having a small army to having the Imperial army supporting you if the Emperor wishes it so. The emperor is a wise man and his appointments are also wise in this matter. Bavaria supports all of the appointments as all of these men are of great virtue and honor. We Bavarians especially enjoyed when the emperor stated he would appoint a smaller nation to an advisory postition. On a more personal note i am happy to announce that my Duke Wilhelm Albrecht has recently become betrothed to a lady and family that are the essance of the Holy Roman Empire. My duke is set to marry Lady Elisabeth of Brandenburg the Imperial Steward's eldest daughter. There is much in Bavaria happening at this time and let it be known that all nations will be invited to join the Duke and his family for this happy and momentus event in Munchen, it is to be the social event of the season. Our messangers will soon be sending out the invitations as they are being written as we speak. Long live the Emperor and Empire!


Alois von Bern smiling at the news of his speech sits and waits for other reactions.

 

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Leopoldo pushes back in his chair, and leans the chair on its two back legs. He spins a small stick between his fingers as he nods his head, a wicked looking grin forming on his face. He whispers a small phrase, without disguising the arrogance in his voice.

"Quiver in fear ohh enemies of the Empire."

He laughs to himself at that statement and rises out of his chair to address the Diet.

"Tyrant or not, the Empire will not stand if we don't make a stand together! I wholeheartedly agree with the Emperor on this issue, and the only thing I would have changed is making it two thousand soldiers. Long live the Emperor, Long live the Empire!"

 

[unmerged(6501)]

Burgrave Erhard von Meissen, in his master the Imperial Steward's chair, rises, smiling broadly.

"His highness has set us on the path to great glory for the Empire and as the Elector of Brandenburg has proven in the past, his aid is willingly given to the Emperor's use.

"I also echo Herrn von Bern's words for there is much joy in the this union of Wittelsbach and Hohenzollern. May the good Duke of Bavaria and my lady Elisabeth know much happiness and many children!"

 

[unmerged(8443)]

The Count Adolf von Eppstein rises cautiously. Quiet all this time, he looks to be nervous about his comments. "They are all too supportive," he thinks, "how can I win the day?"

"Dearest Emperor, Noble Legates,
I find myself that I must object to this matter, Highness. Certainly it is unneccessary. Do you have such little respect for the noble Lords, Dukes, Margraves, Archbishops, Counts, et cetera that make up your Empire that you must force them to send you aid? Certainly they are able to note when the situation requires thier support, when the cause is just, and when the time is right. In these situations, will not all the nations of the Empire rise to arms of their own accord? And when these requirements are not met, why then is the Empire at war at all? It strikes me that this increases the power of the Emperor without the selfsame benefit to the Empire."

 

[unmerged(5941)]

Leopoldo rises.

"I respect your opinion noble count, but what happens when a country like Gelre takes no heed to the words of the Emperor and seeks to expand his realm at the cost of another Imperial fief? What happens when he seeks the support of all of the northern countries in the Empire? What happens when we are forced to call upon the countries outside of the Empire to fix our problems, because none of us are willing to give up any of our powers to protect the Empire? What happens when we place Genoa or Mainz or whatever it may be, before the Empire? If we allow the nobles of the Empire to decide when it is right to join in war, they would only join when they see a chance for personnal profit or a chance to expand their realm. I am afraid that the Emperor is left with no choice, but to impose these laws. We need to have a standing Imperial army, so that we do not have to rely on outside forces to fight our battles."

 

[unmerged(2461)]

Baron von Schwarzschloß chews his lip nervously at his counterpart from Mainz's words. It is no secret in the Empire that the two, small, neighbouring realms of Pfalz and Mainz are allied, and the Baron sweats and shifts his weight uncomfortably at Count Adolf's polite, but potentially... upsetting words.

Von Schwarzschloß rises awkwardly and awaits patiently for His Excellency Leopoldo of Genoa to finish addressing Count Adolf.

Finally, the Baron has the Diet's collective ear,

"Ahem, yes... I wonder how Count Josef will apraise my next statement... uhm, my loyalties are somewhat split..."

He flounders, but regains his composure.

"Ja, my loyalties are split, but my, and my Count's realm's first duty are to the Empire." He bows to the Emperor.

"Your Highness, on behalf of the Electorate of Pfalz, I offer my full support for this new decree on behalf of Count Josef. I am sure that, as your Count Palatine, he would be first amongst equals to offer all his resources in the hour of the Empire's need, not just those which you have very reasonably asked of us."

The Baron sits, and turning to Count Adolf, he offers a small shrug and smiles as if to say, "Sorry, old friend!"

 

[unmerged(1057)]

Paul von Russdorf takes the word

Sehr geehrte Herren,

I think that the emperor should move with caution here, because so few of the duchies are active in the diet, this I am the first to regret.

I haven´t really heard the "Herren" von Baden, Oldenburg, Sachsen, Holstein, Bremen, Gelre, Friesland, Mecklenburg, Magdeburg and a few more, much lately...

We must hear all delegats before we can second the emperors proposal,......err,....yes?

 

[unmerged(6757)]

Sir Munsford Von Roderbutton of Hannover stands to address the assemblage.

"Great Emperor and Noble Delegates,
Let it be known to all that Duke Wilhelm IV and all of Hannover stands behind the emperor on his decree. My lord states that it is time for the empire to stand together as one and show the world we are a might not to be reckoned with. Let it also be known that the army of Hannover stands ready to heed the call of the Emperor if need arise, and we shall fight fiercely for the empires defense."

With that Sir Munsford bows low to all and sits down.

 

[AllonEU]

Leonard Fourner speaks

The Duchy of Burgundy is in full support of the Emperor's decree.

 

[unmerged(8443)]

The Count Adolf von Eppstein rises to speak yet again. He is noticeably more nervous. Wiping his brow and attempting to gain some composure, he begins...

"Dearest Doge Leopoldo, and all those in attendance,
I think those points to be not inconsiderable. Indeed, we must always know that our Emperor comes before our own needs. Do not misapprehend me, as I know I might be misunderstood, for I do not think that the lords of any of the nations of the Empire come before the Empire itself. I simply ascribe to the notion that the Lords of the Empire have been elevated to their positions through the will of God, as he has been pleased with them, and would not falter in their devotion to Him. The Pope, as we all know, has issued a Bulle in which he describes the Empire as the sword-arm of the Holy Mother Church.

As such, it is a moral imperative, in the eyes of the Church, for the nations of the Empire to support the Emperor, and I think it obvious that all of the God-appointed sovereigns of the Empire would not err in following true morality. And, should such a pretender as the leader of Gelre foust war upon any of the Lords of the Empire, we should not fail to react in kind. The very tenacity with which all the various lords and legates show support for this measure proves it to be unnecessary."

 

[unmerged(5941)]

Leopoldo chuckles when the Count addresses him.

"Noble sir, I am merely a noble in Genoa, formerly in the army. I am not the Doge, and have no intentions of ever being elevated past the current position I am in.

The problem is, the fiefs of the Empire have not supported the Emperor in the past and have put themselves before the Emperor. The only thing keeping this Empire from falling apart is the Emperor, and if he sees fit to begin to press certain vassalship laws on us, then so be it. All of our land is the Empire's land, and thus the Emperor's land. A vassal has an obligation to support his liege in a time of war, and since we don't do that of free will, then the Emperor has to impose it on us in the form of a law. I do not understand what you fear from this. Do you fear having to send your youth into combat for the defense of the Empire?"

 

[unmerged(5430)]

Alessandro del Fiore raises from his chair and takes the speech.

The formation of a inter-imperial army that will defend our external and internal borders its, in theory, an excellent idea. But, in the practic, will bring more attritions and troubles than sollutions. Milan, as always, will fully support any decision proclaimed by our Emperor and any that may be supported in this recint and certainly do not fear to raise his sword in the defense of our Empire and our True Church.

The Muslim menace is an easy target and we all be always happy to help and fight this threath, a black and white conflict. But, when the conflict is more grey and dusty, what interests will prevail .... What I mean, in the hipothetical case of an armed conflict within our borders, to who this Imperial Army will bring his help? To the attacked part ? To the part who has the reason on his side ? And what if both sides are right ? Or will this Army will be a tool to the bigger nations became bigger and the powerfull lords became even more powerfull ?

And, in other point of view, how many of your lords, noblemen of Europe tied by blood and gold, will be willing to send his trained men to face, perhaps, the armies of a relative, a cousin, a brother, or even an allie, leaving a defensive gap in his own territories ?

These questions must be fully answered before we take such gigantic step in these matters.

Alessandro returns to his seat.

 

[Darth Tracid]

The delegate of Luxembourg stands.

"My emperor, the duchy of Luxembourg stands behind you as always. But duke Sigismund has made one demand. He insists that should Luxembourgian soldiers be called behind the banners of the empire, that you accept him to head them himself. He says that wherever a son of his country goes, he shall go with them."

 

[unmerged(2461)]

Baron von Schwarzschloß sits and listens thoughtfully to Alessandro del Fiore of Milan as he puts forward his concerns. As the Milanese spokesman finishes, von Schwarzschloß patiently waits for the Luxembourgian delegate to add his words of approval for the Emperor's decree, then stands himself to address Herr del Fiore,

"Your Excellency, these are all valid concerns, but I am more than confident that the great military and strategic minds present here at the Diet are capable of evaluating each scenario as it rises." The Baron indicates several people, including the delegate from Genoa.

 

[unmerged(6501)]

The legate from Brandenburg rises from the Steward's chair.

"The concerns of the smaller and weaker states are valid, but are not borne out by recent history. The Duke of Luxembourg, before laying down the crown of Hungary, twice defeated smaller imperial states who had shown themselves false to their oaths. And twice he refused to annex those lands into his own. Today, the legate from Bavaria sits among us as a proud man representing his Duke. Luxembourg freely surrendered Bavaria to the Emperor.

"The Emperor seeks to strengthen the Empire. Disputes within the Empire must be treated cautiously and carefully, but threats from without should be met decisively and with unity. When the Empire is attacked, I see no question of who is in the right and who in the wrong. The Empire shall defend herself."

 

[unmerged(1057)]

Paul von Russdorf, rises with some difficulty due to his backproblems, clears his throat and speak

Sehr geehrte Herren,

"The empire should defend itself", says the Brandenburg delegat,
well, that should be easy for him to say,
*looks at the Brandenburg legate* But the Empire is protected by the more powerful states.........Even if the Empire should be successful in raising an army of every sovereign within them empire, they would be utterly dependent of the "grossmächte",......
and the biggest power in the Empire is des Ordens der bruederen des Spitals Santa Marien des Deutschen Hauses von Jerusalem, or in other words The Holy Order of Teutonic Knights..

Without the Order, and of course the Doge of Genoa, the Empire couldn´t withstand nothing.

We are however, prepared to support the Imperial proposal, provided that my country is granted or proclaimed, my Head of State is already Imperial Prince, the dignity of "Königreich"..

The Order is still there, as a defender of the Holy Faith, but our state is to be secular...

My current Head of State, Karl Kuechenmeister von Sternburg, will continue to be the Grand Master of the Order, but will not be the Head of State......

Your most August Imperator, grant our lands the title of Kingdom of Livonia,...........and we will support your will and will obey every notion and move of yours.

And remember, without our support, The Empire is of lesser quality, lesser strength to withstand a threat from without...

We also believe, that if You granted us our new Kingdom, we could be the champion of the Empire, not only in the East, but everywhere.

Furthermore, we wish to make a statement,

In our wiews, the Empire is not dependant on the goodwill of the Pope, he is given his title and rank directly from God, with no interference of a Pope or man...

My Imperial Majesty, with our request, the Empire will last a thousand years,......

Please grant us the titel of Kingdom.

It is my Grand Masters intention to seek through the entire Empire in pursuit for a worthy King, but of course, You my Imperial Highness grants whoever You think worthy...."

 

[unmerged(6501)]

Burgrave Erhard frowns.

"Herr von Russdorf, precisely what do you mean when you say that "that should be easy for him to say"?

"You seem to be arguing that you and the Doge of Genoa should be able to order the affairs of the Empire as you see fit, without regard for the smaller states, since without you, we amount to nothing.

"Know this, that though Brandenburg be small and not among the mighty, we have honor more than enough. The Duke of Brandenburg is loyal to the Emperor and believes that every lord of the Empire has a share in shaping her destiny. Though you may believe that without you, we can withstand nothing, I prefer to believe that honor and right shall always prevail.

"If I misunderstand, please explain yourself. But your words seem to indicate that the Order no longer values honor or oaths given and that you will obey the Emperor only if he accedes to your request.

"You have insulted the name of every noble and honorable lord here present, save that of the Doge of Genoa whom you count alone among your peers."