Introducing Something Called "Freedom": An Interactive Russian AAR

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"Stand down! If something happens to him, something will happen to you!" Boris Gudunov commanded the Oprichniki with the same voice he had used to give orders on a battle field. In those situations he was reasonably sure his orders would be obeyed. Here, he could only hope.

"As you command, my Tsar." The leader of the Oprichniki did his best to hide the reluctance in his voice as he ordered his men to spare Constantine. There would be a time to assert his authority, and this was not it.

Gudunov had decided that Constantine was the person he could mistrust the least. Yes, he was a foreigner and a heretic, but he also was somewhat outside of the power plays between the Church, the Oprichniki and the growing power of the merchant class. Ultimately, Boris had to trust someone, and if was a lesser evil, so be it.

"Increasing Free Trade will be a good compromise with the merchant class." The Tsar responded to the German as if nothing had happened. "I also agree in the need for missions. We'll either pay some now or a lot later and I do not wish to leave a poor inheritance for those who succeed me as Tsar."

"As for the windows," Boris allowed himself a small smile, "the Mongols will certainly respond to the glorious power of our God. I like your ideas, and I think some scenes from The Revelation would be excellent as well."

The two men continued to discuss the religious art, but Boris's mind again drifted to the future. He sensed he didn't have much time left before his precarious claim on the throne collapsed completely. All he could do was use that time wisely.

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"Less restrictions on trade will stimulate our merchant class and also provide a catalyst for colonization." The Tsar addressed the council. "We must never lose sight of our great dream: a Russian port on the eastern sea!" Cheers filled the chamber, but everyone's eyes remained suspicious as if full relaxation was impossible.

"I believe we must continue to reach the Mohammedans with the True Faith, but these projects must not compromise the settlement of the steppes or the defense of our nation. We must always be wary." Boris felt a shudder pass through his body as he realized the he had the most call to be wary, especially of the individuals currently in the council room.

"We will keep our alliance with Denmark strong. If it takes bribes, so be it." The Foreign minister smiled, but was full of doubts inside. Boris was not skilled at diplomatic matters.

"We will continue to fight off our enemies but always seek peace. The work of the Great Commission and our destiny of settling Siberia are more important than the petty squabbles of the east." Gudunov raised a hand to the applause, forced though it was.

"We are a nation on the rise and we will claim our destiny!" With that, the Tsar made a hasty exit.

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Boris walked the hallways of the Kremlin like a caged tiger. It was the small hours of the morning and the candle he carried cast little light. He'd acquired the habit of late night walks early in his reign. He had a lot on his mind and his sleep suffered accordingly.

"Tsar Gudunov!" A voice hissed in the darkness behind the Ruler of Russia. Boris clutched his chest for a moment in surprise and then turned to cast the weak light of the candle on an Oprichniki. In the shadowy hall the black robed man was nearly invisible and resembled some sort of wraith or demon more than another human.

"My apologies if I startled you. I have an important message." The hissing voice was just above a whisper.

"At this hour? What message could be this important?" Anger now competed with fear in the Tsar.

"It's from Dimitri." Now Boris's face twisted in puzzlement and annoyance. From who?

"What are you talking about? If this is a joke you'll pay dearly..." The words died in the Tsar's throat as a blade glistened for a moment in the dark and then plunged into his stomach.

Gudunov collapsed, the candle rolling away, casting wild shadows in the pitch black hall. Boris could feel his warm life pouring into the expensive carpet. "This is the end," he thought, even as the Oprichniki pulled back his head and slit his throat with a single practiced motion.

 

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A Troubled Time: 1602-1612

Free trade was increased along the Volga trade route and Russia's merchants took advantage of the resulting improvement in relations to ply their goods in the west. Trade in far off Iberia brought rare spices and tobacco into Moscow in exchange for furs. The odd habit of smoking tobacco in a pipe has become popular with the wealthy, but is probably a passing fad.

Several missions were authorized in the east. The successful conversion of the followers of the False Prophet in Irgiz, Orsk and Bouzatchi was greeted with much celebration in Moscow. Soon Russia will be a true Orthodox empire!

Colonization efforts also continued. The Gold province of Angara is now a full city and the push east continues.

Sweden attacked Russia in a deceitful and cowardly violation of our royal marriage. A short war ended with Russia paying the traitors 50 Ducats to return to their pitiful nation and bother us no more.

The death of Boris Gudunov weakened the Russian nation greatly, as an imposter claiming to be Dimitri, brother of Fedor I, ruled with incompetence for a short while. His reign gave the Poles a chance to attack, hoping to install the son of Sigismund as Tsar.

The war with Poland was one-sided, but not successful enough to vassal them. Instead, the Orthodox province of Cherginov and 175 Ducats of tribute were paid. In an ill-advised attempt to mend fences Sigismund's son, Vladislav I Vasa, was declared ruler of Russia following Dimitri's unsurprising assassination.

The appointment of the hated Pole to ruler of Russia was not as destabilizing as might be expected. The reduction of the noblility kept Russia from collapsing into anarchy, as the merchant class proved a stabilizing force.

Nevertheless, Russia had to weather a colonial uprising and a plague. Attempts to modernize also continued with the commissioning of a university in Samarra.

Talk now focuses on Mikhail Romanov, considered the best candidate to replace the accursed Pole devil as Tsar. The line of Ivan the Great is now spent and this Romanov carries the blood of Rurik. It is simply a matter of removing the Polish tumor as carefully as possible...

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Issues for 1612

Military Advisor: We have 136,000 soldiers with a support limit of 184,000. We are Land Tech 16, reaching 17 in 1628. Our military is as advanced as any other great power. The current role of the military remains the just defense of our lands.

Naval Advisor: We have 5 warships and 2 galleys with a support limit of 74. We are Naval Tech 7, reaching 8 in 1614. With a little more gain in technology we should be able to give a decent fight to the westerners. We have ports on the Baltic and on the Black Sea.

Metropolitan of Moscow: We successfully converted three Mohammaden provinces. This leaves us with 6 Muslim provinces, one Protestant and one following an Eastern Heresy. We continue to support Protestantism over Catholicism in the west, but only the Danes are friendly as a result.

Foreign Minister: The Poles were exposed as badly over-extended in the last war, but we did not have the resources to fully rout them. The Polish expansion in Germany has made them a hated nation, and we are quite happy about this. Sweden is now fully committed to opposing us, claiming they have the right to some of our lands in Finland. Denmark (+55) remains our ally and vassal. Our relations with the Danes have been fairly even over the last decade, with an occassional gift being made. Our enemies are becoming less aggressive. They fear us, as well they should. Our reputation is 26.0.

The West, 1612

The East, 1612

Cossack Advisor: We are making good progress with our colonization of the steppes. Angarra is a full city, bringing gold into Moscow. We also have reports of more gold to the further east. We are trying to create as many full cities as possible as opposed to rapid eastward moves, however.

Financial Advisor: A deflation event combined with expanded trade has made our economy much stronger. We have a monthly income of 99.5. We have three merchants in Andalusia (28.36), five in Moscow (18.01) and five in Astrakhan (19.44). Our main investments are Infrastructure and Land Tech. We are minting at 0.13% inflation a year and have an inflation of 28.5%.


General Issues

#1 Domestic Policies

We may make one change, if we want. Current settings are Aristocracy 1, Centralization 10, Innovativeness 5, Mercantilism 3, Offensive 9, Land 7, Quality 5 and Serfdom 9.

#2 The Bear Behind Walls?

Our fortifications are starting to become obsolete. We have preached the value of offensive spirit and decisive victory in pitched battles, but better walls could secure our borders and allow us to smite our foes with our bitter winters. The only problem is cost: even one improved fort would set us back more than a full year's income!

#3 A Polish Tsar?

Another role-playing one. We are now ruled by the bastard son of our hated enemy! Perhaps you support Mikhail Romanov, but on the other hand the Pole might be a useful puppet...

Next post is Friday, feel free to post right away.

 

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UPDATE!!!

Merchant stepped forward, his hairs grey and his eyes getting little tired however his mind was sharp as alway.

"My lord, may we increased our trading by making move toward free trade as it will bring more advantages to us since it enabled us to produced cheap products and sell them high. We don't need these silly forts but it might be wise to upgrade our Great City's walls and forts. Polish is great help to us since it enabled us to expanded our knowledge to far flung provinces such as Tagos and England!!. We are grateful to Poland!!!"

All people gasped with shock!!! Merchant supported Polish Tsar!!

Merchant left the room peacefully but few hours later...

OOC: Elias Tarfarius, your turn to claim death of certain merchant! Make his death painful as possible

 

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Russia's foreign minister slowly entered the room, he was deeply torn by his complete unwillingness to advise the tyrannous Polish usurper on the Russian throne and he worried that the vile Pole might have learned of the significant cash payments he had supplied to the party of the Romanovs. With a sigh, he realized it would look too suspicious of him not to perform his duties and entered the room to advise the usurper, he could only hope the Romanov army would arrive sooner rather than later.

"Our most August Tsar," he began trying hard to suppress the disgust he felt as he uttered these words, "I believe constructing larger fortresses on key border provinces with cruel winters can be a most effective strategy. We should remain at peace with Europe for the moment at least," he dared not speak his true mind, that the Polish commonwealth must be invaded and crushed beneath the boot of Mother Russia, "though in the East we should conquer the Khanate of Sibir sooner rather than later and we could do much to secure our colonial possessions by forcing the Kazakh Khan to bend his knee before your majesty. In domestic affairs, I feel we should relax restrictions on our merchants yet again." The foreign minister sat down while the usurping Pole pondered his advice, "Enjoy it while you can villian, your days are numbered," he thought to himself.

 

[Elias Tarfarius]

Yuri was on top of the world! Except for the hated Polish man sitting in the Kremlin, everything was going his way. His father had lingered for a month those ten years ago, but then he went to his reward. His brother was sent to Siberia to "lead the missions to convert the Mongol heathens," leaving the church totally in Yuri's hand's. Yuri not only applauded the murder of Boris Gudinov but had planned with some of his allies among the boyars and the "black-robed dogs." Now he was caught in a bitter crusade to oust the Pole puppet and destroy the powers of the merchant class during this time of trouble. "When the history of this time is written, the names of the traders will be made as vile as Judas and no man shall dare to aid them, especially our Romanov saviors." The Romanovs will owe their throne to him; they are and will be his creatures. There was just one more man to stand in his way...

Good Merchant, oh good sir! I am so glad you could come to my house and dine with me this evening. It is time for us to put the past behind us, da. Wladislaw is here to stay since our nobles are to few to fight him and the merchants and peasants seemed disposed toward his rule, although he is Polish and Catholic. So tonight, I raise my cup in toast to a new day in Rus, let us march forth together united as a people. *drinks from his cup and Merchant does the same* Kill'em all and let God sort it all!!!

Unfortunately, the posion did not kill the Merchant and Yuri ended up beating the old man to death with his ceremonial staff while his sons hacked to bits Merchant's twelve associates with old wood-chopping axes. When the sun came up the next morning, the Tsar's Polish horse guard found the severed heads of Merchant and his twelve friends on pikes at the gate of the Kremlin. The Metropolitan had made his message clear; the Church would never work with the invader or his Russian allies. It would be either victory or death in this fight for the soul of Mother Russia!

 

[CatKnight]

Igor was silent during these meetings now. He was getting old, and the hunch he'd carried since a child was now a painful burden. Worse, his friends were all dead. Ivan and Fedor and Boris and even Dmitri. He didn't like this new czar. Everyone had assured him that the czar was not a Russian, but a Pole. That was very bad. How could you ask a Pole to love Russia?

Something would have to be done. Something would have to be done soon before this czar did something foolish like try to merge with his countrymen. And so Igor was silent, no longer really listening to the other advisors but watching the czar with great intensity.

Somewhere deep inside his simple mind, a plan began to form...his friend Ivan had had a gift for getting rid of people...

 

[Machiavellian]

Late one Evening one of the Black robed men of the oprichniki came upon the miserable. hunched form of Igor. One hand casually fell upon the old servants shoulder as the harsh, raspy voice of the specter like Oprichniki agent spoke.

"You are much like myself, comrade. We are both loyal servants of the Russian thone and the Czar of our beloved motherland. Yet, this wretched usurper who now sits on the throne and claims the glorious mantle is no true master. Yet, unfortunately the Oprichinki's hands are tied... To strike out against the Czar would cripple our order and betray our sworn oaths, even if this man is an imposter. But you, old and wise, perhapsyou could do something? I hear the polish are fond of drinks and often will get quite drunk, who knows, he could slip.. But you must be tired, I shall let you rest, friend."


Elsewhere that night the Oprichniki also further strenghtened their power, striking against any of the weaker nobilty that were disloyal to this new, polish Czar. They fully intended to replace him with a Romanov, but keeping the rest of the Boyars in check pleased them greatly and they could always maintain that they were merely fulfilling their great task in service to the Russian crown. Homes were looted, nobles strung up, chopped to pieces or fed to pigs, bears or dogs. The next day, upon completion of their task they reported to the Czar, though rather then the usual entourage of many of the black robed men, only two were here. A very small degree of protection.

"Small border forts, particularly in the west could be extremely useful. However, I wonder of the expense is worth it. As faras our policies are concerned. Let us improve the quality of the military. Or at the very least, grant a little more freedom to the serfs."

The Oprichniki had all ready planted the warning to this vile usurper that the Boyars would plot against him and he must keep them down. Perhaps he would even deign to strike against the power of the Church, being that he was a filthy catholic wretch.

 

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Vladislav no longer feared Hell, not after seeing Russia. What a barbaric, backwater nation! It struck him as a nation of drunks, madmen and weather that would make any sensible man move south. It was bad enough that the damned schismatic church had killed some of his supporters, but heads on pikes? People being fed to dogs? What kind of land had his father given him?

"Make it know that the Catholic religion will be favored throughout Russia and our missionaries will be allowed to freely preach the truth, starting here in Moscow!" This will show those cursed heretics, thought Vladislav as the council looked at him with hate in their eyes. "Also, we must begin recognizing Rome and the Pope in all of our religious services..." There was an audible gasp from someone. This was too much.

"We will increase the freedom of our merchants, especially focusing on trade with Poland. We will bring a union through the exchange of goods!" Vladislav smiled broadly, quite content to turn the council's wishes against it.

"A few key forts will be a good idea, especially against Sweden. I have begun plans to allow us to become a vassal of Poland, so such measures are unnecessary." Only the cold glare of the Oprichniki prevented the council's outrage from being expressed.

"As for the east, perhaps some key member of your so-called church should be sent there to contain their errors as Catholicism is introduced here in the west. I already have some candidates in mind." The Polish bastard's eyes fixed on the Metropolitan.

"Hopefully this new era of cooperation and submission to Mother Poland will improve this alleged empire somewhat. I can promise I will do my part." The Pole gave a nod to the Oprichniki and took his leave.

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"If you're here to kill me, strike quickly you dog!" Mikhail Romanov stood before his cowering mother and younger sister in the back room of a monastery in Tver, his face full of defiance.

Three black hooded Oprichniki regarded the youth. Yes, he would do nicely. "We are not here to harm you. We are here to take you to Moscow to become Tsar of Russia."

"To Hell with Russia! You bastards killed my father!" At this, Mikhail charged the closest of the Oprichniki, hoping to rend him to pieces with his bare hands.

It took several minutes for the dark riders to restrain the future Tsar. Romanov fought like a lion and by the time he was held to the stone floor one Oprichniki was holding a bleeding nose and another favoring an arm that had been bitten.

"Have you no loyalty to Russia, land of your forebears? Doesn't your heart break in agony at the Polish usurper? What is the greater sin?" The Oprichniki spoke calmly to Mikhail, who gradually regained composure.

"Yes, the Polish insult is a grave one. I will ride with you, but know this: as soon as I am Tsar I will avenge myself and my family." Intense eyes, far older than the face that housed them, left no doubt.

"Worry about that when the Pole is gone. First matters first, Tsar." The Oprichniki helped Romanov from the floor and then bowed deeply before him. "The coach to Moscow is waiting."

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If there was one tolerable aspect to Russia, it was the grain alcohol. No surprise that such a miserable land would perfect the art of inebriation, thought Vladislav.

The Polish Tsar had been eating and drinking well into the night, celebrating with some loyal merchants and, surprisingly, members of the clergy. Suddenly the Orthodox Church approved serving the Pope? Who could understand these half-Tartar barbarians?

The comfortable drunken fog followed the son of Sigismund as he took his leave from the table. "Don't retire yet, lordship! We are about to perform an execution in the courtyard and you should see it!"

"At this hour? What man has the crime committed?" Vladislav swayed drunkenly on his feet, the room gently rocking.

"He openly criticized the Pope." The Orthodox cleric set a steadying hand on the Tsar.

"Can't wait to see..." The Pole staggered to the courtyard. Only when the door slammed behind him did he realize he was now alone.

"Where's the prisoner? Hello? Come out and be seen my brothers!" Vladislav giggled at what he thought was his great wit, but this died in his throat as he saw a large shape moving toward him in the dark.

"So you're the one that cursed the Pope! Tsk, tsk!" Even as the Tsar was beginning to laugh again the bear was on him, a massive paw tearing off his head and sending it flying nearly halfway across the courtyard.

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"Presenting the Tsar of Russia!" The volume of applause in the cathedral was deafening and continued for nearly ten minutes.

"Today we cast off the foreign chains forever! The next time a Pole is in the Kremlin they will be there only to submit to Russia! The cheers seemed to threaten the very foundations of the massive stone building. Mikhail smiled and held up his hands to his new subjects, but secretly wondered if he could keep the vows he had given.

Mikhail Romanov

 

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Faith Restored: 1612-1622

The hated Polish Tsar increased Free Trade in Russia by favoring Polish competition. This led to unrest in the middle classes, but the tables were turned somewhat as the Russian merchants established their goods in Danzig.

A short war with Sweden ended in a white peace. Following the doctrine of "let others bleed first" Denmark absorbed the brunt of military genius Gustav II Adolphus's unstoppable northern march.

The hated Polish Tsar was finally deposed, replaced with Mikhail Romanov. The new Tsar is loyal to the old nobility first, but has so far tolerated the Oprichniki and the powerful merchant class. Romanov shows great potential but still has a lot to prove.

Livland converted to the One True Faith after decades of protesting Papal tradition. Russia's west is now solidly Orthodox.

Unhappy with a lack of rights and partly funded by Polish cowards the peasantry to Russia rose up, even going as far as to besiege Moscow! Fortunately the actual armed revolts were defeated, but we are still feeling the effects of this unrest years later.

Two discoveries in the east prompted excitement. First, a new empire calling itself "China" seems to dominate much of the far east. Cossack rider A. Dubenski returned reports of a bizarre culture and heresies more bizarre than any we have seen. It appears that these Chinese consider themselves the perfect nation and have shut themselves off to the outside world. Perhaps we will bring the outside world to them one day?

The second discovery was more gold in the far east in Enkan. We have established a foothold on the Pacific with some aid from Dubenski. Hopefully we will soon have another rich gold mine for the greater glory of Mother Russia!

Colonization has continued with impressive results. We continue to push east, while establishing new cities in Novosibirisk (Grain) and Irtych (furs). Our ability to trade expensive furs in the west is growing rapidly, and we anticipate great riches in the years to come.

Russia continues to grow and prosper, although the potential for unrest lies beneath the surface. If the peasants and nobles can be properly control, little can stop us from gaining great wealth and power.

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Issues for 1622

Military Advisor: We have 159,000 soldiers with a support limit of 199,000. We are Land Tech 16, reaching 17 in 1629. The most advanced army in the world is France, at Land Tech 19. Our armies currently protect the delicate order and discourage our many enemies.

Naval Advisor: We have 5 warships and 2 galleys, with a support limit of 77 ships. We are Naval Tech 9, reaching 10 in 1628. The time to establish a power navy and explorers in the west is drawing near, but probably still a decade off.

Metropolitan of Moscow: The conversion of Livland eliminated Protestantism in our lands. We control 7 Muslim provinces and 1 belonging to an eastern heresy. Sweden recently converted to the Reformed faith, only cementing their status as the worst of our enemies. We have no missions being conducted at present.

Foreign Minister: We have managed to establish an era of peace and prosperity in Russia. We have claims on Sweden (Estland), Sibir, and Nogai. Sweden is still our enemy, but can do little to harm us. The Poles are fearful of our hordes and the Ottomans seem preoccupied elsewhere. Mysterious China has proven difficult for us to comprehend. We are not popular in the west, but trade agreements with the owners of major trade centers have allowed us to ply our wares without harassment. We have a reputation of 25.7.

The East, 1622

Not shown: Enkan gold colony on the Pacific

Cossack Advisor: Our current policy is establishing full cities for valuable commodities, especially gold but also furs. We know of another gold province deeper into Siberia and could make a dedicated push for it or continue our more measured pace. We command one Cossack Rider, currently stationed in Enkan. We are recruiting 2.20 colonists a year.

Financial Advisor: Our wealth has increased greatly with a healthy middle class and free trade in our lands. We have a monthly income of 103.6. We have 5 merchants in Moscow (18.61), 5 in Astrakhan (20.95), 5 in Andralusia (45.77) and 3 in Danzig (5.35). Our inflation is 30.6%. We know of a wealthy center of trade in Persia we could compete in, or we could continue to gain footholds in the west.


General Issues

#1 Domestic Policies

We may make one change, if we wish to do so. Current settings are Aristocracy 1, Centralization 10, Innovative 5, Mercantilism 2, Offensive 9, Land 7, Quality 5, Serfdom 9.

#2 The Futility of Stability

We suffered a major loss in stability from the peasant revolt and recovery is slow. Possible solutions to this problem include building a fine arts academy, attempting to simply increase our overall wealth or authorizing new missions against the false prophet.

#3 Strike First, Strike Last?

We could declare a just war on Sibir or Sweden. Our armies are strong and well organized. Sibir would be easy to defeat, while Sweden would probably prove difficult. We also have our reputation to consider. Should we wage war, or maintain a peaceful focus.

The next update will be Monday. Feel free to start posting whenever you get the chance.

 

[CatKnight]

Igor never even realized he'd been inducted into one of the most serious and far reaching conspiracies in Muscovy/Russia's history. He thought it was his idea to use give Vladislav impure grain alcohol that night. He thought it a little strange everyone was being so friendly to the czar suddenly, but it didn't matter.

It wasn't enough to kill the Pole though. No, poisoning would be far too easy. Igor thought it was his plan to rouse the bear from slumber and leave its cage unlatched. He didn't think to wonder why the bear's master wasn't even there that night, or why the cage was latched when he arrived but not locked. He put it to divine providence.

It was a good plan, regardless of the source, though. While the church and the secret service, the military and the navy were watched by the Czar's own spies .... no one had bothered with the simple hunchback. Igor had stood at a window and watched the hated foreigner meet his fate.

He passed away that night. General consensus was he died of old age mixed with health complications from a hard life. Some whispered the poisoner had in turn been poisoned to prevent any accidental and embarassing revelations. Whatever the truth was, it was painless ... and Igor had died knowing his beloved Russia was free.

 

[J. Passepartout]

Iosef had not been involved in any sort of conspiracy. Probably because he spent most of his time in his rooms. And this made him a wee bit annoyed. Why couldn't he have some fun?

Anyway, he had come out to speak. "We, ah, have knowlege of an area, with, ah, gold, of which I have been, ah, informed by, a messenger from, ah, the colonies. It is my, er, advice that we push toward this area. Good as gold, they say..." He laughed nervously, like someone who is trying to avoid pointing out he is embarressed. "Let us settle the area which has gold, and build up the areas around it as needed.

I also think that a more extensive policy of free trade would, erm, allow us to seel our goods abroad more easily, bringing us a... larger profit.

A war with Sibir would clear up our path in the east quite well.

And, um, we should coinvert all the devils who do not accept Our Lord."

And with that, Iosef retreated to his chair in the corner, quite red in the face.

 

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The Foreign Minister almost skipped his way to the Council Room, and well might have had not a combination of his heavy furs and his social rank made it inadvisable. The Oprichniki had finished the Polish devil, he could never complain about them again. After bowing to the Tsar, he began to speak:

"This Empire to the East interests me a great deal, how friendly are they towards us, for an exchange of maps could do our 2 countries much good. I also advise our riders to patrol the area around the Chinese frontier in case there should prove to be other states in the mysterious east. I believe the time is ripe for the crushing of Sibir, but I advise you not to challenge Sweden for the moment, for my reports indicate that Gustavus Adolphus is an extremely good general and Estland will still be there when he dies. For our stability problem I recommend an Arts Center here in the capital, missions against the Muslims will be a far more expensive operation and one not nearly as likely to meet success. We could also reduce the possibility of peasant revolts by allowing greater freedom to the serfs. May your reign be long and prosperous, oh Tsar."

As he took his seat among his fellow advisors, Ivan felt better than he had in years, the Pole was gone and Russia was once again ruled by one of her native sons.

 

[Elias Tarfarius]

The Metropolitan Yuri was at the height of his powers but something inside of him still felt uneasy. The merchants had retained too much power after the rise of the new Tsar, the peasants were getting uppity, less people came to church than in Yuri's youth (when people ran to church, if only to get away from the Oprichniki)... even the boyars weren't as religious as thet used to be. "The vile merchant spirit is infecting Rus still," Yuri told his third son, Oleg. So Yuri now hoped to defeat and kill this illness once and for all, not by poison and axes, but by his words of advice to the Tsar in the Council.

Great and magnanimous Tsar Mikhail of all the Russias, there is so much to be said of the years since we threw out the Foriegn Usurper. Chief among them I think is...

Livland converted to the One True Faith after decades of protesting Papal tradition. Russia's west is now solidly Orthodox.

That was a true day of joy for the Church. Now Rus shall present a united front to any invader and their will be no religious factions for our enemies to play upon.

First, a new empire calling itself "China" seems to dominate much of the far east. Cossack rider A. Dubenski returned reports of a bizarre culture and heresies more bizarre than any we have seen. It appears that these Chinese consider themselves the perfect nation and have shut themselves off to the outside world. Perhaps we will bring the outside world to them one day?

I knew of these eastern ones! They too suffered under the yoke of the Mongol and it was so when the Latin Polo went to their lands. It is a wonderous country, but the people know not God but only idols. We have enough trade as it is; I would leave the idol worshippers be for now.

Metropolitan of Moscow: The conversion of Livland eliminated Protestantism in our lands. We control 7 Muslim provinces and 1 belonging to an eastern heresy. Sweden recently converted to the Reformed faith, only cementing their status as the worst of our enemies. We have no missions being conducted at present.

As I and my father have always said, it shall be through the Almighty and his sacred and Orthdox Church that our Empire shall be united. Unfortunately... *sighs and stares coldly at the merchants in attendance* less men want to be missionaries these days. They want easy jobs in the Church, or they don't come to the Church at all, but instead become soldiers and merchants. *spits* And those who the missionaries would preach too, they as well are bound up with greed and have no time for the word of the Lord. Its bad all the way around... even setting up missions cost too much these days when all the supplies and such are added up. Rus is ill, my Tsar, and the blood pus of Mammon is within her. ROOT IT OUT, my Tsar!!

#1 Domestic Policies

We may make one change, if we wish to do so. Current settings are Aristocracy 1, Centralization 10, Innovative 5, Mercantilism 2, Offensive 9, Land 7, Quality 5, Serfdom 9.

Let us begin by returning certain old privledges to the boyars. This will only increase their loyality and they will make much better officials of your majesty than money-grubbers and blood-suckers. Later on, within a decade or so, you could balance this by giving the bondmen more rights as long as they recognize who their bosses are.

#2 The Futility of Stability

We suffered a major loss in stability from the peasant revolt and recovery is slow. Possible solutions to this problem include building a fine arts academy, attempting to simply increase our overall wealth or authorizing new missions against the false prophet.

#3 Strike First, Strike Last?

We could declare a just war on Sibir or Sweden. Our armies are strong and well organized. Sibir would be easy to defeat, while Sweden would probably prove difficult. We also have our reputation to consider. Should we wage war, or maintain a peaceful focus.

I would prefer that we build a new cathedral, as I find secular art a tremendous waste of talent and energy, something only the self-gratifing and truly worthless type of person... rich merchant... could enjoy. So I say yes, build a cathedral which will have the greatest icons ever seen in Rus! That is a grand idea, wonderous Tsar and leader of the holy people. I would ask that we send more missions out to the Mongols, but with the current manpower problem, I suggest we make it up by conquering Sibir for the Lord. Sweden can wait, for its current king is the greatest they have ever had and probably will ever have. Finland can wait. Let our sword be against the Mohemmedian only.

 

[Machiavellian]

The Oprichniki had much to do with rooting out those few fools who had been loyal to the pole or another noble not of Mikhail's line. However, they did make their interests known in a quick appearence.

"The quality of the army should be increased if anything, however with our current stability after that vile pole sought to destroy our glorious realm, we would suggest leaving things as they are. This idea of a Cathredral sounds good. It will due much good for the serfs. Lastly, let us not fight sweden if it can be helped. Sibir however should be destroyed or vassalized. For now, let us not waste money on conversion efforts and instead invest on increased stability and tech research"

 

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New elected Merchant stepped forward and bowed looking at The Metropolitan with inhuman abhorrence. The death of all twelve most powerful merchants led to merging of all these wealths and properties into one single form, Merchant. After few infightings in Merchant's Guild which end up many bodies in the forgotten streets, Merchant rose in power ruthless crushing all his enemies.

"My lord, may we suggest that our subjects should be more free as it will increased our production and trade income and thus your taxes will also increased. May we build a fine arts academy to raise the glory and power of Imperial Russia!! Don't authorised new church missions against the false prophet as it would be too expensive."

He looked at the priests directly other side of the hall and sneered at them

"We should not declared war upon Sweden. But we should maintained a peaceful focus. The Navy were greatly rejoiced when we heard that we got a new port in Pacific. If we ever have explorer, may we explore the endless oceans and see what we may find on the other side of the endless ocean."

OOC: The rivalry between the Church and Merchant's Guild got so far that it will only take God to solve it!!! I really like to keep this rivalry until the end of the AAR!!! Who know what can happened at the end!! Ironic that in RPG forum, TE and me are trading partners!!!

 

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"All for Mother Russia! For Christ and the Tsar!" Shouting war cries the Cossacks rode hard toward a hastily assembled Sibir army, if the peasant rabble and occassional Mongol rider indeed qualified as an army.

Perhaps one hundred meters from the enemy line the Cossacks began a full charge, beating their horses and entering a frenzy of bloodlust. The battle was over before it was properly joined. A weak chant of "Allahu Akbar" was quickly replaced with screams of panic as the Russian riders broke through, cutting down retreating footmen without mercy. To the collapsing Steppe forces the Russians resembled nothing so much as demons drawn from the very worst parts of Hell.

By nightfall Russian footmen had completed the task of crushing whatever opposition remained. Attentions now turned toward the modest cities of the region: it was now time to loot and rape.

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"Our heroic armies have been ordered to reduce the eastern Khante of Sibir for the greater glory of God and the Third Rome. We all ready have reports of victory!" Mikhail Romanov bathed in the applause, smiling with full confidence. He had managed to survive the first shaky years after the death of the usurper and now was firmly entrenched as Ruler of all Russia.

"We must continue to increase the freedom of trade in our lands. This will aid us in taming the east and dominating the rich trade cities of the west. Through prosperity we will prove to the western dogs that we are the greatest of nations!" The Metropolitan frowned. Romanov seemed to favor the merchant class.

Perhaps sensing the discontent of the Metropolitan, the Tsar turned to address him. "We will build a Cathedral in our lands that will be greater than any in the world! I have begun the commissioning of the best Russian artists toward this very worthy project. The Cathedral will be built in Tver, to honor the monks that protected me in my youth." For just a moment the Tsar glanced at the Oprichniki. He had arranged a few "accidents" for men he believed had been involved in his father's execution.

"When the Cathedral is complete there will be no question that we are the one true faith and that the true artistic greatness lies in the Russian heart!" Now it was the merchant's turn to look concerned. The Tsar certainly had a talent for walking the line between factions.

"At this point, if you'll follow me outside, some of the potential artists have prepared examples of their work for our great building project. I believe it will be good for our souls and patriotic hearts to take the time to evaluate their works." With that the Tsar took his leave, flanked by Oprichniki. Yes, the Tsardom of Russia had returned to normal. The only problem was what defined normal for a Tsar.

 

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The Art of War: 1622-1632

The restrictions on trade were further reduced, hoping to promote more profits in the west.

The Khanate of Sibir was soundly defeated in a short war, ceding the territories of Ichim, Sadrinsk and Jalutorovsk. Incredibly, Jalutorovsk contained a beautiful golden Mosque that must have caused great expense for the backward Mohammedans. If anything, this added additional fuel to the push to build the greatest of all Cathedrals in Russia.

A short war with Poland ended in a white peace. With most of our funds diverted to the Tver cathedral we can ill afford a protracted conflict. Similarly, a war with Sweden was ended for 75 Ducats.

The assassination of the Patriarch of one of the few remaining Boyar families caused some unrest. Oprichniki were deployed to restore order.

Another outbreak of peasant revolts endangered our lands, but fortunately the initial outbreak of unrest was quickly suppressed. Good government policies helped to further restore order.

Sadrinsk has abandoned the False Prophet to serve the One True Faith after a mission was sent.

The Church of Divine Protection and Guidance has been completed in Tver and it may well be the most beautiful church ever built. This Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Anthony the Egyptian and St. Yuri of Pskov, the latter being a Russian Saint who lived in the 13th century and had the gift of healing afflictions of the mind. The monks that protected Mikhail Romanov in his youth will be given full control of this church and surrounding lands.

The Church of Divine Protection and Guidance

Colonization has slowed somewhat over the last decade as all resources were focused on our great building project and the war with Sibir. Now the focus will return to settling the east. There is also word that our Naval School is about to graduate an explorer willing to sail into uncharted seas! Now that we have proof of our inward perfection, only outward conquest remains!

Issues for 1632

Military Advisor: We have 157,000 soldiers with a support limit of 211,000. We are Land Tech 17, reaching 18 in 1657. Our armies are as advanced as any western nation. Hopefully our hordes will discourage the treachery of our neighbors.

Naval Advisor: We have 5 warships and 2 galleys, with a support limit of 77. We are Naval Tech 10, reaching 11 in 1650. We are about to gain an explorer capable of sailing to the very edge of the world and beyond.

Metropolitan of Moscow: The new church in Tver is easily the best in the entire world, certainly superior to the Golden Mosque we captured in our last war. We have a large Mohammedan population and some eastern heretics under our control. Missions toward the conquered lands of Sibir have a good chance of success should we send them.

Foreign Minister: We are allied with our vassal Denmark (+21). Our neighbors continue to be hostile, but there is little they can do to harm us. The Netherlands recently claimed Prussia, further complicating the Baltic. We have claims on the capitals of Sibir and Nogai, Sweden and Courland. Our reputation is 25.9. The aristocracy of other nations dislikes our merchant empire.

East Russia, 1632

Cossack Advisor: Other priorities slowed colonization, but it will once again be our main focus. We are slowly completing cities in the Siberian corridor and in Enkan on the Pacific. We currently get 2.40 colonists a year.

Financial Advisor: Our monthly income is 105.4. We have 5 merchants in Moscow (18.84) 5 in Astrakhan (21.44) 2 in Danzig (3.61) and 4 in Andalusia (29.88). Our inflation is 32.2%. Our main investments are in Infrastructure and Land Tech.


General Issues

#1 Domestic Policies

We may make one change if we wish. The current settings are Aristocracy 1, Centralization 10, Innovativeness 5, Mercantilism 1, Offensive 9, Land 7, Quality 5, Serfdom 9.

#2 A Russian Explorer

Ivan Rebrov has asked for and been granted funds to begin exploration in 1633. We have military access through Denmark to aid in this task. Where should he sail?

#3 Nogai and Sibir

These two Khanates are now one province minors. We could fight a war of vassalage or annexation against them or simply ignore them. We still have a bad reputation and it would suffer from such actions. These nations are quite weak and could be easily defeated, however.

Next post is Wednesday. Be sure to stop by our new Cathedral some time before then.

 

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Update!!!!

Merchant and his Merchant Slaves went into the Cathedral and looked around with expression of purest greed. How could they strip all the golds and painting and superior craftworks? They dearly would sell their souls to tear apart the Cathedral and sell all the goods of value. One tiny problems: They already sold their souls.....

OCC: ET, that could be good time to arrive Oh my It seemed that I am doing my very best to turn the Merchants into gang of demons!!
That would astonishing. Clerics of God against Soldiers of Devil!!!

 

[Machiavellian]

The Oprichniki gathered amongst themselves in secret. Some plotted to remove this vengeful Czar, but ultimately it was decided that for the moment he helped serve Russia's interests. The time for future expansion was decidedly near and the Oprichniki craved the lands to the south. It was decided that such would be pushed at the next meeting.

In the council meeting one of the Oprichniki spoke up, his harsh, sandpaper voice sliding icily over those within, a vicious gaze full of malevolence directed at the few boyars within.

"The glory of Russia continues to be unrecognized by the outside world. While we favor peaceful expansion via the colonies it is felt that we must expand our armies quality and then strike south if given the chance. We must take control of Armenia and Georgia and free its peoples from the tyrannical rule of the false prophets followers."

 

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Ivan had fallen victim to an unknown illness and walked into the chamber with all the entusiasm he could muster. His time was growing short, but he would continue to serve Russia as long as his physical form survived.

"Do Nogai and Sibir have any allies? I notice that the Chagatai Khanate has grown surprisingly large on our southern border and fell they must trimmed down to size a bit, if they are allied to what's left of Sibir and Nogai it may be time to go to war again, otherwise I would not trouble too much over the pitiful Mongol enclaves. Relations with our Danish vassals are slipping awfully low. It may be wise to send some gold their way to keep them on our side. As for our explorer, I recommend we attempt to exchange maps with thre Danes or some other friendly western nation to ease his path of travel, I would like to see the Pacific explored for the glory of Russia myself so that we may learn more of the mysterious East."