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TRANSYLVANIA
Entry 44
Range entered the gallery where Sir Farly was staring at two paintings.
SIR FARLY: Do you like my museum?
RANGE: Where did you get all this?
SIR FARLY: I went back…their duplicates of course. The museum in Constantinople wouldn’t give the real pieces up.
RANGE: Oh, how unfriendly of them. (pause) I recognize one of them, but the others.
SIR FARLY: Well, my friend, let me give you a guided tour. Starting with…
SIR FARLY: (cont) The Crusader’s entry into Constantinople…
SIR FARLY: (cont) The painting of the Ottoman Empire advancing on Constantinople. That’s the famous bombard cannon at the right…very destructive. This next reproduction I’m sure you’ll recognize
SIR FARLY: (cont) The fall of Constantinople.
SIR FARLY: (cont) This is sort of a Prophecy…A mosaic copy of the one that was found in the floor in the Grand Imperial Palace. The eagle I’d say is Transylvania…the snake is the invader…in this case the Ottoman Empire. Transylvania will drive the Ottomans from the lands of the Christians.
RANGE: (Beat) Do you want to know what I see…I see Constantinople as a garden of Eden and the Roman Eagle is fighting the eternal fight against the devil...the snake.
SIR FARLY: I like my interpretation better.
RANGE: You would. You want me to take Trace before I do away with the Austrians. What’s this one?
SIR FARLY: It’s a column commissioned by Constantine.
RANGE: Is that a stature of Apollo on top of the column?
SIR FARLY: Yes...but, you must understand that…
RANGE: Old religions die hard.
SIR FARLY: Although he held on certain traditions…he did stop the persecutions of the Christians.
RANGE: Constantinople…
SIR FARLEY: There are a number of legends that center on the fall of Constantinople...as well as her rising out of the ashes. One tells of the moment near the end of the siege…there was a total lunar eclipse on May 22, 1453…which to many represented a prophecy coming to pass that meant the demise of the city. Then, four days later the city became hidden in a dense fog,
RANGE: Fog happens.
SIR FARLY: Not in that part of the world in May. (pause) When the fog finally lifted that very evening, it is recorded that a strange glow radiated from the Hagia Sophia’s dome. Everyone as far as the beyond the Ottoman camp witnessed the light. Some say it was the Holy Spirit leaving the Cathedral.
RANGE: It must have spooked the Ottomans.
SIR FARLY: Most assuredly. (hardy laugh) Another legend tells of two priests who were saying divine liturgy. They were said to have disappeared into the walls when the first Ottoman soldier entered the city. The legend says that the priests will return when the city is returned into Christian hands.
RANGE: I hadn’t heard that one…but, I did hear the one about the angel that rescued the emperor from being captured. The angel turned the emperor into stone I believe and hid him in a cave under ground near the golden gate…
SIR FARLY: Yes…yes, and he waits there to be awaken the moment Constantinople is retaken by Christian forces. So, you believe?
RANGE: NO…but, considering that if that legend is true…and, he awakes there’s going to be one too many kings for my liking.
Range then turned and began to walk away, chucking to himself.
SIR FARLY: I suppose you heard the news…about the Ottoman’s moving their capital from Constantinople.
Immediately, Range stopped dead in his tracks. Stunned, he soon continued walking away.
SIR FARLY: Why turn your back on prophecy...what changes your thinking day to day?
I can't explain why this bug hasn't been fixed...Transylvania didn't move their capital...the Ottomans did. And, no that's a mirage Transylvanian troops had been given military access to move troops about freely in a more direct route through Constantinople and beyond.
Entry 44
Range entered the gallery where Sir Farly was staring at two paintings.
SIR FARLY: Do you like my museum?
RANGE: Where did you get all this?
SIR FARLY: I went back…their duplicates of course. The museum in Constantinople wouldn’t give the real pieces up.
RANGE: Oh, how unfriendly of them. (pause) I recognize one of them, but the others.
SIR FARLY: Well, my friend, let me give you a guided tour. Starting with…
SIR FARLY: (cont) The Crusader’s entry into Constantinople…
SIR FARLY: (cont) The painting of the Ottoman Empire advancing on Constantinople. That’s the famous bombard cannon at the right…very destructive. This next reproduction I’m sure you’ll recognize
SIR FARLY: (cont) The fall of Constantinople.
SIR FARLY: (cont) This is sort of a Prophecy…A mosaic copy of the one that was found in the floor in the Grand Imperial Palace. The eagle I’d say is Transylvania…the snake is the invader…in this case the Ottoman Empire. Transylvania will drive the Ottomans from the lands of the Christians.
RANGE: (Beat) Do you want to know what I see…I see Constantinople as a garden of Eden and the Roman Eagle is fighting the eternal fight against the devil...the snake.
SIR FARLY: I like my interpretation better.
RANGE: You would. You want me to take Trace before I do away with the Austrians. What’s this one?
SIR FARLY: It’s a column commissioned by Constantine.
RANGE: Is that a stature of Apollo on top of the column?
SIR FARLY: Yes...but, you must understand that…
RANGE: Old religions die hard.
SIR FARLY: Although he held on certain traditions…he did stop the persecutions of the Christians.
RANGE: Constantinople…
SIR FARLEY: There are a number of legends that center on the fall of Constantinople...as well as her rising out of the ashes. One tells of the moment near the end of the siege…there was a total lunar eclipse on May 22, 1453…which to many represented a prophecy coming to pass that meant the demise of the city. Then, four days later the city became hidden in a dense fog,
RANGE: Fog happens.
SIR FARLY: Not in that part of the world in May. (pause) When the fog finally lifted that very evening, it is recorded that a strange glow radiated from the Hagia Sophia’s dome. Everyone as far as the beyond the Ottoman camp witnessed the light. Some say it was the Holy Spirit leaving the Cathedral.
RANGE: It must have spooked the Ottomans.
SIR FARLY: Most assuredly. (hardy laugh) Another legend tells of two priests who were saying divine liturgy. They were said to have disappeared into the walls when the first Ottoman soldier entered the city. The legend says that the priests will return when the city is returned into Christian hands.
RANGE: I hadn’t heard that one…but, I did hear the one about the angel that rescued the emperor from being captured. The angel turned the emperor into stone I believe and hid him in a cave under ground near the golden gate…
SIR FARLY: Yes…yes, and he waits there to be awaken the moment Constantinople is retaken by Christian forces. So, you believe?
RANGE: NO…but, considering that if that legend is true…and, he awakes there’s going to be one too many kings for my liking.
Range then turned and began to walk away, chucking to himself.
SIR FARLY: I suppose you heard the news…about the Ottoman’s moving their capital from Constantinople.
Immediately, Range stopped dead in his tracks. Stunned, he soon continued walking away.
SIR FARLY: Why turn your back on prophecy...what changes your thinking day to day?
I can't explain why this bug hasn't been fixed...Transylvania didn't move their capital...the Ottomans did. And, no that's a mirage Transylvanian troops had been given military access to move troops about freely in a more direct route through Constantinople and beyond.
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TRANSYLVANIA
Entry 45
Sir Farley had a habit of looking back at the years he spent with King Range and his beautiful queen. One such recollection is presented below:
I can still feel the frustration I had over Range’s irritating way of ignoring my attempts to have him take Thrace. No matter what I said or tried to do it was as if the taking of Thrace, or Constantinople didn’t matter. He kept saying, “It would be there…don’t worry when the times is right we’ll take them.” There were other concerns…like Venice.
Many kings thought of countries like Venice as a angry puppy dog. You know the kind, small angry, disgruntled breeds that bark angrily and snap at the heels as you walk. More than likely if you dare try to make friends of one of them and pet them on the head…you'll soon be walking away counting your fingers...I dare say.
Well, Range was about to something to one of the puppy dogs. Venice was once a great and wealthy country…with a grand fleet…they were merchants; the best of the world because of their fleet. But, that was then this was now. With new trade routes being opened up the market they once cornered was slipping through their fingers.
Range was beginning to believe he had a fleet that could challenge Venice…and to take Venice you would first have to defeat its fleet. Well, that was the feeling for centuries. And, Range felt he had to move fast before the French beat him to the prize.
The French were still our allies. And, the question whether they would still remain a trusted ally was obvious as they were often found roaming deep into our country to wipe out a revolt for us.
Range was confident France remain at Transylvania’s side for as long as Transylvania wanted France to be allied with them. Of course the France were more than occasional frustrated with Range.
KING LOUIS XIV: If we only knew what his plans were we would be able to position for war. As it is now, he moves toward Austria, we move our troops about Austria. But, then he declares war against the Ottoman Empire…so, we move our troops against The Ottomans.
At the start of the war…there was no sign of the Venice fleet.
After a very quick sea battle it was over. The once proud Venice fleet was little more than a memory and so was Venice as a free country.
Corfu was next.
It was at that point Range turned to me and said, “It’s time”. That was all that he said, but I knew what he meant.
Entry 45
Sir Farley had a habit of looking back at the years he spent with King Range and his beautiful queen. One such recollection is presented below:
I can still feel the frustration I had over Range’s irritating way of ignoring my attempts to have him take Thrace. No matter what I said or tried to do it was as if the taking of Thrace, or Constantinople didn’t matter. He kept saying, “It would be there…don’t worry when the times is right we’ll take them.” There were other concerns…like Venice.
Many kings thought of countries like Venice as a angry puppy dog. You know the kind, small angry, disgruntled breeds that bark angrily and snap at the heels as you walk. More than likely if you dare try to make friends of one of them and pet them on the head…you'll soon be walking away counting your fingers...I dare say.
Well, Range was about to something to one of the puppy dogs. Venice was once a great and wealthy country…with a grand fleet…they were merchants; the best of the world because of their fleet. But, that was then this was now. With new trade routes being opened up the market they once cornered was slipping through their fingers.
Range was beginning to believe he had a fleet that could challenge Venice…and to take Venice you would first have to defeat its fleet. Well, that was the feeling for centuries. And, Range felt he had to move fast before the French beat him to the prize.
The French were still our allies. And, the question whether they would still remain a trusted ally was obvious as they were often found roaming deep into our country to wipe out a revolt for us.
Range was confident France remain at Transylvania’s side for as long as Transylvania wanted France to be allied with them. Of course the France were more than occasional frustrated with Range.
KING LOUIS XIV: If we only knew what his plans were we would be able to position for war. As it is now, he moves toward Austria, we move our troops about Austria. But, then he declares war against the Ottoman Empire…so, we move our troops against The Ottomans.
At the start of the war…there was no sign of the Venice fleet.
After a very quick sea battle it was over. The once proud Venice fleet was little more than a memory and so was Venice as a free country.
Corfu was next.
It was at that point Range turned to me and said, “It’s time”. That was all that he said, but I knew what he meant.
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TRANSYLVANIA
Photo flag)
Entry 46
Sir Farly had come to expect the unexpected. But, as he looked back at many enemies had has to shake his head in amazement.
SIR FARLY: Looking back to my days with Range and his intended bride Maria Anna I have to think hard to really believe what took place all so many years ago. All too often military efforts are dictated by the event of the time. As I knew Range’s next war would be against the Ottoman Empire, I knew getting that war would not be easy. No sooner had we finished off Corfu the French invited us to a war of their own against Roma and Greta Britain.
Transylvania forces took Rome and Leinster. Of course they had to give them back when the war ended. The Trade Agreement with Great Britain ended and Rome promised never to forget the indignity had to endure. His troops were wiped out…and revolts were everywhere in Transylvania.
SIR FARLY: It took longer than expected for Range to go war…
SIR FARLY: The entire country was behind Range’s army.
SIR FARLY: By August…Range could have ended the war…and gain Thrace at the peace table. But, all of sudden, Range heard that a number of vassals were racing toward Judea.
RANGE: Mount your horses…we dine in Jerusalem by year’s end!
SIR FARLY: Range, true to his word to dine in Jerusalem by the end of the year, settle on a peace on December that gave Transylvania not only Thrace…but Judea as well…and three other Ottoman provinces.
SIR FARLY: The new improved Transylvania.
SIR FARLY: Is anyone interested to know who Maria Anna is, or was?
Photo flag)
Entry 46
Sir Farly had come to expect the unexpected. But, as he looked back at many enemies had has to shake his head in amazement.
SIR FARLY: Looking back to my days with Range and his intended bride Maria Anna I have to think hard to really believe what took place all so many years ago. All too often military efforts are dictated by the event of the time. As I knew Range’s next war would be against the Ottoman Empire, I knew getting that war would not be easy. No sooner had we finished off Corfu the French invited us to a war of their own against Roma and Greta Britain.
Transylvania forces took Rome and Leinster. Of course they had to give them back when the war ended. The Trade Agreement with Great Britain ended and Rome promised never to forget the indignity had to endure. His troops were wiped out…and revolts were everywhere in Transylvania.
SIR FARLY: It took longer than expected for Range to go war…
SIR FARLY: The entire country was behind Range’s army.
SIR FARLY: By August…Range could have ended the war…and gain Thrace at the peace table. But, all of sudden, Range heard that a number of vassals were racing toward Judea.
RANGE: Mount your horses…we dine in Jerusalem by year’s end!
SIR FARLY: Range, true to his word to dine in Jerusalem by the end of the year, settle on a peace on December that gave Transylvania not only Thrace…but Judea as well…and three other Ottoman provinces.
SIR FARLY: The new improved Transylvania.
SIR FARLY: Is anyone interested to know who Maria Anna is, or was?
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TRANSYLVANIA
Entry 47
1704
With Thrace and Judea safely in Transylvanian hands, the wars against the Ottoman Empire would be put aside for a time. Now, it was time to prepare for another old enemy the Austrians, and the newer enemies the Scandinavians and the English.
It was clear that the Scandinavians were allied with the Austrians, as it was plain to see that Rome was allied with the English. Of course there were minors with both alliances, as there were vassals with the Transylvanians
Range knew he needed a stronger army and navy. The French had Line Infantry, while the Scandinavians had Caroline Infantry. He called for 100 regiments. As of 1703, he had 340 regiments, mostly Reformed Tercio. However, he had the better cavalry (Cossacks) and the France and the rest of west had Latin Knights. Still, he realized he needed more troops. Most of his army was now spread out across the broad nation, a great handicap in fighting any war and keeping the peace with his various peoples of the great nation. Of course there was the French…but, there lay a question could Range and Transylvania continue to count on France their ally.
Transylvania had dragged France into many wars and France was beginning to groan over the weight of the alliance. Of course, France had their enemies as well…Spain and England…and, Austria was taking it on the chin.
Still, the need for more and more men was becoming more apparent with passing day. Troops were needed in Ireland to reinforce the troops there. Also, there was need for an additional 100 regiments to secure the borders surrounding Austria and manning the boarders of Scandinavia and the Ottoman Empire…not to forget the rebels that were constantly popping up.
Forts was another need. Most states and provinces had either a two, or three rated forts. Those that didn’t were the newly gain provinces. Forts had to be built in those provinces or risk losing the territories. Thankfully most states and provinces had tax assessors.
But, there was another problem his troops had to get better training. The cavalry for now were fine…Cossacks. But, as for the infantry, with Transylvania being an eastern nation they were about to be out-trained by the west. Range knew he would soon have to go to war and get that additional training through conquest.
But, Range also needed legitimacy for a new Rome. Him calling either Constantople or Jerelusum as the new Rome would mean nothing if the Catholic Church didn’t recognize it as being so.
In a letter to then Pope of the Catholic Church, Pope Clement XI Range wrote the following in his letter to his Holiness.
Months later:
Behind the closed doors of the Vatican, Pope Clement XI had listened quietly to Cardinal Tobias read Range’s letter. When the cardinal had finished silence fell before the Pope spoke.
POPE CLEMENT XI: My…continual prayer…the Catholic Church is graced by his devotion. Is he Catholic, Cardinal Tobias?
CARDINAL TOBIAS: It’s impossible to say my holiness. He appears to embrace many religions. ..as does Transylvania. The country of Transylvania of course states it is Catholic.
POPE CLEMENT XI: What of the heathens in the lands they have taken…the heretics? How many conversions?
CARDINAL TOBIAS: There’s no information to share …your holiness.
After a short deliberation, the Pope cleared his throat and expressed his thoughts.
POPE CLEMENT XI: It is my understanding in hearing this letter, Range of Transylvania, as if there could be another, that one day Rome, our Rome would be replaced with a new Rome.
CARDINAL TOBIAS: It’s not stated…
POPE CLEMENT XI: (interrupting) The intent is there…as if it is possible. Furthermore, I am not in the belief that two Romes can exist at the same time without one falling into decay while the other becomes the beacon for the world to embrace.
Silence was allowed to fall before the cardinal spoke.
CARDINAL TOBIAS: What response would your Holiness wish to convey?
POPE CLEMENT XI: (beat) No reply is necessary in this case. There can be only one Rome, and it is here.
Months past, and each day Range’s courier was turned away from the Vatican.
Realizing that there would be no reply coming from the Pope, Range recalled his courier from Rome.
Back in Constantinople, Range fumed.
SIR FARLY: You can’t blame the Pope. After all, you did attack his precious Rome with your army. Not to mention the big H and the small H for the word his in the greeting. What was that all about?
RANGE: The Pope has no idea what a new Rome can bring about…history might be different. As for the big H and the little h, well it's hard for me to call any mortal man his Holiness.
SIR FARLY I don’t quite follow. You’re not under the assumption that you can change the history of this region?
RANGE: And, why not? I’ve known where history has changed.
SIR FARLY: That might be so in some cases…but, both Constantinople and Jerusalem are constants…people have been fighting over them for centuries. You aren't considering on taking Constantinople as a wedding present from the king?
RANGE: I thought of it...but, no my future bride Princess Maria Anna wouldn't have it...it's too far away from Austria.
SIR FARLY: What province have you two chosen?
RANGE: I, we haven't picked it as yet. But, when we do...we'll make a point to let you be first to know.
SIR FARLY: I can't wait.
A courier than entered...
Range taking the letter...stared at it.
RANGE: It's from the King of Austria.
Present Day:
Strangely, today there is a closely guarded secret in the Vatican regarding a letter from a man named Range of Transylvania that is addressed to Pope Clement XI.
As for Range himself…it was time for war. Austria was the real target.
No sooner had the war started Rome had a new emperor.
As in any war…the small nations took it hard on the chin. Range wanted to take them annex them but in both cases Range was forced to make them vassals.
But, it was Austria that was hit the hardest…but not as bad as they will experience in the near future.
Is anyone wondering, or cares to know who Range's wife is? And, why did Range choose to take aim at Austria?
Entry 47
1704
With Thrace and Judea safely in Transylvanian hands, the wars against the Ottoman Empire would be put aside for a time. Now, it was time to prepare for another old enemy the Austrians, and the newer enemies the Scandinavians and the English.
It was clear that the Scandinavians were allied with the Austrians, as it was plain to see that Rome was allied with the English. Of course there were minors with both alliances, as there were vassals with the Transylvanians
Range knew he needed a stronger army and navy. The French had Line Infantry, while the Scandinavians had Caroline Infantry. He called for 100 regiments. As of 1703, he had 340 regiments, mostly Reformed Tercio. However, he had the better cavalry (Cossacks) and the France and the rest of west had Latin Knights. Still, he realized he needed more troops. Most of his army was now spread out across the broad nation, a great handicap in fighting any war and keeping the peace with his various peoples of the great nation. Of course there was the French…but, there lay a question could Range and Transylvania continue to count on France their ally.
Transylvania had dragged France into many wars and France was beginning to groan over the weight of the alliance. Of course, France had their enemies as well…Spain and England…and, Austria was taking it on the chin.
Still, the need for more and more men was becoming more apparent with passing day. Troops were needed in Ireland to reinforce the troops there. Also, there was need for an additional 100 regiments to secure the borders surrounding Austria and manning the boarders of Scandinavia and the Ottoman Empire…not to forget the rebels that were constantly popping up.
Forts was another need. Most states and provinces had either a two, or three rated forts. Those that didn’t were the newly gain provinces. Forts had to be built in those provinces or risk losing the territories. Thankfully most states and provinces had tax assessors.
But, there was another problem his troops had to get better training. The cavalry for now were fine…Cossacks. But, as for the infantry, with Transylvania being an eastern nation they were about to be out-trained by the west. Range knew he would soon have to go to war and get that additional training through conquest.
But, Range also needed legitimacy for a new Rome. Him calling either Constantople or Jerelusum as the new Rome would mean nothing if the Catholic Church didn’t recognize it as being so.
In a letter to then Pope of the Catholic Church, Pope Clement XI Range wrote the following in his letter to his Holiness.
Months later:
Behind the closed doors of the Vatican, Pope Clement XI had listened quietly to Cardinal Tobias read Range’s letter. When the cardinal had finished silence fell before the Pope spoke.
POPE CLEMENT XI: My…continual prayer…the Catholic Church is graced by his devotion. Is he Catholic, Cardinal Tobias?
CARDINAL TOBIAS: It’s impossible to say my holiness. He appears to embrace many religions. ..as does Transylvania. The country of Transylvania of course states it is Catholic.
POPE CLEMENT XI: What of the heathens in the lands they have taken…the heretics? How many conversions?
CARDINAL TOBIAS: There’s no information to share …your holiness.
After a short deliberation, the Pope cleared his throat and expressed his thoughts.
POPE CLEMENT XI: It is my understanding in hearing this letter, Range of Transylvania, as if there could be another, that one day Rome, our Rome would be replaced with a new Rome.
CARDINAL TOBIAS: It’s not stated…
POPE CLEMENT XI: (interrupting) The intent is there…as if it is possible. Furthermore, I am not in the belief that two Romes can exist at the same time without one falling into decay while the other becomes the beacon for the world to embrace.
Silence was allowed to fall before the cardinal spoke.
CARDINAL TOBIAS: What response would your Holiness wish to convey?
POPE CLEMENT XI: (beat) No reply is necessary in this case. There can be only one Rome, and it is here.
Months past, and each day Range’s courier was turned away from the Vatican.
Realizing that there would be no reply coming from the Pope, Range recalled his courier from Rome.
Back in Constantinople, Range fumed.
SIR FARLY: You can’t blame the Pope. After all, you did attack his precious Rome with your army. Not to mention the big H and the small H for the word his in the greeting. What was that all about?
RANGE: The Pope has no idea what a new Rome can bring about…history might be different. As for the big H and the little h, well it's hard for me to call any mortal man his Holiness.
SIR FARLY I don’t quite follow. You’re not under the assumption that you can change the history of this region?
RANGE: And, why not? I’ve known where history has changed.
SIR FARLY: That might be so in some cases…but, both Constantinople and Jerusalem are constants…people have been fighting over them for centuries. You aren't considering on taking Constantinople as a wedding present from the king?
RANGE: I thought of it...but, no my future bride Princess Maria Anna wouldn't have it...it's too far away from Austria.
SIR FARLY: What province have you two chosen?
RANGE: I, we haven't picked it as yet. But, when we do...we'll make a point to let you be first to know.
SIR FARLY: I can't wait.
A courier than entered...
Range taking the letter...stared at it.
RANGE: It's from the King of Austria.
Present Day:
Strangely, today there is a closely guarded secret in the Vatican regarding a letter from a man named Range of Transylvania that is addressed to Pope Clement XI.
As for Range himself…it was time for war. Austria was the real target.
No sooner had the war started Rome had a new emperor.
As in any war…the small nations took it hard on the chin. Range wanted to take them annex them but in both cases Range was forced to make them vassals.
But, it was Austria that was hit the hardest…but not as bad as they will experience in the near future.
Is anyone wondering, or cares to know who Range's wife is? And, why did Range choose to take aim at Austria?
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No we don't care about Range's womenfolk:rofl:
We just want to keep you asking us if we care
I'm surprised the Frenchies have stuck with you for as long as they have
We just want to keep you asking us if we care
I'm surprised the Frenchies have stuck with you for as long as they have
All better now...
No we don't care about Range's womenfolk:rofl:
We just want to keep you asking us if we care
I'm surprised the Frenchies have stuck with you for as long as they have
The Frenchies probadly would attack...if I didn't have the same size army as them and the same type of training...thanks to the Austrians provinces I've taken. Also, it seems I go to every war they go into...although I get nothing...a quick entry and quick exit when the getting is good..otherwise, I'd be like them my armies thinned out across the world's crust. That's another problem for the French...if they made war against me...they'd lose...they can't match my force in mainland Europe.
TRANSYLVANIA
Entry 48
The war against Austria that ended in 1705 was brought on by stupidity of King Joesph I of Austria. It is now 1712. The initial remarks that will follow will be an attempt to explain the events leading up to that war and the war that would follow.
To start one must understand what was taking place in Europe during. Countries that should risen and taken a prominent position in Europe never were born. Germany was one of those countries and was all due to one man…Range of Transylvania.
Range was a blessing to Transylvania as he was a curse to the rest of Europe. Even the French, an ally to Transylvania feared him.
Enter Maria Anna Joespha of Austria, the intended bride of Range.
Maria Anna Joespha of Austria, born 7 September 1683.
Maria was born in Linz, Germany (or, what should have been Germany). Now, her land was a part of Transylvania. There lied the problem. Her father Leopold I, should have been a king of Germany and Emperor of Rome and not a dispose monarch.
He only knew Maria for a short time. But, he had fallen deeply in love with her, as she was madly in love with him. It wasn't a physical attraction but one of kinship...maybe kismet...two lost souls finding one another you might say; a match made in heaven many would say.
Leopold I – died 17 April 1705
On his death bed, Leopold VI of Austria raised a thought future King Joesph I. It might better to marry this Range to one of our consorts then maybe he would then leave us alone.
Leopold VI – died 5 May 1705.
King Joesph I eventually reached out to King Rockoczy II of Transylvania with a proposition…the king of Austria offered Maria Anna’s hand in marriage to Range. In return, Austria would be spared all Transylvanian aggressions for fifty years. King Ferene II Rackoczy had been concerned with Range’s welfare since the Pope’s revealed his contempt toward Range’s attempt to make Constantinople a second Rome. With this in mind, the king of Transylvania, and the Emperor of the Roman Empire agreed to the terms.
King Ferene Rackozy II, King of Transylvania and Emperor of the Roman Empire.
The story rushes forward to Constantinople and the night Range received the letter from the Austrian court. Range broke the sealed of the Austrian King and opened the letter as if knowing its fowl purpose. It read,
Range tore the letter in two before crumpling the pieces and throwing them to the floor.
RANGE: Sergeant of Arms! Get my generals. We prepare for war!
This was Transylvania’s gains in the 1705 war against Austria (shown in previous post).
This is the new war that King Joseph I would not see the end. He will die in April 1711. He died nearly one month before his beloved Austria ceded more land to the Transylvanians.
SIR FARLY: This next war was a long war…a war that didn’t bring Range peace even with its conclusion.
SIR FARLY: The Russians also felt Range’s wrath for Austria's move.
Entry 48
The war against Austria that ended in 1705 was brought on by stupidity of King Joesph I of Austria. It is now 1712. The initial remarks that will follow will be an attempt to explain the events leading up to that war and the war that would follow.
To start one must understand what was taking place in Europe during. Countries that should risen and taken a prominent position in Europe never were born. Germany was one of those countries and was all due to one man…Range of Transylvania.
Range was a blessing to Transylvania as he was a curse to the rest of Europe. Even the French, an ally to Transylvania feared him.
Enter Maria Anna Joespha of Austria, the intended bride of Range.
Maria Anna Joespha of Austria, born 7 September 1683.
Maria was born in Linz, Germany (or, what should have been Germany). Now, her land was a part of Transylvania. There lied the problem. Her father Leopold I, should have been a king of Germany and Emperor of Rome and not a dispose monarch.
He only knew Maria for a short time. But, he had fallen deeply in love with her, as she was madly in love with him. It wasn't a physical attraction but one of kinship...maybe kismet...two lost souls finding one another you might say; a match made in heaven many would say.
Leopold I – died 17 April 1705
On his death bed, Leopold VI of Austria raised a thought future King Joesph I. It might better to marry this Range to one of our consorts then maybe he would then leave us alone.
Leopold VI – died 5 May 1705.
King Joesph I eventually reached out to King Rockoczy II of Transylvania with a proposition…the king of Austria offered Maria Anna’s hand in marriage to Range. In return, Austria would be spared all Transylvanian aggressions for fifty years. King Ferene II Rackoczy had been concerned with Range’s welfare since the Pope’s revealed his contempt toward Range’s attempt to make Constantinople a second Rome. With this in mind, the king of Transylvania, and the Emperor of the Roman Empire agreed to the terms.
King Ferene Rackozy II, King of Transylvania and Emperor of the Roman Empire.
The story rushes forward to Constantinople and the night Range received the letter from the Austrian court. Range broke the sealed of the Austrian King and opened the letter as if knowing its fowl purpose. It read,
Range tore the letter in two before crumpling the pieces and throwing them to the floor.
RANGE: Sergeant of Arms! Get my generals. We prepare for war!
This was Transylvania’s gains in the 1705 war against Austria (shown in previous post).
This is the new war that King Joseph I would not see the end. He will die in April 1711. He died nearly one month before his beloved Austria ceded more land to the Transylvanians.
SIR FARLY: This next war was a long war…a war that didn’t bring Range peace even with its conclusion.
SIR FARLY: The Russians also felt Range’s wrath for Austria's move.
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I love the effect using real, printed letters can have; it works brilliantly here.
Thank you. I appreciate that. I always wonder if anyone really cares about touches such as letters.
They can add a degree of depth/realism...nice to see Transylvania still prospering
And, it's fun, too! Prospering and surviving. If France didn't have such low stability they would have probably started a war with Transylvania. Still, there are easier targets. But, I will have to take them on eventually.
TRANSYLVANIA
Entry 49
Holland
The great people of Holland, merchants, sailors, architects, and painters known worldwide, were proud of their accomplishments. They had faced the fury of mother nature and was holding her at bay.
The land known as Holland had never been stable. The Rhine and the Meuse was constantly flooding in an area that was mainly marsh and bog. But, the souls of this land drained the land to farm. This too worked against them as the draining of the land caused soil shrinkage…lowering the surface of the land around fifteen meters.
But, Holland found great wealth in shipping. They were traveled the seas and gained great wealth that was envied by all of Europe.
However, by the mid to late seventieth century Holland glory days were coming to an end. Gone was the hope and the dreams that Holland would one day grow into a land we know as the Netherlands. The once great navy and merchants that sailed the ocean blue throughout the known were just a memory. Now, they had much more to fear than the encroachment of sea upon their land.
War clouds were gathering ready to descend upon the tiny nation.
The people of Holland braced themselves for the inevitable attack. Ever since the Pope had excommunicated Queen Jacquette of Holland, the entire nation knew their fate. It was only a matter of time. All that was left to be determined was who would bring their nation to their knees.
Less than month later, Louis XV of France sent a warning to the queen of Holland. The French warning meant one thing, prepare for war.
Louis XV (the beloved) - A much too young monarch.
Philippe II Duke of Orleans (regent)
But, the French weren’t the only country interested in coastal country. Range had also taken an interest in Holland.
Range had laid an imaginary line on his Europe map. That line separated Holland from France’s territories as if the little country already belonged to Transylvania. He had no intention of allowing France to take any land on his side of the border. "Kingdoms and countries on our side of the border can remain free if that's how its to end, but no country or kingdom on our side of the border will become French possession."
Range’s imaginary line ran from southern part of Holland, dipping southeast to Baden, all the way south to Liguria. France would be on one side, everybody else would be on the Transylvanian side. He had also circled Italy in Red…The task was set, He would have to eventually take Italy along a few other currently French owned land before he could claim that the Eastern Roman Empire had risen from the ashes. Another sore point was that there was also some land that the Ottomans had that they would have to release as well. The question was when would be the best time to attack the French.
To this point Range had been successful in keeping France on the other side of the line by taking as many little countries that France had its eyes on, by gobbling them up in making them vassals or annexing them. But, now France had trained its gaze on Holland. Range knew he had to act quickly.
With military access Range moved twenty men into Utrecht (located just across the border from Holland)…hours later word reached Amsterdam that Range declared war on Holland.
It wasn’t much of a war. But, just having to move against Holland made Range grow tired of Vatican’s antics. “I didn’t want to do it…but, what else could I do? It was either us or the French…at least my way, they can continue to live the way they want…but, under our rule. That seems to me that they’re getting the better of the deal…us instead of the French.”
He looked at the person that had entered the room, surprised to see who it was.
Alina has returned from up line.
RANGE: You aged.
ALINA: Yes, six years…I did it for you...for us.
RANGE: Only six and not sixteen years…as someone else did…not that I’m thinking of mentioning any names mind you?
ALINA: Don't you think six years was enough?
Alina then drew Range’s dirk and playfully pressed its tip against Range’s throat.
ALINA: (cont) This is your final chance Range…marry me, or face the consequences.
RANGE: Six years…that would make you…what twenty-two?
Range began to grin out the side of his mouth.
ALINA: That's right…(pause) Well, what’s your answer?
RANGE: Sure, I’ll marry you…now that you’re of the marrying age…at least now, I wouldn't be robbing the cradle so to speak. How would like to be Queen of Holland?
ALINA: I don’t want to be queen of any country. I want to be your wife.
RANGE: (beat) I think you misunderstand me. (pause) All right then. It’s the soldier’s life for us.
Entry 49
Holland
The great people of Holland, merchants, sailors, architects, and painters known worldwide, were proud of their accomplishments. They had faced the fury of mother nature and was holding her at bay.
The land known as Holland had never been stable. The Rhine and the Meuse was constantly flooding in an area that was mainly marsh and bog. But, the souls of this land drained the land to farm. This too worked against them as the draining of the land caused soil shrinkage…lowering the surface of the land around fifteen meters.
But, Holland found great wealth in shipping. They were traveled the seas and gained great wealth that was envied by all of Europe.
However, by the mid to late seventieth century Holland glory days were coming to an end. Gone was the hope and the dreams that Holland would one day grow into a land we know as the Netherlands. The once great navy and merchants that sailed the ocean blue throughout the known were just a memory. Now, they had much more to fear than the encroachment of sea upon their land.
War clouds were gathering ready to descend upon the tiny nation.
The people of Holland braced themselves for the inevitable attack. Ever since the Pope had excommunicated Queen Jacquette of Holland, the entire nation knew their fate. It was only a matter of time. All that was left to be determined was who would bring their nation to their knees.
Less than month later, Louis XV of France sent a warning to the queen of Holland. The French warning meant one thing, prepare for war.
Louis XV (the beloved) - A much too young monarch.
Philippe II Duke of Orleans (regent)
But, the French weren’t the only country interested in coastal country. Range had also taken an interest in Holland.
Range had laid an imaginary line on his Europe map. That line separated Holland from France’s territories as if the little country already belonged to Transylvania. He had no intention of allowing France to take any land on his side of the border. "Kingdoms and countries on our side of the border can remain free if that's how its to end, but no country or kingdom on our side of the border will become French possession."
Range’s imaginary line ran from southern part of Holland, dipping southeast to Baden, all the way south to Liguria. France would be on one side, everybody else would be on the Transylvanian side. He had also circled Italy in Red…The task was set, He would have to eventually take Italy along a few other currently French owned land before he could claim that the Eastern Roman Empire had risen from the ashes. Another sore point was that there was also some land that the Ottomans had that they would have to release as well. The question was when would be the best time to attack the French.
To this point Range had been successful in keeping France on the other side of the line by taking as many little countries that France had its eyes on, by gobbling them up in making them vassals or annexing them. But, now France had trained its gaze on Holland. Range knew he had to act quickly.
With military access Range moved twenty men into Utrecht (located just across the border from Holland)…hours later word reached Amsterdam that Range declared war on Holland.
It wasn’t much of a war. But, just having to move against Holland made Range grow tired of Vatican’s antics. “I didn’t want to do it…but, what else could I do? It was either us or the French…at least my way, they can continue to live the way they want…but, under our rule. That seems to me that they’re getting the better of the deal…us instead of the French.”
He looked at the person that had entered the room, surprised to see who it was.
Alina has returned from up line.
RANGE: You aged.
ALINA: Yes, six years…I did it for you...for us.
RANGE: Only six and not sixteen years…as someone else did…not that I’m thinking of mentioning any names mind you?
ALINA: Don't you think six years was enough?
Alina then drew Range’s dirk and playfully pressed its tip against Range’s throat.
ALINA: (cont) This is your final chance Range…marry me, or face the consequences.
RANGE: Six years…that would make you…what twenty-two?
Range began to grin out the side of his mouth.
ALINA: That's right…(pause) Well, what’s your answer?
RANGE: Sure, I’ll marry you…now that you’re of the marrying age…at least now, I wouldn't be robbing the cradle so to speak. How would like to be Queen of Holland?
ALINA: I don’t want to be queen of any country. I want to be your wife.
RANGE: (beat) I think you misunderstand me. (pause) All right then. It’s the soldier’s life for us.
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TRANSYLVANIA
Entry 50
When the word reached Paris that the war was over, Philippe II (Regent) received a strange request. Range of Transylvania wanted to spend his honeymoon with Alina, his new bride, in Paris, France.
PHILIPPE II: Of course…anything for love and an ally. Is this not so my love?
Philippe with his mistress Marie-Therese de Parabere.
On their honeymoon, Range and Alina got to know the young king. They got sort of kick out the little guy in the way he tried to be so grown up. Alina had to keep telling Range that one day they would be enemies.
The relations between Transylvania and France had suffered greatly due to the previous war, dropping to 140…mostly due to the annexation of Holland…a prize that France had their eye on. In an attempt to make amends Range offered 60 ducats to raise the relations between the two nations.
That worked. But Philippe mentioned a war with Sokoto…a meaningless war and a possible load on Transylvania’s war weariness. A week later, Transylvania was dragged into a war against Sokoto that lasted six months and ended in a white peace.
Range real goal was to wipe Austria from the map and the war with Sokoto only delayed his plans.
AUSTRIA
Vienna, Austria 4 January 1718.
King Charles III of Austria.
King Charles in reading the declaration of War, felt somewhat relieved that he wouldn’t be fighting this war against Transylvania alone…Russia, along with Saxony, Palatinate and Magdeburg had agreed to come onto his side in an attempt to fight Transylvania…all their vassals, and France.
It was massacre…the two biggest armies in the world descended on Austria and its allies like a tidal wave…quickly blotting all hope of these nations and kingdoms hopes of surviving.
Palatinate fell first, becoming a vassal only because Range didn’t want to go over the infamy points…he needed them for Austria and Russian provinces.
Austria surrendered next…ceding five of their remaining seven provinces.
RUSSIA
As for Russia, Peter the Great was finally giving up hope of making mother Russia into a great nation.
Peter the Great
Russia’s eastern provinces were now separated from the rest of Russia.
The capital of Russia was no longer Moscow.
Entry 50
When the word reached Paris that the war was over, Philippe II (Regent) received a strange request. Range of Transylvania wanted to spend his honeymoon with Alina, his new bride, in Paris, France.
PHILIPPE II: Of course…anything for love and an ally. Is this not so my love?
Philippe with his mistress Marie-Therese de Parabere.
On their honeymoon, Range and Alina got to know the young king. They got sort of kick out the little guy in the way he tried to be so grown up. Alina had to keep telling Range that one day they would be enemies.
The relations between Transylvania and France had suffered greatly due to the previous war, dropping to 140…mostly due to the annexation of Holland…a prize that France had their eye on. In an attempt to make amends Range offered 60 ducats to raise the relations between the two nations.
That worked. But Philippe mentioned a war with Sokoto…a meaningless war and a possible load on Transylvania’s war weariness. A week later, Transylvania was dragged into a war against Sokoto that lasted six months and ended in a white peace.
Range real goal was to wipe Austria from the map and the war with Sokoto only delayed his plans.
AUSTRIA
Vienna, Austria 4 January 1718.
King Charles III of Austria.
King Charles in reading the declaration of War, felt somewhat relieved that he wouldn’t be fighting this war against Transylvania alone…Russia, along with Saxony, Palatinate and Magdeburg had agreed to come onto his side in an attempt to fight Transylvania…all their vassals, and France.
It was massacre…the two biggest armies in the world descended on Austria and its allies like a tidal wave…quickly blotting all hope of these nations and kingdoms hopes of surviving.
Palatinate fell first, becoming a vassal only because Range didn’t want to go over the infamy points…he needed them for Austria and Russian provinces.
Austria surrendered next…ceding five of their remaining seven provinces.
RUSSIA
As for Russia, Peter the Great was finally giving up hope of making mother Russia into a great nation.
Peter the Great
Russia’s eastern provinces were now separated from the rest of Russia.
The capital of Russia was no longer Moscow.
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What to do? What to do? There are so many enemies...Russia in the west, Scandinavians to the north, the Ottomans to the south, and lets not forget the French to the west. And, should I cross the infamy line?
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