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Court reform
1) Alscon
2) Keinwyn
3) Lord Daimen

Council Positions: Nobility and Clergy

Cortz: Reform

Council Term: Old System

Natives: Co-Existance

Succession Law: Limited Male Preference, brother preference.


Duc Francesco de Soneta ((landed noble,duke,cortz,chancellor))
 
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We have done much thinking over the reforms provided by the court and have taken your advice to heart. We have thus decided that the administrative reforms proposed by Marquis Sastre will serve best. We do feel, though, that some amendments are required as suggested by the court. Many favour the old system of council appointment, where a minister serves at the king's discretion for however long he wills it. However, we understand that we may need the court's consent for such dismissals. ((Since the Old System for council terms won, I'm changing Keinwyn's reform so that ministers serve indefinitely; however, the king may fire a minister at any time, as long as the council vote on it first.)) We have also heard the concerns of the nobility that some members of the court are not qualified to serve us directly, but we feel that we must make use of any man of skill, regardless of his place in society. In particular we find merchants to be better suited for the position of Grandmaster than nobles, for they are surely more experienced in matters of trade.

As for the Cortz, we understand that there is discontent on its current form. We believe Duke Montségur's suggestion to be the best option. Allowing all nobles to serve on the Cortz would make it difficult for such a body to properly advise us with so many voices. Replacing the Cortz with a Chamberlain would do the opposite by placing the influence of the nobility in the hand's of one man, a dangerous proposition. We feel that instead the Cortz should remain as it is, but will have the power to appoint a Chamberlain from the ranks of the nobility to serve as an intermediary between the nobility and Crown. Such an individual would be solely responsible to the Cortz.

We also thank the court for aiding us in determining official succession laws for the royal family. We have observed common practices for many decades, but it was never fully codified. Setting it down in writing will ensure we do not face succession crises in the future. ((I should probably mention that the whole limited male preference was to help clarify how the current succession should work, since I wasn't sure if brothers or daughters go first. Unlike the law for full male preference, I'm only applying this one to the royal family. Player characters should use limited male preference, but they may adjust how far one looks for male heirs if they wish to play as a female instead.))

With our growing colonies, we also saw the need to establish an official policy for how we dealt with the natives of these new lands. Until now we have traded with them, exploiting them for their riches. However, it seems that many of the court have taken notice of the hostility of these natives while conducting such trade ventures. Too many colonies have been pillaged by these brutal men. We are all good Christians here and thus we should enlighten these peoples and show them there is a better path. Unlike the Muslims of this world, these men across the seas are simply too primitive to understand the grace of God. Thus it is our duty to enlighten them. Just like children, they lack understanding of the world and we must be patient with them. For now we shall allow them to live in peace as we spread the word of God amongst their ranks.

- His Majesty, Alfons VII de Trastámara, King of Hispania & Galicia, and Protector of the Greeks & the Knights

((To make it more clear, the official results of the vote are this:

Council Reform: Sastre (Keinwyn)
Council Positions: All Classes
Council Term: Old System
Cortz: Reform
Succession Laws: Limited Male Preference
Limited Male Preference: Brothers
Native Policy: Coexistence

I'll start editing the rules to account for the changes. Of particular note is the fact that the ministers now appoint most of the roles and leaders, not the king, and that plans objected to may only be put up to a vote if the king allows it. Also the Cortz will have to appoint a Chamberlain now, whose role will be mostly RP but he'll get an extra point of VP. I'll save that for after the next update though. Time to get to work then.))
 
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((I'm resigning from this IAAR for the unseen future. It seems that most players are incapable of making logically sound judgments, and I'd rather not be part of a game which is dictated by the arbitrary will of players who lack any and all consistency in their actions.))
 
((I'm resigning from this IAAR for the unseen future. It seems that most players are incapable of making logically sound judgments, and I'd rather not be part of a game which is dictated by the arbitrary will of players who lack any and all consistency in their actions.))
((The AAR... it's falling apart...))
 
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Armand struggled to his feet and shouted for Pere, his manservant. Walking had become increasingly difficult this passed year, even with the aid of a cane. His hands trembled and sleep came often, even in the middle of the day. He knew his time was short, most of his affairs were in order.
He shouted for Pere again. Where was the man, and what was the shouting from the courtyard about?
Arriving at the courtyard he found his granddaughter hunched over on the ground, surrounded by various servants. Her beautiful face sheeted in blood and twisted in agony. Hands, also covered in blood, were clamped over her right eye.
A stable-boy stood off to one side, clearly uncomfortable with the situation. He still held a blood tipped rapier loosely in one hand. Armand would have hip whipped later for his carelessness, but it probably wasn't entirely the lad's fault. Marina had become a little wild these past years. He spoilt her too much.

---

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Letter to the King

Your Majesty,
I humbly ask that you find a place at court for my granddaughter, Marina, perhaps as a Lady in Waiting to Princess Isabel?

Armand Sastre
Marqués Viver

---​

A few months later, Armand Sastre passed away. His last thoughts were of the love he would soon meet again.
 
1566-1572 – The Genoese War

July of 1566 was a chaotic month as the entire Hispanian government reformed. Changes in policy were carried out, positions gained or lost power, and the very class system seemed to be shifting. The first action of King Alfons VII was to declare that all natives in all colonial provinces were no longer to be dealt with hostility. Now they would coexist side by side, with the hope that missionaries could enlighten the natives to follow the true faith. The king also went against the court when he expressed that the Crown would focus on potential colonial ventures in the Caribbean rather than a potential continuation of the Reconquista. Portugal was gaining a presence in the region, something the king did not approve of. ((As expected, the missions changed when I loaded up with Cossacks. I picked this one since our next province to colonize is in the Caribbean and it should be easy to complete.)) At the same time, Viceroy Santiago Aybar raised tariffs in Nueva Granada to help raise more funds for the Crown. Conquistador Hernando Francisco de Leon followed in the footsteps of his predecessors by heading up north to explore the unexplored lands. The biggest change, of course, was to the Council. Now an official administrative body, the Council grew in power as the king delegated more of his duties. One man could not effectively administer the massive kingdom of Hispania.

With the intention of attacking Genoa some time in the near future, the process of shipping armies around begun. The army in Valencia was sent out first for Greece. Meanwhile, trade had managed to pick back up in West Africa. What had been a temporary slump in trade had ended. ((It would seem that the loss of the monopoly in West Africa was only temporary. @05060403, you can give someone the extra VP if you want. Also, I sent the new merchant to transfer trade in Tunis.))



In late September, a comet streaked over the sky in Iberia, a terrifying sight for the average peasant. They simply feared what they did not understand.

Mixed signals were being sent to the Papal State. Several Hispanian cardinals kept reporting that their fellow members of the Holy See were practically grovelling at them and trying to win favour with Hispania. Only after one particularly gruff cardinal demanded to know what was going on did everyone learn that the Pope feared Hispania meant to vassalize the Papal State. The king scoffed at such a notion. It was one thing to go to war with the Papal State, but to declare yourself the overlord of the Pope was downright blasphemy. Perhaps the chancellor would have to dissuade those notions. What was even more amusing was that the Portuguese were under the impression Hispania wanted to be their friends. Had the Portuguese gone mad? ((Since we can now set attitudes towards other countries, the chancellor now has been granted that power. I’d recommend setting some for our neighbours, since it’s probably not a good idea to have the Pope thinking we’re going to vassalize him and it seems weird that we like the Portuguese after stealing their colonies.))

Even if relations abroad were up in the air, things at home were quite calm. The people had finally gotten over the whole comet incident and were quite happy with how things were going. Under the rule of King Alfons VII, they felt safe.

Over in the New World, getting lost was practically a rite of passage for conquistadors. Hernando Francisco de Leon had a habit of wandering off on his own and getting separated from the group. Nothing new about that.

Things were starting to look up for the merchants of Hispania. King Alfons, seeing the vast wealth they could bring in, had relaxed trade restrictions in the key ports of Tarragona and Sevilla. Detecting this trend, a group of prominent merchants approached the king requesting special privileges to operate further inland from Sevilla. They made promises of bringing in great wealth to the province and Crown, as well as a nice bonus to the king himself. Alfons VII was not one to shy away from few extra ducats in his pocket. The merchants were given a tax exemption to help build up trade in the region. ((Despite what the tooltip says, they only gained 1.5% influence, not the outrageous 15%.))



Conquistador Leon met a tribe that separated men and women. The men invited him to visit the women. Leon said screw that and left. End of story. ((These events aren’t repetitive at all. :p))

Preparations for war were well under way now. The two armies in Iberia were now in Greece and the one in Provence was going to be shipped to Sardinia to launch an attack on Corsica. The main fleet left Gibraltar for Athens with the intention of blocking the straits, a classic strategy. It was also around this time that the entire Genoese army was spotted in Anatolia trying to reclaim its provinces from Crimea and its allies.

In August of 1567, there were suggestions being tossed around court that Hispania should consider moving its capital further inland to Madrid. The area was apparently a blank slate to create a grand capital in the interior of Iberia. Of course most of these suggestions came from Castilians. The king had no desire to pack up the royal palace and move to some backwater Castilian town because the weather was nice and it was strategically placed to better rule over Iberia. Well Hispania was more than just Iberia. How did some isolated capital in the middle of Iberia benefit Naples and Hispania’s friends in Greece? What about the colonies? A coastal capital was best for such a sprawling kingdom. His Castilian subjects could have Madrid for all he cared.

By September the sprawling changes to the administration had finished. The final touch was the affirmation of ties between the Inquisition and the Crown. The administration had been successfully reformed. The last vestiges of the outdated feudal system were disappearing. This process also coincided with the successful establishment of local government within the recently conquered African provinces. With that done, missionaries were sent in to Kantor and Wolof.



Sometimes a conquistador was lucky and encountered friendly natives that didn’t separate their men and women and were willing to shelter the expedition for the winter. The Sioux people were such natives.

In January of 1568, a massive Hungarian army of 35k was spotted aiding Genoa in Anatolia. When Germiyan was forced out of that war, it was only a matter of time before Crimea signed a peace. The time to strike was near at hand. The final preparations were made for an invasion. Knowing that most of Hungary’s army was in Anatolia, plans were changed. If Hungary’s army was trapped there, their entire homeland was wide open to invasion. The armies in Greece were rerouted towards the Hungarian border. Hungary could be forced out of the war without ever having to engage the 35k men in Anatolia. Genoa would fall with ease after that.

Things in Africa were not entirely quiet though. Mali was caught trying to fabricate a claim on Beafada, and there was still the threat of rebellion. An army of 12k sat ready in Wolof to crush any rebels that rose up.

The forts in Navarra, Girona, Draguignan, and Napoli were garrisoned in preparation for war and the main fleet sent out into the straits. Both of Hispania’s allies were felt out to see if they’d join the war. France had absolutely no interest. They stated they felt Hispania had not done them enough “favours” and they did not desire the provinces of any of the war participants. King Alfons VII was irate that the French felt Hispania had not earned their assistance, but he couldn’t force them to join. Tuscany was another matter. They didn’t particularly feel the need to join, but they suggested that if promised a province, they may change their mind. With Hungary in control of Urbino and Lucca right on their doorstep, it was no trouble to promise Tuscany a province. Hispania did not desire those provinces and it would make Tuscany stronger, a win-win scenario. The Tuscans were thus formally promised a province if they joined the war. With at least one ally willing to help, the official declaration of war was sent.



The army in Sardinia immediately moved on Corsica, while the three in Greece moved on up into Hungary. The Napoli army had been sitting in Tuscany and was sent on to Parma, although a careful eye was kept on Lucca’s army. It turned out to be their navy that needed to be watched. Unwilling to let Hispania launch an invasion of Corsica, three light ships launched a suicidal assault on the Hispanian transport fleet in the Ligurian Sea. When Auguste de Saint-Pierre arrived with his trade fleet, the enemy was doomed. The enemy ships were sunk, and the admiral was even able to nab himself another ship, which he sent off to serve in the fleet operating outside Alexandria.

Meanwhile, Admiral Juan de Porcelli left five galleys to guard the straits while he left with the rest of the fleet to eliminate the threat of the Hungarian and Genoese navies. He caught the Hungarians just south of Greece and dashed them against the coast. A single flute was captured and sent to join the transport fleet. The timing worked well, for Genoa finally settled a peace with Crimea. They may have freed Anatolia, but they were trapped there now.

The increasing use of artillery was truly starting to pay off. It had often become the deciding factor in sieges. A few generals had come up with the idea of banding artillery together to unless one mass assault to devastating effect. It was providing a demoralizing effect on the enemy. The army was also growing used to the use of cannons. Before it had thrown off their own men almost as much as the enemy, for no one was that comfortable with cannonballs flying through the air over their heads. Now the men were working in concert with the artillery, creating one disciplined force.



Tuscany launched an attack on Lucca’s army as the enemy moved into Modena. The army besieging Parma did not intervene immediately, deciding to finish the siege first. When they did arrive, they helped Tuscany tip the odds and push Lucca back. At the same time, the main fleet aided Tuscany in taking out Genoa’s navy. The enemy fleet was defeated and yet another transport seized.

The tenuous state of West Africa was making trade for the Trans-Atlantic Trade Company difficult. When things went particularly bad in Sierra Leone, they asked the Crown for assistance. Too embroiled in winning the war, the king told the TATC to handle it on their own. He did give the trading company permission to bring the local Portuguese population into line. If they started acting more Aragonese, that would be better.



With Lucca’s army temporarily dealt with, the army in Lucca moved on to Genoa to capture their capital. The provinces were completely unprotected with Genoa’s army all in Anatolia. Speaking of Anatolia, the Knights made a suicidal attempt to take Mentese. They captured the province, but only to have the Genoese army ride down on them.

Tunis kept on growing through subtler methods. They had managed to convince Mzab to give up their independence, leaving one less small African state. Over in West Africa, the pagans of Kantor had embraced the true faith. Focus was shifted to Brakna.

Two of the Crown’s advisors, Pere Sastre (completely unrelated to the late steward) and Antoni Galindo, had been working in secret to draft up massive changes to the kingdom’s trade policies. When they finally presented their proposal to the king, he was sceptical at first. Then as words like “profitable” and “money” were tossed around, his opinion changed. Alfons VII agreed to implement these changes, even if they might cause some temporary trouble for the kingdom.

What wasn’t experiencing trouble was agriculture. The farms of Hispania brought in a bountiful crop, which helped feed more mouths, especially the troops.



In late September of 1568, a Hungarian army was spotted making its way through Crimea. It had apparently found itself in enemy lands when the last war ended and now it was trying to make its way home. It would eventually be problem when it reached Hungary.

The expected rebellion came in October with Fulani Separatists rising up in Tekrur. Their numbers were too large for the African army to deal with them, but no army was free to help against them. Once Genoa’s homeland was secured, perhaps another army could be freed to help. For now they could only watch as Tekrur was taken.

Serbia fell, the first Hungarian fort taken. The way into the Hungarian interior was open. For now the army moved east to take the provinces unprotected by forts while Byzantium’s army, which had aided the siege, headed for the fort in Slavonia.

Back home, the economic reforms were paying off. With enough spare ducats in the treasury, a workshop was commissioned in Zaragoza.

Genoa fell in December, and Galicia had already taken the neighbouring province. Lucca’s army was spotted over in Hungary, so the army sitting in Genoa was loaded up in a transport and shipped to Africa. It was time to crush those rebels.



Lucca’s army tried going after the army taking Hungary’s southern provinces, but the Hispanian men were too fast for them. They dodged the enemy and joined up with Byzantium in Slavonia where their numbers were too large for Lucca to touch.

Scurvy seemed to be a constant problem for exploration expeditions. You would think they’d carry medicine for that by now, but instead they had to resort to eating unknown fruit to stave off the affliction.

Hunyad was the next fort to fall, opening up eastern Hungary to occupation. Hungary’s army of roughly 18k men had finally returned and was making its way southwest, but the army in Hunyad under General Wolfgang Oliver Lübecker attempted to intercept. General Cesar Miguel de Montcada was given command of the army joining up with the Greeks to ensure they were properly led.

Before the year ended, France made a move on Burgundy. They faced off alone against Burgundy, Switzerland, Venice, Flanders, and Liege. Knowing France, it’d manage a victory on its own just fine.

Right at the beginning of 1569, Lübecker engaged Hungary’s army in Bekes. Lucca seemed as though it was marching around to help them, but did not get anywhere close before Hungary was defeated.



On January 11, at the rip old age of 65, King Alfons VII passed away. His death was not exactly expected. The king had often kept to himself unless dealing with court affairs. His eldest son thus ascended to the throne as Ferran IV at the age of 33. The new king hadn’t exactly expected himself to be thrust into power at this time. In fact, Ferran had not shown much interest at all in running a kingdom. One of the first things he did as king was delegate most of his responsibilities to the Council. He placed the responsibility of ending the war on them and the army, and he wanted it down quickly. All he really wanted to do was spend time with his 9-year-old son Pere and 2-year-old daughter Clara.

The rebels in Africa had moved on to Brakna, opening the way to retake Tekkur while waiting for the extra troops to arrive.

The production of salt was quite extensive in Nueva Granada, but some worried that most of the income from it was not being properly taxed. Grandmaster Auguste de Saint-Pierre made arrangements with Viceroy Santiago Aybar to raise tariffs on salt and put in place laws to force all salt to be traded with Hispania first. The fact that both men involved were members of the TATC and that said trading company had a strong presence in the region was not overlooked. Many suspected it was the first step towards a TATC monopoly in Nueva Granada.

Corsica finally fell in February, but the transport fleet had just arrived in Africa and would not be available for quite some time. First the rebel army had to be dealt with. Led by General Niccolo Limmona, an assault was launched. The rebels never stood a chance. They were crushed utterly and the rebel threat removed. With that done, the army could return north to the war theatre.

In Hungary, Lübecker made his move on Pest, the Hungarian capital, while the second army that had been accompanying him split off to take advantage of Hungary’s unprotected eastern frontier.



During the siege process, Hungary had managed to sneak between the armies and reach Serbia, where it was trying to reclaim the fort. It was left uninterrupted for now, since the current sieges were more important. Lucca had returned home to retake Mantua from Tuscany. Instead Tuscany captured their capital, forcing their navy from port. The main fleet had been reorganized, with ten galleys each blockading Genoa’s eastern provinces. Ten more galleys and all ten heavy ships were now outside Lucca. Lucca’s navy was outmatched. The enemy navy was sunk and yet another transport was captured for the transport fleet. A job well done.

Tuscany then went after Lucca’s army in Mantua. The army from Africa arrived too late to provide aid, but Tuscany did not need it. The war was clearly going Hispania’s day. Slavonia fell in June. The freed up army moved on to neighbour provinces, keeping a close eye on Hungary’s army besieging Serbia. They’d be dealt with when more forces were available.

Wolof accepted the true faith, freeing up a missionary to work on Tekrur. Clearly these rebellious Africans needed Jesus.

With the transport navy having returned to Europe, the army in Corsica was finally moved to the mainland to help take out Lucca.



General Limmona and his army moved east from Lucca to Hungary, only to run into Lucca’s demoralized army in Lika. They put up a good fight, but couldn’t hold out. Another victory for Hispania.

While that battle was raging, the capital of Pest fell to Lübecker. He moved to help secure the east.

One thing conquistadors were bad at was hiding the whiskey. Someone always managed to steal it and get wasted.

Crimea, after being occupied by Lithuania for years, finally gave in and accepted annexation. Genoa had failed to take them first, so now Lithuania got the prize.



Province by province fell in the east until they had all been occupied. With two armies freed up, General Montcada gathered together 24k men to remove Hungary from Serbia. This battle was much closer than the others, since the Hungarians were heavily entrenched. They were eventually defeated, but the casualties had been a bit too high for Hispania. Fortunately for Hispania, the Hungarians suddenly found themselves attacked by the weary defenders in Serbia and were wiped out from behind.

Tuscany managed to catch Lucca’s army in Venetian Dalmatia. Already low on morale, the bulk of the enemy army surrendered, eliminating that threat. This also opened the way for a peace treaty with Lucca. First though Tuscany was contacted to see if they’d be interested in Urbino from Hungary, but they didn’t seem so. To fulfill Alfons VII’s promise, Mantua was given to Tuscany as thanks for aiding the war effort so greatly. Lucca’s relations were cut and their treasury plundered.



With the enemy armies only in Anatolia now, Hungary was wide open to siege. The first army was sent to Crimea to take out Genoa’s provinces there, followed by a second a few months later. This coincided with the end of the truce with Portugal. Too bad Hispania was not in a position to take advantage of that at the moment.

At the start of 1570, the colony in Cape became self-sustaining. Colonist Miguel Villanova, at that news, decided it was time to start another colony, this time in Guantanamo for the Iron Cardinal, Cassano Velazquez.

With the funds taken from Lucca, five carracks were built in Sardinia and Corsica for the navy.

France’s war with Burgundy was going fairly well. They managed to annex Liege, which surely was bound to piss of the Emperor. Shortly after, France informed Hispania that they no longer wanted military access. Such a request seemed strange, but was even stranger as diplomats sent there were met with open hostility. Apparently there were those at French court that were not pleased that Provence, Draguignan, and even the Baleares were in Hispania’s hands. Relations with France were tenser than they’d ever been.



Word came from Germany that the beaver population had dropped significantly and fur had to be imported from Russia and elsewhere. Anyone who could get their hold on furs could make a killing in the fur trade.

To boost colonization, a new scheme was devised. Anyone who immigrated to the colonies was offered a free track of land. For those wishing to start a new life, this was perfect. A new colony in Gabon started up shortly after as people flocked to the region.

Lika fell in April, securing the small Hungarian coastline. Soon only one fort in the north remained. Armies started marching towards Constantinople and Edirne, preparing for the eventual invasion of Anatolia once Hungary was forced out of the war. In May, that fort fell and a peace could be settled. It took a month to puzzle out a suitable peace, especially as Tuscany caused some confusion. After turning down Urbino earlier, now they seemed interested. However, it was also learned that the Papal State had claim to Urbino. Wanting to get back in the good graces of the Papacy, Urbino was given back to the Papal State. Serbia also received several of its old provinces to weaken Hungary and serve as a buffer in the south.



The Knights were facing troubles of their own as peasants rose up. The garrison they had was not enough to fend them off and they soon forced their demands on the proud Knights.

The establishment of a colony in the Caribbean sparked up some competition. With Portugal in the area, there was a sort of patriotic duty for Hispania’s colonies to do better. People were rushing to the area, glad to be part of one of Hispania’s abundant colonies.

With Hungary out of the war, Anatolia was wide open. Hispanian armies poured over the straits. King Ferran IV, not wanting to have to deal with any provinces taken from Genoa, informed the Greeks that they could have all of Hispania’s claims on the land. ((At least that’s what I wanted. Some claims wouldn’t transfer and a few did but we still had them for some reason. I’m pretty sure I could give every vassal we have a claim on Biga because of this glitch. :p))

Tuscany was the first one to engage Genoa’s army. Once the surrounding land had been secured, Hispania sent aid and crushed the enemy. While this was going on, the fort in Crimea was taken, further securing the region for Hispania.



The heathens in Brakna embraced the true faith in September, leaving only one province left to coerce, or rather convince, to follow the state religion.

Byzantium was the first to go after Genoa’s weakened army after Tuscany’s attack. Galicia aided their efforts, further weakening the enemy and forcing them right into a Hispanian one. They did not survive that last encounter.

A spectacularly talented minstrel appeared in Iberia, impressing many locals with his masterful performances. It was suggested he be brought to court, but King Ferran IV said he didn’t have time to listen to fanciful songs. Let the man spread his songs amongst the common people and keep them happy.

By November all of Anatolia was occupied. Now only Crimea remained. The armies in Anatolia slowly started getting shipped back home. By the end of the month, the last fort fell. Peace would be settled in time.



In December, the Papacy finally gave formal approval to the Society of Jesus created a few years ago. Up until now, it had been only unofficially encouraged by the Church, but with official papal approval, it could more greatly spread its influence.

Efforts to assimilate the Portuguese population in Sierra Leone had paid off. They wouldn’t be a problem now.

Tunis was taking what chances it could to expand. It managed to annex Djerid in a war, and somehow Tlemcen had been absorbed into them without any knowledge of it happening in Hispania. All the small North African nations had been eradicated. Would the remaining three turn on each other or would they start eyeing up Europe?

After the armies were safely out of enemy territory, a peace was arranged. The bulk of Genoa’s Anatolian territory was given to Byzantium, although the Knights were granted Mentese. ((Byzantium gave them the territory after I gave it to Byz, so the Knight had to receive it. Taught me not to transfer control until I’m ready to settle a peace. :p)) Corsica, long sought after by Hispania, was finally added to the kingdom. Genoa still held one province in Anatolia, but it was landlocked and likely to fall to someone soon. Hispania’s hold on the Mediterranean was only growing stronger.



The people of Tekrur finally embraced Catholicism, unifying the entire kingdom under one faith once more.

With more than adequate funds available, several more building projects were started. Workshops were constructed in Cuenca and Syracuse, while a temple was constructed in Murcia.

Over in the New World, Conquistador Leon went through another right of passage by shooting at a drawing of a dragon. Sure beat Poison Rock, am I right? Of course some more whiskey thieves had to be flogged.

Great Britain started a war with Scotland. They’d have to contend with Scotland’s Swedish ally, but it seemed likely they’d win regardless. France was still winning its war, despite over a quarter of its country occupied. It seemed to be focusing on taking Burgundy’s land while Burgundy and co was taking France’s land. It was hoped that would keep France’s attention elsewhere before relations feel even further.

















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Presenting His Majesty, Ferran IV de Trastámara, King of Hispania & Galicia, and Protector of the Greeks & the Knights. ((Slothful, Humble, Impatient))

Great seeing you all here. Can we wrap this up quickly? I need my beauty sleep. Royal duties are so exhausting.

I thank you all for your assistance during the war. Now the Genoese are defeated, we hold Corsica, and the Greeks have more land to lord over. Still so many things to do. The French worry me. They have become much more hostile than usual, as though some strange new change has been applied to the world. I’m sure our chancellor can handle that mess. Portugal is about due for a stomping too. So… yeah… enjoy your day.

The king stifles a yawn and meanders out of the throne room.


((I apologize for the update being a tad late. I wasn't able to finish it during the afternoon and I had plans all evening. And now here I am up at 3am trying to finish this thing. Excuse any typos since I'm not exactly being thorough due to the time. Anyway, onto business. Make note that the council positions have new responsibilities, due to the change to administrative monarchy or the addition of Cossacks. I highly recommend any minister check the rules to see their updated responsibilities. We also need to pick a new rival, which the chancellor should do, and can pass two different acts. Our first policy is available too. I will give all ministers until Tuesday at 12pm PST to post their plans.

As for the IC events that I’ll be doing between updates, I’ll get going on those, with the first one started probably tomorrow or the next day. Just need some time to write something up.

Pensioners:
@wzhang29

Dying:
@jakp25

))
 
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Francesco felt tired, he had lived a long life, and with it achieved much greatness to his house; he had secured a familial legacy to the title of duke, a great renovation of the provincal capital and Castilo de Monteneo, a securing of a colony, and the regaining of a council seat.

But he felt it would be wise to call for a hunt, would be high time to see the grounds once more. And so it was called. They commenced a great search, the aim to find a great boar for the feast tonight. The ground was varied, and thus the duke decided to split his party, one would patrol the plains, whereas he and his smaller group would examine the woods. The day dragged on and not a animal in sight, it was most bizarre. But suddenly Francesco had somehow lost his way, and he was alone in the wood. Suddenly he came to a clearing, and what he saw amazed him. A etheral being stood before him, the mighty antleers ofsetting the fine white fur of the magnifcent beast before him. Francesco, before so eager to get something of sport, lay down his crossbow, a degree of reverence called to him. And as he walked towards the proud beast, his world got whiter and whiter, until all was white.

A short while later, the remainder of the hunting party found the same clearing. They found Francesco's horse, which was most startled, and, most puzzingly to them, the duke's crossbow set gently on the floor near the middle of the clearing, but no sign of the Duke could be found.

Duke Francesco Andreas Maximilas de Soneta, 4th Count of Pirineo, 1st Duke of d'ipar mendikakeo, Chancellor to the realm of Hispania ((i can't spell it perfectly, so expect many alt. spellings :p)) persumed dead on the 21st March 1572 aged 67.

((character bio of Juan II Francesco Michael de Soneta to follow shortly))
 
Francesco felt tired, he had lived a long life, and with it achieved much greatness to his house; he had secured a familial legacy to the title of duke, a great renovation of the provincal capital and Castilo de Monteneo, a securing of a colony, and the regaining of a council seat.

But he felt it would be wise to call for a hunt, would be high time to see the grounds once more. And so it was called. They commenced a great search, the aim to find a great boar for the feast tonight. The ground was varied, and thus the duke decided to split his party, one would patrol the plains, whereas he and his smaller group would examine the woods. The day dragged on and not a animal in sight, it was most bizarre. But suddenly Francesco had somehow lost his way, and he was alone in the wood. Suddenly he came to a clearing, and what he saw amazed him. A etheral being stood before him, the mighty antleers ofsetting the fine white fur of the magnifcent beast before him. Francesco, before so eager to get something of sport, lay down his crossbow, a degree of reverence called to him. And as he walked towards the proud beast, his world got whiter and whiter, until all was white.

A short while later, the remainder of the hunting party found the same clearing. They found Francesco's horse, which was most startled, and, most puzzingly to them, the duke's crossbow set gently on the floor near the middle of the clearing, but no sign of the Duke could be found.

Duke Francesco Andreas Maximilas de Soneta, 4th Count of Pirineo, 1st Duke of d'ipar mendikakeo, Chancellor to the realm of Hispania ((i can't spell it perfectly, so expect many alt. spellings :p)) persumed dead on the 21st March 1572 aged 67.

((character bio of Juan II Francesco Michael de Soneta to follow shortly))
((white stag 2spooky :D))
 
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Your Majesty,

may Your rule be as wise and good as Your late father's. With the death of Steward Sastre, his seat on the council is vacant, and I urge You to appoint a new Steward. Until then, I offer my service as Steward to complement with my Treasurer duties ((only for these years, as he'll die soon)). Though age is slowly getting to me and I won't be able to serve for an extended period of time. I shall await the new appointment to announce my plan for the treasury.
Though in my abilities as such, I have to deny the funds the grand admiral requests. A larger navy is only a good idea if affordable, and the economy is at its best when it makes a surplus even in wartime. Accumulating debts to pay for fresh recruitment and reinforcements is the first step to the downfall of a realm, and I will not let that happen. The current navy is enough for our purposes. To modernize the fleet, he may replace the current ships with more modern vessels though.

Your most humble servitor,
François de Montségur, Duke of Trinacria and Treasurer of the Crown

______________________________________________

((private))

Another war had been fought. Another victory. Though relations with his ancestral home, France, were slowly deteriorating. François shuddered at the thought of a war between both nations. Very costly, both in lives and money. He feared the religious development as well. What if his daughter's assumptions came true? Would he still be there to witness such a conflict? No, he was getting too old for this. At least the natives... At least he secured their survival. For a lord's duty, he said to himself, is to shelter his subjects to allow them to live their lives in peace and prosperity, so that they don't fall prey to sin.
 
The Iron Cardinal was miserable in Rhodes.

He had witnessed failure after failure in Hispania's beleaguered vassal. First there was the debacle against Genoa in Malta. Then the peasant rebellion, instigated by the high taxation imposed on the people by the foolish Grandmaster. Velazquez mowed down as many peasants as he could but they were too much to handle, especially with the Knights' army wiped out. Finally there was the larger war itself. Though he was cheered to see Hispania triumph in the battle he was troubled by Tuscany's expansion. At least the Vatican received Urbino, though Velazquez was still angry with Church leadership. And despite the Knights' failure the king was generous enough to grant Malta.

What of this new king? Though the old king was clearly controlled by the Tuscan woman, Velazquez was sad to see him go. They had their differences but His Majesty was at least diligent in the fight against heresy. Who knows what his son would bring. The cardinal had never formally met him, after all. He had heard many interesting tales, not all of them good. At least there was a strong administration to help him now, thank God for that.

The Iron Cardinal had also received news about the start of the religious colony he had funded in the New World. Apparently the brave group of priests and settlers that had set out had recently landed. He prayed for their success. Perhaps they could spread the word of God to the heathens of the New World and build a new holy empire. Perhaps it would be the Iron Cardinal's legacy. He did not have much time on this earth after all...


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To His Majesty, King Ferran IV, and the court,


Congratulations on your great victory, my liege. May the singers boast about your exploits and the glory of Aragon.

As you know, the Knights of Saint John have struggled with external and internal matters these past few years. In order to preserve the military strength of the order so that they may rebuild I propose that we enact scutage. This will allow us to invest in the development of Rhodes and Malta without risking the Order falling to peasant mobs or Genoese pirates again.

~Cardinal Cassano Velazquez
Archbishop of Pirineo
Representative to the Knights of Saint John
 
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Your Majesty,

may Your rule be as wise and good as Your late father's. With the death of Steward Sastre, his seat on the council is vacant, and I urge You to appoint a new Steward. Until then, I offer my service as Steward to complement with my Treasurer duties ((only for these years, as he'll die soon)). Though age is slowly getting to me and I won't be able to serve for an extended period of time. I shall await the new appointment to announce my plan for the treasury.
Though in my abilities as such, I have to deny the funds the grand admiral requests. A larger navy is only a good idea if affordable, and the economy is at its best when it makes a surplus even in wartime. Accumulating debts to pay for fresh recruitment and reinforcements is the first step to the downfall of a realm, and I will not let that happen. The current navy is enough for our purposes. To modernize the fleet, he may replace the current ships with more modern vessels though.

Your most humble servitor,
François de Montségur, Duke of Trinacria and Treasurer of the Crown

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Seeing as we have no steward and I certainly don't want to take up those responsibilities, you are welcome to hold the position until a replacement can be found. I am most grateful for your service.

- His Majesty, Ferran IV de Trastámara, King of Hispania & Galicia, and Protector of the Greeks & the Knights

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Letter to the King

Your Majesty,
I humbly ask that you find a place at court for my granddaughter, Marina, perhaps as a Lady in Waiting to Princess Isabel?

Armand Sastre
Marqués Viver

As King Ferran IV was ordering his servants to move the furniture around in his late father's chambers, now his, a letter slid out from behind the desk as it was adjusted. The king picked it up and read through it. Clearly this letter had been misplaced years ago, since it still referred to his wife as a princess and the marquis was long dead. He wondered if this Marina was still interested. The queen did quite enjoy being surrounded by her beloved ladies-in-waiting. ((Hopefully this is a reasonable reason for not replying until after the update, since it's been six years.))

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I must apologize for this late reply. It would seem that my father misplaced the letter the late marquis wrote. If Marina is still available, I am certain the queen would love to have another lady-in-waiting.

- His Majesty, Ferran IV de Trastámara, King of Hispania & Galicia, and Protector of the Greeks & the Knights


((I just realized that Keinwyn was on the Cortz, and so was ML8991's recently deceased character. Any landed noble may now nominate themselves for a position on the Cortz. You have until Tuesday at 12pm PST to do so.))
 
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Marina Euphemia Artemisia Sastre
Born: 21st December 1553
Religion: Catholic
Class: Courtier

Marina is the granddaughter of Marqués Armand Sastre and the only legitimate child of Manuel Sastre, II Marqués Viver. Married to her first cousin once removed, Alejandro, Count of Urgell, she holds the Viscounty of Áger in her own right.
Marina was always energetic and inquisitive, she was educated according to the principles of Renaissance humanism, music, hunting, manners, languages, and dancing. She learned how to read Latin and Greek, and voraciously devoured not just theological works, but philosophies, works on natural science and of course poetry (a particular fan of a certain work by Ovid). Whilst her own views are still maturing, she is - influenced by her family - faithful to the catholic church.
A keen hunter and sportswoman, she lost her right eye in a fencing accident aged thirteen. However it did not dampen her enthusiasm and she remains in good physical condition.
Sociable and vivacious, she enjoys company, sensual pleasures and new experiences.

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The Sastre Family as of Jan. 1572

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Alternate pic
 
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Queen Dowager Caterina de' Medici hereby invites all members of court to a royal feast in remembrance of her late husband, King Alfons VII de Trastámara, and in celebration of the ascension of His Majesty, King Ferran IV de Trastámara. She apologizes for the lateness of the feast, for such an event was not prudent to conduct during a time of war. Most of the royal family shall be in attendance and hopes that all members of court will be able to attend.

((Players are free to write IC about intending to attend the feast or just wait for when it actually starts. I'll probably open it up tomorrow.))
 
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"Señor Villanova! Where are you going?"
"The king's mother is holding a feast to honor her dead husband."
"Who is going to run the colony when you are gone?"
"Why don't you do it Hernan?"
"But, but, but..."
"Now don't be like that, I trust you, please do this for a friend. Now excuse me I must go, the ship is about to leave."
*Miguel mumbles to himself about what food will be avaliable as he boards to old ship*
 
Your Majesty,
I wish to present my ministry plan.
The merchants are in good positions and do not need to be moved to another trade centers.
I would also like to appoint Santiago Aybar and Jan Pieterszoon van Antwerpen as official Crown merchants.

In other matters I wish to object to Grand Admiral's plan one more time, but this time because of a different reason. This reason being the size of our fleet. Our fleet at this moment is troublesome to maintain, and another 10 ships, very costly heavy ships will only put even more expenses on the treasury. Our country cannot afford this expansion. ((We would be going over the force limit and not be a small amount.))
Auguste de Saint-Pierre

(( The third NPC merchant VP goes to @ThePatriotOfDreumel ))
 
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A Message from Duque Guillen C. L. Etxeto of House Etxeto

Associates of the Duque di Navarra makes it clear to the entire court that Duque wishes to join the Cortz as a member.
 
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Your Majesty,

for the Treasury, I wish to make a small change. Instead of previously 430 ducats, 150 ducats shall be saved as reserve for harsher times. The economy is strong enough that no loan should be taken in wartime, and if it should come to this, then these will be swiftly repaid.

As for the duties of the Steward, I wish to continue the great building projects Marqués Sastre has begun by adding the following constructions:
  • a textile manufactory shall be built in the capital
  • workshops in Barcelona, Teruel and Granada
  • a weapon manufactory in Cagliari
To better support the people of Sardinia and Sicily, I propose to encourage a better representation of the Sicilian culture. Unlike Neapolitan, it is not accepted any longer as equal, and I feel that this might need to change. The Sardinian and Maltese people are also mistreated, and as such we should try to treat them all as Sicilians, or mediterranean insulars, which should have them be in sufficient quantity to be accepted. ((Or however one can interpret culture conversion. Not advocating genocide nor forced settlement, but... well, to cut it short, culture convert Sardinia, Malta and Corsica to Sicilian; if that's part of the steward's responsibilities, that is :rolleyes:))

I also call for the destruction of the fort on Corsica. If Sardinia and the Baleares are safe thanks to our navy, then Corsica is as well. The people there will also likely rejoice that we demolish a sign of Genoese oppression. That concludes the Steward's plan.

Finally, I will of course be present at the feast in honour of Your father and Your ascension.

Your most humble servitor,
François de Montségur, Duke of Trinacria, Steward and Treasurer of the Crown

((Also, do I have to name a Chamberlain considering that I'm the only member of the Cortz currently? François can fill in that position as long as he's alone in the Cortz, as it forfeits the Chamberlain's purpose if he'd just appoint someone of his choice.))
_____________________________________________

A messager is also sent with the next colonists leaving port:
I have reconsidered my proposal to fund a colony in Nazca. Due to its border with both the Cusco and the Charca, Camana would be a better location.
Duke François de Montségur

_______________________________________________

In other matters I wish to object to Grand Admiral's plan one more time, but this time because of a different reason. This reason being the size of our fleet. Our fleet at this moment is troublesome to maintain, and another 10 ships, very costly heavy ships will only put even more expenses on the treasury. Our country cannot afford this expansion. ((We would be going over the force limit and not be a small amount.))

((I already denied the funds :rolleyes:. Besides, you cannot object to plans since the administrative reform.))
 
((I already denied the funds :rolleyes:. Besides, you cannot object to plans since the administrative reform.))

((THis only applies to the court. Concil can still object. Check the reform :p) But you are right, I missed you denying the funds. :/)
 
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