Royalist Roast: A Puritan AAR

[Machiavellian]

Following the English surrender of 1680 Charles II still found himself fighting a multitude of wars under the Crown of Scotland which he also had the honor of wearing. Unwilling to see yet another defeat of the Stuart line, he personally led the army of Scotland into battle with French and Venitian troops outside York. Soundly defeating them, he soon faced the Puritan brigade coming out of Lincolh, with a fierce detirmination he managed to claim victory in that battle as well, though not without heavy losses on both sides. March though brought a second battle with the Commonwealth outside York, where Colonel Montague managed to seize a victory for himself, forcing Charles into retreat. Following on the tails of Charles II and the Scottish army, David Wallis, having assumed control of the army of Wales from James Preston after an issue of loyalty arose, presued Charles into North Umberland.

July 5th, 1680: North Umberland, Scotland.

Another soldier collapsed to the ground, two wicked holes punched through his body. David shook his head and once more shouted at the top of his lungs for a return of fire. Things were not good. Whatever could be said for the Royalist in england, the Scottish needed to be given credit, they fought like cornered badgers. Musket smoke filled the air as the 1st Army of Wales returned fire on the Scottish army's position. They had been at this for three days already and the only thing Wallis could be thankful for was that this battle was in July and not November, he didn't envy the troops that were forced to fight earlier in the war during those harsh winter months. The Scots responded harshly once more and David found himself suddenly on his back. Groaning in pain, he waved off the men who ran up to him offering assistance, instructing them to worry about the scotsmen not him. With a low grunt, he hoisted himself up, ignoring the pain and growing bloodstain on his trouser leg. "Return fire! Aim for Charles, by god!" he shouted with a new vengence.
The sound of Musket fire became deafening once more as the two sides exchanged bullets.

August 19th, The battle of North Umberland.

David Wallis sat in his tent appying some sulfar powder to the ugly wound he had received at least a month earlier. The battle continued to rage on into August, with neither side giving anything, save lives. He had grown used to the stink of the battlefield, but knew that several of his aides had not. One such aide, Thomas Marlet pulled open the tent flap with a huge smile on his face rather than the grimace of nausea that had become common place of late.

"We have them on the run! Charles and his dress wearing scots are in retreat!!" The aide said, coming over and slapping his commanding officer on the back with much gusto. "Shall we order a presuit?"

David thought about that for a few seconds before shaking his head no. "I think we have done enough here. Let Charles run to the highlands to lick his wounds, we need to recover. Order the cities to be covered and set up garrisons to patrol for any straggling scots. We don't want any surprises."
Finally it was over David thought to himself, he was beginning to fear that this battle would never end.


January 5th, 1681: The farm of Edgar Velohid, Wales.

Edgar sat down at the table for supper with his family. After his oldest son, Owen, had said the prayers, he cut off pieces of the Roast lamb and served his wife, three daughters, two sons and then himself. The welsh family quietly enjoyed the dinner, until ten minutes into the meal Edgar spoke. They all listened.

"things will be a tad hardar around here for a little while, so i'll be expecting you to all help out some more." He paused, smiling at his family. "The Puritans have initiated a tax on Catholics, to pay for the war. I don't be expecting this to go over well in the rest of the country." He still spoke of Wales as if it was a seperate country, apart from England. "but no matter what happens, I want you all to stay clean and out of trouble.. you hear me?" He looked directly at Owen and Geoffrey, knowing the boys all too well. But much to his relief he was greeted by a chorus of 'yes papa' from all around the table. Smiling at his wife they continued their supper in quiet.

The seven days of March 23rd to the 28th, 1681 brought the fall of both the City of York and Glasgow, placing the Puritans and their Irish allies ever closer to victory over Charles II and Scotland. Yet even as victory creeps ever closer, John Lambert and the Parliment tighten control over the Commonwealth, remaining in control of Meath and its countryside despite Irish complaints and tightening restrictions on Catholics throughout the nation.

 

[Amric]

y'know, I was always under the impression that the Puritans were kind of pacifists...apparently not as much as I thought. Good stuff, and keep it coming!

 

[unmerged(2952)]

Originally posted by Amric
y'know, I was always under the impression that the Puritans were kind of pacifists...apparently not as much as I thought. Good stuff, and keep it coming!

Might want to read up a bit more on Cromwell, and the English Civil War *shudders*

 

[Amric]

I was really meaning about the ones in the Americas...they were pacifistic....

 

[Machiavellian]

And what did they get for their pacificism, hmm? They got burned by the damn english in America. But the Brits will pay, oh yes, that deed will come back to haunt them.. burning down my expensive colonies. The nerve of them, all I did was steal most of their country.

 

[Machiavellian]

Despite the many successes of the war against Scotland, the Commonwealth was not without problems of its own. With the tightening of restrictions on Catholics, a rebellion flared to life in Cardiff, Wales in the summer of 1681. Though the rebellion had some initial success, the Catholic uprising was poorly planned and did not spread effectively to the countryside or the other cities in Wales. By the beginning of August the catholic rebels were exposed and shot for their treason, leaving their families with heavy fines. It is believed that this, along with the refusal to give up Meath caused the Irish to sign the Glasgow accord of 1681 on August 19th. Out of spite the Irish ended the war for a mere 212 ducats in Indemnities, denying the Puritans the much sought after city of York. Peace once more returned to the Commonwealth and its ally, though Charles II and Scotland remained embroiled in his other two wars.

July, 1682: A lush valley in the Adirondak's.

Jethrow looked over the map once more, before glancing back at the wagons that followed behind him. Parliment had instructed him to found a new colony where the old one had fallen, but he just couldn't seem to find the remains of the last one. With a sigh he threw up his hands and looked around. Forests stretched outwards to the west and north and mountains to the east, a small stream flowed nearby and the soil seemed excellent. Stuffing his map back into his sachel he shrugged his wide shoulders and shouted back to the others. "This is it. We need not go any further. Let us plant the seeds for New Kent here."

A chorus of agreement for the tired colonist followed that statement and soon construction on what would grow into the Puritan Stronghold in the America's was constructed.

September 6th, Commonwealth owned Meath.

It was a miserable monday morning for the people of Meath, but as the fearful Irish stared from their windows, they realized that others had it worse.

Swinging limply from the massive tower constructed in the towns square the bodies of the leaders of the recent uprising hung in open view of all who would question the Commonwealth's authority. Large ravens had gathered to feast on the eyes and flesh of the mainly Catholic conspiritors. In front of the tower one of those dour black adorned preachers was rattling on about the virtues of the Presbyterian faith and condemning the recent attempted revolution. The irish were not listening though. Meath had been controled by the British for years, while the Puritans held a slightly different faith, they were overlords and bullies all the same. The Irish in meath would continue to struggle until the day they were reunited with the Kingdom of Eire. And of course the Puritan Commonwealth would not make this easy.

January 10th, 1683: The palace of the Bourbon Kings, Tours.

John Lambert sat in long discussion with the King of Bourbonnais, Louis Joseph, about how best to bring their two countries closer. They both had a common enemy in Charles II and more importantly, the Crown of France. In the midst of discussing trade agreements and some other small treaties, Louis offered a winning grin and with heavily accented English said something that stunned the ex-lawyer."You could always marry my fourth daughter, Joesephine, Jean."

John Lambert was in his sixties now and while he did not really fancy the idea of a Royal marriage, he himself had never had time to settle down. He had been fighting against the Stuart crown since the 1640's, well over forty years of his life. He had also seen Joesephine and while her beauty was beginning to wane slightly as she crept into her thirties, she was still quite fetching.

"would you allow me to speak with her before we make anything official, Louis, my friend?" John said in rather decent french.

Louis Joesph of Bourbon only continued to smile, knowing the outcome would be as he desired.

As fate would have it John Lambert fell head over heels in love with the charming Bourbon princess and they were married later that year. In honor of the wedding the new Great Shipyard in Kent had its first ship bestowed with the name 'The Lambert's Maiden'. By the summer of 1684 the Scottish-French war finally came to an end in the peace of Hillscot, wherein the Scottish crown paid 41 ducats to the expanding Kingdom of France, leaving Scotland with only one war left to fight. It should be noted though, that the peace of Hillscot applied only to Scotland and its allies continued to fight against france for several years. On February 6th, 1685 Charles II died and his brother James rose to the English and Scottish throne's. As James the II (or VII in Scotland), he promised a return to greatness for his two countries and the restoration of the Catholic faith. Whether he achieved these goals would yet to be seen.

 

[Machiavellian]

Chapter III: Age of Rebellion and the New Alliance.

1685 brought a new Stuart king to the throne of the crippled England and a fairly impressive Scotland, though by now the Puritans had turned their eyes elsewhere to what they viewed as larger threats. In the August of 1686 the Commonwealth still under the command of John Lambert used bully tactics to force the new king of Eire, Eoghan IV, to accept the status of vassal. It was assured that only through such an agreement would relations between the two countries continue to be good. Many who were sympathetic to the Irish cause were shocked by this move, but in the end they did not raise many complaints as they realized their taxes would now lower as a result. The following year saw a wave of revolts sweep through the Americas as the Formidable Zapotec Empire went through what appeared to be a civil war after their mythical god figure supposedly left them. Who would take advantage of this new power vaccum was yet to be seen, but for now out of the concern of the Puritans. Shortly before his death on February 16th, 1688 at the age of sixty-nine, John Lambert arranged for a royal marriage between Willem of Nassau's youngest daughter and his now three year old son John, jr. With the death of John Lambert, power once more fell soley into the hands of the Puritan Parliment and its three leading members; Thomas Hardington, Arthur G. Crannook, and the stern Basil Mosely.

1691, The newly independant nation of Strassburg.

Jakob Malkald walked the streets of the once more free Imperial city of Strassburg. He could speak german without fear of scorn once again and only smiled as he remembered the butching of the french overlords that had occured only months before. Whistling to himself as he made his way to the bustling market, he hoped the new government was taking measure to ensure his nations independence, despite the problems France struggled against for Strassburg was not alone.. Cologne, Baden, The Palatinat and Brittany had all broken free from the 'Sun King's' realm and word was that Lorraine was ready to revolt as well. Times were good indeed. Buying an apple and taking a large bite out of it, Jakob could not help but think it tasted better.

April 20th, 1692: The port of Holland, Neatherlands.

Brigadier General William Merryweather watched the last of the Ships turn north and head back towards Wessex or Kent, he wasn't really sure which one exactly. Having given the men under his command the night off, he could actually find some time to relax. Turning towards the city, he lit his pipe and began walking. While he did try to relax some of his job did creep in, as he eyed a suspicious looking Spaniard. Technically the commonwealth was at peace with Spain, but technically didn't really count, not when he and his men had been sent here to keep an eye of the Spanish in nearby Flanders. Rumor of catholic/Spanish conspiracies had become regular news at the gossip mills. Idly he wondered if he would rather trade places with Lt. General Charles g. Suffolk who had been assigned to "peace keeping" duties in the Commonwealth's new military ally Bourbonnais city of Bordeaux, but decided against it. There were rumors of rebellions springing up in the regions of Aragon and Navarra and he didn't much envy Suffolks task of putting them down before they exploded into full fledged wars of independence from the Bourbon crown. At least here in the mainly neutral Neatherlands his duties consisted of little more than keeping a watchful eye on the Spaniards and the Sun Kings goons, along with being ready just in case war did break out. Noting a local brothel, he banished the thoughts from his head and instead thought it time that he should get some relaxation, he had been working too hard.

The wave of rebellions did not end at Lorraine, shortly afterwards in the year of 1693 Aragon broke free of Bourbon rule. Immediately war was declared and Louis Joseph of Bourbon called on his allies the Commonwealth and Savoy for aid. Only the Commonwealth heeds the call. Lt. General Suffolk is ordered to put down the Aragonese rebellion, but soon has his plate full when the following Year Hermoso de Mendozay Huici of Bearn declares the independence of Navarra as well. Engaged in two wars more or less for the benefit of their ally, the Commonwealth is forced to raise war taxes once more, of course hitting the Catholics the hardest as they must already pay additional taxes due to their faith.

 

[Amric]

Good, make the Catholics pay more and more...maybe they'll move and leave the country to leave more land and business for good Puritans....Very nice update!

 

[Machiavellian]

Note: The following post is somewhat rushed mostly because It was all ready written and then lost when the power went out. I hate rewriting something that was already good. Oh well, hopefully you will enjoy.

 

[Machiavellian]

The september of 1695 brought good tidings for the Puritans as the capital of the rebel leader Hermoso, Bearn, fell to the forces of general Suffolk. Rumors spread along the countryside that more than a few civilian catholics were killed following the seige. April of the following year brought yet anothe rebellion as Provence broke its ties to the Sun Kings crown and declared its independence, an action that was supported by much of the international community, including the Puritan Commonwealth. On January 4th, 1697.. after effectively fighting the Navarran war for the Bourbon crown peace is signed in Bordeaux between Louis Joseph and Hermoso de Mendozay Huici of Bearn. The peace forced Louis Joseph to accept the independence of the nation of Navarra, but for such an action the Alliance was given 130 ducats and Bourbon had free military access. Furthermore, the province of Navarra was given to the growing Puritan state. With this new base of opperations, General Suffolk renewed his attacks on Aragon with new exuberance, capturing Saragosa by march. May 2nd, 1697 brought an end to the war with Aragon. Aragon was reduced to the state of Vassal to the Puritan Commonwealth, along with giving up military access, but was assured that it would be able to keep its own autonomy.

October 1st, 1700: The Hall of Parliament, Coventry.

"With the catholic reform tax and the bills granting the inquisition more rights to hunt those who conspire with the devil and his cohorts passed I think we can move onto other buisness.. " Basil Mosely spoke and conducting himself with the confidence of someone who's family had held a leading seat on the Parliament since before Oliver Cromwells rise. Shuffling through the papers and documents he searched for the next one on the agenda. "Ahh, yes the america's."

This caused Arthur Crannook and a few of his supporters to frown, though by far Crannooks wrinkled face won the contest for most visibly displeased.

"Hmm.. now, what have we hear.. very interesting, hmmm.. " Basil paused deliberately so as to draw more attention to himself before he continued. "It seems that young Brittany had been making quite a name for herself in the new world. Her aggression against the indian tribes there has led her to conquer the Lenape, including the rich Port of Manhattan. Our sources indicate she now wars with the Zapotec Empire and the Iroqouis, what is Parliaments view on all this?"

"I would like to address this."
Thomas Hardington was the first to speak. Adjusting his new glasses, for his eyes had grown weaker over the years he glanced briefly over his own documents before continuing. "It seems to me, especially with the decent defection of the people of Sebago to our government that the america's will become increasingly important to us. I sincerely doubt that Sebago will be the last colony to cast off the yoke of the royalist and King James."

"Bahh!" Arthur Crannook rose to his feet, his wrinkled sandpaper face beginning to turn red. Tugging on his white beard he adressed the Parliament. "Worthless and useless. The americas are too far away. I was against ever sending our pilgrims out in the first place. We should concentrate on Europe, especially the spaniards!"

A few began to agree with Crannook and then a few began to disagree, within the course of a few minutes shouting became the mode of communication. It took twenty four minutes for Parliament to return to order. In the end the only decision made was to increase the walls and the garrison of the new world slightly and attempt to steer the growing power of Brittany against the Commonwealth's enemies.

April 3rd, 1703: The palace of King James II - London, England.

"They doubted me, but I have proved them wrong once more. England's greatness continues to grow! The British Empire is far from dead. With the completion of the Meuth agreement now Portugal is added to our list of vassals.. a good catholic vassal at that, I might add." King James spoke to his advisor while he fiddled with the globe before him. He enjoyed speaking his thoughts allowed and expected to be listened to.

"Yes, of course my liege. That was a most excellent display of diplomacy." The Kings advisor replied automatically, playing the toady to the hilt. He did not mention the constant revolts springing up in the america's, James was no doubt aware of them and he did not want to deal with the kings anger right now.

James spun the globe once more, this time halting it as his thumb pressed down on the British Isles. Turning around now, his hawkish gaze captured his advisor. "Luke, how do matters proceed with our little welsh experiment?"

"Quite well, my liege. Sir Cambal informs me that he personally met with one of the leaders of the Welsh resistance movement. Despite their dislike for us, they seem to hate their current masters more. They have been more than willing to accept the weapons and funds you have supplied."

James allowed a smile to reach his face and he stalked through his roya chamber. "I knew they would and when they rebel, we will accept them back into the Empire, they are good Catholics after all. After my meeting with Pope Clemens I think the damned Puritans will be getting theirs." James sneered for a moment before going on a Tirade. "Lambert and his goons will soon hang for their treason, by god. And England will once again be united under the Stuart crown."

"Of course, my liege..." Luke was about to bring up the fact that John Lambert had died a few years back, but decided better of it at the last moment. King James II could be worse than a drunk scottish brawler at time and if he wanted to think that Lambert still ran things in the Commonwealth he could, after all it was easier to hate one man then an entire Parliament.

December 6th, 1704: The house of the Velohid family, Wales.

Owen stumbled backwards, crashing to the floor and nearly knocking over the table in the process. Blood dripped from his mouth after the impact of the Puritan soldier's rifle. He tried to rise to his feet, but suddenly found all the strength of his sixteen year old frame had fled to be replaced by a helpless trembling.

To his right his younger brother Geoffrey stood protectively in front of his mother and three sisters, as if he could ward off the Puritan inquisitor and the soliders if they tried something.

"Stay down where you are boy and you won't get hurt." The stone faced Soldier said, even as a few of his soldiers dragged Owens father away.

Just then the serpent tongued Inquisitor spoke, all too reassuringly. "I promise you that your father will be fine, we just want to ask him a few questions." He smiled as the devil might have. "Should we find no evidence of rebellion or treason, he will return to you. Of course the testimony from your neighbors does not bode well, but .. well, we shall see. Good night to you." With that the arrogant Inquisitor turned and departed to do what he did best.

Owen managed to get to his feet again, but he just stared at their battered door as the Inquisitor left, taking his father with them. He knew at that moment that if anything happened to his father he would set the whole country ablaze just to get his revenge.

So consumed in his anger, Owen didn't notice the same hateful gaze from his younger brother Geoffrey or the sobbing of his sisters.

December 30th, 1704: The palace of Rene I, Brittany

"My lord, our spymasters have reported that a rebellion in wales is quickly approaching, shall we inform the Commonwealth of this?"

"no, no.. They are catholics like us, let them attempt the rebellion. It will keep the Puritans busy. The busier they are the less we need to worry about, continue to focus on the America's, I want to own it all. Manhattan is proving to be quite profitable, already it is filled with mercants from all over the globe and it continues to grow. In time perhaps we will need to ally with the Puritans, but for now, let them deal with their own affairs." Rene chuckled to himself as he took another drink from his glass of wine. The new year was quickly approaching and it seemed to be a good one for the his country.

June 19th, 1705: Cardiff, Wales.

"Into the next house, let's keep moving." General Buckingham ordered as he pointed to the two story building to his left. Three soldiers poured into the house, kicking open the door. Within the span of a few seconds he could hear gunfire from within.

All of Wales was burning. On May 29th, a well organized rebellion had flared to life in protest of the puritan Inquisition and this time it consumed every city within the Welsh province. They had weapons and detirmination and the Commonwealth had been fighting for nearly a month with an end still far away.

General Buckingham felt something wizz past his head and moments later he heard screaming from his men and a rush of heat at his back. Another damn fire bomb, no doubt supplied by the English. He began to curse the Kings name under his breath, when his attention was suddenly turned outwards. One of his soldiers, burning like a torch ran screaming towards him. In seconds Buckingham's sidearm was out and a bullet to the forehead dropped the burning soldier. "God damn it!"

He told his men time and time again, drop and roll.. drop and roll, but either they didn't listen or they just lost it under pressure. As the three soldiers exited the house, one of them held up four fingers, indicating that four more of the catholic/welsh rebels had been put down.

"Search every house. I don't care if we have to turn all of Wales into one giant graveyard! I have an insurrection to put down and by the grace of god almighty I intend to do it.. the welsh bastards be damned!" General Buckingham bellowed even as musket fire from down the street could be heard.

The rebellion in Wales was eventually put down on July 12th by the forces of General Buckingham. The following day the Irish in meath attempt to rebel as well, though they are far less organized and are quickly put down before the weeks end. None of the restrictions on Catholics are raised and as if in spite of the Rebellions they are intensified as the parliament attempts to purge the Pope run religion from their lands. Elsewhere in the land of Bourbonnais tension between King Louis Joseph and Hermoso de Mendozay Huici increase as the ruler of Bearn continues to take umbrage with Bourbon troop movements and cancels military access, despite the dictates of the Treaty of Bordeaux.

 

[Machiavellian]

With the rebellions put down harshly, yet effectively the Commonwealth went on with buisness as usual. But peace proved to be fleeting for the Commonwealth as tension between Hermoso de Mendozay Huici of Bearn and the Bourbon King exploded into full fledged war on September 12th, 1705. Naples soon entered the war on the side of the Bourbon King and despite knowing it would prove to be a pointless war, the Commonwealth pledged its commitment on the 18th. General Suffolk moved quickly and scattered the forces of Hermoso by early october, bringing Bearn under seige. It looked to be a short and easily won war, until the Pope got involved. Sensing distraction with Navarra, Rome declared war against Naples on the 19th of October, bringing with it a powerful alliance of nations; France, Genoa and Tuscany. Unwilling to leave an ally in the lurch, both Bourbonnais and the Commonwealth soon came to naples aid, plunging much of Europe into war.

December 25th, 1705: Outside the walls of Normandie, France.

The cannons continued to roar, pounding at the walls of the impressive fortifications, seeking to open a hole in the defenses. Even from his tent some distance from the front Lt. General Cavendish could not escape the trumpets of war. Pouring himself another cup of hot tea, he turned to his companion forcing a slight smile.

"We have quite a seige ahead of us, some way to spend Christmas, isn't it? I fear the french will be a tough nut to crack with all these fortresses they have built"

Brigadier General Charlie Weld had only arrived a few days ago, commanding the Wessex regiment to add extra muscle to the seige and still had exuberance and optimism in the war. Nearly jumping out of his seat he flashed a cavaliers grin.

"Hardly so, hardly so. Sure the french have got walls, but do they have troops? No, they have croaking cowards! Plus they have to worry about Bourbon to the south and better yet I hear that Merryweather is moving on Arras. Seems he had enough of sitting by in Holland. I say, this war will be over by next christmas!"

Cavendish only nodded, he had his doubts. He did not think the french would be push overs, after all if they were so weak how had they conquered so much territory. But he thought better of soiling his fellow commanders optimism, it was after all christmas. He was entitled to his good spirits.

Janurary 29th, 1706: The council chambers of Stefano Ferreti - Liguria, Genoa.

"Stop worrying so much, have so faith.. I can not come here everytime you have doubts, Stefano!" Cosimo III of Tuscany said with great irritation as he stalked the council chambers. This was the second time since the war started that his Genoan counterpart had called him to the capital. He was getting tired of the little worms whinning.

"but.. but.. The puritans have already put normandie under seige and I heard that the fleet in th.. " Stefano began though very finished as Cosimo cut him off.

"Yes, yes.. They sunk the french fleet in the English channel. Big deal. We will still win. The french assure me that admiral La Penne will be dealing with the Puritan fleet soon enough. Have some Faith.. " Cosimo wanted to add 'you simpering failure of a man' but held his tongue instead continuing ".. we have the Pope and the will of Jesus christ on our side, we can not lose. Just think, when this war is over we will all be much richer." And I can finally dispose of you. Thought Cosimo as he turned away from the Genoan, in fact he was quite surprised he hadn't been overthrown yet. Oh well, it would only benefit Tuscany, or so he hoped.

February 1st, 1706: New Haven, Conneticut.

Richard Quarterson breathed in the crisp morning air and smiled as he looked up to the flag post. Finally the British colors had been cast down to be replaced with the Black, white and red of the Commonwealth.

"Good work boys, if I don't say so myself, it really is a beautiful sight after all we have been through.." Richard said still smiling as he looked over a few of his buddies from the Conneticut militia. It had been a difficult fight, but the supplies provided by the Puritans and the sweat and blood of his brothers in arms had managed to finally kick the royalists out of New Haven and the rest of the state.

"You have done quite well for yourself, Captain Quarterson. It is nice to finally meet you in person." Richard turned around to focus his eyes on the speaker, Harold Yeowling of New Kents Cavalry. A middleaged man with dark hair and dark eyes who's years upon the saddle were beginning to show in streaks of grey and heavy bags under the eyes.

"Why thank you sir, but it wasn't just me." Richard said, signaling back to the other militia men still standing around him. "And besides, it was about time, I know I was getting tired of the thrice damned Monarchy of James II telling us what to do. Hopefully now the people of Conneticut can live their lives in peace."

"Yes, hopefully they can." The Cavalry officer said, before continuing. "Either way, I have been instructed by Parliament to promote you officially to Colonial governor of Conneticut, captian Quarterson. Congradulations." He didn't especially sound pleased, but at that moment Quarterson didn't care, taken away in a swarm of cheers and congradulations from his militia buddies.

April 1st, 1706: The council chambers of Stefano Ferreti - Liguria, Genoa.

"what are we going to do now?! what are we going to do now!!" Stefano cried at the top of his lungs, bleating like a dying llama in the opinion of Cosimo. Why didn't Pope Clemens XI have to deal with this?. This was the fifth time since the defeat of admiral La Penne in february and it only got worse since the conflict between the puritan general merryweather and the french forces outside of Paris had turned into a route of the Parisian army. Now with France bribed out of the war by the King of Naples he imagined things could only get worse.

"Just relax. The Puritans are no doubt annoyed with the peace Naples gave france. I know they were looking forward to taking French land in the north and instead had to pay, so perhaps they will cease aiding Naples. Besides, the Popes armys are still faring well, as is Tuscany. There is nothing to fear. Just stop whimpering." Cosimo said and turned his back to the Genoan leader, to look out the window of the castle.

"WHAT?! you.. You can't talk to me like that!" With sudden courage Stefano charged at the Ruler of Tuscany, only to be stopped in his tracks as the far stronger Cosimo broke his nose with a well placed punch. Stefano staggered and then fell to the floor. It was not long before Cosimo began to kick the spineless leader of Genoa.

"Attempt to strike me again and I will throw you from your own castle's window. Don't summon me again. We will win this war." With that Cosimo III left the chamber, uncaring as to the condition of Stefano Ferreti, ruler of the nation of Genoa.

After the French defeat outside Paris, Naples soon bribed the French to leave the war offering 144 ducats to Louis XIV, much to the annoyance of the Puritan Commonwealth. But with one more enemy out of the war, the Puritans were quick to defeat Navarra. Once again the price of victory was not enough as the Bourbon king gave Navarra a generous peace of only demanding 15 ducats and Military access. Hoping to gain something from this war, Fleets were sent to the mediterranian even as the Armies of merryweather, Cavendish and Weld marched south through Bourbonnais towards the lands of Tuscany and Genoa.



"Just calm down.

 

[Machiavellian]

On May 9th, 1706 the Armies of the Puritan Commonwealth had their first chance to test their metal against the combined forces of Genoa and Tuscany in the Bourbonnais province of Lyonnais. Though the battle proved tough, in the end the Generals of the Commonwealth triumphed, sending the Italians packing. This set the tone for the rest of the war. Admiral Samuel Davies, after resupplying in Bourbon Sardinia, managed a night-time landing on Corsica and soon captured the Genoese province. Tuscany repeatedly attempted to defeat the fleet in the Ligurian sea, but was soundly defeated each time and with Sardinia close by, the fleet was able to easily resupply itself. Despite capturing the lands of Piedmont and even the Genoese capital of Liguria, the Commonwealth was denied any real gains in the costly war as Naples signed peace all too easily. In the end the tributes recieved barely paid for the bribe Naples sent to France in the beginning of the war. Visibly upset, Admiral Samuel Davies sent a harsh letter to the King of Naples before returning to his home in Plymouth.

November 12th, 1712: Cardiff, Wales.

General Buckingham was getting old and the Parliament wanted to see him retire. To convince him of this, they gave him this pointless assignment in a city they knew he hated. Imagine his surprise when he actually began to like Wales. Then triple that surprise when he settled down with a young Welsh woman by the name of Elise Velohid. Though his brothers in law still hated him, which was one of the reasons he convinced his young bride to move away from their farm and to the city.

It had been seven years since the great welsh uprising and Cardiff hardly looked the same. He supposed that was because much of it had to be rebuilt, but another part of it was because the Catholic faith has all but been stamped out. Oh sure a few Catholics existed here and there, but he was willing to bet even the Jewish outnumbered them now. Most of Wales followed the teachings of Calvin these days and it was a much nicer place for it. At least General Buckingham thought so.

A few years ago had someone told Buckingham he would come to love Wales and marry a welsh woman he would have beaten the tar out of them, now he could only shrug and smile stupidly.

May 17th, 1713: The Hall of Parliament, Coventry. - Early Afternoon.

"lets bring this session to order, we have alot to do and very little time to do it." Basil Mosely said after silencing the room with a few bangs from his gavel. With the death of Arthur Crannook, much of his followers had fallen into Basil's pocket and with the exception of Thomas Hardington, he more or less controled Parliament and thus the Commonwealth.

"As you know, we are once more at war with Navarra. Our good friend in Bourbonnais has decided once again to wage war. While we do not expect much loses in dealing with Bearn, we just recently got word that Sicily and Venice have declared war one Naples. Apparently naples felt guilty for dragging us into the last war and so only called on Bourbonnais for aid. This suits us fine, but there are rumblings across Europe. Our spies indicate that Austria is displeased with our war on Navarra and of course the slimey pope will probably attempt to use this as an excuse for war. I propose that we begin mobilization immediately."

Few in the room raised any objections, most still remembered the last war and wanted another go at victory. After all they didn't fight in the war and they did not suffer the raised taxes to pay for it.

September 2nd, 1713: Montpellier, Provence.

"Will you look at them run" General Charles g. Suffolk chuckled, only to break down into a hacking cough. "They don't have any fight left to them do they, won't be long till they surrender."

"You are probably correct sir, but unfortunately those spineless allies we have in Naples will probably give away our victories." William Leinster said with bitter conviction.

The General only grunted, before turning for his tent. William of course followed. Once inside Charles consulted the war map, so he might best analyze the situation in this overly complicated war. Since the end of May the Puritan Commonwealth had become entangled in three different wars and while he had brought the one with Navarra to an end for a mere 50 ducats in indemnites, the others were a far way from finishing. One war consisted of Austria and its underlings Bavaria and Ragusa. For the most part that war was ignored as it was generally felt that the Austrians could not truly reach any of the Commonwealths holdings and vice versa. The other war, well the war he fought now was a different matter. The Pope brought his allies into the fray once again pitting the Commonwealth against Genoa, Tuscany, Provence and France as well.

"It doesn't look like Bourbonnais is doing too well, the Sun King is wiping the floor with them." Suffolk growled before continuing. "I should'a went over into Bordeux and taught them how to fight, by george."

"Word has it that that Major Gayden has landed in Picardie, perhaps that will aid the Bourbon's some."

"Perhaps.. " But General Suffolk didn't sound convinced. "Well, it isn't our worry now.. let's continue to clean up these Italians .. And if any frenchmen want to come down south, I'll show them the way t' hell."

Shortly after the capture of Montpellier Naples accepted peace with Provence for 200 in Indemnities. Despite the Commonwealths victories in the North and in the new world, on June 3rd, in an act of desperation the Bourbon king Louis Joseph surrendered to France, opting out of the war and ceding the lands of Orleanais and Auvergne. Outraged the Commonwealth intensified pressure, ordering General Suffolk to capture Auvergne. It is said that this victory brought on the death of Louis XIV, but whatever the case on September 2nd, 1715 Louis XV rose to the throne of France. A year later he was forced to accept peace with Naples in which Picardie, Normandie, Appalache and Chesapeake were signed over to Commonwealth authority. The following year around the same time the last of the wars came to an end, as a white peace was forced. The Commonwealth was at peace, but it would be short lived.

 

[Machiavellian]

By August 16th, 1717 after less than two months of peace, The Commonwealth once more found itself tangled up in someone else's war. The summer of that year had seen a change in the alliances structure, with Naples being banned for costing Bourbonnais two rich provinces and the nations of Cologne and Neatherlands taking its place. It was one such nation that brought a new war to the alliance. Cologne's nobility had disputes over farming with nearby Luxembourgh that apparently needed to be settled with war. So from its new holdings in Picardie, troops were sent towards Luxembourgh to return peace. Meanwhile, in the growing american colonies, constant indian attacks would bring things to a head when after the razing of several farms outside New Kent war was officially declared on the Iroqouis and their Shawnee allies. Colonial authorities were given the sole power in conducting the war so that the Parliament could handle things in Europe.

January 17th, 1719: The Fields of Oswego, Iroqouis territory.

Sergeant Uriah Willonby whistled as he leaned on his rifle. He could hardly believe how many Iroqois lay dead around him. This wasn't a war, this was a massacre. Though they fought bravely, they just couldn't compete with the rifles of the Commonwealth.

"Better them than us, though.. " Daniel Hunt said after looking over the field. He shivered slightly, pulling his heavy coat tighter around him. "If they were smart, they'd just surrender all ready like the Shawnee did."

Uriah noticed how already the falling snow was beginning to cover the bodies, as if trying to hide this brutal display from unknowing eyes. "I don't think we are letting them surrender like the Shawnee. I hear tell that one of the people killed was a relative of Richard Quarterson." he said as if that explained everything, and in a way it did. Richard Quarterson was a big man down in Conneticut and many a soldier respected him.

"Well, maybe they will be better for it. It's not like we are going to kill them all, the others.. well they might just become civilized." Daniel said truly believing his words.

"Yeah. Civilized. I am sure they will thank us after this is all over." Uriah said sarcasticly, but by the look on Daniels face his friend obviously didn't get it.

December 23rd, 1719: New Haven, Conneticut.

Richard Quarterson sat in his office filling out some more forms when a knock on his door came. Eager to have some distraction from the paperwork he had before him dealing with the rights of the recently annexed Iroqouis, a topic he wanted to avoid as much as possible he called for the person to enter.

"Governor Quarterson, it is an honor to meet you." A disshevled young man with wild brown hair said as he entered and politely closed the door behind him.

"Call me Richard, please. What can I do for you young man?" he said, pausing to wonder at his own words. Young man, was he really getting to that age when he started calling people in their early twenties young man. Not even forty yet and he was already starting to act it.

"I am from the Colonial territory of the Catskills, part of the local independence Militia organization and we were wondering if.." his words slowed as he saw the huge smile stretching across the governors face.

"You want us to supply you with weapons to Rebel against King George, am I right?" Richard said still smiling.

"ye.. yes sir, how did you know?"

"Well, that much is simple really. One why else would you be here to see me and well, when I was your age I went to the people In New Kent to ask the same thing. What's your name, soldier?" Richard said, his admiration and pride apparent.

"Matthew Gullops." Matthew said, smiling now too. Apparently Richards was infectious.

"Well Matthew, tell the boys in your Militia back home that I shall send them everything they need and more, lets just not let georgie find out about it, okay?"

In the September of 1720, Unionville's citizens rose up against the tyranny of King George and swept through the province of the Catskills. Heavily armed, they were able to overpower the meager royalist troops in the area and soon declare themselves free. It was not long until they raised the flag of the Commonwealth over their city. With the conquest of the Iroqouis land, this newest addition made the Commonwealth a potent force in North America. In Europe another war with Navarra erupted after Bordeux joined the realm of Navarra. Within a year General Suffolk brought it to an end, forcing the lords of Bearn to accept vassalization and cede the province of Gascogne to the Puritan Commonwealth in the second treaty of Bordeux. This was the aging generals last war, as he died shortly afterwards while visiting a lady in Saragosa. As written in his will, General Charles Gordon Suffolk was buried in an impressive tomb on a hill overlooking Navarra and the people he had conquered.

 

[Machiavellian]

Chapter IV: The Long Peace.

After the great european wars, The Puritan Commonwealth looked forward to a time of peace and focused inward on its nation. Inquisitions increased and by 1728 both Meath and Navarra had been purged of Catholics. In the tradition of England the Puritans too embarked on a quest of discovery and colonization, and in 1729 admiral worchester was sent south and then west towards India and the Java sea. Over the following years colonies were established in Madurai, Colombo, Trivandrum, Flores and Selatan. With the economy booming and times quiet, much effort was put into growing the distant colonies in the east.

June 10th, 1735: New Bristol, Trivandrum.

Edward Heltsan stared lazily off into nothingness. He knew he was supposed to be doing work, filling out forms and going over the administrative policies for the city and nearby colonies, but it was such a nice day and he just didn't want to. So instead he stared off, looking at nothing in particularly and not even really thinking about anything. As military governor of New Bristol, perhaps the most developed of the East Indian colonies of the Commonwealth, he often had too many responsibilities. Especially with the destruction of the Colonies of New Midlands and New Lancashire in Madurai and Selatan respectively.

But today he had managed to slip out and escape his cramped office to enjoy the beautiful weather and the distant sound of the rolling tides. The beach truly was beautiful, it was too bad so few of his countrymen could or would enjoy it. Off in the distance he saw a great ship passing by, though he wasn't sure if it was French or Dutch. He shrugged his shoulders and closed his eyes, laying back on the beach. It was his day off (at least thats what he kept telling himself) and thus not his problem.

April 8th, 1737: New Haven, Conneticut.

Richard Quarterson looked in the mirror and frowned. His hair had turned from rich and brown to thin and grey. While he was still consider quite handsome, it was more in a distinguished manner than anything else. He certainly looked older, but he didn't feel it. Time shouldn't catch up on someone until they were ready for it, he thought to himself and noted to write that down in his journal somewhere. Of course the Lord almighty had different plans for how time would work and didn't really care what Richard Quarterson thought.

Time changed a country as well, he could still remember when Conneticut belonged to the British crown and the Puritans had nothing but New Kent in the New world. Now these days Its reach stretched over to recently liberated Boston and over the lands once belonging to the Iroqouis, a culture and religion that was virtually extinct now. Richard smiled at that last thought. He had no small part in converting the Iroqouis to the move civilized culture and relgion of the Puritans.

Glancing back at the mirror he adjusted his tie. He wanted to look presentable when he spoke with the governor of New Kent about the new drafts. Rumor whispered that war was once more in the air and that likely a confrontation with France was coming. While he didn't really want war, he also felt deeply that the french had it coming. The last war had ended quickly and not really affected the american colonies. He had a feeling this one would be different. It has been well over ten years since the Puritan Commonwealth entered a war and he knew that the Aristocrats and Old men in Parliament were just iching for a chance to humiliate Louis XIV.

May 3rd, 1738: The Hall of Parliament, Coventry.

".. What excuse do we have for declaring war on france? Just because you want this war, doesn't mean that the Commonwealth should be fighting it. We have been at peace for a long time, times are good.. why change that?" Thomas Hardington declared, adressing the Parliament as its senior chair.

Basil Mosely, Jr. stood up and Thomas could do nothing more than sigh. Taking off his glasses, the elderly statesman Thomas rubbed his eyes, wishing that Basil Mosely had never had a son.. what was worse was that Junior had become as an effective a force in Parliament as Basil had been, if not more effective.

"War with the Monarchy of France is inevitable." Basil said calmly, mustering the passion into his words slowly and effectively. "It may not have to happen tomorrow, but it will happen. The question then I when. When will the war happen? Will it happen now, when our generals are ready and our forces prepared? Or.. will it happen later, when we are sipping tea and enjoying the company of a fine lady only to be rudely attacked by a dangerous French menace! You all see how they are absorbing and vassalizing the Italian states. If we do not strike now, while their attention is unfocused and with the King ill, we may not be the ones to strike at all. But rather, be the stricken." Basil only smiled, he knew he had reached Parliament and so he turned his gaze on the balding Thomas Hardington.

Thomas Hardington only sighed, he saw the look and knew that it was hopeless. Despite everything he had said the Commonwealth would be going to war again. What did Basil Mosely Junior care, he afterall had never fought in a war and probably never would.

On May 12th, 1738 the Puritan Commonwealth declared war on France for its treacherous interference in Commonwealth provinces. Several documents were produced and that proved to be enough to justify the war. Despite having a large host of allies, they were not called upon as France only recieved the aid of the Pope. Even that ended when on June 4th a white peace was signed between the Papal States and the Commonwealth. The war would be a chance for the Commonwealth to test out its new army and the technology it had been building, knowing that it was among the top five countries in the world in techological progress.

 

[Amric]

good update...just remember that France has a higher manpower pool than you and far more money. Quick strikes and cover their cities while hunting down their armies...Don't screw around with them or they might just surprise you...

 

[Mike von Bek]

As a good monarchist, I find this Puritan-esque nonsense shocking! But its fantastically well-written, so I guess I'll bide my tongue and enjoy it

For King and Country!

 

[Machiavellian]

As if the French could actually stop the forces of pure blooded English men. Ha.. I laugh in the face of the haughty french.

I taught them a lesson in the art of warfare. I am only trying to decide how I want to approach this next post. Since I am more or less posting as I play, the story is very loose and adaptable.. don't really have many continuing characters or themes, but oh well. Should I try to go more detailed into how the war was conducted or just give a quick overview of the war and do little inserts of characters as I have been doing recently?

 

[Mike von Bek]

I like the style, certainly - its very akin to Prufrock's 'To Stand Against the Night', and thats fantastic.

So by all means, continue.

 

[Machiavellian]

After the Pope bailed out of the war between France and the Puritan Commonwealth, Louis XIV became increasingly ill and it was clear that the France would soon be in the hands of the young Louis XV or at the very least his regent. With its holdings in Normandie and Picardie the Commonwealth was able to easily secure landings and assualt the heart of France, using its superior Navy to set up blockades in Bretagne and Vendee, isolating the troops there. When in October Picardie was exposed briefly, the french sent their most able General Belle Isle towards the city in an attempt to cripple the Puritans. Little did they realize that the city had been further fortified since it was captured and only after Belle had busied himself with a seige did the full force of the Commonwealths armys crash down upon him, killing thousands of his men and sending him into full retreat. The tide turned quickly against the crown of France as province after province began to fall to the Puritan onslaught.

December 8th, 1739: Orleanais, France.

A harsh wind swept over the war torn field, bringing with it a new wave of blind snow. Few men could enjoy this weather, but many now fought in it. The snow made fighting difficult, but not impossible so the battle continued much to the regret of one french general.

"Its all falling apart! why won't they hold together?! This cannpt be happening, dear god.. why aren't they holding?" General Belle Isle cried as the snow fell around him, covering the battle field in a soft white sheet, though it failed at hiding the blood and carnage being inflicted over the past weeks.

He clutched at his hat, pulling at it in anger and desperation as before his eyes his army, The Army of Paris, was being decimated for the second time since this war began.. and he knew this time it would not escape. "How can this be happening?" he cried to the heavens. "I am the chevalier de Belle Is..". He never finished his words, silenced as the massive cannon ball took off his head with gruesom efficiency. It was unlikely that he was the artillery mans target, but that didn't really matter in the end.

Two weeks later a Colonel and a Sergeant found the headless torso of General Belle Isle and reported it to the General of the commanding army. Though no one was able to claim the credit for killing the General, each artillerist in the field had a drink bought for him that day. Orleanais was liberated and the Commonwealth was moving with fresh reinforcements onwards to Paris, a situation that was helped greatly by the death of the french general.

February 5th, 1740: The Hall of Parliament, Coventry.

"France will give us peace, they are defeated and offer generous terms, we should accept them.. " Thomas Hardington said, knowing even as he did so that he wasn't being listened to. Parliament was full of hawks these days and all of them seemed to have fallen under the sway and influence of the young and ambitious Basil Mosely Jr., who in Thomas's opinion was nothing more than a egocenteric demagogue.

Basil gave Thomas Hardington a cool smile, one that clearly said 'You are through old man, this is my show now' before he began speaking. "Give them peace? Nonsense and Boulderdash I say! We have the french on the run, why give them the chance to get an easy peace? We must grind them into the dust and make them know that we beat them so that they will never forget this war! So that they will never challenge us again! Do we want all the blood and lives of our beloved countrymen to have gone to waste for any easy peace, I say to do such a thing would be a Sin and travesty under the lord almighty. Paris had fallen and the french armies are scattered. I say we thrust forward and take Maine then send our armies south into the italian vassals, show them that France isn't the master she used to be. By George, we better cripple france or we'll just have to fight this war again!" Basil finished to the applause of the Parliament. He had lined several pockets within and those he didn't were easily convinced by his speech. The war would continue and through it his power over the Commonwealth would strengthen and there was nothing Thomas Hardington could do about it.

February 11th, 1742: Paris, France
General Isaac Knox came from a family with a long history of the military tradition and he felt no small amount of pride in adding to that on this historic day. Two years earlier Paris had fallen as the last of its defenders had crumbled before the forces of the Puritan Commonwealth, forces General Isaac Knox had helped lead and now today, France and its young king had finally surrendered.

Isaac didn't really have much to do in terms of dictating the peace, that was the job of the lawyers, diplomats and ambassadors, but it would be his signiture that would go down on the Treaty of Paris right alongside that of Louis XV. Isaac glanced over to the young king and could not help but feel sorry for him. He looked unusually pale, as if the spirit of life had been drained from him and that this illness was merely a reflection of the battered state of France. Isaac just shook his head. Better that France was weak, so that she could not hurt the Commonwealth. That was the reasoning drilled into him again and again, and so he merely took it as truth. And the Commonwealth would grow stronger under the terms of surrender 200 Ducats plus the provinces of Atrois, Caux, Orleanais, Maine along with Powhatan and Santee in the americas.

Snapping out of his thoughts, he heard his name called and stepped forward. He gave a curt bow of his head to the King of France and the various ministers, before taking the quill and quickly signing his name to the treaty. It was done, the war was over.

After the war with France, the power and prestige of Basil Mosely Jr continued to grow and two months after the wars conclusion Thomas Hardington was forced into retirement after over sixty years in service to his country. He died shortly after that in his home in Bristol on May 23rd, 1742. France was a shadow of her former self and soon her italian vassals found the strength to rise up against her First Tuscany declared its independence followed soon after by Milan, Helvetia, Siena and eventually Savoy. The Puritans were not completely at peace either and a short war was fought with Navarra when the lord of Bearn canceled its vassalization. The war ended in less than a year with a sum of 416 gold bars being payed to the Commonwealth in tribute, though Navarra was no longer a vassal.

 

[Lord Durham]

Really good work. BTW, can you check your PM?