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The smile faded from Enrique's lips, as the Queen spoke of Aragon's surrender, and he felt an urge to scream. It took every ounce of his self control to stop himself from leaping from his chair and thrashing all about him in a fit of rage. But he did, and pulling back away from the Queen, to set restlessly in hs chair he eventually smiled again, and rose slowly. He walked round the table slowly, fixing his eyes upon the Queen, a far away gaze cast through her. He came up beside her and gently reached his hand out to touch hers. He dragged it slowly, embracingly up her arm, until it came to her chin. Enrique held her head then between his two hands and leaning over slowly kissed Blanca ever so delicately on the forehead, and kneeling down to her level he smiled and spoke.
"This war has had enough of you and Aragon, and you of it. There is no dishonour in retiring, when those who have been left untouch remain to fight it. You have not lost my love, and all people shall know you as Blanca the Wise, Reina de Aragon." He removed himself from her slowly, and sat upon the table next to her, slumped over, his head restive upon his hand in thought. Finally he spoke again, business-like,
"There is the matter of treaty they, I shall have these claims in writing, and furthermore a draft of loan of whatever funds you can muster, per your offer. I am certain that you shall have success soon in Naples, and surely the plunder shall add to your coffers. Perhaps, majesty it would be more fitting for you to draft a treaty of what Aragon can afford to offer at this juncture?"
"This war has had enough of you and Aragon, and you of it. There is no dishonour in retiring, when those who have been left untouch remain to fight it. You have not lost my love, and all people shall know you as Blanca the Wise, Reina de Aragon." He removed himself from her slowly, and sat upon the table next to her, slumped over, his head restive upon his hand in thought. Finally he spoke again, business-like,
"There is the matter of treaty they, I shall have these claims in writing, and furthermore a draft of loan of whatever funds you can muster, per your offer. I am certain that you shall have success soon in Naples, and surely the plunder shall add to your coffers. Perhaps, majesty it would be more fitting for you to draft a treaty of what Aragon can afford to offer at this juncture?"
A knight in his late 20’s, dressed in the latest Portuguese manner, visits the Royal Chancellery and soon is granted an audience with the Steward. In the matter of minutes he presents his case.
“Your Grace,
I am Reinmar von Bielau, knight on the services of Casmir VI of the Greif, son of the late Emperor Joachim, heir to the Royal throne of Sweden and Ducal coronets of Pommerania, Hannover and Poznan.
His lordship spent the last six years in Portugal, being the guest of the late King Reginald and recieving education in the Iberian manner. Now he is on his way to Germany. Yet, before he depart from Iberia, he wanted to visit the Royal Court of Castille and greet the king residing here, as well as present his salutations to the whole of the House Trastemara.
Would his desire be fulfilled?”
“Your Grace,
I am Reinmar von Bielau, knight on the services of Casmir VI of the Greif, son of the late Emperor Joachim, heir to the Royal throne of Sweden and Ducal coronets of Pommerania, Hannover and Poznan.
His lordship spent the last six years in Portugal, being the guest of the late King Reginald and recieving education in the Iberian manner. Now he is on his way to Germany. Yet, before he depart from Iberia, he wanted to visit the Royal Court of Castille and greet the king residing here, as well as present his salutations to the whole of the House Trastemara.
Would his desire be fulfilled?”
A knight in his late 20’s, dressed in the latest Portuguese manner, visits the Royal Chancellery and soon is granted an audience with the Steward. In the matter of minutes he presents his case.
“Your Grace,
I am Reinmar von Bielau, knight on the services of Casmir VI of the Greif, son of the late Emperor Joachim, heir to the Royal throne of Sweden and Ducal coronets of Pommerania, Hannover and Poznan.
His lordship spent the last six years in Portugal, being the guest of the late King Reginald and recieving education in the Iberian manner. Now he is on his way to Germany. Yet, before he depart from Iberia, he wanted to visit the Royal Court of Castille and greet the king residing here, as well as present his salutations to the whole of the House Trastemara.
Would his desire be fulfilled?”
Enrique was busy at court, with the many goings on of late, and the court was frantic at the news of a massive uprising of the infidels in Africa. Despite this the king heard of the Pommeranian's arrival and finding a brief moment he invited him into his chambers. He listened anxiously and after hearing the rather mundane introduction answered agitated,
"Very well good knight, I grieved much over the Emperor's loss, he was a grand man." He coughed and plopped down tiredly into his chair, "I welcome you and your Lord here in Valencia, and hope you shall forgive the lack of hospitality provided as times are trying what with the war against the vile Zayyanids, and news comes to us of a massive rising of them in their lands. My hands are full in planning to protect my people...and all Christianity." Enrique leaned back and rubbed his eyes and then, oddly his voice changed and gestured frustratedly with his hands, "I must apologize, I owe you more respect, and thanks at the kind gesture of the House of Greif. I shall give you as much time as you desire, and pray ask what if anything else is the desire of your lord?"
“Your Grace,
I am Reinmar von Bielau, knight on the services of Casmir VI of the Greif, son of the late Emperor Joachim, heir to the Royal throne of Sweden and Ducal coronets of Pommerania, Hannover and Poznan.
His lordship spent the last six years in Portugal, being the guest of the late King Reginald and recieving education in the Iberian manner. Now he is on his way to Germany. Yet, before he depart from Iberia, he wanted to visit the Royal Court of Castille and greet the king residing here, as well as present his salutations to the whole of the House Trastemara.
Would his desire be fulfilled?”
Enrique was busy at court, with the many goings on of late, and the court was frantic at the news of a massive uprising of the infidels in Africa. Despite this the king heard of the Pommeranian's arrival and finding a brief moment he invited him into his chambers. He listened anxiously and after hearing the rather mundane introduction answered agitated,
"Very well good knight, I grieved much over the Emperor's loss, he was a grand man." He coughed and plopped down tiredly into his chair, "I welcome you and your Lord here in Valencia, and hope you shall forgive the lack of hospitality provided as times are trying what with the war against the vile Zayyanids, and news comes to us of a massive rising of them in their lands. My hands are full in planning to protect my people...and all Christianity." Enrique leaned back and rubbed his eyes and then, oddly his voice changed and gestured frustratedly with his hands, "I must apologize, I owe you more respect, and thanks at the kind gesture of the House of Greif. I shall give you as much time as you desire, and pray ask what if anything else is the desire of your lord?"
A letter arrives bearing the personal seal of Nicholas V. It reads thusly:
"Meus filius, Enricus Trastamarae Rex,
My ally in this struggle against the Algerians, your love for family bespeaks virtuous heart filled with Christian compassion. To the best of my knowledge, no conspiracy has been cultivated to entrap Blanca Regina, the men of Bohemia and Pommern will obey the will of the Mother Church in this matter, and no harm will come to the Crown of Aragon or Blanca Regina, for she and all the other Christian crowns ensnared by this war shall come to accept the grace of the Holy Spirit and peace will reign once again in Italia Australis.
Should your mind still be uneasy, you may come with the grace of King Ladislav and speak with me and the others concerned in Praha.
Regarding the war against Algiers: I have engaged their lord by letter, and should they remain obstinant in their disobedience to the Laws of Heaven and Earth, you shall with me and others powers of Christendom bring the Word of God to their very doorstep. War must be our tool of last resort, but devout Catholic should not be left yoked to the Law of Mohammed.
Ad Maiorem Gloriam Dei,
Written in Praha,
Nicholas P.P. V"
"Meus filius, Enricus Trastamarae Rex,
My ally in this struggle against the Algerians, your love for family bespeaks virtuous heart filled with Christian compassion. To the best of my knowledge, no conspiracy has been cultivated to entrap Blanca Regina, the men of Bohemia and Pommern will obey the will of the Mother Church in this matter, and no harm will come to the Crown of Aragon or Blanca Regina, for she and all the other Christian crowns ensnared by this war shall come to accept the grace of the Holy Spirit and peace will reign once again in Italia Australis.
Should your mind still be uneasy, you may come with the grace of King Ladislav and speak with me and the others concerned in Praha.
Regarding the war against Algiers: I have engaged their lord by letter, and should they remain obstinant in their disobedience to the Laws of Heaven and Earth, you shall with me and others powers of Christendom bring the Word of God to their very doorstep. War must be our tool of last resort, but devout Catholic should not be left yoked to the Law of Mohammed.
Ad Maiorem Gloriam Dei,
Written in Praha,
Nicholas P.P. V"
Vallalodid
He almost felt relieved to be absent from Lisbon for a short time, he decided as his carriage trundled into the Castilian capital. It was a state visit, true, and there was plenty of necessary pomp, the soldiers turned out in their finest, most colorful uniforms, a large enough attentive crowd, and an organized route of entrance. Yet it wasn’t overwhelming, and he was glad. Joao hadn’t come to participate in pageantry. He was here to make due a long delayed visit and to assess King Enrique and the Iberian situation personally. Portugal had been rebuilding for long enough. It was time to step back on to the world stage.
The reports from North Africa were disturbing, even for Joao’s usual tolerant demeanor. Rumors of naval and army expansion, the bold Muslim resurgence into the Mediterranean, and of Aragon and the Papacy negotiating for terms. No, more than rumor...dangerous facts in some if not all cases. This is why he was here. Not a particular supporter of long bitter war, neither could he stand aside. There would be much to talk about.
He almost felt relieved to be absent from Lisbon for a short time, he decided as his carriage trundled into the Castilian capital. It was a state visit, true, and there was plenty of necessary pomp, the soldiers turned out in their finest, most colorful uniforms, a large enough attentive crowd, and an organized route of entrance. Yet it wasn’t overwhelming, and he was glad. Joao hadn’t come to participate in pageantry. He was here to make due a long delayed visit and to assess King Enrique and the Iberian situation personally. Portugal had been rebuilding for long enough. It was time to step back on to the world stage.
The reports from North Africa were disturbing, even for Joao’s usual tolerant demeanor. Rumors of naval and army expansion, the bold Muslim resurgence into the Mediterranean, and of Aragon and the Papacy negotiating for terms. No, more than rumor...dangerous facts in some if not all cases. This is why he was here. Not a particular supporter of long bitter war, neither could he stand aside. There would be much to talk about.
The letter from Sancho of Joao's heading East arrived in Valencia only a few days before the Portuguese King would arrive. Accordingly Enrique set out with a small guard on horseback towards Valladolid to meet his royal counterpart at Penafiel castle. The young King arrived only the morning before Joao, and hastily threw together a skeleton court to welcome him. Enrique greeted his ally in the courtyard alone, only a few castle guards near by. He approached quickly and offered his hand to Joao.
"Highness, forgive my lack of preparation for your arrival, it was a hard ride from Valencia to receive you here. My preparations there go well, but rumours from the south inspire fear that I may need more force than I can as of yet muster." Enriquee gestured invitingly back towards the keep and continued on cordially, "But you must be sore from your journey let us retire inside, and speak more comfortably."
With a wave of the King's hand many porters and servants came forward to unencumer Joao and assist his retinue. Enrique waited patienly then led the king inside. Inside they set at a large table in the great hall and the young Castillian allowed his counterpart to speak first.
"Highness, forgive my lack of preparation for your arrival, it was a hard ride from Valencia to receive you here. My preparations there go well, but rumours from the south inspire fear that I may need more force than I can as of yet muster." Enriquee gestured invitingly back towards the keep and continued on cordially, "But you must be sore from your journey let us retire inside, and speak more comfortably."
With a wave of the King's hand many porters and servants came forward to unencumer Joao and assist his retinue. Enrique waited patienly then led the king inside. Inside they set at a large table in the great hall and the young Castillian allowed his counterpart to speak first.
Valladolid
He much preferred the quiet informal setting for his first meeting with King Enrique. It gave them both a chance to sound the other out without the trappings of office and excessive servants. As Enrique spoke, Joao studied him closely. He seemed diligent, with direct eyes, and the mark of a king who had not yet known setback. With practice deliberation, Joao folded his hands. "You and Navarre have taken a bold step in opposing infidel aggression in the Mediterranean. Although we have had occasion to enjoy trade with Morocco and Fez, the expansion of the Zayyanids has diminished this somewhat. Yet the capture of the Balearics and Malta is a dangerous development. We do not want it said that Portugal does not do its part. While war might not be imminent for our state, our resources are yours to draw on should you need them. We would be happy to provide monetary assistance for your cause and to participate in military council." He would start off with that and see where it led.
He much preferred the quiet informal setting for his first meeting with King Enrique. It gave them both a chance to sound the other out without the trappings of office and excessive servants. As Enrique spoke, Joao studied him closely. He seemed diligent, with direct eyes, and the mark of a king who had not yet known setback. With practice deliberation, Joao folded his hands. "You and Navarre have taken a bold step in opposing infidel aggression in the Mediterranean. Although we have had occasion to enjoy trade with Morocco and Fez, the expansion of the Zayyanids has diminished this somewhat. Yet the capture of the Balearics and Malta is a dangerous development. We do not want it said that Portugal does not do its part. While war might not be imminent for our state, our resources are yours to draw on should you need them. We would be happy to provide monetary assistance for your cause and to participate in military council." He would start off with that and see where it led.
Practical, Enrique thought, a luxury that Enrique could no longer enjoy when it came to the infidel. His nobles agitated, using religion as a crutch, for war with the muslims. They hungered for new lands and trade, to continue the reconquista. It was a power the young king was ready to harness, and he could not lie that his heart pulled him in that direction, especially in light of his Uncle's brutal murder. Alas preaching of God and the church would not pull weight with the traders of Portugal, and Enrique heard enough to know how he would handle his ally, and hopefully friend. Having made his assessment Enrique gazed pensively into his colleague's eyes and spoke his response in a cool even tone, taking no notice of those around him,
"The threat is real, your words belie your knowledge of that fact, but your wisdom shines through in that you know how Portugal can best weather this storm. I have no choice though but to fight, and you must have read my mind for what I would most ask of from Portugal would be the aid of your rich, and ever growing coffers." He paused and laid his hands on the table before him, "Allies need not always fight in similar ways, indeed strategy often dictates that the quickest path to failure, is the most direct. It is not failure that I seek, and Portugal, and all of us who fight the devil's aggression, are better served by an arrangement like one that you have proposed. I welcome, and admittedly require your assistance your majesty, and ask then what at this time you are willing to offer?"
"The threat is real, your words belie your knowledge of that fact, but your wisdom shines through in that you know how Portugal can best weather this storm. I have no choice though but to fight, and you must have read my mind for what I would most ask of from Portugal would be the aid of your rich, and ever growing coffers." He paused and laid his hands on the table before him, "Allies need not always fight in similar ways, indeed strategy often dictates that the quickest path to failure, is the most direct. It is not failure that I seek, and Portugal, and all of us who fight the devil's aggression, are better served by an arrangement like one that you have proposed. I welcome, and admittedly require your assistance your majesty, and ask then what at this time you are willing to offer?"
Vallalodid
Joao listened to his words and nodded with a certain pragmatism. "I can offer you 2,000 ducats now (2 eco), more as our coffers refill. All we ask in return is due consideration if it comes to discussing a peace arrangement for the Western Mediterranean. As you know, our predecessor had close ties to Castile and we look to continue that relationship. We're wondering what Castile's territorial interests are? Naturally you do God's work and so does Navarre. Yet we would not be kings if our minds weren't tuned to lands."
Joao listened to his words and nodded with a certain pragmatism. "I can offer you 2,000 ducats now (2 eco), more as our coffers refill. All we ask in return is due consideration if it comes to discussing a peace arrangement for the Western Mediterranean. As you know, our predecessor had close ties to Castile and we look to continue that relationship. We're wondering what Castile's territorial interests are? Naturally you do God's work and so does Navarre. Yet we would not be kings if our minds weren't tuned to lands."
Like two old merchants the Kings traded glances and words across the simple wooden table. Such was how deals were crafted by rational men. Enrique smiled very faintly as Joao finished his words and responded quickly, his words readily prepared,
"Indeed, what is a chrisitian King, if he has no christian lands, or christian people to rule? I seek foremost my cousin Blanca's sacrificed claims on the Baleares, and Malta. Our seas must be secure, for the fruits of the sea, food, trade, and military power are the most coveted of a rulers possessions. For our matters I think we can both gain much if things go well, but as it stands I can lose much more. I can not say specifically what I could offer to Portugal other than the friendship, cooperation, and goodwill of Castile, but I know there are lands that I do hold and that I could gain which would be of interest to your Highness, and if the circumstances were correct, lands which I could part with." Enrique paused and drew in a deep breath, then continued, an air of speculation in his voice, "Of course there are the lands of the Fez that if ever entangled in these wars could also make a grand addition to the realm of Portugal."
"Indeed, what is a chrisitian King, if he has no christian lands, or christian people to rule? I seek foremost my cousin Blanca's sacrificed claims on the Baleares, and Malta. Our seas must be secure, for the fruits of the sea, food, trade, and military power are the most coveted of a rulers possessions. For our matters I think we can both gain much if things go well, but as it stands I can lose much more. I can not say specifically what I could offer to Portugal other than the friendship, cooperation, and goodwill of Castile, but I know there are lands that I do hold and that I could gain which would be of interest to your Highness, and if the circumstances were correct, lands which I could part with." Enrique paused and drew in a deep breath, then continued, an air of speculation in his voice, "Of course there are the lands of the Fez that if ever entangled in these wars could also make a grand addition to the realm of Portugal."
Valladolid
Joao nodded, appreciating the candor of the other monarch. "I think we understand each other then. For consideration of certain lands you now hold, I would have no objection to your establishment of title to the Balearics and Malta. Indeed Portugal would support your claim. Our primary interests are nautical and oceanic, in perfect complement to Castile's interests I firmly believe. In Africa, Tangier is a strategic point of interest. Other than that, I have few ambitions and indeed would be interested to see Castile develop in that region in the Mediterranean. Of course, this is all for the future when the wars have raged their course. For now, there is the fraternity of kingdoms, and Christians who share a repugnance of infidels in Iberian territory."
Joao nodded, appreciating the candor of the other monarch. "I think we understand each other then. For consideration of certain lands you now hold, I would have no objection to your establishment of title to the Balearics and Malta. Indeed Portugal would support your claim. Our primary interests are nautical and oceanic, in perfect complement to Castile's interests I firmly believe. In Africa, Tangier is a strategic point of interest. Other than that, I have few ambitions and indeed would be interested to see Castile develop in that region in the Mediterranean. Of course, this is all for the future when the wars have raged their course. For now, there is the fraternity of kingdoms, and Christians who share a repugnance of infidels in Iberian territory."
Enrique listened appreciatively to Joao's words and nodded often as the man spoke. He answered plainly,
"You are right in your words, and in your actions. When things come to pass, I am sure that the Canary Islands could greatly serve your captains in exploring further down the dark coasts of Africa. Truly your people are brave and daring to undergo such trying journeys. Alas you spoke right in saying that my interests at the present lie to the east, and with our common enemies." Having said all he wanted to Enrique paused and rose from the table,
"I think we are in agreement, and both know what actions to take. You may enjoy the hospitality of my court, for as long as you wish, but I must quickly make back to Valencia on the morrow, my agents here can take care of the arrangement for the loan of funds, and know that you have my word that I shall remember Portugal's, and your friendship." With that Enrique come round the table and approaching Joao offered his hand, a serious demeanor decorating his face.
"You are right in your words, and in your actions. When things come to pass, I am sure that the Canary Islands could greatly serve your captains in exploring further down the dark coasts of Africa. Truly your people are brave and daring to undergo such trying journeys. Alas you spoke right in saying that my interests at the present lie to the east, and with our common enemies." Having said all he wanted to Enrique paused and rose from the table,
"I think we are in agreement, and both know what actions to take. You may enjoy the hospitality of my court, for as long as you wish, but I must quickly make back to Valencia on the morrow, my agents here can take care of the arrangement for the loan of funds, and know that you have my word that I shall remember Portugal's, and your friendship." With that Enrique come round the table and approaching Joao offered his hand, a serious demeanor decorating his face.
Valladolid
After making his goodbyes, the productive meeting with King Enrique having concluded, Joao decided not to delay his departure and, after the Castilian monarch had departed for his own affairs, left for Lisbon later that same morning. It had been a frank exchange of views and Joao was pleased. He believed Portugal and Castile could cooperate in the future.
The trip was short and pleasantly distracting enough, allowing him to forget about his duties and the pressures of courtly life for a time. Arriving back in Lisbon, he discovered the Queen ensconced with young Pedro and he greeted them silently, caressing Yelezevita's hair briefly and kissing both her and his son's forehead. With a reluctant sigh, he conferred briefly with his Steward, arranging tendering of the loan to Castile. Then he went to the sitting room and decided to relax for a time, wishing both Queen and son did not exhaust themselves without him.
After making his goodbyes, the productive meeting with King Enrique having concluded, Joao decided not to delay his departure and, after the Castilian monarch had departed for his own affairs, left for Lisbon later that same morning. It had been a frank exchange of views and Joao was pleased. He believed Portugal and Castile could cooperate in the future.
The trip was short and pleasantly distracting enough, allowing him to forget about his duties and the pressures of courtly life for a time. Arriving back in Lisbon, he discovered the Queen ensconced with young Pedro and he greeted them silently, caressing Yelezevita's hair briefly and kissing both her and his son's forehead. With a reluctant sigh, he conferred briefly with his Steward, arranging tendering of the loan to Castile. Then he went to the sitting room and decided to relax for a time, wishing both Queen and son did not exhaust themselves without him.
- EVENT -
Weakened Empires
Technology advances. Not only do matters of seacraft and warfare advance, but also the very nature of society, the way labor is used, and the way finances are conducted.
As seen in the continuing collapse of the Timurid Empire, rulers can be toppled and new realms can arise. Empires often grow decadant, and heads of state with vast swathes of land under their control become vulnerable, especially when they sit in their pleasure houses and neglect the administration of their lands. Whilst the ruler is largely unseen by the wealthy noble and merchant classes, they feel more free to carve themselves an increasing stake in the way these vast empires are run. If this means challenging the dormant ruler's own forces, so be it.
TRIGGERS:
Larger realms whose players are roleplaying infrequently.
Discussed and confirmed with other members of the mod team.
REALMS EFFECTED:
Castille
Ottoman Empire
TABLE:
1. Rebellion!!
Formally loyal provinces rebel! Although the towns and cities of those provinces form no armies, their garrisons strike the colours of the realm’s Head of State from their walls in place of their own.
(25% (rounded up) of owned provinces rebel and have base defence garrisons of -/-/?/?/-. -2 tech, -2 morale to [effected realm] for 1 year/4 turns)
2. Extremely powerful nobles, high-ranking holy men and very influential merchants alike betray their oaths to the lord of the land and furiously express their absolute rage.
(-2 tech, -2 morale to [effected realm] for 1 year/4 turns)
3. Important nobles, local holy men and influential merchants alike express anger.
(-1 tech, -2 morale to [effected realm] for 1 year/4 turns)
4. Significant nobles and merchant classes alike express displeasure.
(-1 tech, -1 morale to [effected realm] for 1 year/4 turns)
5. Minor nobles and marketeers express discomfort.
(-1 morale to [effected realm] for 1 year/4 turns)
6. The revolt is effectively suppressed by the fiercely loyal local militia before it gathers any considerable strength.
(no effect)
ROLLS:
Castille: 1
Ottoman Empire: 3
RESULTS:
Castille: Rebellion!!
Formally loyal provinces rebel! Although the towns and cities of those provinces form no armies, their garrisons strike the colours of the realm’s Head of State from their walls in place of their own.
(Gibraltar, Granada, Andalusia and Murcia rebel and have base defence garrisons of -/-/5/5/-. -2 tech, -2 morale to Castille for 1 year/4 turns)
Ottoman Empire: Important nobles, local holy men and influential merchants alike express anger.
(-1 tech, -2 morale to The Ottoman Empire for 1 year/4 turns)
Please make sure the inevitable complaints are furthered to BzAli via PM and not posted on the forum. Further action may be taken against those who fail to take this on board.
Future, similar events for limited RP may be even more severe. Everyone involved in the game would do well to learn from this example.
A letter arrives from Paris
Unto His Most Catholic Majesty Enrique IV de Trastamara
Your Majesty, dear cousin,
It is with a sad heart We hear of the news of the great lose who have come to Castile. They only positive thing about this is that it seems the Heathens suffered just as bad as Castile did.
But at least now you will have the possibility to advance against the Heathens and invade their dirt Heathen lands, and show them who are going to win this war.
We are very sorry We haven’t been able to write to Your Majesty for a long time, but We have also been very busy, and once again it is the English who are causing Us great sorrow and pain, but also the recent events in Lotharingia are a pain to Our mind. But now We have been able to write to Your Majesty. It is very costly to run a war, and We have noticed that the coffins of Castile seem to be empty. Meanwhile the coffins of France are filled, and We offer Your Majesty the financial aid of France to finance the further struggle against the Heathens.
Should Your Majesty want to accept Our offer please inform Us about how much gold Your Majesty finds reasonable so that Your Majesty might continue the struggle against the Heathens.
We send Our best greetings to Your Majesty, and We feel confident that God will stand by Your Majesty and help Your Majesty crush the Heathens.
Written in own hand in Louvre, Paris
By the grace of God, His Most Christian Majesty Louis, Eleventh of the Name, of the house Valois, King of France, Count of Paris and Beckingshire, Lord of Asti, and Knight of the Order of the Garter
Acts of God and Man
A somber moon cast its casual light over the calm mediterranean water as the grand fleet of Castille bore ever eastward towards the Baleares. The crew was tense aboard the flagship, but Juan Escobar de Leon looked easily out at the night ahead of him. Below deck a cadre of handpicked men of the King's guard bellowed loudly and drank vociferously, notching up their courage for the days ahead. They were just a handful of the many men at arms that sailed along with the fleet to battle. Reports had come in from the fleets advanced guards, and battle with the intercepting fleet of Algiers, bolsted by a contingent of galleys from Fez was inevitable. Juan Escobar was assured of his victory, and as he surveyed the clean effecient deck of his ship he had every reason to be. His ace in the hole was the fleet of Pontiff, which at last report was bearing down on their position. Not only courage and faith would be on their side, but also numbers. The fleets Commodore retired to his chambers confidently that night, assured of tomorrow's success.
He was awoke well before the morning by a clap of thunder, and jarring sound as his ship hove too, and his head thumped against the floor as he tumbled out of his bed. He sat up groggily on the deck rubbing his quickly swelling head as the ship rocked back the other way, sliding him towards the wall with it. Juan Escobar regained his composure and stood up shakily, searching in the dark for his coat. He threw it over his shirtless torso and bargng out the door of his chambers stepped out onto the deck where he was greeted with a terrible scene. Before hiim stood the cracked base of the shattered main mast, blood smearing the deck all about it. The few hardy sailors that remained were scattered about clutching to anything they could find.
"DEBAJO HOMBRES!" the captain screamed at the top of his lungs to the paralysed men.
We must ride this out he thought, and he began to struggle down the stairs to usher his men to safety. His eyes locked on to those of a young midshipman as he staggered forth, but they were quickly gone as a wave washed over the deck, throwing the ship hard to its aft, the small body of the child washing away with it. Juan Escobar fell to the ground in agony, and just as he began to cry out to god his mouth filled with a rush of salt water, and his body smashed against the side of the deck as he too was thrown overboard. The headless ship continued rollicking on violently as its commander slowly sunk to the ocean's bottom his still open eyes gazing blankly into the blackness of the abyss.
The news reached Valencia several days later, carried by a poor fisherman whose ship was cast westward by the storm. With a small reward Enrique set the messenger free, tormented by the knowledge of the loss of his navy, and the death of so many subjects. If his desperation was not at a peak, news of the risings in the south were confirmed as true, and along with them came the head of Juan Garcia de Sevilla, Governor of Granada, and servant of the Cortes. Moorish banditry had turned to open rebellion, and half of the loyal soldiers that could counter it rested in a watery grave. Enrique spent days alone in his misery at these events, and he struggled in his heart and with his god. Forsaken and alone he eventually returned to the court from his chambers, and to the worried faces of his counselors his presence was uplifting despite his ghostly pallor.
In the days following the King's return to activity better news began to arrive. Despite the storm, his brave men did find battle and despite their annihilation delivered as horrible a blow to the Moors. Iberia was safe from full scale invastion. Adding to that news came from his cousin Juan aboard the fleets of the Pope, his letter was confident and it bolstered the spirit of all at court.
Royal Cousin, Your Most Catholic Majesty Enrique,
I write you from some point at sea south of Valencia. The evil storm which cast our good Admiral to his doom, and so injured your Royal Majesty, was not wholely evil for it spared not only me but every ship of our good ally, and on board the men are filled with vengeance and determination. When we make land they shall serve me well, and in doing so they shall bring glory to your name as well as quaking fear to the infidel rebels. I write you with high spirits for the future, having mourned our loss and realized that such setbacks to many King's would be doom but unto my cousin and his Highness Enrique they serve only to embolden his spirit and carry him with the grace of god to ultimate victory.
Your Humble Servant and Loving Cousin,
Juan de Sessa, Duque de Sessa, Marshall of Castille.
Enlived by his cousin's spirit Enrique set out fully to his work, and as he hit the streets and spoke with the cities people he was glad to find them solidly behind him. The ravages of the infidel seemed a fuel to their spirit, and many men volunteered to march off to crush the moorish rebels in the South. The King's presence served to stoke this passionate fire in the people, and in turn the strength of Enrique's returning will.
A somber moon cast its casual light over the calm mediterranean water as the grand fleet of Castille bore ever eastward towards the Baleares. The crew was tense aboard the flagship, but Juan Escobar de Leon looked easily out at the night ahead of him. Below deck a cadre of handpicked men of the King's guard bellowed loudly and drank vociferously, notching up their courage for the days ahead. They were just a handful of the many men at arms that sailed along with the fleet to battle. Reports had come in from the fleets advanced guards, and battle with the intercepting fleet of Algiers, bolsted by a contingent of galleys from Fez was inevitable. Juan Escobar was assured of his victory, and as he surveyed the clean effecient deck of his ship he had every reason to be. His ace in the hole was the fleet of Pontiff, which at last report was bearing down on their position. Not only courage and faith would be on their side, but also numbers. The fleets Commodore retired to his chambers confidently that night, assured of tomorrow's success.
He was awoke well before the morning by a clap of thunder, and jarring sound as his ship hove too, and his head thumped against the floor as he tumbled out of his bed. He sat up groggily on the deck rubbing his quickly swelling head as the ship rocked back the other way, sliding him towards the wall with it. Juan Escobar regained his composure and stood up shakily, searching in the dark for his coat. He threw it over his shirtless torso and bargng out the door of his chambers stepped out onto the deck where he was greeted with a terrible scene. Before hiim stood the cracked base of the shattered main mast, blood smearing the deck all about it. The few hardy sailors that remained were scattered about clutching to anything they could find.
"DEBAJO HOMBRES!" the captain screamed at the top of his lungs to the paralysed men.
We must ride this out he thought, and he began to struggle down the stairs to usher his men to safety. His eyes locked on to those of a young midshipman as he staggered forth, but they were quickly gone as a wave washed over the deck, throwing the ship hard to its aft, the small body of the child washing away with it. Juan Escobar fell to the ground in agony, and just as he began to cry out to god his mouth filled with a rush of salt water, and his body smashed against the side of the deck as he too was thrown overboard. The headless ship continued rollicking on violently as its commander slowly sunk to the ocean's bottom his still open eyes gazing blankly into the blackness of the abyss.
The news reached Valencia several days later, carried by a poor fisherman whose ship was cast westward by the storm. With a small reward Enrique set the messenger free, tormented by the knowledge of the loss of his navy, and the death of so many subjects. If his desperation was not at a peak, news of the risings in the south were confirmed as true, and along with them came the head of Juan Garcia de Sevilla, Governor of Granada, and servant of the Cortes. Moorish banditry had turned to open rebellion, and half of the loyal soldiers that could counter it rested in a watery grave. Enrique spent days alone in his misery at these events, and he struggled in his heart and with his god. Forsaken and alone he eventually returned to the court from his chambers, and to the worried faces of his counselors his presence was uplifting despite his ghostly pallor.
In the days following the King's return to activity better news began to arrive. Despite the storm, his brave men did find battle and despite their annihilation delivered as horrible a blow to the Moors. Iberia was safe from full scale invastion. Adding to that news came from his cousin Juan aboard the fleets of the Pope, his letter was confident and it bolstered the spirit of all at court.
Royal Cousin, Your Most Catholic Majesty Enrique,
I write you from some point at sea south of Valencia. The evil storm which cast our good Admiral to his doom, and so injured your Royal Majesty, was not wholely evil for it spared not only me but every ship of our good ally, and on board the men are filled with vengeance and determination. When we make land they shall serve me well, and in doing so they shall bring glory to your name as well as quaking fear to the infidel rebels. I write you with high spirits for the future, having mourned our loss and realized that such setbacks to many King's would be doom but unto my cousin and his Highness Enrique they serve only to embolden his spirit and carry him with the grace of god to ultimate victory.
Your Humble Servant and Loving Cousin,
Juan de Sessa, Duque de Sessa, Marshall of Castille.
Enlived by his cousin's spirit Enrique set out fully to his work, and as he hit the streets and spoke with the cities people he was glad to find them solidly behind him. The ravages of the infidel seemed a fuel to their spirit, and many men volunteered to march off to crush the moorish rebels in the South. The King's presence served to stoke this passionate fire in the people, and in turn the strength of Enrique's returning will.
A letter arrives from Paris
Unto His Most Catholic Majesty Enrique IV de Trastamara
Royal cousin, Your Majesty
It seems we both have had a lot on our minds lately, but let us pray it won’t stay that way for long so that we will be able to keep our correspondence on a better level in the future. Castile will always have a close friend in France and we will always support your fight against the Heathens!
Our coffins are filled and it would be possible for us to spare 2000 ducats. As Your Majesty do not want to ask for the money now we will have the money in reserve for Your Majesty so that when Your Majesty feel that the time is right we will send the gold to Your Majesty when Your Majesty wants it. We are glad that Your Majesty understands that events and especially those who have to do with the York in England might prevent us for sending Your Majesty the gold. But should he not be of any problems at the time Your Majesty request the gold we will dispatch the sum of 2000 ducats to Your Majesty.
In own hand in Louvre
Louis XI, Dei Gratia Francorum Rex