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Originally posted by Lord Joseph
Brandenburg, circa 1420
Try to rename ScreenSave0.txt.
Then it will show properly.....
Heh, ok now I understand.
Thanks to Wasa and MrT for their help on the screenies, and to the Mod who so nicely changed the title of this AAR for me.
Now back to our story
Thanks to Wasa and MrT for their help on the screenies, and to the Mod who so nicely changed the title of this AAR for me.
Now back to our story
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“I was quite impressed with your thought process in there, but tell me how it is that a boy so young reaches such a lofty position so quickly?” Baron Von Friesack’s curiosity had gotten the best of him; it wasn’t often that he respected anyone, let alone a boy who disagreed with his political policy.
“Well milord, I am a distant cousin to the Margrave, and his highness saw fit to bestow upon me and my young bride the lands of Madgeburg.”
“But how is it that someone so young has found such favor in the eyes of the Elector-Prince?”
“My mother was raised with Friedrich’s wife in Bavaria, so when she died of a mysterious disease during my childhood, the wife of our ruler took a special liking to my brother any I. Apparently I dealt with the pain better than some, for my brother died of a broken heart a few months after my mother’s passing. My father was a distant cousin of Friedrich, and he served him faithfully for these years as an officer in his army. My Father was killed, under mysterious and tragic circumstances, during the siege of Madgeburg, and that is how I came into the favor of Friedrich. I had been tutoring young Friedrich II, now nine years old, during my father’s military service. When word of his death reached Berlin, I was devastated. Friedrich bestowed a young Polish girl upon me as my wife, and when the lands of Madgeburg were annexed, he needed a loyal man of noble birth to rule. Because I was already living within his household, he needn’t have looked far.”
This explained the strange familiarity that Von Friesack had sensed during the council of nobles, and perhaps the boy would yet prove useful in the political maneuvering of 15th century politics.
“Your past has weighed heavily upon you, but you will be strong because of it. I also lost my parents when I was a young boy, and I have found it difficult to bear. I trust that you have already made arrangements for your new home in Madgeburg?”
“Some milord, but I have never been much of a home-maker.”
“Hah! We have more in common than you may think, allow me to take care of such details, they have people employed for just that service. I suppose that this cordial meeting must draw to a close, for I have many pressing affairs of state to tend to. I bid you a good day, Baron Von Madgeburg.”
“It has been an honor, milord.”
“Why, Baron, do you insist on referring to me in such lofty rhetoric? Am I not your equal in society? I envision a great political future for you, my friend. I am certain that this shall not be our final encounter.”
“Well milord, I am a distant cousin to the Margrave, and his highness saw fit to bestow upon me and my young bride the lands of Madgeburg.”
“But how is it that someone so young has found such favor in the eyes of the Elector-Prince?”
“My mother was raised with Friedrich’s wife in Bavaria, so when she died of a mysterious disease during my childhood, the wife of our ruler took a special liking to my brother any I. Apparently I dealt with the pain better than some, for my brother died of a broken heart a few months after my mother’s passing. My father was a distant cousin of Friedrich, and he served him faithfully for these years as an officer in his army. My Father was killed, under mysterious and tragic circumstances, during the siege of Madgeburg, and that is how I came into the favor of Friedrich. I had been tutoring young Friedrich II, now nine years old, during my father’s military service. When word of his death reached Berlin, I was devastated. Friedrich bestowed a young Polish girl upon me as my wife, and when the lands of Madgeburg were annexed, he needed a loyal man of noble birth to rule. Because I was already living within his household, he needn’t have looked far.”
This explained the strange familiarity that Von Friesack had sensed during the council of nobles, and perhaps the boy would yet prove useful in the political maneuvering of 15th century politics.
“Your past has weighed heavily upon you, but you will be strong because of it. I also lost my parents when I was a young boy, and I have found it difficult to bear. I trust that you have already made arrangements for your new home in Madgeburg?”
“Some milord, but I have never been much of a home-maker.”
“Hah! We have more in common than you may think, allow me to take care of such details, they have people employed for just that service. I suppose that this cordial meeting must draw to a close, for I have many pressing affairs of state to tend to. I bid you a good day, Baron Von Madgeburg.”
“It has been an honor, milord.”
“Why, Baron, do you insist on referring to me in such lofty rhetoric? Am I not your equal in society? I envision a great political future for you, my friend. I am certain that this shall not be our final encounter.”
“Peace is utterly boring, my friend”
Baron Von Friesack had not only taken a liking to the young Baron Von Madgeburg, but also had taken him into confidence about a number of political issues. They both agreed that the time for expansion was once again drawing near, but where? Because of the current relations with the allies, Brandenburg couldn’t afford to declare war. The only option was wait for an opportunity to manifest itself.
“Tensions grow high along the Baltic Coast. I fear an outbreak of war is imminent.” While Von Madgeburg had grown fond of the Elector-Prince’s chief advisor, he didn’t yet share the man’s political ambitions.
“Friend, what have we to fear from a war? Our allies are strong, and nothing but good can come from a conflict. I pray our Lithuanian friends will bring us into a war against the Hanseatic League.”
“You may seek conflict, friend, and we may even gain from it. But mark my words, the gains will not come cheaply.”
It was a cold winter day, February 7, 1423. The conversion had digressed from a positive, warm informal affair to utter silence. The little boy, the same one who had previously acted as Von Friesack’s messenger, appeared in the doorway.
“Milord, a message from his Majesty, Elector-Prince Friedrich. He bids you a good day and asks you both to immediately report to him. He says something about a message from Lithuania which necessitates an immediate response.”
Shoving the messenger and Von Madgeburg out of the way, Von Friesack sprinted out of the room. Von Madgeburg, after gathering himself, followed suit, again pushing the small boy to the floor.
“I’ll be damned if he is going to get to the Elector-Prince without my own opinion being heard…”
Baron Von Friesack had not only taken a liking to the young Baron Von Madgeburg, but also had taken him into confidence about a number of political issues. They both agreed that the time for expansion was once again drawing near, but where? Because of the current relations with the allies, Brandenburg couldn’t afford to declare war. The only option was wait for an opportunity to manifest itself.
“Tensions grow high along the Baltic Coast. I fear an outbreak of war is imminent.” While Von Madgeburg had grown fond of the Elector-Prince’s chief advisor, he didn’t yet share the man’s political ambitions.
“Friend, what have we to fear from a war? Our allies are strong, and nothing but good can come from a conflict. I pray our Lithuanian friends will bring us into a war against the Hanseatic League.”
“You may seek conflict, friend, and we may even gain from it. But mark my words, the gains will not come cheaply.”
It was a cold winter day, February 7, 1423. The conversion had digressed from a positive, warm informal affair to utter silence. The little boy, the same one who had previously acted as Von Friesack’s messenger, appeared in the doorway.
“Milord, a message from his Majesty, Elector-Prince Friedrich. He bids you a good day and asks you both to immediately report to him. He says something about a message from Lithuania which necessitates an immediate response.”
Shoving the messenger and Von Madgeburg out of the way, Von Friesack sprinted out of the room. Von Madgeburg, after gathering himself, followed suit, again pushing the small boy to the floor.
“I’ll be damned if he is going to get to the Elector-Prince without my own opinion being heard…”
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“Well, it is very nice to see your rapid response to my invitation, kind gentlemen.”
The two young noblemen were bent over at the waist, in a desperate attempt to catch their breath. Despite Von Friesack’s head start, the two had reached the royal chambers almost simultaneously. Now the real debate began, and Baron Von Friesack spoke first.
“Milord, we have patiently awaited an opportunity to test our military capabilities and expand northward. Surely now that such an opportunity has presented itself, you shall not turn and tuck tail because of a few German minors. I didn’t view milord as another Saxon…”
A truly compelling argument, for Friedrich turned rose red at the comparison to the Margrave of Saxony. There was little in the world he disliked more than Albrecht III of Saxony, but Von Friesack’s insult would have to be taken, for now.
“Milord, with respects to the noble Baron’s position, perhaps we should more closely evaluate what this war would entail. Not only would it bring us into war with the Teutonic Order, Prussia, Holstein, Mecklenburg, Bremen, and Pommern; it would also leave our flanks dangerously open in the south. Our army is strong, but it is not large. It currently stands at only nine thousand men, and six thousand cavalrymen. The question is, does milord really wish to spread his resources so thin?”
The bickering between them continued. Friedrich shifted his focus to the palace windows- why, it was snowing outside. Von Friesack had mentioned several times the city of Mecklenburg, and its importance as a center of trade. Friedrich hated making decisions, those were up to the nobles. The job of a ruler wasn’t to rule- that was foolishness. The job of a ruler is to sit back and enjoy life, leaving the rest up to the loyal nobles who would never betray his trust…
The two young noblemen were bent over at the waist, in a desperate attempt to catch their breath. Despite Von Friesack’s head start, the two had reached the royal chambers almost simultaneously. Now the real debate began, and Baron Von Friesack spoke first.
“Milord, we have patiently awaited an opportunity to test our military capabilities and expand northward. Surely now that such an opportunity has presented itself, you shall not turn and tuck tail because of a few German minors. I didn’t view milord as another Saxon…”
A truly compelling argument, for Friedrich turned rose red at the comparison to the Margrave of Saxony. There was little in the world he disliked more than Albrecht III of Saxony, but Von Friesack’s insult would have to be taken, for now.
“Milord, with respects to the noble Baron’s position, perhaps we should more closely evaluate what this war would entail. Not only would it bring us into war with the Teutonic Order, Prussia, Holstein, Mecklenburg, Bremen, and Pommern; it would also leave our flanks dangerously open in the south. Our army is strong, but it is not large. It currently stands at only nine thousand men, and six thousand cavalrymen. The question is, does milord really wish to spread his resources so thin?”
The bickering between them continued. Friedrich shifted his focus to the palace windows- why, it was snowing outside. Von Friesack had mentioned several times the city of Mecklenburg, and its importance as a center of trade. Friedrich hated making decisions, those were up to the nobles. The job of a ruler wasn’t to rule- that was foolishness. The job of a ruler is to sit back and enjoy life, leaving the rest up to the loyal nobles who would never betray his trust…
“Milord… Milord? Yo, dinkus!”
Friedrich awoke from his relatively sub-conscious state at the prodding of Von Friesack. What did they want? A decision, who did they think he was?
“Milord, whilst the noble Baron Von Madgeburg has some poignant advice, and his council is wise, we have no choice in this matter. If we chose to dishonor the alliance, we will be labeled as turn coats. We may be next on the list of targets for the Polish alliance, and I would rather face the Saxons and Hanseatic League than Poland, Lithuania and Bohemia. What’s more, our country needs wealth. The port of Mecklenburg is rich, and it would be a prudent decision to annex it before someone else does. It is my advice that our army be sent immediately to Mecklenburg, and that we aim to pursue peace with the other members of the Hanseatic League.”
“If I may interject, perhaps it would be wise to recruit a second army at home, to defend against any unforeseen eventualities. If milord would order this much, I would be happy to fully support Von Friesack’s action.”
“Very well, it pleases me to see my two most-trusted nobles coming to an agreement. I will take Von Madgeburg’s advice, and a new army will be raised at the earliest convenient time. You have my permission to issues military orders as you see fit, Baron Von Friesack. I hope both of you will be remaining in Berlin during this affair, for your prudent advice is vital to the political welfare of the state. Good day gentlemen, I shall now return to enjoying the beauty of the falling snow.”
Both men stated “Good day milord”, in chorus. Neither was particularly satisfied nor dissatisfied with the progress of the meeting. Neither had fully gotten what he wanted, but both had received part of their plan. This served to make each bitter towards their master, but no more bitter to each other. But really, what kind of leader observes the new fallen snow when his country is on the brink of war?
Friedrich awoke from his relatively sub-conscious state at the prodding of Von Friesack. What did they want? A decision, who did they think he was?
“Milord, whilst the noble Baron Von Madgeburg has some poignant advice, and his council is wise, we have no choice in this matter. If we chose to dishonor the alliance, we will be labeled as turn coats. We may be next on the list of targets for the Polish alliance, and I would rather face the Saxons and Hanseatic League than Poland, Lithuania and Bohemia. What’s more, our country needs wealth. The port of Mecklenburg is rich, and it would be a prudent decision to annex it before someone else does. It is my advice that our army be sent immediately to Mecklenburg, and that we aim to pursue peace with the other members of the Hanseatic League.”
“If I may interject, perhaps it would be wise to recruit a second army at home, to defend against any unforeseen eventualities. If milord would order this much, I would be happy to fully support Von Friesack’s action.”
“Very well, it pleases me to see my two most-trusted nobles coming to an agreement. I will take Von Madgeburg’s advice, and a new army will be raised at the earliest convenient time. You have my permission to issues military orders as you see fit, Baron Von Friesack. I hope both of you will be remaining in Berlin during this affair, for your prudent advice is vital to the political welfare of the state. Good day gentlemen, I shall now return to enjoying the beauty of the falling snow.”
Both men stated “Good day milord”, in chorus. Neither was particularly satisfied nor dissatisfied with the progress of the meeting. Neither had fully gotten what he wanted, but both had received part of their plan. This served to make each bitter towards their master, but no more bitter to each other. But really, what kind of leader observes the new fallen snow when his country is on the brink of war?
Astute observation
This is really well-written. I'm looking forward to further adventures.
You're far too kind, LD- check your PM though.
This AAR is much different from my others. I took almost a full page to describe the events of the first few months. Its going to prove to be very long... but if i ever try to give up on it, slap me or something... I haven't finished one yet.
On the brink of war... more installments to follow shortly.
This AAR is much different from my others. I took almost a full page to describe the events of the first few months. Its going to prove to be very long... but if i ever try to give up on it, slap me or something... I haven't finished one yet.
On the brink of war... more installments to follow shortly.
“What’s not to enjoy, my noble friend?” Baron Von Friesack’s mood had grown considerably more positive since he received word of the army’s arrival in Mecklenburg. “It is a beautiful spring day, our armies are marching on to victory; we have nothing to fear!”
The April morn brought an uncharacteristically cold spell, but Von Friesack hardly noticed. His gloating over the past two days had begun to lose its charm to Baron Von Madgeburg, but the boy showed patience beyond his years in humoring his noble companion.
“You’re quite right my friend, it just all seems a bit to easy. Our army decimated the Mecklenburg garrison, all but two thousand who fled to Pommern. Prussia has already asked us for white peace, thus securing our sovereignty in dealing with the rest of the alliance. It was a brilliant foresight on your part, now we can act totally independent of Lithuania, and don’t have to worry about being conned out of our rightful bounty.”
“Sir, I don’t really understand. Why was it important for us to make peace with Prussia, they don’t even share a border with us.” Dimitri was not nearly as adept at understanding foreign affairs as he was in handling his master’s moods. Ever since he had been given to Von Friesack as a gift from Friedrich, his constant questions had irritated his master. Von Friesack has twice been tempted to have the boy killed, but he did serve a purpose. He insured his master didn’t forget to eat, sleep, or bathe, all of which he had tended to do when wrapped up in affairs of state.
“My servant, do you know what a separate peace is?”
“No, milord, I do not.”
“In simpleton’s terms (the only which you could hope to understand), the leader of the alliance has the power to make peace for the whole of the alliance. By making peace with Prussia, we insured or political independence from Lithuania’s diplomats.”
Von Madgeburg admired his peer for his delicate handling of the foreign servant. For as rough as his exterior appeared, he really wasn’t as bad as they made him out to be. If only the other nobles could see that side of him, perhaps their hatred of him would fade.
“My friend, while I sincerely congratulate you on your brilliant planning, I can’t help but feel there is something we aren’t seeing.” Von Madgeburg was genuinely concerned, but he couldn’t quite his finger on why.
“I know the feeling, my noble friend. I can’t help but think that this might have been a bit to easy.”
This was also a genuine statement by Von Friesack. He was an ego-driven man by nature, but even he never foresaw the ease with which this plan had unfolded. Everything had gone exactly according to how Von Friesack had hoped, but that within itself frightened him.
The April morn brought an uncharacteristically cold spell, but Von Friesack hardly noticed. His gloating over the past two days had begun to lose its charm to Baron Von Madgeburg, but the boy showed patience beyond his years in humoring his noble companion.
“You’re quite right my friend, it just all seems a bit to easy. Our army decimated the Mecklenburg garrison, all but two thousand who fled to Pommern. Prussia has already asked us for white peace, thus securing our sovereignty in dealing with the rest of the alliance. It was a brilliant foresight on your part, now we can act totally independent of Lithuania, and don’t have to worry about being conned out of our rightful bounty.”
“Sir, I don’t really understand. Why was it important for us to make peace with Prussia, they don’t even share a border with us.” Dimitri was not nearly as adept at understanding foreign affairs as he was in handling his master’s moods. Ever since he had been given to Von Friesack as a gift from Friedrich, his constant questions had irritated his master. Von Friesack has twice been tempted to have the boy killed, but he did serve a purpose. He insured his master didn’t forget to eat, sleep, or bathe, all of which he had tended to do when wrapped up in affairs of state.
“My servant, do you know what a separate peace is?”
“No, milord, I do not.”
“In simpleton’s terms (the only which you could hope to understand), the leader of the alliance has the power to make peace for the whole of the alliance. By making peace with Prussia, we insured or political independence from Lithuania’s diplomats.”
Von Madgeburg admired his peer for his delicate handling of the foreign servant. For as rough as his exterior appeared, he really wasn’t as bad as they made him out to be. If only the other nobles could see that side of him, perhaps their hatred of him would fade.
“My friend, while I sincerely congratulate you on your brilliant planning, I can’t help but feel there is something we aren’t seeing.” Von Madgeburg was genuinely concerned, but he couldn’t quite his finger on why.
“I know the feeling, my noble friend. I can’t help but think that this might have been a bit to easy.”
This was also a genuine statement by Von Friesack. He was an ego-driven man by nature, but even he never foresaw the ease with which this plan had unfolded. Everything had gone exactly according to how Von Friesack had hoped, but that within itself frightened him.
“Milord, with respect, PACK FASTER!”
“Calm yourself Dimitri, don’t you have other masters to bother?”
“No milord, you are high-maintenance enough to warrant special attention.”
It took close to five months, but Baron Von Friesack had finally realized what he had failed to account for. They had planned beautifully the attack on Mecklenburg, which was still under siege. Unfortunately, they had failed to account for the forty-five thousand men marching in a united army from Bremen, Holstein, and Pommern. That army was but a few days march from Berlin, and the royal court was to take an impromptu vacation to Madgeburg.
“Dimitri, why is it that we do not stay and fight these aggressors? Are we not a proud nation that will not sit by and watch our capitol looted and plundered?”
“Milord, the pride and respect of your nation are not at issue here. You ask me why we must leave? May I humbly suggest that the orders issued to the military sent all of your forces to Mecklenburg, leaving none to defend your homeland. Wisdom is far better than valor, and the prudent decision would be to humbly withdraw from this place, until which time as we can safely return.”
Von Friesack couldn’t help but think his servant was secretly laughing at him. He had been a fool. Even the young Von Madgeburg had foreseen the need for a defense detachment, but Von Friesack had not heeded such advice.
“Is the Elector-Prince ready to depart Dimitri?”
“I couldn’t answer that, milord.”
“Well, would it be possible for you to GO FIND OUT?”
“Yes, of course, milord.”
At least Von Friesack had a moments rest from his indignant servant. His personal belongings were long since packed, for Dimitri had taken care of that. He was taking much longer to gather important documents and correspondences. He was a meticulous record keeper, and these could prove vitally important to the nation, as well as his own future, should the fall into the wrong hands. No one but himself knew what was in the various letters, and he had every intention of keeping it that way.
“Milord, Prince Friedrich bids you a good day, and respectfully requests that you join him in departure immediately, for the enemy is but a few days from this place.”
“Very well, let us depart for Madgeburg.”
“Calm yourself Dimitri, don’t you have other masters to bother?”
“No milord, you are high-maintenance enough to warrant special attention.”
It took close to five months, but Baron Von Friesack had finally realized what he had failed to account for. They had planned beautifully the attack on Mecklenburg, which was still under siege. Unfortunately, they had failed to account for the forty-five thousand men marching in a united army from Bremen, Holstein, and Pommern. That army was but a few days march from Berlin, and the royal court was to take an impromptu vacation to Madgeburg.
“Dimitri, why is it that we do not stay and fight these aggressors? Are we not a proud nation that will not sit by and watch our capitol looted and plundered?”
“Milord, the pride and respect of your nation are not at issue here. You ask me why we must leave? May I humbly suggest that the orders issued to the military sent all of your forces to Mecklenburg, leaving none to defend your homeland. Wisdom is far better than valor, and the prudent decision would be to humbly withdraw from this place, until which time as we can safely return.”
Von Friesack couldn’t help but think his servant was secretly laughing at him. He had been a fool. Even the young Von Madgeburg had foreseen the need for a defense detachment, but Von Friesack had not heeded such advice.
“Is the Elector-Prince ready to depart Dimitri?”
“I couldn’t answer that, milord.”
“Well, would it be possible for you to GO FIND OUT?”
“Yes, of course, milord.”
At least Von Friesack had a moments rest from his indignant servant. His personal belongings were long since packed, for Dimitri had taken care of that. He was taking much longer to gather important documents and correspondences. He was a meticulous record keeper, and these could prove vitally important to the nation, as well as his own future, should the fall into the wrong hands. No one but himself knew what was in the various letters, and he had every intention of keeping it that way.
“Milord, Prince Friedrich bids you a good day, and respectfully requests that you join him in departure immediately, for the enemy is but a few days from this place.”
“Very well, let us depart for Madgeburg.”
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For a mid-September day, the temperature was unseasonably warm. The pleasant weather did little to sweeten the demeanor of Baron Von Friesack, for the previous days carriage ride had rendered his back tender, to say the least. It had taken a week for the procession of nobleman, state employees, and servants to move through the forests of Brandenburg and to cross the plains of eastern Madgeburg. It wasn’t until last night that they had reached the home of Von Madgeburg, and it was not a day too soon for Von Friesack.
“Dimitri, what is it that made that carriage ride so unpleasant?”
“Milord, the autumn rain has made the roads treacherous, and the condition of the roads leave something to be desired.”
“What of the tax collector in this district, surely he has taken measures to improve the transportation system.”
“Milord, you haven’t yet hired a tax collector in this province, only in Berlin.”
“Ah, you are quite right Dimitri, but could you please make a personal note of that, for I must take care of it as soon as possible.”
“Certainly my lord.”
Baron Von Madgeburg had taken drastic steps to insure the comfort of his noble company. He had hired out every available local servant to see that their every need was met. With this said, he was still not a man for fine dining and social outings. He met the Elector-Prince and Von Friesack at the gates to his home.
“Would you give me the honor of updating you on our current state of affairs? I have prepared a map, if you will follow me.”
State of Brandenburg, 1423
“Dimitri, what is it that made that carriage ride so unpleasant?”
“Milord, the autumn rain has made the roads treacherous, and the condition of the roads leave something to be desired.”
“What of the tax collector in this district, surely he has taken measures to improve the transportation system.”
“Milord, you haven’t yet hired a tax collector in this province, only in Berlin.”
“Ah, you are quite right Dimitri, but could you please make a personal note of that, for I must take care of it as soon as possible.”
“Certainly my lord.”
Baron Von Madgeburg had taken drastic steps to insure the comfort of his noble company. He had hired out every available local servant to see that their every need was met. With this said, he was still not a man for fine dining and social outings. He met the Elector-Prince and Von Friesack at the gates to his home.
“Would you give me the honor of updating you on our current state of affairs? I have prepared a map, if you will follow me.”
State of Brandenburg, 1423
“Milord, when can I expect the men you promised to recruit, for the defense of our realm?” It had become public knowledge amongst the noblemen that the Elector-Prince was most vulnerable during the early hours of the morning, on each January 1st. Baron Von Madgeburg had hoped that he might convince the ruler to sign over the annual census tax before Von Friesack even awoke.
“Friend, you are like a son to me, but even a son dares not disturb his father the mourn after such a celebration as you threw last night.”
“I will take that as the sincerest compliment, milord, but that doesn’t change the nature of my visit here. You promised me that you would recruit troops at the earliest possible convenient time, and there is no time…”
“I hope I am not interrupting gentlemen.” Baron Von Friesack apparently had similar thoughts to those of Von Madgeburg, just a little too slow. “What business is of such importance that a meeting is necessary at this hour of the day?”
“Why Baron Von Friesack, young Madgeburg and myself were just discussing how this years census should be spent. What say you?”
“Why it is quite obvious, milord, that the best place for the census tax is in the improvement of our infrastructure. With the war taxes I ordered, we have 100 ducats, enough to place a pair of tax collectors in Küstrin and Madgeburg.”
The other two men glanced bewilderedly at one another. Baron Von Madgeburg spoke first.
“Friend, our capital is besieged by the enemy. The money is best spent in recruiting armies to fight them! Surely you do not believe that the tax collectors will fight off the twenty-five thousand men that are currently camped around Berlin.”
“You speak boldly, young friend, but your boldness might have clouded your judgment. Think about it. How many men could we raise with a measly 100 ducats? Surely we cannot recruit enough men to fight off an army that size. Our Polish allies will liberate the city soon enough, so why should we waste out limited funds doing a job which our allies can do for us?”
“Your peer speaks wisely, young Baron. Very well Baron Von Friesack, you have the authority to use the funds by whatever means you deem proper.”
“Thank you milord.” Von Friesack retreated to his temporary chambers, on the second floor of Von Madgeburg’s home. The young Baron tried to stop him, begging further debate on the subject, but Friesack had nothing more to gain from discussion. He had gotten his way, which was the important thing. The fact that normally he would have agreed with Madgeburg wasn’t important; the fact that his authority was still unquestioned was what really mattered.
“Friend, you are like a son to me, but even a son dares not disturb his father the mourn after such a celebration as you threw last night.”
“I will take that as the sincerest compliment, milord, but that doesn’t change the nature of my visit here. You promised me that you would recruit troops at the earliest possible convenient time, and there is no time…”
“I hope I am not interrupting gentlemen.” Baron Von Friesack apparently had similar thoughts to those of Von Madgeburg, just a little too slow. “What business is of such importance that a meeting is necessary at this hour of the day?”
“Why Baron Von Friesack, young Madgeburg and myself were just discussing how this years census should be spent. What say you?”
“Why it is quite obvious, milord, that the best place for the census tax is in the improvement of our infrastructure. With the war taxes I ordered, we have 100 ducats, enough to place a pair of tax collectors in Küstrin and Madgeburg.”
The other two men glanced bewilderedly at one another. Baron Von Madgeburg spoke first.
“Friend, our capital is besieged by the enemy. The money is best spent in recruiting armies to fight them! Surely you do not believe that the tax collectors will fight off the twenty-five thousand men that are currently camped around Berlin.”
“You speak boldly, young friend, but your boldness might have clouded your judgment. Think about it. How many men could we raise with a measly 100 ducats? Surely we cannot recruit enough men to fight off an army that size. Our Polish allies will liberate the city soon enough, so why should we waste out limited funds doing a job which our allies can do for us?”
“Your peer speaks wisely, young Baron. Very well Baron Von Friesack, you have the authority to use the funds by whatever means you deem proper.”
“Thank you milord.” Von Friesack retreated to his temporary chambers, on the second floor of Von Madgeburg’s home. The young Baron tried to stop him, begging further debate on the subject, but Friesack had nothing more to gain from discussion. He had gotten his way, which was the important thing. The fact that normally he would have agreed with Madgeburg wasn’t important; the fact that his authority was still unquestioned was what really mattered.
“What was that all about?” Baron Von Madgeburg had not found much pleasure in Friesack’s show of political power.
“What would you have had me do? You know our plan. You know that we cannot have the Elector-Prince divided on whom to listen to. You shouldn’t have gone there this morning, what business had you to do so?”
“I suppose I just wanted some credit from him, for this isn’t only your plan. You know that as well as I do. Friesack, why would you risk our country’s well being for the sake of political power. If this country implodes, what good will it do you?”
“Friend, the words I spoke in the chambers had credence. We cannot raise a force to oppose the enemy’s army. We will have to wait for the Poles to aide us, or for the separate enemy states to grow weary of the war and offer us white peace. In the worst case, we can always order Baron Von Liebenwalde to retake the provinces later.”
“Liebenwalde is but a feeble old man, he has no business commanding an army.”
“Both of us know this to be true, but he still holds favor with the Margrave. When the time is appropriate, you will have your rightful place as head of the military, and I will gain more political power.”
“What would you have had me do? You know our plan. You know that we cannot have the Elector-Prince divided on whom to listen to. You shouldn’t have gone there this morning, what business had you to do so?”
“I suppose I just wanted some credit from him, for this isn’t only your plan. You know that as well as I do. Friesack, why would you risk our country’s well being for the sake of political power. If this country implodes, what good will it do you?”
“Friend, the words I spoke in the chambers had credence. We cannot raise a force to oppose the enemy’s army. We will have to wait for the Poles to aide us, or for the separate enemy states to grow weary of the war and offer us white peace. In the worst case, we can always order Baron Von Liebenwalde to retake the provinces later.”
“Liebenwalde is but a feeble old man, he has no business commanding an army.”
“Both of us know this to be true, but he still holds favor with the Margrave. When the time is appropriate, you will have your rightful place as head of the military, and I will gain more political power.”
“Friend, we are screwed.”
Baron Von Madgeburg’s words cut through the chilled February air. While the Brandenburg army was north of the Elbe besieging Mecklenburg, the Saxons made the decision to press their advantage. The Saxon messenger had just delivered the official declaration of war to the temporary royal headquarters in the home of Baron Von Madgeburg. The messenger had been rewarded with a sword to his gullet, but that didn’t solve the problem of what to do now.
**THUD**
“And our noble leader, Elector-Prince Friedrich I, collapses. Who made this guy leader anyway?”
“Actually, the house of Hohenzollern was instituted by Holy Roman Emperor Sigismund in…”
“Lord Madgeburg, that was a rhetorical question.”
“Of course… but friend, what are we to do about the Saxon-Hannover alliance?”
“We shall call upon our allies for help, and pray Mecklenburg falls soon.”
“Lithuania and Bohemia will never honor our plea for help.”
“Brandenburg does not plea for help, Baron. We are merely obligating them to honor the agreement they made, should they refuse the international community will judge them accordingly. Perhaps the Poles will convince their neighbors to come to their senses, in any case, we cannot fight these aggressors alone. In the end, we have no choice.”
“I fear that the sins of our past might be coming back to haunt us.”
“Friend, we have done nothing of which we need repent. The Poles are currently gathering forces in Küstrin, and soon they will liberate our capital. You will see, this will all turn out fine. I have many things to attend to now, my friend. Could you see that the letters are sent to our allies, I must contact Baron Von Liebenwalde in Mecklenburg.”
For all the confidence Von Friesack showed, he too had all sorts of thoughts raking his mind. “This wasn’t what was supposed to happen, but perhaps it will prove an opportunity. In any case, I hope the international community doesn’t judge our harsh treatment of the messenger, I swear he slipped on the palace steps or something…”
Baron Von Madgeburg’s words cut through the chilled February air. While the Brandenburg army was north of the Elbe besieging Mecklenburg, the Saxons made the decision to press their advantage. The Saxon messenger had just delivered the official declaration of war to the temporary royal headquarters in the home of Baron Von Madgeburg. The messenger had been rewarded with a sword to his gullet, but that didn’t solve the problem of what to do now.
**THUD**
“And our noble leader, Elector-Prince Friedrich I, collapses. Who made this guy leader anyway?”
“Actually, the house of Hohenzollern was instituted by Holy Roman Emperor Sigismund in…”
“Lord Madgeburg, that was a rhetorical question.”
“Of course… but friend, what are we to do about the Saxon-Hannover alliance?”
“We shall call upon our allies for help, and pray Mecklenburg falls soon.”
“Lithuania and Bohemia will never honor our plea for help.”
“Brandenburg does not plea for help, Baron. We are merely obligating them to honor the agreement they made, should they refuse the international community will judge them accordingly. Perhaps the Poles will convince their neighbors to come to their senses, in any case, we cannot fight these aggressors alone. In the end, we have no choice.”
“I fear that the sins of our past might be coming back to haunt us.”
“Friend, we have done nothing of which we need repent. The Poles are currently gathering forces in Küstrin, and soon they will liberate our capital. You will see, this will all turn out fine. I have many things to attend to now, my friend. Could you see that the letters are sent to our allies, I must contact Baron Von Liebenwalde in Mecklenburg.”
For all the confidence Von Friesack showed, he too had all sorts of thoughts raking his mind. “This wasn’t what was supposed to happen, but perhaps it will prove an opportunity. In any case, I hope the international community doesn’t judge our harsh treatment of the messenger, I swear he slipped on the palace steps or something…”
“My honorable Prince, it is now safe for you to return to Berlin.” Baron Von Madgeburg had been waiting to be able to say those words for near a year. The Poles had come through, liberating the city just days earlier.
“This is fantastic news, but what about the Saxon army in the south, do they pose a threat to our capital?”
“Actually, they pose a considerable threat. This was the second piece of news I had for you my liege. They are eighteen thousand strong, marching on Brandenburg as we speak.”
“You are like a son, but why would you have me return only to be captured?”
“My friends!” Baron Von Friesack’s timely interrupted allowed Von Madgeburg to slip the Elector’s question, for now. “I have received news that Berlin is liberated, and it is perfectly safe for his majesty to return to his capital. I, of course, will stay here. I may better monitor the situation in Mecklenburg from this place, than from the more distant royal palace.”
“Kind advisor, Von Madgeburg tells me the Saxon army is marching on Berlin, and that they are eighteen thousand strong. What will become of me if I would go to Berlin, only to have it be captured.”
“Oh he told you that, what an observant ally.” Von Friesack’s piercing look nearly brought Madgeburg to his knees. “Milord, surely our Polish allies will be able to defeat the Saxon army, you have nothing to dear.”
“While I hope this proves true, I still think it best for me to remain here until this war is over. I am pleased to inform you, Baron Von Madgeburg, that you will enjoy my company for a bit longer.”
“I will be honored, milord.”
There was no sincerity in Madgeburg’s voice, but Von Friesack’s rage was genuine. This boy was not making it easy on him at all. He had embarrassed him in front of the Elector-Prince, not that his opinion meant much. All the same, Friesack would have to save face, which he detested profusely.
“Milord, there is good news though. Not only have our Polish allies liberated Berlin, they have also convinced Lithuania to rejoin our alliance. Only the dishonorable Bohemians remain at odds with our war, but perhaps they will come to their senses soon enough.”
“How do our diplomatic efforts proceed? Is there any hope of peace soon?”
“Milord, Baron Von Kremmen is currently visiting the cities of Bremen and Hamburg, in hopes of striking peace with those two nations, but the proceedings continue to be slowed. Until our siege of Mecklenburg is successful, I believe peace will be hard to come by.” Von Friesack hid the secret truth that he hoped for nothing more than continued failure on Kremmen’s part, but the Elector-Prince wouldn’t understand such complicated, far-sighted thinking.
“Look milord, it is snowing. Perhaps you will move to the north side of the building, to enjoy a better view?” Baron Von Madgeburg was always the courteous host, especially when he was able to dodge the question of the Prince. Why did they intend to send him to Berlin just days ahead of the Saxons? Was he really that dumb… As long as it kept snowing, he could hope to avoid any questions, but it was already March, how long could his luck last?
“This is fantastic news, but what about the Saxon army in the south, do they pose a threat to our capital?”
“Actually, they pose a considerable threat. This was the second piece of news I had for you my liege. They are eighteen thousand strong, marching on Brandenburg as we speak.”
“You are like a son, but why would you have me return only to be captured?”
“My friends!” Baron Von Friesack’s timely interrupted allowed Von Madgeburg to slip the Elector’s question, for now. “I have received news that Berlin is liberated, and it is perfectly safe for his majesty to return to his capital. I, of course, will stay here. I may better monitor the situation in Mecklenburg from this place, than from the more distant royal palace.”
“Kind advisor, Von Madgeburg tells me the Saxon army is marching on Berlin, and that they are eighteen thousand strong. What will become of me if I would go to Berlin, only to have it be captured.”
“Oh he told you that, what an observant ally.” Von Friesack’s piercing look nearly brought Madgeburg to his knees. “Milord, surely our Polish allies will be able to defeat the Saxon army, you have nothing to dear.”
“While I hope this proves true, I still think it best for me to remain here until this war is over. I am pleased to inform you, Baron Von Madgeburg, that you will enjoy my company for a bit longer.”
“I will be honored, milord.”
There was no sincerity in Madgeburg’s voice, but Von Friesack’s rage was genuine. This boy was not making it easy on him at all. He had embarrassed him in front of the Elector-Prince, not that his opinion meant much. All the same, Friesack would have to save face, which he detested profusely.
“Milord, there is good news though. Not only have our Polish allies liberated Berlin, they have also convinced Lithuania to rejoin our alliance. Only the dishonorable Bohemians remain at odds with our war, but perhaps they will come to their senses soon enough.”
“How do our diplomatic efforts proceed? Is there any hope of peace soon?”
“Milord, Baron Von Kremmen is currently visiting the cities of Bremen and Hamburg, in hopes of striking peace with those two nations, but the proceedings continue to be slowed. Until our siege of Mecklenburg is successful, I believe peace will be hard to come by.” Von Friesack hid the secret truth that he hoped for nothing more than continued failure on Kremmen’s part, but the Elector-Prince wouldn’t understand such complicated, far-sighted thinking.
“Look milord, it is snowing. Perhaps you will move to the north side of the building, to enjoy a better view?” Baron Von Madgeburg was always the courteous host, especially when he was able to dodge the question of the Prince. Why did they intend to send him to Berlin just days ahead of the Saxons? Was he really that dumb… As long as it kept snowing, he could hope to avoid any questions, but it was already March, how long could his luck last?
Hot damn LJ! This is really great. I promise to slap you silly if you even hint at abandoning it.
A response? Hot-damn! Someone actually reads this? I was beginning to wonder about a thread 35 posts long where about 28 were mine
Originally posted by Lord Joseph
A response? Hot-damn! Someone actually reads this? I was beginning to wonder about a thread 35 posts long where about 28 were mine
Yes, of course we read...and I must say: it is great!!!
Shall I make another post?