Empire of the Mediterranean: An Interactive Aragon AAR

[Michaelangelo]

The assassination attempt on the emperor years ago was again under investigation. Under no risk of being accused now, Montségur would also try to find out the truth, using his resources as marshal - what was the true nature of the Exercit Valencia's orders? Who had sent them - and what exactly would they have to do? Learning about that might help find the instigator, but in any case it would make it easier to prevent a second time. Weed out some weakness in the army. And other purposes.

((Private - alscon))

While the assassination incident had happened years ago, it was fortunate that the army, being the well-oiled disciplined machine it was, kept detailed records. The false orders sent to the Exercit Valencia were still stored away, available for further investigation. The order was simple enough. It merely stated that the Exercit Valencia should be placed on standby, with vague warnings of a potential rebellions or dissent in the capital. Comparing it to other orders sent by the marshal at the time revealed that the writing, while close, was not exactly the same, suggesting it was forged. There were no clues in the records to suggest who had sent the order. What had not been noted before was who had actually carried out the orders. Field Marshal Soneta, who led the Exercit Valencia, had not been with his army at the time, instead visiting family while the Exercit Valencia was not in action. A Sergeant Major General, a young man from some minor noble family in central Iberia, had been temporarily given command, and it had been him who received the orders and carried them out. No order could be found outlining what was to happen after the army was put on standby, but it is assumed they were to intervene if a conflict broke out in the capital.

(( Private ))
Alexis was quite angry when he heard the news about his investigation. Nothing found... That was not good. But when he recieved a letter from the Chamberlain a new idea appeared in his head. Yes, the records left by Bartomeu... He will have to look into them, copy whatever he finds and burn everything that might connect the Grandmaster to it.

Monsieur de Alvaro,
Of course I will grant you the access to the archives. I wish to see the man responsible for the assassination attempt brough to justice as much as you, and as such I will not hinder your cause.

Respectfully,
Alexis Cyril de Saint-Pierre,
Prime Minister of the Empire of Hispania, Grandmaster of Hispania, head of the Trans-Atlantic Trading Company
(( @Robban204 , I'm going to allow it, but only after my character has a look for himself and destroys anything that might somhow link him to the assassination. ))

((Private - 05060403))

A close examination of the former prime minister's documents revealed a lot of boring and lengthy reports of the state of affairs of Hispania. However, one paper trail detailed how a series of funds from the treasury, labelled as "administrative costs", ended up being invested into companies in Toledo, the home province of Bartomeu. While some of these companies, upon further perusal, appeared legitimate, it was quite obvious that most were a front. Beyond that, there was nothing stating what actually happened to those investments. Dozens of memos and notes written up by Bartomeu's secretary were also found, mostly listing out various administrative changes being carried out. A few referred to instructions being given out to Bartomeu's "men", although nothing specific. Most alarming were those concerning the emperor. A detailed list was kept of all the emperor's activities: where he was at all times, who he had seen, and in some cases what he said. It was quite obvious that Bartomeu had been keeping a very close eye on the emperor, but it was not clear from the documents what the reason was. One even detailed the emperor taking a carriage ride with the grandmaster to the TATC headquarters, where they lost track of him. This last document was promptly removed before being handed over to the chamberlain. Other than that, there was nothing related to the current prime minister in Bartomeu's records.

Perhaps looking into Bartomeus time in office was a better plan, Nicolás thought. Yes, that is where I will be going next.

@05060403

Spoiler: Letter to Alexis Cyril de Saint-Pierre

My friend,
I am looking into the affairs of Bartomeu de Trastámara, and I humbly ask permission to search the records left by Bartomeu while in office.

Your friend,
Nicolás de Alvaro, Duke of Sardinia and Corsica and Chamberlain of the Cortz

((Attempting to locate and speak to Bartomeus secretary(ies?) and find out anything related to his time in office that could link him to the assassination. Also, if 05060403 accepts, I will look into the records left by Bartomeu aswell.))

((Private - Robban204))

A close examination of the former prime minister's documents revealed a lot of boring and lengthy reports of the state of affairs of Hispania. However, one paper trail detailed how a series of funds from the treasury, labelled as "administrative costs", ended up being invested into companies in Toledo, the home province of Bartomeu. While some of these companies, upon further perusal, appeared legitimate, it was quite obvious that most were a front. Beyond that, there was nothing stating what actually happened to those investments. Dozens of memos and notes written up by Bartomeu's secretary were also found, mostly listing out various administrative changes being carried out. A few referred to instructions being given out to Bartomeu's "men", although nothing specific. Most alarming were those concerning the emperor. A detailed list was kept of all the emperor's activities: where he was at all times, who he had seen, and in some cases what he said. It was quite obvious that Bartomeu had been keeping a very close eye on the emperor, but it was not clear from the documents what the reason was.

((Basically you learned all the same stuff as 05, but without the bit involving the emperor's carriage ride with the grandmaster.))

As for the secretary, he had left his position after Bartomeu resigned, returning to his previous job as a bureaucrat working at the mint. When it was announced that Bartomeu had been confined to his quarters, the man did not show up for work the next day and has not been seen since. No one knows where he went, so further investigation would be required to find him.

Sancho after discovering the massive discrepancy decides to look into local bandits on the caravan paths taken by the gold carts and look for anywhere that could be a prime ambush location. Of course he will bring a small group of soldiers to protect himself.
((Tell me if he finds anything in the ambush location or if the "bandits" were not actual bandits, but hired mercenaries or something.))

((Private - DragonOfAtlantis))

The prime ambush location proves not to be an ambush location at all. The gold cart rolls by on its way to Valencia from La Mancha unhindered, surrounded by a significant contingent of guards. It then returns to La Mancha along the same path, still protected by guards who were just as vigilant as if they were still carrying gold, without being accosted. Further investigation along the whole route reveals that the gold carts were not ambushed anywhere along the path. It seems likely that if gold is being taken, it is either at its source or the mint, not during its transportation.

((Private))

After receiving the letters, Alejandro went to Valencia for a private audience with the emperor. They chatted about the current situation of the country, with Alejandro reaffirming that he was fully committed to the safety of the emperor and to the stability of the empire. He asked about the circumstances of the incident, hoping that the emperor could remember some details about the assassin. Then, he asked for authorization to search the chambers and secret passages. He also requested to see the weapons the assassin used.

He also talked to Simeo in person, asking him similar questions about the incident. He requested to see the bullet that shot him, if that was possible, and asked if he found anything on the assassin's body after the incident.

After his talk with the emperor and Simeo, he sent a letter to the Prime Minister ((@05060403)), requesting permission to review documents and files from Bartomeu's time in office.

((Yeah, I'll do all of the above as part of my next investigation.))

((Private - zenphoenix))

The emperor explained the series of events involving the attack. He and Simeó has been about to leave when the assassin had popped out of the secret passage and shot at them. Simeó had pushed him out of the way and thus took the shot in the arm. Simeó had engaged the assassin while Jaume called for help. After grappling with the assassin, Simeó was able to incapacitate him with a letter opener provided by Jaume, ending the fight. The assassin bled out on the floor. Other than that, there was not much else he could recall.

The emperor's chambers revealed little, for as the emperor said they had been thoroughly cleaned. A slight stain still appeared on the floor where the assassin had died. As for the secret passages, dust had fully settled in, although the barest hint of footprints could be seen. Since the passages had not been used since the incident, it is assumed they are from that time. Several sets of footprints, all from the same person based on shoe-size, go off in one direction, while a second set can be followed to a panel between the prime minister's and chancellor's offices.

The gun was a small musket, not that effective except at close range. The design was one regularly used amongst Iberian mercenary companies. The knife used was a simple iron blade, although an insignia carved in the hilt shows the emblem of a local blacksmith. The fact that it has no nicks or other signs of use suggests it was purchased just before the crime.

Simeó explains the exact same details as the emperor, although adding that he had come to the emperor's chambers earlier to warn him that Bartomeu was expected to being making a move against him. He explained he had learned this fact from his father Enric, the former steward. The bullet had long since been discarded, and Simeó seemed to know little about the assassin. The assassin had been wearing nondescript dark clothing and nothing had identified him.

A close examination of the former prime minister's documents revealed a lot of boring and lengthy reports of the state of affairs of Hispania. However, one paper trail detailed how a series of funds from the treasury, labelled as "administrative costs", ended up being invested into companies in Toledo, the home province of Bartomeu. While some of these companies, upon further perusal, appeared legitimate, it was quite obvious that most were a front. Beyond that, there was nothing stating what actually happened to those investments. Dozens of memos and notes written up by Bartomeu's secretary were also found, mostly listing out various administrative changes being carried out. A few referred to instructions being given out to Bartomeu's "men", although nothing specific. Most alarming were those concerning the emperor. A detailed list was kept of all the emperor's activities: where he was at all times, who he had seen, and in some cases what he said. It was quite obvious that Bartomeu had been keeping a very close eye on the emperor, but it was not clear from the documents what the reason was.

((Basically you learned all the same stuff as 05, but without the bit involving the emperor's carriage ride with the grandmaster.))

 

[05060403]

((Private - 05060403))

A close examination of the former prime minister's documents revealed a lot of boring and lengthy reports of the state of affairs of Hispania. However, one paper trail detailed how a series of funds from the treasury, labelled as "administrative costs", ended up being invested into companies in Toledo, the home province of Bartomeu. While some of these companies, upon further perusal, appeared legitimate, it was quite obvious that most were a front. Beyond that, there was nothing stating what actually happened to those investments. Dozens of memos and notes written up by Bartomeu's secretary were also found, mostly listing out various administrative changes being carried out. A few referred to instructions being given out to Bartomeu's "men", although nothing specific. Most alarming were those concerning the emperor. A detailed list was kept of all the emperor's activities: where he was at all times, who he had seen, and in some cases what he said. It was quite obvious that Bartomeu had been keeping a very close eye on the emperor, but it was not clear from the documents what the reason was. One even detailed the emperor taking a carriage ride with the grandmaster to the TATC headquarters, where they lost track of him. This last document was promptly removed before being handed over to the chamberlain. Other than that, there was nothing related to the current prime minister in Bartomeu's records.

The reports seemed very interesting, especially the part about various companies. Alexis decided to visit them, not personally of course, but using his influence and wealth, sending servants in his name to invasitage further. The men working there might lead him one step closer to the truth.
He also decided to speak with Emperor's friend, who saved him from death, taking the bullet. Maybe his testimony could help identify the would be assassin. Another thing was inspecting the assassin's weapon. After all if it was bought legally it surely could be traced to whoever made it, or maybe even to whoever bought it.
He also decided to question the closest relatives of the last prime minister, as well as those living under his rule. After all Bartomeu was a duke and surely he had some vassals.


_______________________________________________________________________________________________

Spoiler: Private letter to TATC Council

Dear Council,

I have just realized that both of our rival trade companies have weak leadership due to no longer having a court presence. I believe it is possible to attempt aggressive takeovers of both. I hope you agree on this matter.

Sancho Villanova

(( Just so you know if you adress the council, you not only write to the NPCs, but as well as the players on it and the crown representative who also has a seat, so this means that this letter would reach the Emperor. ))

Spoiler: A letter from the TATC counil

Senor Villanova,

We have to say that this is an excellent idea. However we fear it is not up to us to propose such thing to the Emperor. Why don't you do it yourself, give how active you are on the Imperial court.

Respectfully,
The Counil of the Trans-Atlantic Trading Company

 

[BelisariustheGreat]

Enrique was sure that the money wich disappeared in 1719 was used for Bartomeu's own expense. He started an investigation to search for corrupt members of his ministery and Bartomeu's role in it.
-------
Fernandez ended his time at the military Academy and returned back to his wife. He waited for his apppointment to one of the Hispanian Armys.

 

[DragonOfAtlantis]

((whoops...))

Sancho decides to investigate the mint next, as it is one of the few places where coins are produced in Hispania.

 

[Robban204]

Interesting, Nicolás thought. The secretary was perhaps implicated in the plot, or worse still, not and was murdered to cover up the tracks.
Nicolás decided to pursue this lead, he sent men searching for information everywhere they could find it in regards to the secretarys whereabouts.

((Pursuing the lead on the secretary and also looking into his connections in the mint.))

 

[Michaelangelo]

The reports seemed very interesting, especially the part about various companies. Alexis decided to visit them, not personally of course, but using his influence and wealth, sending servants in his name to invasitage further. The men working there might lead him one step closer to the truth.
He also decided to speak with Emperor's friend, who saved him from death, taking the bullet. Maybe his testimony could help identify the would be assassin. Another thing was inspecting the assassin's weapon. After all if it was bought legally it surely could be traced to whoever made it, or maybe even to whoever bought it.
He also decided to question the closest relatives of the last prime minister, as well as those living under his rule. After all Bartomeu was a duke and surely he had some vassals.

((Private - 05060403))

The businesses that were expected to be fronts turned out to be just that. Many of them had gone bankrupt, disappeared, or had simply never existed in the first place. There seemed no way to trace where the gold went, since anyone could have taken it at the time. The few legitimate businesses appear to be linked to the Trastámara estates in Toledo, either providing them with goods or services they needed. Without looking at their records, you can't tell more, but it seems likely the funds could have been transferred directly to the duke.

Simeó explains that he went to the emperor's chambers earlier to warn him that Bartomeu was expected to being making a move against him. He explained he had learned this fact from his father Enric, the former steward. The detail of the ensuing fight are well-known by now, as both he and the emperor have shared their experiences. Simeó seemed to know little about the assassin. The assassin had been wearing nondescript dark clothing and nothing had identified him.

The gun was a small musket, not that effective except at close range. The design was one regularly used amongst Iberian mercenary companies. The knife used was a simple iron blade, although an insignia carved in the hilt shows the emblem of a local blacksmith. The fact that it has no nicks or other signs of use suggests it was purchased just before the crime.

((If people are wondering, I will re-use information if people ask for similar investigations, so don't be surprised to see repeats.))

All of Bartomeu's close relatives, such as his son Cèsar, refuse to speak with anyone about the accusations against the former prime minister, although they all share a clear view that he is innocent. His brother Carles, the former grand admiral, makes it plain that he does not believe his brother is capable of murder. When speaking with minor lords in Toledo or Salento, they all paint a similar picture. Bartomeu was a stern and serious man, sometimes quite imposing, but he dealt fairly with them. A few were daring enough to admit that if Bartomeu believed the best thing for Hispania was the death of the emperor, he would actually do it, but these individuals were in the minority. The recent financial troubles of the duke had directly affected most of them, for the region tended to suffer as a whole. Many of them reported that they had loaned Bartomeu funds from time to time, which he had slowly been making repayments on, although they had noted a spike in repayment back in 1719.

Enrique was sure that the money wich disappeared in 1719 was used for Bartomeu's own expense. He started an investigation to search for corrupt members of his ministery and Bartomeu's role in it.

((Private - BelisariustheGreat))

A thorough investigation of the treasury soon revealed some interesting information. First of all, Bartomeu's own secretary worked in the mint before and after taking his new position, although he has since disappeared. What also came to light was an unusual amount of bonuses handed out during Bartomeu's tenure. None of these were recorded properly, for they somehow ended up lumped under the mysterious "administrative costs" and thus were not carefully maintained. Tracking down which employees received these bonuses was not easy. Most of them, including Bartomeu's former secretary, have resigned since 1719, most around either the time Bartomeu left office or more recently with his arrest. Only a few remain. When asked about it, the remaining employees claimed the bonuses were a gift from their former boss for their good work. One nervous employee didn't seem quite comfortable with the questioning and failed to show up for work the following day.

((whoops...))

Sancho decides to investigate the mint next, as it is one of the few places where coins are produced in Hispania.

((Private - DragonOfAtlantis))

With the treasurer already supporting the investigation, access to the mint isn't too difficult to obtain, although the guards are everywhere and watching carefully. This allows for an examination of the process. The gold carts reach the mint, the bureaucrats note the amount of gold, and then the guards for the convoy, who are certainly more capable than the feeble bureaucrats, cart the gold into the mint to be processed into coins. The coins are then made from the provided gold, noticeably with enough guards and staff present to make thievery at this point near impossible. Once the coins are made, the bureaucrats make note of the amount of coins and have them carted away by the same convoy to the treasury. Short of fudging the numbers and carting some of the coins elsewhere, it seems unlikely someone could have stolen the gold at this point without notice.

Interesting, Nicolás thought. The secretary was perhaps implicated in the plot, or worse still, not and was murdered to cover up the tracks.
Nicolás decided to pursue this lead, he sent men searching for information everywhere they could find it in regards to the secretarys whereabouts.

((Pursuing the lead on the secretary and also looking into his connections in the mint.))

((Private - Robban204))

Asking around amongst his coworkers revealed little other than he was responsible for writing up reports and other mundane stuff. It was once he became a secretary that he became more involved. Apparently he had been given the pivotal task of writing up the budget by assigning how much funds went where. In fact, many commented that the secretary had a habit of ordering some money from the mint to be sent directly to those requiring payment rather than the treasury first to avoid delay. When asked about his whereabouts, little came up from the coworkers. They did not know where he had gone. An inspection of his home revealed he had left in a hurry, with food left out on the table and paperwork scattered all over the place. Amongst the papers was a receipt for a one-way ticket to Sanchonia, although the trip wasn't scheduled for a few more days. Letters were also mixed, including many with relatives living in Naples and a sister in Murcia.

* * * * *

((Public))

I believe that for our foreign policy, we should look to complete our goal of Mare Nostrum. Unfortunately a truce with Egypt keeps this goal out of sight for a few more years. We could consider using their alliance with Ajuuraan to pull them into an early conflict, but this might make it more difficult to weasel provinces out of Egypt. Securing more of East Africa from Ajuuraan, as well as annexing Malindi, should also be considered.

With that truce in the way, we should consider fulfilling our promise to Byzantium to secure Anatolia, this time through a war with Persia. This is also a good opportunity to weaken that growing threat to the east, a nation who has been expanding greatly into Arabia and towards India. Such a large and expanding Muslim nation so close is too disconcerting for my comfort.

- Andreu de Trastámara, Chancellor of Hispania

 

[Robban204]

Something is not right, Nicolás thought. He decided to send guards to the docks to look for the secretary and stop him if he tried to travel to Sanchonia.
He also decided to search the homes of his relatives in Naples and sister in Murcia in hopes of finding him. He also decided to take it one step further.

@Michaelangelo

Spoiler: Private letter to Emperor Jaume IV de Trastámara

​

My imperial grace, Jaume IV de Trastámara, Emperor of Hispania, Caesar of Rome, & Protector of the Greeks,

I have investigated the assassination for the past weeks, and I have found something interesting. I have been looking into the funds that disappeared during Bartomeus time in the council. These, I believe, was used to pay the assassin. I have been searching for Bartomeus secretary as I found out he had been working in the mint prior to him serving Bartomeu, but it seems he had left in a hurry, perhaps because he in linked to the assassination or worse, he have been murdered to cut loose ends. One interesting find was a one-way ticket to Sanchonia, scheduled in a few days.
I have taken the liberty to send men to the docks to try to find him, but I can only do so much.
My Emperor, I humbly ask that you send out an arrest warrant for him, so we can find and question him, or, if he have been murdered, find the body.

Your loyal servant,

Nicloás de Alvaro, Duke of Sardinia and Corsica and Chamberlain of the Cortz
Lux Tenebris Vincet

 

[zenphoenix]

((Private - zenphoenix))

The emperor explained the series of events involving the attack. He and Simeó has been about to leave when the assassin had popped out of the secret passage and shot at them. Simeó had pushed him out of the way and thus took the shot in the arm. Simeó had engaged the assassin while Jaume called for help. After grappling with the assassin, Simeó was able to incapacitate him with a letter opener provided by Jaume, ending the fight. The assassin bled out on the floor. Other than that, there was not much else he could recall.

The emperor's chambers revealed little, for as the emperor said they had been thoroughly cleaned. A slight stain still appeared on the floor where the assassin had died. As for the secret passages, dust had fully settled in, although the barest hint of footprints could be seen. Since the passages had not been used since the incident, it is assumed they are from that time. Several sets of footprints, all from the same person based on shoe-size, go off in one direction, while a second set can be followed to a panel between the prime minister's and chancellor's offices.

The gun was a small musket, not that effective except at close range. The design was one regularly used amongst Iberian mercenary companies. The knife used was a simple iron blade, although an insignia carved in the hilt shows the emblem of a local blacksmith. The fact that it has no nicks or other signs of use suggests it was purchased just before the crime.

Simeó explains the exact same details as the emperor, although adding that he had come to the emperor's chambers earlier to warn him that Bartomeu was expected to being making a move against him. He explained he had learned this fact from his father Enric, the former steward. The bullet had long since been discarded, and Simeó seemed to know little about the assassin. The assassin had been wearing nondescript dark clothing and nothing had identified him.

A close examination of the former prime minister's documents revealed a lot of boring and lengthy reports of the state of affairs of Hispania. However, one paper trail detailed how a series of funds from the treasury, labelled as "administrative costs", ended up being invested into companies in Toledo, the home province of Bartomeu. While some of these companies, upon further perusal, appeared legitimate, it was quite obvious that most were a front. Beyond that, there was nothing stating what actually happened to those investments. Dozens of memos and notes written up by Bartomeu's secretary were also found, mostly listing out various administrative changes being carried out. A few referred to instructions being given out to Bartomeu's "men", although nothing specific. Most alarming were those concerning the emperor. A detailed list was kept of all the emperor's activities: where he was at all times, who he had seen, and in some cases what he said. It was quite obvious that Bartomeu had been keeping a very close eye on the emperor, but it was not clear from the documents what the reason was.

((Private))

Alejandro reviewed his notes and copies of the prime minister's documents. The details of the incident made sense, with little sticking out as immediately suspicious. The investigation of the secret passages, though, turned up a lot of new leads. There seemed to be two people who used the passages, one of whom was probably the assassin. He would have to investigate both tracks and talk with the prime minister and the chancellor. Alejandro thus sent letters asking to meet with both Saint-Pierre (@05060403)) and Andreu de Trastamara at a later time.

The gun was a peculiar one, apparently used by Hispanian mercenary companies. He would have to determine exactly which mercenary company it came from and take a look at their files. Perhaps the assassin was hired out from one of them?

The knife was made at a local blacksmith, and Alejandro resolved to pay the blacksmith a visit to ask the man some questions.

That Simeo had been at the scene of the crime to warn the emperor was quite...interesting. Alejandro would have to talk to Enric about how he came to possess information regarding the assassination attempt.

There were several stacks of paper that Alejandro had to go over, which took him several days to finish and copy down into notes. Most of them were the usual report on Hispania's situation, which Alejandro put aside and returned. One trail, however, detailed "administrative costs" invested into companies in Toledo, where Bartomeu lived. He realized that most of these companies were fronts, likely to channel money into Bartomeu's estate and to pay for the assassin. The memos and notes of Bartomeu's secretary were mostly useless to him, though he copied them down for further reference. As for references to instructions to be carried out by Bartomeu's "men," Alejandro would have to investigate further.

The detailed list of the emperor's activities was shocking. Bartomeu was stalking the emperor, watching his every move, obviously finding a good time to eliminate him and seize power.

It was settled now. Alejandro had enough evidence to implicate Bartomeu in the assassination attempt, as well as charge him with corruption. He resolved to send the emperor a private letter, urging him to issue an arrest warrant for Bartomeu on charges of corruption, attempted murder, attempted murder of the emperor, and conspiracy against the government of Hispania. Should Bartomeu attempt to escape, he sent letters to the Reconquista, in which copies of his notes were included, telling them to stay on the lookout for anybody who looked or acted like Bartomeu in disguise. And should Alejandro be killed or brought down by Bartomeu, he told them to release the notes to the clergy, nobility, and military to bring down Bartomeu with him.

((Basically, my next investigation is to do the following: investigate the footprints not heading off to the prime minister's/chancellor's offices, ask the prime minister and chancellor about the footprints heading to their offices, determine where the gun came from, ask the blacksmith who bought the knife, ask Enric how he knew to tell Simeo to warn the emperor, and investigate Bartomeu's secretary's notes/memos. Then I also want to have Bartomeu arrested in connection with the assassination.))

 

[alscon]

​

As Marshal of Hispania, I thank Timur Shah for his service as general and wish him good luck in his economical activities. I also want to enquire if Louis de Soneta is thinking about retiring from the army, seeing as he has served it well for many years now and has reached a fairly advanced age. In any case, I encourage all aspiring lieutenant generals to present themselves as candidates for a promotion.

-Marshal Alexandre César de Montségur

Montségur would question the Sergeant Major General of said time about the orders.

 

[Michaelangelo]

Something is not right, Nicolás thought. He decided to send guards to the docks to look for the secretary and stop him if he tried to travel to Sanchonia.
He also decided to search the homes of his relatives in Naples and sister in Murcia in hopes of finding him. He also decided to take it one step further.

@Michaelangelo

Spoiler: Private letter to Emperor Jaume IV de Trastámara

​

My imperial grace, Jaume IV de Trastámara, Emperor of Hispania, Caesar of Rome, & Protector of the Greeks,

I have investigated the assassination for the past weeks, and I have found something interesting. I have been looking into the funds that disappeared during Bartomeus time in the council. These, I believe, was used to pay the assassin. I have been searching for Bartomeus secretary as I found out he had been working in the mint prior to him serving Bartomeu, but it seems he had left in a hurry, perhaps because he in linked to the assassination or worse, he have been murdered to cut loose ends. One interesting find was a one-way ticket to Sanchonia, scheduled in a few days.
I have taken the liberty to send men to the docks to try to find him, but I can only do so much.
My Emperor, I humbly ask that you send out an arrest warrant for him, so we can find and question him, or, if he have been murdered, find the body.

Your loyal servant,

Nicloás de Alvaro, Duke of Sardinia and Corsica and Chamberlain of the Cortz
Lux Tenebris Vincet

Spoiler: Private letter to Duke Niolás de Alvaro

It seems that many people are interested in this case these days. I will ensure that the Crown's resources are used to find this secretary.

- His Imperial Highness, Jaume IV de Trastámara, Emperor of Hispania, Caesar of Rome, & Protector of the Greeks

((Private - Robban204))

The docks turned up nothing, for the ship the secretary had scheduled to take had not even arrived yet. Naples was just as fruitless, for his relatives had not seen him in years. Murcia, however, gave the first breakthrough in finding the secretary. While the sister claims to have not seen him in quite some time, something corroborated by her husband, it is quite obvious after inspecting their house that someone else has been staying there for a few days. If it is indeed the secretary, perhaps a trap can be set. Either that or searching the town may reveal his location.

((Private))

Alejandro reviewed his notes and copies of the prime minister's documents. The details of the incident made sense, with little sticking out as immediately suspicious. The investigation of the secret passages, though, turned up a lot of new leads. There seemed to be two people who used the passages, one of whom was probably the assassin. He would have to investigate both tracks and talk with the prime minister and the chancellor. Alejandro thus sent letters asking to meet with both Saint-Pierre (@05060403)) and Andreu de Trastamara at a later time.

The gun was a peculiar one, apparently used by Hispanian mercenary companies. He would have to determine exactly which mercenary company it came from and take a look at their files. Perhaps the assassin was hired out from one of them?

The knife was made at a local blacksmith, and Alejandro resolved to pay the blacksmith a visit to ask the man some questions.

That Simeo had been at the scene of the crime to warn the emperor was quite...interesting. Alejandro would have to talk to Enric about how he came to possess information regarding the assassination attempt.

There were several stacks of paper that Alejandro had to go over, which took him several days to finish and copy down into notes. Most of them were the usual report on Hispania's situation, which Alejandro put aside and returned. One trail, however, detailed "administrative costs" invested into companies in Toledo, where Bartomeu lived. He realized that most of these companies were fronts, likely to channel money into Bartomeu's estate and to pay for the assassin. The memos and notes of Bartomeu's secretary were mostly useless to him, though he copied them down for further reference. As for references to instructions to be carried out by Bartomeu's "men," Alejandro would have to investigate further.

The detailed list of the emperor's activities was shocking. Bartomeu was stalking the emperor, watching his every move, obviously finding a good time to eliminate him and seize power.

It was settled now. Alejandro had enough evidence to implicate Bartomeu in the assassination attempt, as well as charge him with corruption. He resolved to send the emperor a private letter, urging him to issue an arrest warrant for Bartomeu on charges of corruption, attempted murder, attempted murder of the emperor, and conspiracy against the government of Hispania. Should Bartomeu attempt to escape, he sent letters to the Reconquista, in which copies of his notes were included, telling them to stay on the lookout for anybody who looked or acted like Bartomeu in disguise. And should Alejandro be killed or brought down by Bartomeu, he told them to release the notes to the clergy, nobility, and military to bring down Bartomeu with him.

((Basically, my next investigation is to do the following: investigate the footprints not heading off to the prime minister's/chancellor's offices, ask the prime minister and chancellor about the footprints heading to their offices, determine where the gun came from, ask the blacksmith who bought the knife, ask Enric how he knew to tell Simeo to warn the emperor, and investigate Bartomeu's secretary's notes/memos. Then I also want to have Bartomeu arrested in connection with the assassination.))

((Private - zenphoenix))

Following the multiple footprints from the same person heading the opposite way leads towards the guest wing of the palace, where many courtiers and nobles stay when attending court. With so many rooms and people there, and with five years having passed, it is not quite clear who had accessed the secret passage from that area, other than that they were likely a guest staying at the palace.

Andreu de Trastámara, after providing only a brief audience, explains that he had not even been aware of the secret passage near his office. However, with his proximity to the prime minister's office, he does recount seeing a shady character or two meeting with Bartomeu and then them slipping away into the palace.

Further inspection of the musket and with some asking around revealed it came from a mercenary company operating mostly in central Iberia, the former lands of Castile. Seeing a they are standard issue for recruits, all members have the exact same one, with the exception of the leaders. The one found on the assassin matches the one for recruits. Without further means of identifying the assassin, it seems unlikely that it can be determined if he was a member of the company. Perhaps the assassin left clues to his identify somewhere around the time of the assassination attempt that were overlooked.

The blacksmith seems to know little, for the knife is like any other he makes. However, when the assassination attempt is mentioned, he does start to recall one man who wanted a knife who acted quite suspicious. The blacksmith also recalls seeing that man at a local pub and coming out of a dingy apartment building.

Enric de Trastámara is quite surprised to have someone asking him about the assassination, but he willingly provides the information needed. He admits that he and Chancellor Andreu de Trastámara had been keeping tabs on both the emperor and those at court, including Bartomeu. It was Andreu who informed him that he suspected Bartomeu was about to act, although at the time they did not do what he was going to do. Enric, fearing that the emperor was in danger, had sent his son Simeó to bring the emperor to safety.

Looking in further to the memos and notes referring to Bartomeu's "men" provided little. The secretary was vague enough in his notes that nothing could be pinned down to anyone specific, and it was quite clear that these men were meant to be kept secret and thus nothing definite was put down in writing. It is likely they disappeared when Bartomeu resigned.

Bartomeu has already been placed under house arrest pending trial, so there is no need to arrest or detain him again.

Montségur would question the Sergeant Major General of said time about the orders.

((Private - alscon))

The sergeant major general, still a member of the Exercit Valencia, explains that he had indeed received the orders and at the time had believed them from the marshal. Seeing as he had temporarily been given command and didn't want to disappoint by disobeying orders, even those he found somewhat skeptical, he placed the army on standby. He does recall the courier who delivered the letter to have been somewhat scruffy and unprofessional looking, with his uniform not well-maintained.

 

[ML8991]

A final respite, and end, A mad empress part 4
((otherwise known as Goodbye and Thanks for all the fish, thanks @Michaelangelo for a moving IC- now all that remains-depending on RNGesus- is the funeral))

Caterina’s eyes wearily looked out from her bedchamber. The fine silks of her bed, still so fine unlike their owner, seemed to reflect the pool of blood that ebbed from her veins, she could tell her time was nearing, but she could still hold to life, the former empress being ever vigilant. She asked the Lady Marie to call for her grandson, she wanted to say goodbye she realised. But the flames must take place, and he must not be there, he is too pure, my little Alfons, the less rational half of her mind, the more dominant one over these final years, called out internally. A rap at the door heralded her grandchild’s arrival, and she beckoned out, oh her previously strong voice had turned into a most feeble rasp, but the words and emotions still carried, as the Emperor came in through the door.

Emperor Jaume IV approached her bedside, trying not to show the sadness on his face. His grandmother looked so frail, and it was quite clear why she had called for him. He knew she had not been well lately, for had heard of some of her more peculiar behaviour, although he had refused to bear witness to it himself. Now seeing her lying in her bed, so near death, brought back memories of so much loss. He had already lost a father, a brother, and an uncle. Now his grandmother seemed ready to depart this world.

“Hello, Grandmother,” Jaume said quietly, his voice barely a whisper.

Caterina was able to lift her head, how had such a simple task turned into one like lifting a boulder up a mountain, to see the concerned eyes of her grandson, their green depths sparkling with almost tears. “There, there Jaume, don’t cry. Grandmama is here.” She said as she lifted her hand to his face, the soft, previously white, fabric ghosting over Jaume’s cheeks.

“You aren’t unwell, are you Grandmother?” Jaume said, unwilling to admit the fact he might lose his grandmother soon. He wasn’t ready to accept that yet.

“My darling, I am,” Said Caterina in a rare moment of clarity, “I am too old to be of much use to this realm, even without my unravelings, but you my darling, my dearest darling, you can lead them. I had thought you would be weak or ineffective, but in our brief moments together, you truly show the blood of your forebearers. I am sorry it must end, but all things must.” She shuddered then, as her delicate gloves turned a darker shade of pink, closer to red than pink now, a fact which wasn’t unnoticed by the Emperor.

“It will be all right,” Jaume said, failing to keep the tears from his eyes. He could feel that terrible nervousness creeping back, the feeling of inadequacy that had plagued his mind for so long. “I can’t lose you too.”

“Be strong my darling, you always have been, it just took you time to find it. Be the great man you are, and keep strong. I feel my time is nearing, my dear.” Caterina murmured, her blue eyes losing focus.

Jaume could almost feel her slipping away. “I’ll try,” he said, “but I fear I might fail.” At that moment he caught a glimpse of the grotesque painting he had heard of. He refused to look further at it, wanting to believe his grandmother would be fine in the end.

Caterina saw his eyes flicker, and the tears fell then. She reached up to Jaume, and reached her weak arms around him, bawling her eyes out, not wanting to say goodbye. To anyone other that Caterina this act would look like a sobering goodbye, but the Dowager was trying to grip to reality, though this reality was slipping. Her Alfons now stood before her, not Jaume, and her eyes watered yet more. The purity of their love was too deep, and she lost him when he was too young. She cried out to him, but no answer came.

Jaume looked at his grandmother with grave concern, but tears still in his eyes. It was hard to recognise the woman anymore, she seemed so far gone. He did his best to put on a strong face and said, “Is there anything I can do for you, Grandmother?”

“Just stay with me Alfons, I will see you again soon” Caterina soothed, gently gripping Jaume’s hand. It was clear the blood loss was making her delusional. “I will not have you at that funeral though my darling, it would be most unbecoming for the public and nobility to see their Emperor grieve. Please visit me afterwards, something private, just so we are together, one last time. I won’t have you cry, not like you did for Alexandre and Elizabeth, our two darling angels, taken too soon. Least we had time together, didn’t we Alfons, didn’t we !?!” She said the words with such emotion that a childish glow enveloped Caterina’s face, and Jaume could see how his Grandfather had fallen for this woman, not the crippled old woman that was the typical face of Caterina.

“It’s me, Jaume, Grandmother,” the emperor said, hoping to get through to her as her mind slipped away. He tried to hide the pity from his voice but found it increasingly difficult. “Just stay with me.”

Caterina could hear his, her Jaume's, voice, but it grew dimmer, as she felt the life seep from her wrists. But she pleaded, her last words and wishes. “I am sorry my dear, dear Jaume, but every life, however long or great, must end. Please stay strong for me and our empire, our nation needs this more than anything. Please send my love to Louis, and my nephew Julian. Do something for them, they are my blood and, through me, yours. I will always love you my darling, I loved you from the moment you could be held, and I will love you in the world beyond. Don’t stop loving Jaume, you must always love. You are a true Trastámara, and a true de Soneta. I am honoured and proud, and have always been grateful that you...you are my grandson. Good bye my little Jaume, be the brave and strong man you always were and will be” She concluded, a last stroke of Jaume’s cheeks to brush the stray tears, as her once dazzling blue eyes turned to the dullness of death.

It took a moment for Jaume to realise what had just occurred. As his grandmother’s body stilled, he pulled back, his mind whirring. No, not another family member gone. His grandmother had been old, but that did not make the loss any easier to bear. The tears returned, and this time with no one to wipe them away. His composure tried to crumble away, but his grandmother’s words remained with him. He grasped her hand, cold to the touch and the glove slightly moist with blood. “I’ll remain strong for you, Grandmother, always.“

 

[Robban204]

So close, perhaps. If it indeed was the secretary living at his sisters house, perhaps he would come back? A plan formed in Nicolás head.

"All right men, the plan is as follows."
Nicolás cleared his throat.
"Our first priority is to locate the secretary, so we will search the town, discreetly of course, as to not raise suspicion. Conceal yourselves as traders or guildmen or something like that, just do not raise suspisions as to why we are here. Second, set a trap at the house, if the secretary have indeed stayed at the house, he may aswell come back."
He looked around at his men.
"Now, if we are caught, try to funnel him to his, possibly, last safe spot, the house, and catch him there. Sounds good?"
The men nodded.
"Great, let us get to work."

((Discreetly search the town as to not raise the secretaries suspicion if he is indeed there. If the secretary is there, catch him. Also set a trap for the secretarys possible return to the house. If caught searching by the secretary, funnel him towards the house so the trap can be sprung.))

((My investigation is starting to look like a spy movie at this pace ))

 

[Michaelangelo]

So close, perhaps. If it indeed was the secretary living at his sisters house, perhaps he would come back? A plan formed in Nicolás head.

"All right men, the plan is as follows."
Nicolás cleared his throat.
"Our first priority is to locate the secretary, so we will search the town, discreetly of course, as to not raise suspicion. Conceal yourselves as traders or guildmen or something like that, just do not raise suspisions as to why we are here. Second, set a trap at the house, if the secretary have indeed stayed at the house, he may aswell come back."
He looked around at his men.
"Now, if we are caught, try to funnel him to his, possibly, last safe spot, the house, and catch him there. Sounds good?"
The men nodded.
"Great, let us get to work."

((Discreetly search the town as to not raise the secretaries suspicion if he is indeed there. If the secretary is there, catch him. Also set a trap for the secretarys possible return to the house. If caught searching by the secretary, funnel him towards the house so the trap can be sprung.))

((My investigation is starting to look like a spy movie at this pace ))

((Private - Robban204))

When searching the town, luck is with the investigators as the secretary is spotted, although he appears quite nervous and is careful to remain in full public view. He seems likely to bolt if approached. Instead he is followed, watched carefully as he returns to his sister's house. Then the trap is set. Guards spring up from everywhere and rush the man. He's quickly surrounded and apprehended. As he is dragged away and placed under custody, he keeps proclaiming his innocence. It is likely that with further pressure and the right questions, he'll reveal anything.

* * * * *

((This might also be a good time to bring to attention that it is likely we'll have an opening on the Cortz again, so people should place their names forward before the vote if they can.))

 

[Robban204]

"Great work men!" Nicolás exclaimed. "Let us take him in for questioning."

Nicolás paced around in the room where the secretary was being held.
"First of all, we only want to talk." Nicolás stopped pacing and faced the man.
"We know that you worked with Bartomeu as his secretary, and we know that before that you worked in the mint."
"But, it was only after you started working as Bartomeus secretary that you was involved more with the mint." Nicolás sat down.
"We have discovered discrepancies with the treasury reports, discrepancies that may have had something to do with the assassination."
Nicolás paused to let it sink in.
"Bartomeu is under investigation for corruption, attempted murder, attempted regicide, conspiracy against the government of Hispania and treason."
Nicolás let it sink in again.
"Attempted regicide alone is punishable by death, not to mention the other accusations."
"As I said, we only need answers. If you are as innocent as you claim, you have nothing to fear. And helping the Emperor catching a possible assassin, is sure to go a long way."
"But after the attempt on the Emperors life, you vanished, and quickly too."
Nicolás looked him in the eye. "If you are not as innocent as you claim, you will meet the same faith as Bartomeu, possibly sooner too, Bartomeu is a noble after all, and you are not."
Nicolás stood up again and looked him in the eye.
"Will you help me, and the Emperor, catch the assassin?"
Nicolás waited for an answer.

((All the questions in the IC, aswell as looking at his body language.))

((Also, nominating myself for the Cortz.))

 

[alscon]

A good man. Obeying orders from the marshal, though Montségur insisted that he would only communicate his orders through his own men. He should keep that in mind for any comparable situation, before he was ordered to leave. The courier should be trackable, even after all these years. While the man did wear an uniform, it left enough of an impression on the sergeant major general that he could recall it, and he was likely not the only one. Far from any battle situation, a badly maintained uniform would not be worn with the discipline of the army, even less from someone allegedly sent by the marshal. If there were, he would have to stop that practice, but he was confident that the troops have noticed the courier. Anyone with any knowledge about him shall report it. Afterwards, men would ask questions in the nearby inns, using everything learned about the courier's appearance. With any luck, he was a regular, or his tracks could be followed further.

 

[DragonOfAtlantis]

((Check the mine/source next))

 

[BelisariustheGreat]

Enrique searched for the "nervous one", the employee who failed to appear to work
------
Fernandez spent some months together with his wife, but now it was time to join his regiment, the "1st Royal Light-Infantryregiment" ((Could you name one regiment in a "Homeland Army" (Armys stationed in Iberia) like this @Michaelangelo))
The regiment was previously transported from Italy to Iberia, and made a stop in Marseille. He would bserve as an platoonleader and so he could show his skill in leading and training men.

 

[Robban204]

((@BelisariustheGreat I think that it would be better to name a company "1st Royal Light Infantry" a regiment is a number of different battalions grouped together, and a battalion is a number of companies grouped together. Having an entire regiment of light infantry is not feasible For example, a regiment can be a light infatry battalion, a heavy infantry battalion, a support battalion and a command battalion, and the light infantry battalion can have a light infantry company, a light or regular cavalry company, a cannon company and a support company. But it's your idea and I'm in no way hindering that, just informing of how it is IRL as I work in the military
I can give naming suggestions though, but as I said, do not take it as I'm hindering your idea in any way
For example. "Imperial Castillian Regiment, 2nd Madrid Battalion, 1st Royal Light Infantry Company, 4th Light Infantry Platoon 'Enter name of platoon here'" and so forth. ))

 

[Mach Twelve]

((Seconding what Robban said. Combined Arms organization started emerging in this time period and was very effective. We have on time MIL tech, we wouldn't be using such backwards organization. Shame EU4 mechanics don't support this))

 

[zenphoenix]

Following the multiple footprints from the same person heading the opposite way leads towards the guest wing of the palace, where many courtiers and nobles stay when attending court. With so many rooms and people there, and with five years having passed, it is not quite clear who had accessed the secret passage from that area, other than that they were likely a guest staying at the palace.

Andreu de Trastámara, after providing only a brief audience, explains that he had not even been aware of the secret passage near his office. However, with his proximity to the prime minister's office, he does recount seeing a shady character or two meeting with Bartomeu and then them slipping away into the palace.

Further inspection of the musket and with some asking around revealed it came from a mercenary company operating mostly in central Iberia, the former lands of Castile. Seeing a they are standard issue for recruits, all members have the exact same one, with the exception of the leaders. The one found on the assassin matches the one for recruits. Without further means of identifying the assassin, it seems unlikely that it can be determined if he was a member of the company. Perhaps the assassin left clues to his identify somewhere around the time of the assassination attempt that were overlooked.

The blacksmith seems to know little, for the knife is like any other he makes. However, when the assassination attempt is mentioned, he does start to recall one man who wanted a knife who acted quite suspicious. The blacksmith also recalls seeing that man at a local pub and coming out of a dingy apartment building.

Enric de Trastámara is quite surprised to have someone asking him about the assassination, but he willingly provides the information needed. He admits that he and Chancellor Andreu de Trastámara had been keeping tabs on both the emperor and those at court, including Bartomeu. It was Andreu who informed him that he suspected Bartomeu was about to act, although at the time they did not do what he was going to do. Enric, fearing that the emperor was in danger, had sent his son Simeó to bring the emperor to safety.

Looking in further to the memos and notes referring to Bartomeu's "men" provided little. The secretary was vague enough in his notes that nothing could be pinned down to anyone specific, and it was quite clear that these men were meant to be kept secret and thus nothing definite was put down in writing. It is likely they disappeared when Bartomeu resigned.

Bartomeu has already been placed under house arrest pending trial, so there is no need to arrest or detain him again.

((Private))

There were no leads on the footprint track. It appeared that the assassin was likely a guest staying at the palace five years ago, though who exactly was still hard to determine. He would have to review the guest list for five years ago.

Andreu's testimony served to reinforce Alejandro's suspicions, though they did not provide any other leads. He thanked the chancellor for his time and resolved to close this part of the investigation.

The gun came from somewhere in the former Castilian domains, though that was all he got. Maybe he could cross-reference this information with the guest list?

The blacksmith said something about the assassin visiting a local pub and coming out of a small apartment building. He would have send some Reconquista members to investigate both locations and ask the locals for more information.

Enric seemed to be a good guy, watching out for the emperor's safety. Other than that he did not have any meaningful leads, so Alejandro decided to focus on other things.

Alejandro had to find the secretary and ask him some questions. He surely would have known what his notes meant.

News of Bartomeu's arrest arrived soon after Alejandro finished sending out the required letters to finish his investigation. He then wrote up another letter asking to interrogate Bartomeu in private.