-
Because I love Europa Universalis III, and it is a strategy game that can be paused, why shouldn't I do some LPs of it on the forums?
What do you guys want me to play? I modded in Westphalia, Belgium and Yugoslavia as formable nations (easy, tricky and masochist difficulty), and Poland got its own Elective Monarchy (basically Noble Republic on steroids and some political decisions that look tempting only on paper), so I could showcase those? Otherwise, pick me a nation and I will play it. As I tinker with the EU3 code more, new things will show up probably.
The length of game would be 14th October 1399 (standard start game for In Nomine expansion and beyond) to 12th January 1848 (date I extended the game to, virtual cookies for those who understand the reference).
Please do note that while I've learned lots about the game, I'm not an highly experienced player. If you tell me to go play some tiny nation outside of HRE (for example), I will simply say no... then again, I did restore Byzantium and made Ottomans extinct ;vc
Eh, I'm sure we will be fine either way!
Part 1: The Fair Lands of Poland (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7808320#msg7808320) (Władysław II Jagiellon)
Part 2: Fighting Against the Golden Horde (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7810526#msg7810526) (Władysław II Jagiellon - Jan Albert I Gryf)
Part 1: Principality of Lippe (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7854538#msg7854538) (Bernard VI von Mecklenburg)
Part 2: Peasants OP, pls nerf (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7854576#msg7854576) (Bernard VI - Leopold I)
Part 3: Glory to Lippe... or not. ~World News Edition~ (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7854693#msg7854693) (Leopold I)
Part 4: Something about Simon, Simon, Simon, and a War (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7856498#msg7856498) (Simon III)
Part 5: LIPPE STRONK (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7856605#msg7856605) (Simon IV)
Part 6: Simon's New Coat (of Mourning) (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7857181#msg7857181) (Simon IV)
Part 7: Kaleidoscope of Infants (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7857285#msg7857285) (Simon IV)
Part 8: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Loans (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7857825#msg7857825) (Regency for Otto II)
Part 9: Imperial Shenanigans (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7858890#msg7858890) (Otto II)
Part 10: Birth of the Lemon Blob (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7858912#msg7858912) (Otto II)
Part 11: Frankfurt, Reformation, and a Rainbow Boy (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7858988#msg7858988) (Bernard VII)
Part 12: Age of Reformation (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7859118#msg7859118) (Simon V)
Part 13: Glory of Simon V von Mecklenburg! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7859365#msg7859365) (Simon V)
Part 14: Baguette Warbuddies (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7859969#msg7859969) (Simon Heinrich I)
Part 15: Too Many Calls to (Fire)Arms (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7860113#msg7860113) (Simon Heinrich I)
Part 16: Reconquest of Gelre, Collapse of the Cantons (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7860569#msg7860569) (Simon Heinrich I - Leopold II)
Part 17: The Great Bavarian War (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7860752#msg7860752) (Simon VI - Simon VII)
Part 18: Economic Recovery 10-Year Plan (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7861240#msg7861240) (Simon VII)
Part 19: One Asskicking for the Visconti Family (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7861432#msg7861432) (Simon VII)
Part 20: Asskicking Continued (ft.Prussia Boyz and The Bavarians) (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7862157#msg7862157) (Simon VII)
Part 21: The New Spa in Memel (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7862260#msg7862260) (Leopold III)
Part 22: The Many Conflicts of France (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7862660#msg7862660) (Leopold III - Simon Ludwig I)
Part 23: GULES, A FESS ARGENT (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7862699#msg7862699) (Simon Ludwig I - Simon VIII)
Part 24: Of Lubeck and Austria (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7862782#msg7862782) (Simon VIII - Stephan I)
Part 25: Organ Sounds of Dissappointment (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7862904#msg7862904) (Stephan I)
Part 26: Age of Absolutism (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7863370#msg7863370) (Stephan I - Simon August I)
Part 27: CHINA REVEALED (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7863459#msg7863459) (Simon August I - Armin I)
Part 28: Lippe Long and Prosper (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7864110#msg7864110) (Armin I)
Part 29: Conquests and Liberations (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7864839#msg7864839) (Armin I)
Part 30: Educating the Bohemian Fools (Please Pray for France) (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7864966#msg7864966) (Armin I - Simon IX - Alexander I)
Part 31: The Great War (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7865515#msg7865515) (Alexander I)
Part 32: Alexander's Diary (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7865581#msg7865581) (Alexander I)
Part 33: All the Little Wars & Simon the Sick (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7866003#msg7866003) (Alexander I - Simon X)
Part 34: The Dream of Germanic Unity (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7866127#msg7866127) (Simon XI)
Part 35: Years Be Passing By (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7866625#msg7866625) (Simon XI)
Part 36: To Trade, or Not to Trade (Greater Serbia edition) (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7866927#msg7866927) (Simon XI - Woldemar)
Part 37: Despot, But An Enlightened One (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7866975#msg7866975) (Woldemar I)
Part 38: Assassins, Socialists and Germany, Oh My! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7867059#msg7867059) (Woldemar I - Simon Heinrich II)
Part 39: Reunification War (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7867642#msg7867642) (Simon Heinrich II)
Part 40: The Heirs Be Dying (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7868231#msg7868231) (Simon Heinrich II)
Part 41: Music for the End (FINALE) (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7868739#msg7868739) (Simon Heinrich II - Christian I - Christian II)
Part 1: Hundred is Too Much; Ten is Enough (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7873922#msg7873922) (Henry IV Lancaster - Henry V)
Part 2: Escalation? = Profit! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7874139#msg7874139) (Henry V)
Part 3: No More Haggis (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7875043#msg7875043) (Henry V - Mary I)
Part 4: Mr.Howard, to the Throne Room, Please! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7875168#msg7875168) (Mary I Lancaster - Edmund I Howard)
Part 5: Edwardian Regency (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7875609#msg7875609) (Regency for Edward IV)
Part 6: Little Concessions, Great Britain! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7875724#msg7875724) (Edward IV)
Part 7: To Vinland and Beyond (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7876201#msg7876201) (Edward IV - Regency for Edward V)
Part 8: Supremacy in the East, Colonies in the West (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7876352#msg7876352) (Edward V)
Part 9: We Are Not Alone (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7877287#msg7877287) (Edward V)
Part 10: Religious Mayhem on the Horizon (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7877472#msg7877472) (Edward V - Edward VI)
Part 11: Sugar Tale of Japan and Excommunication (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7877511#msg7877511) (Edward VI)
Part 12: The Church of Great Britain, or REBELS EVERYWHERE! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7877591#msg7877591) (Edward VI - Octavius I)
Part 13: Desperate Giveaways (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7877773#msg7877773) (Maximillian I)
Part 14: Stability Returns to Britain (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7877832#msg7877832) (Anne I)
Part 15: Good Queen Anne (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7878392#msg7878392) (Anne I)
Part 16: The British India Company has Arrived! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7878506#msg7878506) (Anne I)
Part 17: All Good Things Must Come to an End (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7878606#msg7878606) (Anne I - Regency for William IV)
Part 18: The Stanleys (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7879185#msg7879185) (Interregnum - George I Stanley)
Part 19: Against the Orange Elephant (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7879831#msg7879831) (George I)
Part 20: Sweet&Hot&Spicy (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7880316#msg7880316) (George I - George II)
Part 21: A Matter of Persistence (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7881612#msg7881612) (George II)
Part 22: The Underlands (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7881841#msg7881841) (George II)
Part 23: Indian Subcontinent Distractions (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7884719#msg7884719) (George II - Frederick August I)
Part 24: Hemispheres of Warfare (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7885439#msg7885439) (Frederick August I)
Part 25: Back to the Past (and Annexation of Brunei) (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7885756#msg7885756) (Frederick August I Stanley - Frederick II Plantagenet)
Part 26: Great Britain vs Great Xin (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7885990#msg7885990) (Frederick II)
Part 27: A Cup of British India Tea (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7886388#msg7886388) (Frederick II)
Part 28: Hurrible Huron and Insolent Indians (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7886824#msg7886824) (Frederick II)
Part 29: Kicking the Guy on the Floor (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7889967#msg7889967) (Frederick II)
Part 30: Wars for Profit and Enlightenment (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7894865#msg7894865) (Frederick II)
Part 31: The Red Lion's Predicaments (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7894912#msg7894912) (Frederick II)
Part 32: Brittanian Brittany and Manchurian Misfortune (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7897165#msg7897165) (Frederick II)
Part 33: The Savant (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7898488#msg7898488) (George III)
Part 34: Oh, Canada! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7898616#msg7898616) (George III)
Part 35: Southern Vinland Fever (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7900972#msg7900972) (George III - Regency for George IV)
Part 36: The Pope Strikes Back (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7901430#msg7901430) (George IV)
Part 37: The British Raj (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7901551#msg7901551) (Regency for Charles III) - (Charles III)
Part 38: Charles, George, and Socialism (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7901985#msg7901985) (Charles III - George V)
Part 39: Khmer Khmemery and Other Terrible Jokes (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7902988#msg7902988) (George V)
Part 40: Something About Three Empires (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7903090#msg7903090) (George V)
Part 41: A High Turnover Rate Up There (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7903526#msg7903526) (George V - George VI - Edward VII)
Part 42: Rule Brittania! Brittania Rules the Waves! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7904527#msg7904527) (William IV - Henry IX)
Part 1: Timur Timurid and Nomadic Super-Wars (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7917221#msg7917221)
Part 1: The Purple Remnant (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7954717#msg7954717) (Manuel II Palaiologos)
Part 2: Always a Bigger Fish (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7954973#msg7954973) (Manuel II)
Part 3: The Great War of AAAAAAAHH and the Good Rebel Boys (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7954987#msg7954987) (Manuel II - Ioannes VIII - Manuel III)
Part 4: The War for Greece (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7955056#msg7955056) (Manuel III - Ioannes IX)
Part 5: All the Little Things (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7955434#msg7955434) (Ioannes IX)
Part 6: The Constantine Restoration (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7955877#msg7955877) (Ioannes IX - Konstantinos XI)
Part 7: Konstantinos the Gambler (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7956262#msg7956262) (Konstantinos XI)
Part 8: O THEOS THELEI (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7956650#msg7956650) (Theodoros I - Konstantinos XII)
Part 9: Orthodox Iconography and Catholic Heresies (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7957110#msg7957110) (Regency for Konstantinos XIII - Konstantinos XIII)
Part 10: Syria, Egypt and Palestine (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7957277#msg7957277) (Konstantinos XIII - Andronikos V)
Part 11: Purple-Colored Steppes (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7957293#msg7957293) (Andronikos V - Ioannes X)
Part 12: The Quicksands of Egypt (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7957393#msg7957393) (Ioannes X - Andronikos VI Palaiologos)
Part 13: Messengers of Old (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7957614#msg7957614) (INTERREGNUM - Theodoros III Angelos)
Part 14: Ioannes XI Angelos Apokatastatis (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7957754#msg7957754) (Ioannes XI)
Part 15: Peace, Progress and the Pentarchy (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7958048#msg7958048) (Michael X)
Part 16: Too Short of a Lineage (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7958414#msg7958414) (Michael X Angelos - Ioannes XII Podebrad)
Part 17: Chronic Dynastic Instability (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7958493#msg7958493) (Ioannes XII Podebrad - Konstantinos XIV Kantakouzenos)
Part 18: Red Numbers of Death (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7958836#msg7958836) (Konstantinos XIV - Ioannes XIII)
Part 19: Byzantine Mecca and Japanese Ethiopia (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7959702#msg7959702) (Ioannes XIII)
Part 20: Giant Steppe Nomads Outta Nowhere (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7959870#msg7959870) (Ioannes XIII - Andronikos VII)
Part 21: Wars of Protection and Conquests (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7960232#msg7960232) (Andronikos VII)
Part 22: Reforms and Reorganizations and Regency Again! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7960309#msg7960309) (Andronikos VII - Ioannes XIV)
Part 23: The Western Model (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7960539#msg7960539) (Regency for Konstantinos XV - Konstantinos XV - Zoe II)
Part 24: A Murder Most Foul (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7960690#msg7960690) (Zoe II Kantakouzenos - Regency for Andreas I Kotromanic)
Part 25: Om Nom Nom Nom (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7960998#msg7960998) (Andreas I Kotromanic)
Part 26: Quiet Before the Storm (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7961703#msg7961703) (Andreas I)
Part 27: Seven Years' War (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7961996#msg7961996) (Andreas I)
Part 28: Victories Left and Right (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7962106#msg7962106) (Andreas I - Manuel IV)
Part 29: Religion and Governance (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7962354#msg7962354) (Manuel IV)
Part 30: Bohemia Rematch and Punting Austria (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7962440#msg7962440) (Manuel IV)
Part 31: Downfall of Bohemia (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7962789#msg7962789) (Ioannes XV)
Part 32: Adventures in Italy (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7962851#msg7962851) (Ioannes XV - Theodoros IV)
Part 33: Once More Unto Prague (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7963177#msg7963177) (Theodoros IV - Andronikos VIII)
Part 34: Farewell to Constantinople (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7963571#msg7963571) (Andronikos VIII - Helene I)
Part 1: IN NOMINE DEI (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7963973#msg7963973) (Konrad IV von Jungingen)
Part 2: AVE MARIA (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7964014#msg7964014) (Konrad V)
Part 3: TU GLORIA, DEI (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7964856#msg7964856) (Konrad V - Konrad VI)
Part 4: SALVE REGINA (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7965312#msg7965312) (Konrad VI)
Part 5: STABAT MATER (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7965500#msg7965500) (Konrad VI - Karl Alexander)
Part 6: DEUS VULT! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7965548#msg7965548) (Karl Alexander - Wolfgang)
Part 7: REGINA CAELI (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7965612#msg7965612) (Wolfgang)
Part 8: AVE MARIS STELLA (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7966016#msg7966016) (Wolfgang - Heinrich V)
Part 9: GOTT MIT UNS! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7966462#msg7966462) (Heinrich V - Hochmeister Konrad VII - King Konrad VII)
Part 10: Der Koniggratzer Marsch (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7966929#msg7966929) (Konrad VII - Regency for Albrecht I Hesse-Kassel)
Part 11: König Albrecht und Rückeroberung von Neumark (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7967339#msg7967339) (Regency for Albrecht I - Albrecht I)
Part 12: Regentschaftsjahre (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7967413#msg7967413) (Albrecht I - Friedrich Wilhelm I - Regency for August Wilhelm I)
Part 13: Preußische Kokosnüsse und Dynastische Probleme (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7967987#msg7967987) (Regency for August Wilhelm I - August Wilhelm I - Regency for Friedrich I - INTERREGNUM - Albrecht II von Hesse-Kassel)
Part 14: Preußenlied (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7968115#msg7968115) (Albrecht II - Regency for Wilhelm Friedrich I - Wilhelm Friedrich I)
Part 15: Blut und Eisen (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7968443#msg7968443) (Wilhelm Friedrich I - August Wilhelm II)
Part 16: Der Große Kokosnusskrieg (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7968685#msg7968685) (August Wilhelm II)
Part 17: Das Magische Elfenbein (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7969172#msg7969172) (Friedrich Albrecht I)
Part 18: Ein Trio von Friedrichs (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7970467#msg7970467) (Friedrich Albrecht I) - (Friedrich I) - (Friedrich Wilhelm II)
Part 19: Teilung von Österreich (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7971056#msg7971056) (Friedrich Wilhelm II - Regency for Friedrich Wilhelm III)
Part 20: Krieg ist Gut für die Wirtschaft! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7971549#msg7971549) (Friedrich Wilhelm III)
Part 21: Süddeutsche Siegesmusik (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7972138#msg7972138) (Friedrich Wilhelm III - Friedrich Wilhelm IV)
Part 22: Ein Mutiger Plan (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7976483#msg7976483) (Friedrich Wilhelm IV - Friedrich Wilhelm V - Regency for Friedrich II)
Part 23: Europa in Flammen (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7978995#msg7978995) (Regency of Friedrich II - Friedrich II)
Part 24: Die Auflösung des Heiligen Römischen Reiches (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7979167#msg7979167) (Friedrich II)
Part 25: Lausitz und Sandomierz (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7998022#msg7998022) (Friedrich II)
Part 26: Das Großpreussen (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg7998663#msg7998663) (Friedrich II)
Part 27: Nach Westen Ziehen (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8001178#msg8001178) (Friedrich II - Friedrich Albrecht II)
Part 28: "Es ist nicht genug!!" (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8004547#msg8004547) (Friedrich Albrecht II von Hesse-Kassel)
Part 29: Die Benötigten Stücke (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8006286#msg8006286) (Regency for Friedrich III Bathory - Friedrich III Bathory)
Part 30: Der Neue König von Preußen (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8009070#msg8009070) (Friedrich III Bathory - Ferdinand I von Braunschweig-Luneburg)
Part 31: Mein Gott, die Wirtschaft! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8011240#msg8011240) (Ferdinand I)
Part 32: Willkommen im 19. Jahrhundert! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8012023#msg8012023) (Ferdinand I)
Part 33: Die Unruhige Geburt der Deutschen Nation (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8012260#msg8012260) (August Wilhelm III - Regency for Friedrich IV - Friedrich IV)
Part 34: Die Glorreiche Regierungszeit von König Friedrich IV (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8012637#msg8012637) (Friedrich IV)
Part 35: Große Landstriche (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8013244#msg8013244) (Friedrich IV)
Part 36: Ewiger Kreislauf der Gewalt (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8013802#msg8013802) (Friedrich IV - Wilhelm Friedrich II)
Part 1: The Kashmere Nightmare (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8023082#msg8023082) (Sultan Sikandar Sayyid)
Part 1: Bonifacius IX and the Imperial Loophole (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8072023#msg8072023) (Pope Bonifacius IX)
Part 2: A Pair of Shrewd Innocents (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8072094#msg8072094) (Pius II - Innocentius VII - Innocentius VIII)
Part 3: All-Successful Expansion Politics of Innocentius VIII (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8072311#msg8072311) (Innocentius VIII)
Part 4: Unification of Southern Italy (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8072864#msg8072864) (Gregorius XII - Gregorius XIII - Leo X)
Part 5: From Leo X to Pius III, or: Series of Very Unfortunate Popes (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8073042#msg8073042) (Leo X - Martinus V - Alexander V - Pius III)
Part 6: Pius III and the Sultanate of England (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8073116#msg8073116) (Pius III)
Part 7: The English Crusade and All Other Terrible Events (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8073208#msg8073208) (Clemens VII - Pius IV - Benedictus XIII - Gregorius XIV)
Part 8: Peaceful yet Painful Pontificate of Pope Gregorius XIV (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8073624#msg8073624) (Gregorius XIV - Innocentius IX)
Part 9: Innocentius' Chapel (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8073910#msg8073910) (Innocentius IX - Innocentius X)
Part 10: A Rather Innocent Naming Pattern (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8074173#msg8074173) (Innocentius X - Innocentius XI - Innocentius XII)
Part 11: Clementine Glories (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8074971#msg8074971) (Clemens VIII - Clemens IX)
Part 12: Clemens, Clemens, a Pius, and a Clemens again! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8075141#msg8075141) (Clemens X - Clemens XI - Pius V - Clemens XII)
Part 13: Conquest of Jerusalem and Ancient Cloning Organization? (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8075600#msg8075600) (Clemens XII)
Part 14: Disgrace of the Netherlands and End of the Second Clementine Papacy (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8076423#msg8076423) (Clemens XIII - Pius VI)
Part 15: Liberation of Cornwall (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8076739#msg8076739) (Pius VI - Clemens XIV - Paulus II)
Part 16: Dealing with the British Sultanate, Step One (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8077274#msg8077274) (Clemens XV)
Part 17: Duchy of England and the Innocenzo Scandal (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8077621#msg8077621) (Clemens XV - Martinus VI - Benedictus XIV - Paulus III)
Part 18: Making British Isles Catholic Again (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8077770#msg8077770) (Paulus III - Urbanus VII)
Part 19: Excessive Spending = Loans! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8078234#msg8078234) (Urbanus VII - Alexander VI - Innocentius XIII - Clemens XVI)
Part 20: Europe Catholic Once More (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8079120#msg8079120) (Clemens XVI - Clemens XVII - Clemens XVIII - Innocentius XIV - Paulus IV)
Part 21: Clemens XIX, Architect of Prosperity (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8079581#msg8079581) (Paulus IV - Clemens XIX)
Part 22: Divine Punishment (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8080231#msg8080231) (Gregorius XV)
Part 23: Pacis Pii (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8080492#msg8080492) (Gregorius XV - Clemens XX - Pius VII)
Part 24: A Bohemian Deja Vu (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8081676#msg8081676) (Pius VII - Benedictus XV - Clemens XXI)
Part 25: Papal Alexandria and the Bishopric of Yugoslavia (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8083619#msg8083619) (Clemens XXI - Leo XI)
Part 26: 20 Years of Balkan Struggles (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8084006#msg8084006) (Alexander VII - Paulus V - Clemens XXII)
Part 27: Opulence and Conquests (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8084427#msg8084427) (Clemens XXII - Innocentius XV - Pius VIII)
Part 28: A Witty Title About a Dutch War (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8086765#msg8086765) (Pius VIII)
Part 29: Julian Reforms (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8087927#msg8087927) (Iulius II)
Part 30: The Mosquito Project (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8088255#msg8088255) (Gregorius XVI - Alexander VIII)
Part 31: Wrapping Up the 18th Century (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8088930#msg8088930) (Gregorius XVII - Clemens XXIII)
Part 32: Narrowminded Modernism (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8091261#msg8091261) (Clemens XXIII - Callixtus III)
Part 33: Clemens XXIV and the Arabic Influences in Europe (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8092587#msg8092587) (Clemens XXIV)
Part 34: Final Papal Update, feat: The Socialists and Austrian Immortals (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8093050#msg8093050) (Alexander IX - Clemens XXV - Pius IX)
Part 1: The Manchu Tribe (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8095203#msg8095203) (Bukuri Yongson I Aisin Gioro)
Part 2: Jiaqing and Zilang (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8095565#msg8095565) (Regency for Jiaqing - Jiaqing I)
Part 3: Jiaqing the Great (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8096922#msg8096922) (Jiaqing I)
Part 4: Manchurian Rollercoaster (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8097409#msg8097409) (Jiaqing I - Jiaqing II)
Part 5: Long Wait, Short Reign (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8098379#msg8098379) (Regency for Qianlong - Qianlong I)
Part 6: The Inevitable (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8098779#msg8098779) (Yinti I - Giocangga I - Yinreng I)
Part 7: The Blue Dragon Soars in the Skies! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8098976#msg8098976) (Yinreng I - Yangzheng I - Mongke Temur I - Zhuangjing I)
Part 8: Campaigns for Recovery of the Southeastern Coasts (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8099518#msg8099518) (Zhuangjing I)
Part 9: The Blue Dragon's Patient Recovery of the Minor States (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8099932#msg8099932) (Zhuangjing I - Giocangga II)
Part 10: The March of the Six Banners to Sichuan Valley and Beyond! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8101185#msg8101185) (Giocangga II - Taksi I)
Part 11: The Heavenly Mandate to Expand into Central Asia and Siberian Forests (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8102304#msg8102304) (Taksi I - Regency for Yinzhi I)
Part 12: The Relentless Push Southwards Despite the Decadence of the Heavenly Emperor's Most Erudite Regents (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8110108#msg8110108) (Yinzhi I - Regency for Huang Taiji I)
Part 13: Eradication of the Rebellious Masses and Establishment of the Enlightened Era of Emperor Huang Taiji (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8119607#msg8119607) (Regency for Huang Taiji I - Huang Taiji I)
Part 14: The Unappreciated Love of Western Culture, the Weeping for the Lost Siberian Riches, and the Ultimate Insult in the Face of the Glorious Emperor of All Qing and Japan! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8122815#msg8122815) (Huang Taiji I)
Part 15: The Great War Under the Pretext of Restoration of Overlordship over Japanese Islands and the First Step on the Path to their Total Annihilation as a Nation! (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8136795#msg8136795) (Huang Taiji I)
Part 16: Emperor of Heaven (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8137526#msg8137526) (Huang Taiji I - Tolo I - Fuman I)
Part 17: Unrivaled Expansionism (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8138110#msg8138110) (Fuman I)
Part 18: Hunt for the Red Spice (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8188762#msg8188762) (Fuman I - Regency for Hongzhou I)
Part 19: No More Shoguns (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8189438#msg8189438) (Hongzhou I - Regency for Zhuangjiang II)
Part 20: East to South Campaigns (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8193381#msg8193381) (Zhuangjiang II - Jianqing III)
Part 21: All Your Bases Belong To Qing (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8194293#msg8194293) (Jianqing III)
Part 22: Everything is Fine (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8195552#msg8195552) (Jianqing III)
Part 23: A New Direction of the Ship of State (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8199044#msg8199044) (Jianqing IV Aisin Gioro - Qianlong II Ugide)
Part 24: Da Ching (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8199316#msg8199316) (Qianlong II Ugide - Hongzhou II - Huang Taiji II)
-
Sure, lets see the Polish Empire, before the Nineteenth century wrecked them.
-
Part 1: The Fair Lands of Poland
Welcome, welcome!
I'm Rotmistrz Brzęczyszczykiewicz, herbu Deszczowce, your guide through the land of Poland!
(https://i.imgur.com/H0Su1AP.png)
Here's us, with capital in Krakow. We have quite a sizeable army and quite a few provinces. Most of them are producing Cloth or Grain.
Our King is Władysław II Jagiellon, known also as Jogaila; unfortunately he is currently without a legal heir, if he dies his dynasty comes to an end. He has two vassals The Duchies of Mazovia and of Moldavia - the latter lies at the coast of the Black Sea, outside the screen, to the bottom right.
(https://i.imgur.com/zhQJHK3.png)
This is Teutonic Order, and Duchy of Mazovia. Now, one of the previous Mazovian Dukes, Konrad, had this lovely idea somewhere about 1309 AD to invite Teutonic Order to bring Catholic faith to the Old Prussian peoples.
Look what happened since then. It is our main enemy, and our historical missions will put us on warpath against the Order sooner or later.
The Duchy of Mazovia remains independent, but not for long; after all, it is considered a core part of Poland. Its independence will be over sooner or later as well (the sooner, the better).
(https://i.imgur.com/COhXfEc.png)
And this, is Lithuania. Thanks to the Union of Krewo from year 1386 AD, Polish King leads Lithuania in a Personal Union. It has more territories than us and higher army limit.
Consider it our 'big brother'; while we're leading the diplomacy of the Union, it's the Lithuanians who will be doing heavy lifting and fighting when the time comes.
Unfortunately they're currently suffering from a rather ugly uprising staged by Smolenskian Nationalists; them russkies are already set to declare independence. Its 50/50 whether they succeed or Lithuanian army crushes them in time.
(https://i.imgur.com/T8WrYD5.png)
Our other neighbours, the miniscule Pomerania, Brandenburg, Bohemia and Hungary (from north to south).
Out of these four, Bohemia are the real issue; not only their King, Vaclav IV von Luxembourg, is the Holy Roman Emperor, they're our rivals for Silesia and being the awesomest in Eastern Europe overall.
For now, the Bohemians will be content with fighting other nations in HRE, but once they get fat (and trust me, they will), they will turn their eyes towards Poland.
Brandeburg usually stays out of our borders, the coastal Pomerania even more so. Hungarians can be sometimes valuable allies, or at least remain on decent terms with us.
Well! That is the tour of Poland! For our opening moves, we will-
(https://i.imgur.com/3hlMNJy.png)
AAAAAAAAAAH!
(https://i.imgur.com/KQRTluv.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!
(https://i.imgur.com/PbyBsah.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!1
Welcome to Medieval Poland! Where nearly everyone wants to plunder your lands and the Muslim Mongols of the Golden Horde are the most eager to do so!
Pray to God we don't screw up either our wars or our economy in the next 20 years, otherwise we're oh so dead.
-
From what I recall, the Golden Horde doesn't have much endurance. They'll probably trigger another war or have an uprising in their borders before too long. If you can just hold them back for a while, it'll be all right. Or maybe just let them have one province, and maybe take it back after the bad-and-horrible happens to them.
-
They go to war with everyone they border automatically every 5 years (except other hordes, with whom they can do normal diplomacy).
Still, they're scary, especially if Novgorod throws tribute at them early and gets out of the fighting ;v
-
Part 2: Fighting Against the Golden Horde
(https://i.imgur.com/wkKkAZh.png)
First of all, our main army will be led by Władysław. He is hella fast, and this might help us annihilate a stack or two of GH's murderous mongoloids.
The 35 stack split into two; 20 went for Bessarabia, 15 somewhere into GH's territory.
Fight for Podolia in December ended in our retreat becasue that 15 joined 20 when we tried to fight. Ruthenia has been scorched by our troops as they fled for Krakow.
In the months between fighting, numerous saxon kingdoms (Mecklenburg, Saxony, Anhalt, to name a few) entered marriages with our Kingdom. That is fine.
(https://i.imgur.com/QrrStFP.png)
Time to strike them where it hurts, because they lost about 6000 to starvation.
We won the battle of Ruthenia in May, and the beaten and routed Mongols went for Podolia. But!
Władysław is very fast, remember? He is going to beat them to Podolia and hopefully...
(https://i.imgur.com/VAHaH37.png)
VICTORY! This particular GH stack had 20 regiments, all lost by now.
Another stack, 10 regiments, is besieging Poltava. Moldavia and Lithuania are besieging Horde's possessions in Crimea, so its up to Władysław and his boys to knock that stack out as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/zAXTTDW.png)
But this situation almost ended in disaster; the Lithuanians were getting beaten hard and our King managed to haul the Polish army in there just in time.
You have to take note of our manpower; its down to 3000 recruits left. We either end this war soon, or we're done for.
Shortly after battle at Kursk, Austria invited us into military alliance. It's a new for me; Austria usually gets uppity with me pretty fast, and doesn't agree for more than military access or marriage.
Alliance? Sure thing. The Hapsburgs are fighting with Hungarians against Bohemia, but I'm not suicidal to try get into that conflict.
Now, Władysław is pursuing the fleeing Golden Horde into Voronezh. If would be good if we can steal a province from them or two, near Moldavia preferably.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gv5WaE1.png)
Ha ha! Eat dirt, mongols!
With another big stack crushed, GH is unfortunately still having about 50 regiments out there. Considering the world map available to us, they must be down there fighting Georgians.
Meanwhile, Władysław and the boys will now besiege Crimean territories to put some warscore in.
(https://i.imgur.com/8zLjJRv.png)
Just as we were doing great. Fuk.
Well, welcome aboard Jan Albert (of Pomerania I assume, considering we've got a marriage with Pomeranian Gryfs).
Unfortunately Jan Albert's Military skill doesn't translate into Military stats, for he is slower than the Zbyszko's we have. With that 20 stack of GH rushing toward Crimea, we might have only 1 option left.
Our victory at Kursk made our troops there free for moving, which made the Golden Horde's stack stop its advance. But on 8th August, Georgia conceded defeat an we're now the only ones left fighting against the Horde.
(https://i.imgur.com/AtuPCpK.png)
What was supposed to be a little stack removal turned into bigass battle. We've won on 12th December, and Kharkov fortress fell soon afterwards.
(https://i.imgur.com/soTajNg.png)
First good event since the start! We take the money, this early in game 52 ducats is hella lot.
Meanwhile, Jan Albert like a fox have run to Tambow and then to Kingdom of Ryazan which agreed to military access treaty in the last minute.
Golden Horde refuses to concede defeat still, so the fighting continues on. Meanwhile, Lithuanians managed to defeat all Smolenskian rebels and are now in process of recapturing Smolensk.
Unfortunately, on 7th November 1402, Smolensk declared independence, the Lithuanians ran away rather than help, and our Army was trashed in Mogilyov.
So 20 days later, on 28th November, we had no choice but to concede defeat. We have no troops left. Smolensk has been married and allied with, so maybe they will accept vassalship?
(https://i.imgur.com/bPbGso7.png)
Five years of peace and money accumulation later, we're not even half ready for this.
(https://i.imgur.com/GfNXfL4.png)
One day war! Who would believe this is possible? Poland, of course, manages to do it.
Aren't we great?
Two years later, on 2nd January 1409, we manage to annex Mazovia, and the mission we had grants us instant cores on Plock and Mazovia proper.
(https://i.imgur.com/AAQtJkc.png)
This decision is the much needed sugar we need to sprinkle on this dreary update, and a good moment to call it a day.
Maybe next war with the Horde will be more successful.
-
Them darn khans
-
So basically... in 1410s, either
A) Teutons
B) Bohemians
C) Golden Horde
Would declare war, punt our armies into nonexistence and then grab land. In one particular savescum, all 3 decided to do with the Partitions 300 years earlier than anticipated.
So I've decided to start with something more safer, that being...
001: Principality of Lippe
(https://i.imgur.com/hVuPFz3.png)
Well, because I had to release Lippe from Cologne, we're its vassal and a Duchy. Our ruler is Bernard VI, who has no heir, no advisors, and has overall mediocre stats.
(https://i.imgur.com/HXG5q5U.png)
Mmm, that fresh scent of north german feudalism. Simply sublime. I've already pushed the slider towards Free Subjects, though.
First order of business, we get some cultural tradition and prestige and legitimacy going, make up some units...
... then we wait 10 years in relative poverty and hopelessness till we can renounce overlordship of Cologne.
Few days after we begin existing, Karl Ernst Fulda, a 2-star philosopher, came seeking employment. As our Prestige is under zero, I've hired him.
(https://i.imgur.com/0B0w22b.png)
As an OPM in Holy Roman Empire, we regain a point of Stability
per month, so this kinda event is best event. Free centralization, yey!
1st May 1402, we Expand our Bureaucracy. While it lowers our income a tiny bit, it gives +0.25 Magistrates yearly, and in DW you spend them on cultural decisions AND buildings, so they're always valuable.
(https://i.imgur.com/EklVKjw.png)
MERCIFUL RNG
PLS LET HIM LIVE FOR MORE THAN FEW YEARS
Thank you in advance.
(https://i.imgur.com/TNHOdDL.png)
Well huh, we have a new Emperor and he is a Bohemian...
Austria stop slacking off and get to marrying already, you're doing me a disappoint.
And on the far right you can see the standard situation of Poland-Lithuania in early 15th century(https://i.imgur.com/GZ9Ftu3.png)
Another free slider move towards the better packet of bonuses. In EU3, unless there's specific reason to do otherwise, you really want as much Centralization and Free Subjects as possible.
Two months later, Albrecht IV of Austria became the new Holy Roman Emperor. No surprises there.
1st January 1410 comes, and we renounce fealty to Cologne!
(https://i.imgur.com/laLPYoj.png)
Immediately Cleves, Saxony, Brunswick and Thuringia are approached with marriage offers to strengthen our budding dynasty, and they all accept. Meanwhile, Archbishop of Wurzburg personally announced his holy men will guarantee our independence (for the time being).
Two weeks later, Kingdom of Hesse does the same, and we reciprocate their kindness by marrying off one of our relatives to their family (they accept).
(https://i.imgur.com/sBlPbVt.png)
Finally, we get a government tech. Unfortunately for an non-trader OPM like us, the only course of action is to get Patron of Arts. More cultural tradition = more advisors to create and sell abroad for ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/pfzCBO4.png)
Cleves is even more smol than us, so out of goodwill and with help of access treaty, we helped them deal with some rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/HY0vmOQ.png)
Today, alliance. Tomorrow
*, vassalship, or maybe Personal Union?
We are smol ourselves, but Cleves is smoler.
And Lippe shall protec.
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002: Peasants OP, pls nerf
(https://i.imgur.com/8Pwk0yR.png)
If you looked on previous update's images, you could've noticed that Bavaria blobbed over Brabantian lands; they got kicked for that, ha!
Meanwhile, Albrecht of Austria has died and his son Ludwig took over.
(https://i.imgur.com/hsmmn6l.png)
Crap. Pray for little Leopold; he is 8 years old and thus only halfway thru childhood. Lots of things can happen.
Shortly afterwards, Scotland, Poland and Brandenburg got some uppity peasants, too. What's this, an early Spring of Nations?
(https://i.imgur.com/R0JvcNz.png)
While usually its better to go plutocratic and get mad cash, the mad cash offered this time was 6 and half ducats.
We will go properly aristocratic then!
(https://i.imgur.com/vxPomRF.png)
And this is one of the major reasons you might want to take Patron of Arts early on. With high Administrative skill of the ruler (or Regency Council, in our example), this has chance to trigger.
+2 Revolt risk in an HRE OPM is basically nothing, in exchange for two moves towards Innovative (faster techs), +2 prestige and 50 ducats, which is hella fortune at this part of the game.
Therefore, architectural development it is!
That added prestige helped us finish 'Gain Prestige' mission, bumping our Prestige by 10 points. Slowly, slowly, we're getting them points!
In 1418, an event pits us against Brunswick; we decide to accept the diplomatic insult, as the other option is to lose prestige.
(https://i.imgur.com/TKncuHQ.png)
Phew! Young Leopold ascends to the throne, and his heir, Simon is almost equally skilled as him in both administration and military. Unfortunately, Simon has lowest natural score possible (3) in diplomacy.
Hopefully that won't affect much in the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/4gkQ8ZP.png)
Unfortunately, the moment Leopold tries to centralize his power, people of Lippe rise against him! But unlike Bavaria and the others, the God is with Leopold, and his army will crush the rebel scum!
(https://i.imgur.com/wlHyFPQ.png)
Or not.
With the palace captured and Leopold sent running to his buddies in Cleves, the peasants forced the court to decentralize all the way.
Stupid peasants!
(https://i.imgur.com/WDD9Ndr.png)
Leopold might've failed militarily but he will succeed culturally.
(https://i.imgur.com/SUVtn5x.png)
He also vents his frustrations on foreign rebels.
One day, rebels, we will centralize all the way to the left, you just wait! For now, we will remain smol and feudal and medieval.
-
003: Glory to Lippe... or not. ~World News Edition~
(https://i.imgur.com/ygwrSa6.png)
Teutonic Order decided to attack Pomerania and Hansa, and look what it got them. Austria rampaging at the coast of Baltic. RIP crusaders.
Anyway!
(https://i.imgur.com/e5f2gww.png)
While we are flopping around in our tiny state, Austrian Emperors are dropping like flies. One more and they will push 1st of 8 reforms.
That one is fairly useful; everyone gets cheaper buildings and technologies. We will benefit from that, too, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/hhie9qO.png)
Speaking of technologies, finally a unit upgrade. It's four pips total! As we're not an aggressor and rebels count as 'attackers', Men-at-Arms is most useful choice for us.
(https://i.imgur.com/7Oh4ft3.png)
Well, it happened even faster because Austria concluded a war against Teutonic Order.
(https://i.imgur.com/fC7DzTJ.png)
Free cores on enemy territory! Hesse is too large, Brunswick has too many allies, Munster isn't smol either, and Cleves... is Cleves.
Hmmm, what to do? Nothing, we're in no position to grab land at the moment

But! I have a plan. We will ally Munster, and then declare war against Brunswick to regain our core. Yes yes, perfect plan!
(https://i.imgur.com/35w1qdA.png)
Hmmm, that's good, but after checking Brunswick's allies (Brandenburg, Hansa) maybe let's call this off.
(https://i.imgur.com/AyoseB2.png)
Maybe this instead? Cleves cannot be hurt if Cleves will be part of Lippe, yeah!
(https://i.imgur.com/tauEhB0.png)
Let's say I've had a very,
very bad, prophetic dream. Maybe military conquests are not a thing for Lippe.
How about some world news instead, huh? I bet Castille is already preparing to form Spa-
(https://i.imgur.com/S1Gbd89.png)
Castille what DID
YOU DO!?EDIT: After close checking, it's not Portugal rampaging through central Castille - it's Ottomans!
-
004: Something about Simon, Simon, Simon, and a War
(https://i.imgur.com/bTKcojQ.png)
Gott in Himmel! Another one? They're dropping like flies, leaving their underage succesors around.
Here's hoping Simon will keep around for longer than Leopold, who I believe was in his early 30s at this very moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/JosnmWZ.png)
Sorry nobles, just because Aristocracy is maximized doesn't mean I will throw our hard-earned coin to provide you with fun.
(https://i.imgur.com/ieg2rIe.png)
Just few months later, a nobleman pretender rises against our rightful boy Simon as we try to centralize our government somewhat.
Fortunately a hastily recruited general, Armin Paderborn, managed to skillfully use the forces of Lippe to destroy the pretender's army and kill him.
Lippe is saved!
(https://i.imgur.com/b5QdEoN.png)
Just few weeks after the victory against the pretender, young Simon III von Mecklenburg ascends to the throne of Lippe.
Unfortunately his successor is very average.
(https://i.imgur.com/s3frg6k.png)
Our proficiency in killing rebels in the lands near Lippe has allowed us to pick out a very nice little cultural decision. It will boost our Cultural and Army traditions for 10 years.
In case we need a good general in a decade or two.
(https://i.imgur.com/DpEAdaf.png)
Next seven years go smoothly, and then BAM! Simon, son of Simon, dies of fever.
(https://i.imgur.com/tZPgTuX.png)
Fortunately for Simon, he has another son, Simon, born to him a few months later, surely named in honor of his deceased first son, Simon.
I think Simon isn't a very creative guy when it comes to names.
(https://i.imgur.com/kvUUtM0.png)
Just as we centralize more and have to fight more rebels, we get involved in a war to which we will be getting a bit late.
No lands for us, sadly.
(https://i.imgur.com/vrYQNoT.png)
Someone did profit from this war, like woah. We're down one elector in Holy Roman Empire! Who gets the priviledge?? Munster, of course.
In just one year, Munster breaks our alliance, an event gives us a casus belli, and the Archbishop gets involved in costly war. Simon III von Mecklenburg decided, that we either stagnate, or throw some dice and pray to God for support.
(https://i.imgur.com/f2kgBqJ.png)
So now, we're here, in Osnabruck.
After half a year, the Archbishop dealt with Friesland and sent forces against us...
(https://i.imgur.com/up3z94f.png)
Cleves helped us deal with Munsterian stack in Westfalen, then Osnabruck, and then they peaced out, demanding that the Archbishop lets Friesland go.
Now it is only us against Munster's weakened armies, and we're doing our best!...
(https://i.imgur.com/Tsspczn.png)
We utterly crush them at the Battle of Oldenburg! Our way to besiege their provinces is open and soon we will humilitate the Archbishop of Munster.
(https://i.imgur.com/zFuogWX.png)
Osnabruck, a disputed core of Lippe, is finally ours! Oldenburg is released! Munster is brought down to one province!
The bishop is now our vassal, and this means he will be basically forced to support Lippe in Elections to the throne of Holy Roman Emperorship.
The glorious future of Lippe begin today!
-
005: LIPPE STRONK
Our little conquest has spurned others to consider us worthy of political connections - finally!
Unfortunately, it's small fish (Mecklenburg, Hamburg, Lauenburg) not even bordering us, so we have to decline.
(https://i.imgur.com/kMTzcbc.png)
Anyone who isn't Austrians is better than them!
(https://i.imgur.com/WJ7Vsgm.png)
Finally, a second idea. We're in position to throw some weight around with our allies and participate in wars, but our economy cannot support a big army yet.
Therefore, we need to make the best of our tiny stack, and extra morale will do just that.
(https://i.imgur.com/C2DbRaC.png)
...I'm telling you, this family's cursed.
His regents are okay-ish, and we only need to last four years till Simon, son of Simon, ascends to the throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/p7kZI41.png)
Per usual, peasants oppose any attempt at centralization, but this time we have enough forces to break them.
After ping-ponging them between Westfalen and Osnabruck, the revolt is destroyed.
(https://i.imgur.com/Lkr59l4.png)
Finally, we can invite the masters of Renaissance to Lippe. While the Pope will not be very happy about this, we will get prestige, cultural tradition and cheaper techs this way.
(https://i.imgur.com/qbVeGak.png)
By the way, did you really thought I was able to support our army against Munster for that long with only our income? Nope! This is the third and last loan we have to repay, however.
(https://i.imgur.com/97zTxoW.png)
Mark down in history the date of 20th January 1452!
Our close relationship with Cleves has paid off, for their monarch, Johann I von Mecklenburg, died young and childless, and our young boy, Simon IV, has inherited our neighbouring land, bringing it into Lippe domain.
Cleves cannot be hurt if Cleves is part of Lippe! *touches forehead*
(https://i.imgur.com/bsvSvmB.png)
That prompted Elector of Saxony to offer us an alliance. We accept, for being allied to an Elector helps convince them to back us to the throne of the Empire.
Unfortunately, currently Bavaria is too big and too influential to let us sway anyone but Munster (who is our vassal), and King of Bohemia is voting for himself, per usual.
(https://i.imgur.com/Bz9HJg0.png)
Finally, Simon IV ascends to the throne, and with another Simon awaiting ascension, Lippe stands strong!
Glory to Lippe!
-
Glory to Simon, Son of Simon, Son of Simon!
-
006: Simon's New Coat (of Mourning)
(https://i.imgur.com/K2xQTSl.png)
As you can see on the image above, a very important event has occured.
What, the war? No, it's not about Brunswick and friends getting their asses kicked by someo ther states. I'm talking about our Shield!
It has been pointed to Simon that he is mistakenly using the field flag of Lippe instead of its princely Coat of Arms, so that has been rectified. Look on those nine fields, full of symbolism and national pride!
(https://i.imgur.com/zGLgffs.png)
FINALLY, the most important of Production technologies ticked in, allowing us to build Workshops; they increase base tax of the province by 1.
Base tax influences two important things; money you get from 'taxing' cities, as well as increasing the maximum of troops that can be supported without incurring additional costs. Workshops are thus important to both economy and military of a nation.
Unfortunately we're a bit short on cash, but the moment we fix that, we will be building Workshops in our provinces asap. MEANWHILE:
(https://i.imgur.com/nwUm40p.png)
The Mecklenburgs cannot simply ignore the opportunity that is the Brunswickian moment of crisis and weakness; whilst the turncoat Saxony has declared war to support Brunswick, we are relatively safe from assault.
So we will be taking the City of Braunschweig for ourselves, thank you very muchly!
(https://i.imgur.com/KSNnjJj.png)
Archbishop of Wurzburg has asked for alliance; he has two provinces and therefore is good enough to help. Unfortunately we discover that he has trouble with some rebels.
We pull some of the forces besieging lands of Brunswick to deal with Wurzburgian pretender. Which we do...
(https://i.imgur.com/vcMzef8.png)
But then Simon makes a potential mistake and invites Wurzburg to the war - which allows the neighbouring Ansbach and Mainz, allies of Brunswick, to have a pretext to attack Wurzburg and, by proxy, us!
We deal with forces of Ansbach, but instead of having it besieged and forced to sign peace, Simon has a better idea:
(https://i.imgur.com/vzsaVcK.png)
Conquer and vassalize Mainz. Its Archbishop is an Elector of the Holy Roman Empire, meaning Lippe will have 2 votes!
(https://i.imgur.com/yLpQAEN.png)
On 6th December 1455, we do just that, and Mainz immediately agrees to support Simon von Mecklenburg in his bid for the Imperial throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/EQosstv.png)
Less than half a year later, the King of Brunswick sends a peace treaty that is suitable to our needs; city of Braunschweig and some ducats.
Fifty years of stagnation, five years of glory, and look how (relatively) big Lippe has become; with two vassals and two votes in Electoral Council, it can be now considered an important political player in the HRE.
(https://i.imgur.com/QwHijdm.png)
Requiescat in Pacem, Herr Armin; he led us through all the recent wars and if not him, we wouldn't be a smol blob as we are today. However, his successor, Ernst Kasimir Eder, is a beast with 6 Movement and 4 Shock, meaning that anyone trying to outrun him might as well as give up already, hahahah.
Few years of peace and richness later, Hansa puts trade embargo on us; we promptly leave Hanseatic League, we're not trading anyways.
(https://i.imgur.com/5rq8QLm.png)
This prompts Genoa to ask for exclusive rights for our Salt production, and we will comply. More money for us!
And finally, on 1st April 1460, a momentous occassion:
(https://i.imgur.com/vNldkiN.png)
For first time since before 1399, King of Lippe has an adult heir. Rejoice!
(https://i.imgur.com/MWfthrw.png)
REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
-
007: Kaleidoscope of Infants
(https://i.imgur.com/4KRZN7V.png)
This time the burghers want to give us nearly 30 ducats. As we're nowhere near 'rich' status, we gladly accept.
Still, the matter of succession to the throne of Lippe remains unsolved. Whilst there's no danger of personal union or foreign inheritance, the court and Simon himself would rather see the line preserved and continuing.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ij6LQi6.png)
At least centralization progresses smoothly; this time, without a revolt, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/nSkshvN.png)
Woohoo! Simon has a rightful heir with a strong claim!...
...from Julich-Hengebach dynasty? Whose dynasty is it anyway?
A quick, cursory search around the Holy Roman Empire gives us an answer:
(https://i.imgur.com/dtufk53.png)
I guess this is Saxony's revenge for our warring against Brunswick. Accursed feudalism how do you work!?
(https://i.imgur.com/Umo0tRm.png)
Oldenburg calls for help in an intervention against Hamburg. Seeing the participants a sane person would decline, but Hansa is already rampaging around there and in Brandenburgia as well.
We might as well join and score some points and army tradition, right? Mainz and Munster, being our vassals, stand by our side, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/QBot9AD.png)
Several months later, the leader of the war, Thuringia, capitulates to our demand for ducats and severing of treaties with Hamburg.
Whilst Oldenburg and others will keep fighting for a while longer, we've fulfilled our part of the treaty.
(https://i.imgur.com/GgYrkve.png)
Honestly?
Okay, now I'm sure this family's cursed. I bet Archbishop of Cologne cast a hex on us when Bernard IV decided to be a sovereign lord in 1399. We ought to report him to the Pope immediately!
(https://i.imgur.com/Fo1N6ik.png)
Holy freaking shit, Oldenburg, what did you do!? I'm so glad I decided to end the war early...
But my vassals are in your war still, dammit!
(https://i.imgur.com/hhph0mn.png)
Aaaand we ran out of money because I was too purchase-happy with buildings in Brunswick and elsewhere.
(https://i.imgur.com/BFwUfF7.png)
Though not all is lost; Simon gets a son of his own, named Otto (Can't be! Not Simon??), and with Oldenburg beaten up by Bavaria and forced to sever treaties with us, Pomerania, a frend of Bavaria, offers us an alliance instead.
Maybe von Mecklenburg dynasty will remain on the throne of Lippe a while longer.
-
008: How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love the Loans
(https://i.imgur.com/OXUmj5a.png)
The curse continues. For fuk's sake, WHY!?
I even stopped using them as military leaders! Why the Mecklenburgs keep dying in their late twenties?? A medieval 27's club or something??
(https://i.imgur.com/Du3zuFA.png)
While this is certainly a very interesting thing to happen, I fail to understand how. This game has secrets and refuses to tell me.
Can't wait for incoming Austria vs Ottomans matches, for Byzantium had only Thrace left and its surrounded by everyone's favorite mint blob.
In the meanwhile:
(https://i.imgur.com/QCz0ZQj.png)
Hochmeister Ulrich, please explain.
(https://i.imgur.com/xpKR16G.png)
Fine with me!
And I just realized something; we're at Government Tech 10, which means we can pass the decision Formalize Scales and Weights. It improves trade and production efficiency, and slightly increases tax.
We just need to accumulate 5 magistrates for that, and we're golden.
(https://i.imgur.com/qwVhCQ8.png)
Alright! Pomerania calls for help! Time to have some action and score some-
(https://i.imgur.com/VBedRw8.png)
Uh-oh. The Hansa joined the war to protect Mecklenburg in the last moment. After losing the main battle and winning few skirmishes, we retreat to Hesse to build our forces and prepare to relieve the siege of Westfalen.
Unfortunately, for that we have to take 2 loans.
(https://i.imgur.com/uE4k7yC.png)
And a third loan to afford services of this guy. He popped up when we pushed the policy slider toward Quality.
12% extra damage this early is nothing to scoff at.
(https://i.imgur.com/oLxBuAP.png)
We continue to win the small battles against Hanseatic reinforcements but Siege of Westfalen continues, and we fail two times more. As we await reinforcements of our own, the siege counter ticks up.
We cannot wait any longer and those extra Knights will have to miss on the battle.
Onwards, to save our capital!!
(https://i.imgur.com/tPum8QW.png)
Yes! Victory! Can you hear the chimes of bells of glory? And no, that's not my economy groaning in pain, you're hearing things!
After the Hansa grubs, we will eradicate them at Osnabruck!
There, we defeat them again, and with help of Munster, we drive them to Bremen, Stade and then finally eradicate their forces at Hamburg (who graciously granted us passage rights).
(https://i.imgur.com/Dr6dtIn.png)
Mecklenburgian forces have been decimated also. Ernst Kasimir decided to split forces across all belligerent territories, to hold them for ransom, and to break apart Hanseatic hold over coastal cities.
(https://i.imgur.com/XUmwwjk.png)
After their provinces began to surrender one by one, we disbanded several of our troop, as Hansa is broken; while Verden and Bremen aren't that useful of an ally, we will keep with Holstein. Royal marriages with them all, however!
Mecklenburg was given a relatively free pass; they had to give up their claims to Vorpommern, which was the whole cause for this war.
(https://i.imgur.com/UFa5xOf.png)
Look at this man. This is the man that is badass. He and Ernst Kasimir Eder made our victory against Hansa possible.
Now we need to wait few months to deal with our losses and recover our manpower reserves.
(https://i.imgur.com/beZ6yKa.png)
...This, however, might take a while longer to recover from.
-
009: Imperial Shenanigans
(https://i.imgur.com/CzVQu3f.png)
Free money will help us with the loans, yey!
There's something that I wanted to show, however:
(https://i.imgur.com/jq4Z1Ly.png)
The Electoral Council is very divided at the moment. Bavaria's sole vote comes from the fact they rule Brandenburg in personal union.
Our two votes come from our vassals, Mainz and Munster. Bohemia votes for itself (of course), and has chummied it up with Saxony and Cologne quite well to get their votes, too...
...and those were taken from Austria which has diplomatically-shitty king at the moment. We ourselves are only few points away from swaying Saxony and/or Palatinate, though.
Considering that I see gifts being sent by Austria and Bohemia around quite often, I can say that next elections will be very heated.
(https://i.imgur.com/mfjw2xQ.png)
Dangit, we are unable to repay the third loan we've taken during war against the Hansa. We must extend it.
Unfortunately, a slip in my accounting causes us to take another loan on 1st December.
(https://i.imgur.com/1QNumGc.png)
Despite being tied with us and Bohemia at 2 votes each, the Council awarded the Emperorship to Austria, which I believe is tied to total diplomatic skill of a ruler rather than prestige.
Grumble grumble... we were near greatness! We were so close! *this* close!
(https://i.imgur.com/llz0yio.png)
Cologne, which we were working hard on to vote for us, was annexed by Hesse! This is greatly temporary, for Hesse is suffering war against Trier, Bavaria and others, as well as having a revolt.
But with loss of an Elector, another must take it place. I wonder whom will Austria choose, and I won't be surprised if-
(https://i.imgur.com/2UPgZ99.png)
Ferrara? A minor italian kingdom? For reals??
As you can see from the breakdown of electoral points, we're very close to outdo Milan and grab a third vote! Quick, send ALL the gifts!
(https://i.imgur.com/vsC6VRr.png)
Third idea time and we will take National Bank; we can now lower amount of money we mint and the Bank will ensure our inflation will *slowly* drip to nothing.
(https://i.imgur.com/ODmnh7h.png)
Finally, young Otto ascends to the throne, and his cousin, Bernard, just three years younger than him, is the next heir. Policy of centralization sparked a revolt, but it was easily crushed.
We're doing great, folks. What's the next calamity that will befall von Mecklenburg family of Lippe?
(https://i.imgur.com/k192js5.png)
I would say this counts. His service to Lippe will never be forgotten, Requeiscat in Pacem!
-
010: Birth of the Lemon Blob
(https://i.imgur.com/eYs0VSa.png)
Once this pops up on the screen, the royal family of Lippe begins working on a plan.
Currently, we have cores on both Hesse and Kassel. The lands that belonged to Cologne, Koln and Trier, are experiecing a nationalist uprising.
Once Cologne is restored, this will leave Hesse with two lands that we can easily annex without incuring infamy or wrath of the Austrian Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/9ga2hcY.png)
Glorious will Lippe be, indeed! While Oldenburg has a powerful ally that is England, Altmark is not only landlocked but its only ally is Denmark.
This will be a good target practice before we deal with Hesse! Onwards, to war!!
(https://i.imgur.com/7kwPsUF.png)
Oldenburg was called into the war and our friend, Pomerania, got punched so hard by Denmark they begged for peace three months into the war.
Holstein and Munster are dealing with Oldenburg forces, and we are soon to annex Altmark. Inevitably however, Denmark will make a landfall via Oldenburgian lands.
On 17th November, Magdeburg is annexed into Lippe.
(https://i.imgur.com/ChEYMJg.png)
The Danish landfall never comes; instead, Holsteinian heretics went for Schlesvig, tying up army of Denmark!
We cannot miss this opportunity; while our friends are besieging Oldenburg, we must break the Danes and secure Holsteinian independence.
(https://i.imgur.com/e4EnmVg.png)
Mm, dead enemy stack is best enemy stack <3
Holstein unfortunately agrees to white peace with Denmark, so we redelegate our forces to besiege Oldenburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/R7tt36Z.png)
Out of nowhere, Hamburg and Luneburg join Oldenburgian side; we teach them a quick and bloody lesson why that was a mistake.
On 6th November, Oldenburg capitulates and agrees to become our vassal; exactly 4 months later, in February, Denmark asks for peace which we accept.
Pomerania asks us to formally join the war against Mecklenburg, which we do, if only to honor the treaty because Pomerania wins the war and annexes Mecklenburg just few weeks later.
(https://i.imgur.com/lz19yD7.png)
It is time to strike! We will have entirety of Hesse-Kassel for ourselves!
(https://i.imgur.com/Qp61HgU.png)
Shoo away Nuremberg, I'm trying to be dramatic here!
The war quickly escalated into an affair that has drawn Wurzburg, Milan and Savoy as well.
In initial combat, our army gets defeated and flees for Munster, where Ernst Kasimir Eder dies. He served us well.
After Pomeranian, Oldenburgian and Holsteinian forces arrive in Lippe, however, we make short work out of Hessian and Wurzburgian soldiers.
(https://i.imgur.com/JB9XorV.png)
We annex Hesse as planned and take money from Wurzburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/cQ1wVK5.png)
Because we had no money or diplomats to recruit another general, Otto II von Mecklenburg had to lead the army himself, presumably causing his premature death shortly after we signed peace with Wurzburg.
Fortunately, Bernard ascends right away, and his 8-years old heir, Simon, is there to continue the line in case the worst happens.
On 10th November 1491, Milan decides to send us an offer of white peace, and we agree to end the hostilities.
Glory to Lippe!
-
011: Frankfurt, Reformation and a Rainbow Boy
(https://i.imgur.com/Q3qDbb1.png)
We have a mission to vassalize Frankfurt, and the wealthy imperial city will bring us lots of money.
That means we can fight for it soon, once we get some manpower reserves. as you can see, support of our allies, we already have!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZUW93Wa.png)
Meanwhile, in Pisa, right next to Pope's door, Protestant movement begins.
(https://i.imgur.com/MvO5jAu.png)
So many targets, unfortunately Pomerania and Holstein control half of them.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZSf22mO.png)
They eaten it, they've got its Electorate. They also inherited Carniola and formed a personal union over Palatinate.
With two votes basically guaranteed to them, they, Bohemia and us are now fighting for Electoral support.
(https://i.imgur.com/EPKPSg7.png)
For us, it is time for a war. Frankfurt must be subjugated, and we quickly deal with its urban army.
(https://i.imgur.com/bMTfUGg.png6)
Either Italians really hate the Pope, or there's witchcraft involved.
Shortly after this 'Calvin' preaches his version of Protestant faith, Frankfurt surrenders and agrees to become our vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/VOOkpau.png)
Thuringia is humilitated as a present for Simon, who has become of age.
(https://i.imgur.com/et7Mi4a.png)
Finally, we can muster stronger forces. Galloglaigh regiments greatly favor offense, as you can see.
(https://i.imgur.com/33hb9oE.png)
In meanwhile, Simon 'enjoys' life a bit more than conservative court of Lippe would prefer him to. A noble girl from Ansbach should be sufficient to distract him.
(https://i.imgur.com/t8iNHwt.png)
First Kassel, now this? Our country is slowly falling under influence of the Protestants.
(https://i.imgur.com/05T2L4H.png)
Finally, the stubborness of Switzerlander syndics forced all the parties to sign a white peace.
Few days later, Simon once again proves to be a deviant, as maids report he is 'visiting' places in Lippe at night to behave in most un-christian manner.
That boy is a hedonist and casanova, and that will get him in trouble one day, I just know it.
(https://i.imgur.com/ey5qYns.png)
The pope does not sleep, and quickly begins Counter-Reformation after recent resurgence of Lutheran and Calvinist heresies.
(https://i.imgur.com/Jr8wXZg.png)
Once again, Pomerania calls for aid in a war, but this time, it is the mighty Sweden.
Of course, Lippe will not shirk from its obligations towards our best ally. To arms!
-
012: Age of Reformation
(https://i.imgur.com/Nr5fWGd.png)
The scandalous Simon ascends to the throne as his father dies shortly after beginning of the war against Swedes.
Our vassals and ally Holstein join the war, while Sweden calls in Norway and Georgia for help.
In mid-September 1501, Swedish fleet gets pulverized in the Baltic, allowing us to roll out a simple plan:
(https://i.imgur.com/oOwB2m4.png)
March to Stockholm, capture it and demand the Sweden to pay for their warmongering!
Fleets of Pomerania and friends are blockading Swedish coasts, their land armies occupying Jutland peninsular.
(https://i.imgur.com/2UpyV7e.png)
Another important building unlocked; +25% Production equals more money in a long run. Big provinces with valuable goods tend to have the biggest effect.
As German states produce lots of metal, cloth and salt, they usually can squeeze most of coin from production rather than tax or trade.
Meanwhile, as shown by our amount of money, Lippe forces are running and looting across Sweden, fighting Swedish regiments. Of course, Stockholm is the end of the journey, but why not grab some free ducats while we're at it?
(https://i.imgur.com/QxHYYeQ.png)
While Sweden is humilitated and Holstein gets some gains, we unfortunately lost the bid for Imperial throne; Ernst II of Bavaria has managed to sway Saxony in the last moment, getting 3rd vote.
(https://i.imgur.com/PLRmfjJ.png)
Of course, we will fight for the Throne; Simon Knyphausen ought to help us greatly. The moment he starts working, Saxony casts its vote in our favor!
(https://i.imgur.com/9bWywb2.png)
Simon V, being scandalous per usual, updates the old religious policies a bit.
Next day comes confirmation; our Legitimacy ticking up and work of Simon Knyphausen has swayed Modena to our side as well.
With 4 votes out of 7 (Bohemia votes for self, Palatinate for its senior Bavaria, and Hainaut for France, for some reason), we have a solid chance to be elected Emperor of Holy Roman Empire when Ernst II of Bavaria dies.
(https://i.imgur.com/PVP4KAP.png)
Finally, the greatness of gunpowder reaches the minds of our strategists, and we can commission artillery units!
(https://i.imgur.com/kJZrNAV.png)
Soon afterwards, we get new unit upgrades. What you see on the main map is religious overlay; the dark lemony of Christianity is ridden with blotches of Protestant dark blue. Their current greatest supporter is Vellexon family, the royal house of France.
And yes, Altmark just recently converted to Protestantism. With 3 out of 7 provinces adhering to heretical faith, Simon V is considering... things.
(https://i.imgur.com/msSApUD.png)
Four provinces are now Protestant; only the heartlands of Lippe remain truly Catholic!
(https://i.imgur.com/sJb3AGx.png)
Alas, religious disorder has spread across Lippe, despite our efforts.
We will try to be tolerant, but Protestantism is championed as true faith of German states; even our friends and some of vassals have already embraced it.
Therefore, Simon V is asking his courtiers:
(https://i.imgur.com/pVGB74T.png)
To abandon the teachings of Papal dogmatics, or not??
-
013: Glory of Simon V von Mecklenburg!
(https://i.imgur.com/C7ue76K.png)
It took few years, but Ernst of Saxony accepted Simon V as his suzerain!
With Munster, Mainz and Saxony our vassals, we have 3 votes in Electoral Council, permamently, unless we do something really bad.
(https://i.imgur.com/4115Chx.png)
Furthermore, Simon decided that it's time to accept the tenets of Protestantism. We're not engaged in Curia politics, and our innovativeness and progressivism are not exactly going hand-in-hand with plain old Catholicism.
This of course angers Holstein and Pomerania, our dear allies, who promptly dissolve the alliances. That is alright; Lippe does not need them anymore.
(https://i.imgur.com/38FrGol.png)
Bavarian royal family inherited Palatinate upon death of Ernst II; this in turn triggered elections in which Simon V of Lippe has been elected!
Long live Simon V von Mecklenburg, King of Lippe, Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire!
We might be Protestant and are surrounded by scheming Catholics (Bavarians especially), nonetheless, prestige and glory is upon us!
(https://i.imgur.com/FSMvHd9.png)
Amongst religious reforms in Lippe, Simon decided to introduce Suffragan Bishops, and most importantly, grab church property by Dissolving the Monasteries.
With our stability recovering and prestige accumulating thanks to the title of Emperor of Romans, we no longer need a philosopher in our midst.
(https://i.imgur.com/YYK69yY.png)
A-ha! Already a catholic pretender rises to challenge us. Fool! He and his rebels are easily crushed.
As we're heavily Innovative, we need missionaries to convert our provinces, capital of Westfalen especially, otherwise the religious turmoil will continue.
Fortunately an event spawns 2 of them for the cost of 1 stability (as Emperor, we regain that pretty fast)
To pay for their missionary work, the Emperor has to take a loan, unfortunately.
(https://i.imgur.com/VjpooRI.png)
It seems we won't even need missionary work, for people of Osnabruck accepted teachings of Luther on their own. Very good!
(https://i.imgur.com/Lx8qF3D.png)
Finally, with conversion of Westfalen itself, the instability of the era is now gone.
As you can see in top right corner, we're mustering forces. Our previous allies, Holstein and Pomerania, have some lands that are considered core parts of Lippe, and of course we cannot allow this to continue.
(https://i.imgur.com/Iz19mJz.png)
A disaster strikes the royal family of Lippe; Simon, son of Emperor Simon, dies of a fever despite the medicus' best efforts.
(https://i.imgur.com/qUv26cm.png)
Fortunately, just before Simon ventures onto the battlefields of Pomerania, he gets a heir, Simon Heinrich.
(https://i.imgur.com/TWWI0GY.png)
Pomeranian lands are besieged by our vassals, while Simon, along with General Woldemar, took the two armies of Lippe against Milanese and Pomeranian forces sieging Oldenburg.
We destroy their forces at Bremen, and then fight at Munster against their other army. Also, Poland offers us an alliance, which we accept.
(https://i.imgur.com/2s7JpFQ.png)
By end of October, Pomerania surrenders Mecklenburg to us. However, Savoy, Switzerland and Castille are besieging our provinces again.
Milan is the leader of the enemy alliance; maybe, with the beating we gave them earlier, they will accept a white peace now?
(https://i.imgur.com/fEbD7ua.png)
After rounds and rounds of refusing a white peace, Milanese agreed for peace if we revoke claims to Bavarian-held Ruppin. Sure thing.
While we took a hit to our legitimacy, Castille had to agree to peace as well, being part, not leader, of the alliance.
(https://i.imgur.com/iXlBvFd.png)
Shortly after the war, Simon V dies; his infant son and heir, Simon Heinrich, is elected Holy Roman Emperor, governed by a regency council.
God be with him! Especially that we're working on establishing formal alliance with certain other, Protestant, nation...
-
014: Baguette Warbuddies
(https://i.imgur.com/ble1HUo.png)
Ha ha! The French have accepted our alliance, Protestants ought to keep together!
(https://i.imgur.com/oXHLAzI.png)
Of course, we accept, for Austria is currently fighting the French alone.
We don't have manpower to go south and do anything, so it's mostly to honor the treaty with France.
(https://i.imgur.com/0t01PSa.png)
However, the General has different idea and, going via Bavaria and Wurzburg, he defeats few Austrian regiments and goes on rampage against Austrian hinterlands.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZFf9je1.png)
At Vienna and Ostmark, he decimates Austrian mercenary corps by thousands, then destroys the remainder at Steiermark before looping back to besiege Vienna, Austrian capital.
(https://i.imgur.com/EQOzqpp.png)
He got very sad when France decided to end the war early.
Then we got the opportunity to weaken Bavaria; they agreed to release Augsburg as independent state.
(https://i.imgur.com/lyVe1Z8.png)
Fourth idea unlocked; because we continue policy of Innovativeness but not every Lippe subject is a Protestant yet, we decide that positive amount of missionaries is a must.
(https://i.imgur.com/C25CUP5.png)
France asks for support in another war, and we honor the treaty. All allies but Hainaut - and its overlord Liege - abandon Picardy in her hour of need.
(https://i.imgur.com/A7b9jcN.png)
The war ends rather quickly; French get what they want and Liege has to release Luxembourg as a sovereign state, increasing amount of Princes in our Empire in the same time.
(https://i.imgur.com/upDWBYe.png)
We decide to keep Sundgau for ourselves, to weaken both Swiss and Austrian powers.
(https://i.imgur.com/K6KfbdL.png)
The Regency is over; Simon Heinrich I von Mecklenburg is of age, and his heir is Leopold, already ten years old himself.
Just three months later, Luxemburg accepts our offer of vassalization.
(https://i.imgur.com/sOxrC78.png)
A short war against Holstein-Gelre ends in victory despite involvement of Castille, Sweden and Prussia on Gelre's side!
France did help us by tying up Castillians in the northern Iberia.
Five years of peace, stability and monotony pass...
(https://i.imgur.com/oIgJw69.png)
The French retaliate by asking us to fight against England, and the Pope himself.
Of course we will!
-
015: Too Many Calls to (Fire)Arms
(https://i.imgur.com/TN8oaEV.png)
Not much happens during the war; although we help few times in French Flanders, the largest battle a total victory for our alliance.
(https://i.imgur.com/YpZsR1C.png)
And finally, Muslims are repelled from Baltic lands of the Empire by Prussians. About time!
(https://i.imgur.com/V6BLQvf.png)
The noble republic of Nevers will probably soon become part of France, but lets give them the prestige and respect they want. The Emperor agrees!
(https://i.imgur.com/iPxojSz.png)
France completes the part of war against Brittany, taking half of it with them. Meanwhile, we fight Alsace; ally of Venice, who went to war against Genoa, part of the Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/kuRZphK.png)
Finally, we get firearm infantry units. Tercios will do us well at the moment; later we will probably switch to more offensively-minded units.
(https://i.imgur.com/wav80oI.png)
Brunswick and Verden threw their lot with English and Venetians and Pomeranians!
This will not stand; these two will soon become Lippe vassals!
(https://i.imgur.com/isgihwe.png)
Pomerania sends an offer of peace I'm willing to accept; because we're merely junior partners in Polish war, we can't negotiate with Brunswick and Verden.
(https://i.imgur.com/OCUYFNr.png)
Finally, France succeeds in their war and has retaken English holdings on the continent, and even have them release Sardinia.
(https://i.imgur.com/qtssW04.png)
Holstein draws us into another war, this time against Sweden (where our forces give the northerners a sound beating); meanwhile we get free cores on Ruppin, Gelre and Breisgau.
(https://i.imgur.com/p3Y8InS.png)
The war continues, and Aragon has been drawn in, only to get beaten by Lippe soldiers.
However, some pursue literary arts; it seems Leopold became quite an art critic of sorts. His works will influence the future generations of Lippe artists, for sure.
(https://i.imgur.com/iffXsm7.png)
Finally, after many, many years, there's peace. Holstein however still holds Halland, a Swedish core, so we will probably return to this in about ten years.
Still, it's a good moment for to pauste take a breath! And to note that Leopold von Mecklenburg, heir to the throne of Lippe, is currently 33 years old. Considering family history so far, I believe this goes into Guiness Book of Records.
-
Obviously, the lesson is to go to college and do your homework, or die an early death. No wonder Leopold is a literally genius!
-
016: Reconquest of Gelre, Collapse of the Cantons
(https://i.imgur.com/9lunDSC.png)
Why have festivities when you can invest into more money to make people happier later on?
(https://i.imgur.com/HabgjQZ.png)
See? Everyone wants to be part of the greater Lippe! Nassau is now our vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/OjQGKMq.png)
Time has come to go on the offensive; as you can see, we will retake Gelre by the ways of conquering Prussian capital in one swift attack through Warmia.
Meanwhile, our allies and vassals will provide smokescreen against anyone who tries to put a wrench in that plan, like the English. If they join the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/Kmwf5GU.png)
Not only did England join the war, it brought in Scotland and Hungary and Brittany. Simon Heinrich however believes that our victory is assured.
(https://i.imgur.com/KnnuF0x.png)
Unfortunately the Emperor himself will not see the end of war, for he died in his sleep shortly after we complete the Siege of Gelre. Long live Leopold II von Mecklenburg, King of Lippe and Holy Roman Emperor!
His heir, Simon, has very high stats and is already seventeen. Here's hoping he will do well, just like his father.
(https://i.imgur.com/ojAtZaU.png)
The English under King James Stuart managed to capture Mecklenburg while we were busy against Prussians.
However, after we win the initial battle of Altmark, we chase them through Ruppin into Brandenburg, where the English are utterly destroyed.
While others in the alliance like Hungary or Brittany already asked for peace, Prussia stubbornly refuses to hand over Gelre.
(https://i.imgur.com/kO56SrU.png)
After Samogitia and Wenden, however, they agree to our demands, which we up by 225 ducats as well as renouncing of claims on Plock and Warmia, held by our ally, Poland.
We steel ourselves for more English landings, but they never happen. On 1st April 1559, they agree to white peace, bringing our war to an end.
We will soon annex Frankfurt; it is not an Elector, and as an OPM vassal, they don't do much. They're not a core, but our status as Emperor gives us enough Prestige and our infamy is so low, we can afford the hits.
(https://i.imgur.com/YxVMnC3.png)
And that's why you check news often; Switzerland, a blob of the Alps, is assaulted by Bavaria; it's prime opportunity to retake Breisgau, which is considered our core thanks to an event.
More importantly; we will be able to crush their power in the south, maybe have Savoy being released from vassalship, or Burgundy restored. Have the cantons break apart into one-province states?
All's up in the air, and Leopold II will oversee the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/QC2hl1c.png)
Switzerland is getting wrecked by us, Bavaria and France in the same time. It's for the best; the Swiss were a giant only in the 1400s, during their initial conquests.
Today, they stand on clay feet, and will soon collapse.
(https://i.imgur.com/kic7yCP.png)
France did put a little wrench in our plans by calling peace early in exchaneg for Franche-Comte. No matter; Bavarians are still fighting their war, and so are we.
(https://i.imgur.com/2ig8lBG.png)
Bavaria forced Swiss to release Baden - and thus city of Breisgau - as sovereign nation allied to Bavarians. Our primary goal of fighting the Swiss is no longer valid; we end the war, further curtailing their power.
Leopold II realizes the fact that we need to recover manpower - create perhaps a third stack already, because Leopold II also realizes that during his lifetime, there will be a war with Bavaria - a long, bloody, and costly war.
-
017: The Great Bavarian War
(https://i.imgur.com/SFzWX3w.png)
Or maybe Leopold was wrong? He has passed away shortly after his prophetic talk. We have a new King and a new Emperor!
Simon's heir, Simon, has stats only slightly worse than that of his father. Nonetheless, preparations for war against Bavaria will continue.
(https://i.imgur.com/XhFCoWc.png)
Time has come; Bavaria is busy against Bohemia and its balkan allies, and our allies think highly enough of us to support us in the war.
Sound the horns of war, now!
(https://i.imgur.com/Ygdu8Oo.png)
Going to war against Baden and Bavaria separately caused the Bavarians to not be in charge of war against Baden - instead, that place was taken by Lithuania. But we already struck down one of Bavarian stacks, at the Netherlands.
(https://i.imgur.com/3TY2SgF.png)
Another stack-wipe occurs at Hesse (16k Bavarians killed) and Mainz (13k Bavarians killed), paving a way to run through Bavarian lands and besiege their capital.
However, we must act quickly; Hungary and Lithuania are running rampant through Poland, and once that fron collapses, the eastern enemies will mostly likely strike at Mecklenburg and nearby areas; we must finish the wars before that comes to pass, or, worse yet, France pulls from the wars with spoils.
(https://i.imgur.com/TUNJinE.png)
Baden needs to be annexed, Breisgau and Zurich in total; our infamy rises slightly, but our ability to lower it is very weak. After this war, we will need a diplomat to help diminish our bad reputation; infamy incurs big penalties to HRE elections.
(https://i.imgur.com/F2hAd0q.png)
Drat, France has pulled from the war with Bavaria; fortunately, Lithuania decides that, because we annexed Baden, they can go with white peace, which we accept.
Now its us, severely battered Poland, our vassals, against Bavaria and its numerous dependencies.
(https://i.imgur.com/qwnmt74.png)
A grand total of over 100 thousand men fought at Mecklenburg; the battle raged for days but our forces were ultimately victorious.
Unfortunately, shortly after the battle's conclusion, Poland capitulated to Bavaria and its allies, dissolving the alliance with us too.
(https://i.imgur.com/G4FnoOh.png)
Tragedy occurs! Simon VI dies during the 2nd most bloody of battles of this war, at Neumark, where almost 90 thousand men, almost equally distributed between Lippe and Bavaria, has fought for victory.
Simon VII ascends the throne, and delegates one of generals to command forces in eastern Empire. It is a pragmatic decision; Simon currently has no heir to the throne of Lippe.
(https://i.imgur.com/RHztaI1.png)
Introduction of Austrians into the mix complicates things, because Austria called upon its allies, Hungary and Silesia... who are fighting against us on behalf of Bavaria.
Bavaria and its allies fight our forces, only to descend into chaos as Bavaria dukes it out against its erstwhile friends. All this with Austria and its valles rampaging through Swabian region on their own.
Remember kids, politics are a mess.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z7VfwcW.png)
Finally, amidst financial trouble, dynastic uncertainty and deaths of two out of three of Lippe generals, Bavaria settles for our peace offer; province of Ruppin, independence of Brabant and 100 ducats.
Another loan was taken, however, and our military spending must be halted; our interest repayments are now reaching 7.2 ducats per month!
(https://i.imgur.com/TJ3xNqw.png)
Sacred duty indeed!
She gives birth to Hermann Ludwig, who unfortunately has only Diplomatic rating above average. Still, he will have to do.
(https://i.imgur.com/WJLdn81.png)
Another most important duty will be held by this man.
0.4 ducats a month is his payment, but he cuts our interest repayments from 7.2 ducats to 5.4 ducats a month. Let's see if we can pull from the nosedive of the dreaded loan loop!
-
018: Economic Recovery 10-Year Plan
(https://i.imgur.com/5ttKu63.png)
Somehow, the grateful Brabant agreed to become our vassal.
Von Mecklenburgs are capable of talking a newly-independent country into submission, it seems.
(https://i.imgur.com/q9dNt95.png)
Austrians have forced Bavaria to accept their crushing terms; two provinces, and release of Nuremberg.
Bavarian lands are now split apart in four pieces, with Munich being on its own too, their population is war-weary and their treasury nearly empty. Their days are numbered!
(https://i.imgur.com/p9SS3pn.png)
So are ours if we don't repay all those debts!
It has been decided by Simon VI that to recover from this loan swamp, Lippe has to mint triple the amount it did previously. We can always fight the inflation later.
(https://i.imgur.com/WamvWIo.png)
As the shadow of loans - we have to repay over 550 Ducats in 1572 - extends over Lippe which still lacks money required, Simon decided to mint even more ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/e7QUNQF.png)
We deal with the smaller loan, but we were short of funds to repay the second. Two, already extended, loans remain to be repaid.
(https://i.imgur.com/V1webNF.png)
The people help! 241 ducats is a lot in our situation; we can lower the amount of money minted to about 2/3rds of current value.
Even in the short time of over-minting, inflation in Lippe already rose to 0.7%.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZeTuV52.png)
With inflation at 1%, we manage to repay one of the two remaining loans. Even then, we have enough funds to repay the other (due in 1577), as our projections put us at ~80 ducats profit per year.
Simon VII decided to slow down minting further, to begin the slow process of reducing inflation.
(https://i.imgur.com/ok9Hd4f.png)
Bavaria decides to let Baden go; we will give it back to the locals, it will lower our own infamy.
(https://i.imgur.com/br3mcEA.png)
We ourselves, however, annex Duchy of Nassau into the domains of Lippe.
With our new, 4-star diplomat, Wilhelm Ernst Lippstadt, we can easily maintain infamy at low numbers.
(https://i.imgur.com/CseKkoN.png)
Nuremberg is now a Free Imperial City, as they've sent a petition to Simon VII and we saw no reason to reject it.
Finally, on 1st August 1577, we repay the final, and largest, of debts.
The banker is therefore fired and bound to wander the roads of the Empire in search for a new employer. C'est la vie!
(https://i.imgur.com/9iUKswy.png)
After few years, France calls for help; it attacked Cyprus, which called for help from Lithuania and Hungary.
Obviously we will help - we're again ready to rumble!
-
019: One Asskicking for the Visconti Family
(https://i.imgur.com/a3GmXRG.png)
Even when we're stable and peaceful, rebels rise occassionally. A good target practice for the army!
(https://i.imgur.com/pnEw5GF.png)
Unfortunately, not much happens in the French war. Lippe soldiers see action at Neumark, and subsequent clean-up at Vorpommern.
Lithuania is already breaking apart from rebels; russian nationalists and protestant zealots are capturing province after province.
(https://i.imgur.com/Up37fSL.png)
Heinrich Ludwig, son of Simon and the patriotic noble lady, is now being introduced to the court.
(https://i.imgur.com/qlgsqfn.png)
Milan has been blobbing and their pop-ups became annoying.
Emperor Simon declared preparations to curb Milanese expansion.
(https://i.imgur.com/uHqLraH.png)
Milan proves to be suprisingly strong opponent. However, their allies are faltering, and we soon force St.Gallen to dissolve treaties with them and convert to the teachings of Luther.
Lorraine will be annexed; it would be lousy vassal and we need an elector that will be closer to us.
Some time later, Lithuanians call for peace with France, ending that war; soon France takes Pisa from Milan and ton of ducats, pulling out of our war, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/O9EKUmb.png)
We have to deal with Milanese, who launch surprise attack against our Swabian holdings, on our old; we win that fight and soon combined armies of Lippe and others unfold over Milan.
(https://i.imgur.com/hZ8wiQk.png)
They are broken; no longer having vassals or money, but do not worry, we do not hold Piedmont unlawfully for long. After brief negotiations, Savoyards buy it back for 60 ducats.
As for the new 7th Elector; it is Baden. A Protestant nation with whom we have marital and access treaties, nonetheless it is considered 'unaligned'. Like Hainaut, they vote for us simply because we're best Protestant candidate around.
(https://i.imgur.com/7rKZrta.png)
New lands in the far east are being discovered; some place name Japan, for example, has been recently visited by Castilleans.
This is not of important to us, however.
(https://i.imgur.com/ftsfn6b.png)
And finally, we get cavalry upgrade, one that shoots boolets and has better stats overall that the old Knights. Thus, we truly say our farewells to the medieval chivalry and knighthood!
-
020: Asskicking Continued (ft.Prussia Boyz and The Bavarians)
(https://i.imgur.com/BMSMH2A.png)
Three years of peace and then Liege, out of nowhere, decides to annex Hainaut. The greedy archbishop has taken away one of our electors!
They're replaced on the Electoral Council by Moravia, a vassal duchy of the Bavarians. Curses!
(https://i.imgur.com/52qTpua.png)
Simon VII decides to vent his frustrations on Prussians; they're not part of the Holy Roman Empire, yet they hold Meissen, a centre of trade and formerly Prince of the Empire.
The declaration draws in Hungary, Lithuania, Muscowy and England into the conflict on the side of Prussians; on ours, our vassals, friends and France join in.
(https://i.imgur.com/An3chsk.png)
Alsace also gets involved, which allows us to settle a score; the local Archbishop was behind funding of some of Nassau nationalists back in the day. He will be punished with vassalization.
(https://i.imgur.com/25iPuMq.png)
The entry of Poland into the conflict has thrown a wrench into our battleplans; we had military access through their lands to assault Prussia. We will get through this, and siege Warszawa as punishment!
(https://i.imgur.com/wjRMWZB.png)
Shortly afterwards, we gain another Idea slot, and it has been decided to increase our war potential by adopting Engineer Corps.
Few days later, capital of Prussia, Konigsberg, falls into our hands, and Prussians agree to give us Meissen, as well as pay 125 ducats and renounce claim to some Rigan territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/zg7vhWq.png)
Bavarians pick a perfect moment to decide and invade Nuremberg, a Free Imperial City and our ally.
Unfortunately for them, we're not the ones to abandon our allies, and join the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/496d0XX.png)
The fighting against Bavarians intensifies practically across entire Empire; Austrians and Bohemians, as well as Wurzburg and Siena has joined against the aggressors.
Just like Moravia, Worms and others joined Bavarian side, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qm9bKnh.png)
Alsace is humilitated and becomes Lippe vassal; Bavaria attempts to offer us peace, but not yet!
It is time that the likes of Brandenburg, Holland, Wurttemberg, Regensburg and others be reborn and carved away from Bavarian empire!
(https://i.imgur.com/ypDHRXP.png)
Heinrich dies during a hunting accident... however the next heir, Leopold, has very nice stats.
Simon mourns for Heinrich only for few days.
(https://i.imgur.com/R3bISd2.png)
Almost two years later, Munich finally surrenders and Bavaria accepts peace treaty dictated by us. Even before it, Utrecht and Palatinate were freed by other members of our alliance.
Our authority is all-time high. Now it is a perfect time to consolidate the Imperial Diet - time to vote for the Reichregiment!
Which does NOT pass! Our infamy might've been the cause of this, or mayhaps our bad relations with the Catholic princes of the Empire. Still, Simon VII feels betrayed by the Diet!
(https://i.imgur.com/cLNmXWa.png)
Half a year later, he passes away - some say of grief - and Leopold III ascends to the throne.
Long live Leopold III von Mecklenburg, King of Lippe, Emperor of Romans!
-
021: The New Spa in Memel
(https://i.imgur.com/MvGGtOO.png)
Now what Leopold III does not like is the fact that Switzerland, despite being broken by his predecessors, has retaken Burgundy and the cities in the Alps already, when we were busy.
This cannot stand; the Swiss will need to be beaten again. This time, we will have them release numerous nations and give up claims to other areas.
(https://i.imgur.com/4G21nH3.png)
Their main force was defeated by Leopold III himself, while France is beating up Venice and various other minor nations who joined Swiss in this war.
(https://i.imgur.com/eKATmgQ.png)
Remember, kids: in Lippe, the pen is as mighty as the sword!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZYx7tso.png)
And so, the Cantons are reduced to the union of Bern-Schwyz; Freiburg, Chur and Sion are now independent states, while Kingdom of Burgundy is alive once again.
(https://i.imgur.com/U5oWXo0.png)
Not so long afterwards, the petitions by the Swiss cities arrive; first to become Free Imperial City is Freiburg, and Sion follows suit few weeks later.
Unfortunately, despite all this splendour, glory and restoration of the Princes, the Diet, just as with Leopold's father, refuses to Reform the Reichregiment.
(https://i.imgur.com/PeUtGPM.png)
And now for something from the international news:
Naples, after winning war against Sweden and thus obtaining second half of Sicily, has declared creation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Good for them!
Leopold III decided to celebrate the Sicillian union by marrying into the ruling family of Durazzis.
(https://i.imgur.com/lf2WA0H.png)
...Apparently the Swedes got jealous and decided to proclaim a new kingdom of their own: Scandinavia.
Good for them, I guess - but Riga holds some of their core territories, and Riga is part of the Empire. That means...
(https://i.imgur.com/mjBFDyM.png)
This thing here was pretty much inevitable. Riga might've allied against us in the past, but we simply won't leave Imperial Princes defenseless. To war!
And yes, that grey blob, up in Siberia, is Iraq. Get used to it already.
(https://i.imgur.com/YRTL09H.png)
Prussia is beaten and abandons Scandinavian side in exchange for peace.
And yes, we took Memel; Leopold III captured the city and liked it so much that he decided it will become a Baltic spa town for entirety of von Mecklenburg dynasty.
I mean, we're the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire. Who will stop us from doing things like this? No one, HAH!
(https://i.imgur.com/i4P5LjX.png)
The Emperor's diplomats dictate surrender terms to Scandinavian king in Stockholm; ducats for Imperial treasury and renouncing of claims on Riga-held Kexholm and Viborg.
(https://i.imgur.com/yZAOVvS.png)
Also, finally, we have enough money to build an Embassy.
Infamy begone!
-
022: The Many Conflicts of France
(https://i.imgur.com/jh1t7wI.png)
Leopold III is so charismatic that people just want to be vassals of Lippe!
(https://i.imgur.com/8sNuSVR.png)
ITS MY OWN EVENT WHY FOR FU-
I mean, the vile Muscovy has assasinated Leopold III! At least, people of Lippe is sure of it!
Simon Ludwig has ascended to the throne of Lippe, and the Holy Roman Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/aTmyb0R.png)
His heir is a very competent one, like woah.
Meanwhile, Simon Ludwig and the court of Lippe has decided to pursue the diplomatic insult and declare war against Muscovy!
(https://i.imgur.com/mrjCqui.png)
Muscovy were forced to pay money for Leopold's funeral and their vast lands were pierced in three with release of Nizhny Novgorod.
France soon wants us to join its colonial war somewhere in India? Against Vijayanagar and Xin.
Sure thing, it always counts as honoring the treaty. What is Xin anyway-
(https://i.imgur.com/XIzxpt3.png)
Woah mama that's a lot of troops and ships they have. Well, like I said, it's French war.
...Maybe we should consider building a navy to transport our troops? What with Memel being on the other side of the Baltic.
(https://i.imgur.com/vs0exm8.png)
Whaddaya know, we ain't alone thinking about a navy.
It is settled then - a transport fleet will be commissioned!
(https://i.imgur.com/cRWmOON.png)
It seems that more and more of von Mecklenburgs pursue literary arts. That is good! I'm sure he will make a great poet.
(https://i.imgur.com/J7pUEtG.png)
Maybe he took someone's critique too hard?
On more serious side of this, Simon Ludwig does not have a heir, currently. Hopefully someone or something will fix that.
(https://i.imgur.com/pppM6iw.png)
One war ends, another begins. Meanwhile we decide to better relations with this distant 'Xin' empire with access treaties and a gift.
(https://i.imgur.com/Igzj5a1.png)
France sure feels bloodthirsty nowadays. The war begins with invasion of Liege; remember they annexed Hainaut?
Karma, biotch.
(https://i.imgur.com/7cVf2RG.png)
Surprisingly - at least, for us - France is having trouble containing Aragonese forces.
We decided to lend them a hand; our forces decimated this stack of Aragon troops after Third Battle of Toulouse.
(https://i.imgur.com/yVjNskO.png)
However, taxing people for war and those fake battle alerts have annoyed the population, and rebellious sentiment has grew in Lippe in recent years.
We recruit a 5-star high judge, Simon August Kassel, to deal with the growing discontent.
(https://i.imgur.com/Vf4jOas.png)
After years of uncertainty, finally, there's a heir to the throne of Lippe.
Sadly his stats are very mediocre except Administration.
(https://i.imgur.com/OcNRsgq.png)
Bavaria thought we would not notice this little popup describing how they have annexed the Free Imperial City of Nuremberg.
Our declaration of war will show them that we're not blind.
(https://i.imgur.com/zndXBr1.png)
Their war took way too long.
Our own war against Bavaria is proceeding smoothly; their forces are in disarray, Wurzburg and Brandenburg are occupying their exclaves, while our forces are besieging Bavaria proper.
(https://i.imgur.com/su1kqYu.png)
After many wars and many years, peace and stability returns to Lippe, while Bavarians forever lose any significance.
And then, on 5th March, France dissolves our century-long alliance amidst war against the Brittany, Milan and Burgundy. A sign of incoming trouble? Perhaps...
-
023: GULES, A FESS ARGENT
(https://i.imgur.com/LAvPrUd.png)
Simon Ludwig has decided that it is time to consolidate our realm, and stop having that many vassals.
First to be incorporated is Munster; an Elector-Bishopric. Their vote goes to Metz, a catholic Archbishopric at the moment, but Simon Ludwig will work on changing that.
Still, we have 4 votes and Bohemia, being Bohemia, votes perpetually for itself.
(https://i.imgur.com/qeQ7NZl.png)
H-Hey now, Wurzburg, don't do that! We're down to 3 Electoral votes because of you! Why didn't you warn us when we were annexing Munster?
The next Electorship goes to Brandenburg, who fortunately, whilst Catholic, favors Bavaria over Austria. Currently, our succession to the throne of Holy Roman Empire is safe and sound.
(https://i.imgur.com/kPg7Gw0.png)
France, consider what you're doing here. Not that we trade in Antwerp, but still.
Just for safety reasons, Simon Ludwig orders that a 4th Army is to be created.
(https://i.imgur.com/pvEj4sm.png)
The peaceful time for Lippe has lasted for five years before Simon Ludwig has died, rather prematurely, leaving his underage heir Simon VIII to lead the country and the Empire.
This was a perfect time for Brandenburg to decide that they would rather see Austria as the next Emperor. Fortunately we still have-
(https://i.imgur.com/OA97HHW.png)
BOHEMIA YOU IDIOT!! Why did you had to eat Moravia?? I'm down to 2 votes because of you!
(https://i.imgur.com/zDcRaKH.png)
While we wait for the Council to get back to odd number of Electors, Simon VIII ascends to the throne. His heir Stephan is anything but a diplomat, unfortunately.
Wait, whom's Ferrara voting for again?
(https://i.imgur.com/pjeBKxT.png)
*PANICKED SCREECHING*
Religious Unity button! Where is the Religious Unity button!? I need to convert an Elector!!
(https://i.imgur.com/8t24V6m.png)
I KEEP PUSHING THAT BUTTON BUT NOTHING'S HAPPENING!! Except loss of prestige.
Brandenburg, Holland and Metz are adamant about staying Catholic.
It's either Ferrara, or we go to war to set some religious affiliations straight.
(https://i.imgur.com/SVGQ29W.png)
...Alright then.
-
024: Of Lubeck and Austria
(https://i.imgur.com/JgYqZ1a.png)
Our fighting against Holland goes with minimal army maintenance, and brings Brunswick into the war, which we will annex!
(https://i.imgur.com/IR9waYY.png)
One war later, we have 3 votes, tied with - out of all people - Holstein.
But because Mecklenburgs of Lippe are current Emperors, the throne will fall to them if a tie occurs. Electoral Crisis averted, although we need ot be more careful in the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/7yjBzqL.png)
Just as Stephan, heir to the throne of Lippe, becomes an adult, Simon VIII falls sick. Hopefully its only temporary.
(https://i.imgur.com/CDSJbAS.png)
Of course the RNG had to dash our hopes. Long live Stephan I von mecklenburg!
His first notion is to try again and pass Reichregiment, but the Diet once again denies the Mecklenburgs their progressivism.
(https://i.imgur.com/haIK75y.png)
Stephan I continues to prove that he is not a diplomat at all.
(https://i.imgur.com/HTBTqKv.png)
Fortunately he has an occassion to prove that Lippe is still an Emperor proper; Lubeck has been taken by Scandinavia.
If we retake it, not only we receive prestige and glory, but also control of the valuable centre of trade. To war!
(https://i.imgur.com/YaT1rDL.png)
They've called Austria and few others into the war, but Lippe will prevail!
(https://i.imgur.com/UQUsAIp.png)
While Scandinavia suffers under our steel boot, Austrians are a formidable foe.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z7WOdUa.png)
Darnit! We run out of cash and had to take a huge loan.
(https://i.imgur.com/SQAlkOI.png)
Scandinavians give up Lubeck, and Prussia pulls out of the war.
However, Austrians reject our offers of white peace; therefore Emperor Stephan decided that they will be punished with fragmentization!
(https://i.imgur.com/JytlKab.png)
As years go by, sieges are won and Austrian friends abandon her one by one. And they're forced to accept the peace terms above.
Croatia, Serbia and Styria amount for 10 provinces, a half of Austrian possessions in Europe. That will teach them!
(https://i.imgur.com/YiVETKn.png)
As we recover from the war, Stephan I performs his administrative duties, an appoints Nuremberg as a free city.
(https://i.imgur.com/ASRkhJm.png)
A new idea of Battlefield Commissions will help us get better generals... we can't rely on the Emperor's skills alone.
(https://i.imgur.com/cpe7nPn.png)
And so, the era of crusades, excommunication and religious superiority has come to an end.
Heretics can live without fear of oppression and the Pope loses most of influence amongst Catholics. And we, as an Emperor, can no longer demand that Princes convert to teachings of Luther, except by the way of sword.
(https://i.imgur.com/AILUjG1.png)
The last shadow from the war with Scandinavia and Austria is thus pushed away.
Lippe remains strong and prosperous, just like in the old times!
-
025: Organ Sounds of Dissappointment
(https://i.imgur.com/uMawKhA.png)
Oh, really? Emperor to the rescue!
Brandenburg even lets us lead the war against the Poles.
(https://i.imgur.com/7vrSJHX.png)
We crush the main Polish army and Stephan has decided that von Mecklenburgs of Lippe need a new spa city at the coast of Baltic.
Therefore, Danzig will be ours!
(https://i.imgur.com/HGbhN68.png)
And it is, along with a great mountain of Polish money.
Like, Poles, where did you get all that money from?
(https://i.imgur.com/XreOgj6.png)
Shortly afterwards, Duchy of Oldenburg is intergrated into Lippe.
Its western half of Friesland is then formed into a new vassal duchy (for we have no core on that land).
(https://i.imgur.com/SSJcXFl.png)
It was also time for Lippe to claim the title of Defender of Protestant Faith.
France had this title for decades but claimed it only because they had more money than us.
(https://i.imgur.com/GCUHwTn.png)
The amount of money we got from Poland allowed us to sponsor the South German Organ Tradition masters; let the heavy organ music play!
And finally, Memel becomes a Lippe core; we can add it to the territorial borders of Holy Roman Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/IWLWEJp.png)
Gustavian infantry is the way to go at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/hhWw03O.png)
Crown Prince of Lippe, Simon Philipp, dies of fever, and the second man in line, Simon August, is a dissappointment.
(https://i.imgur.com/z1AhY9t.png)
*deep breath*
Boi.
Why u doing dis.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qzn32VI.png)
WAIT WHAT!? ITS BEEN ONLY A MONTH.
RNG IT HAS BEEN ONLY A MONTH!
*screeching*
(https://i.imgur.com/x79fm2w.png)
Play for us, maestro.
Lest I punch someone - Simon August probably.
-
026: Age of Absolutism
(https://i.imgur.com/ffAgQxN.png)
A fat load of ducats falls into our pockets just like that!
(https://i.imgur.com/WPBj0CC.png)
Oh no. Holland is voting for itself. We're at two votes only!
It's time we push someone into vassalization, and that will be Metz. To war!
(https://i.imgur.com/RvOT6Jo.png)
Metz stands alone and besieged by rebels; the weakened city surrenders after two months and is forced to become our vassal and accept Lutheranism as their state religion.
(https://i.imgur.com/b7lJpUT.png)
Stephan I has decided that with the ideas of Absolutism spreading around, the old feudal system just does not cut it anymore.
As soon as stability of Lippe is restored somewhat, he will declare himself a monarch absolute!
(https://i.imgur.com/0PwI1u3.png)
A-ha! The greedy Austrians cannot keep their hands off Styria!
We will kick their arses and help them realize their mistake.
(https://i.imgur.com/dZsZr75.png)
Battle of Lienz and subsequent Battle of Salzburg are the only significant battles in this conflict; after these, we have free hand to conquer Austrian lands and besiege Wien.
(https://i.imgur.com/PV1iU1m.png)
Alas, lack of generals demanded that Stephan I takes control of fighting as well, and that caused his death at Salzburg.
Simon August already has a heir, the infant Armin, so hopefully there won't be much distress.
(https://i.imgur.com/HOZVAvJ.png)
After several more years, Austria accepts our peace treaty, which further curbs their territorial powers.
(https://i.imgur.com/9ZNfjLf.png)
Simon August decides that he will pursue his predecessor's dream, and declares himself Absolute Monarch of Lippe.
This damages his legitimacy and destabilizes the country, but with enough international marriages and an artist working at the court, we will fix that.
Being absolute and all, he believes that the Diet will finally pass the Reichreform. But no, the Diet is as stubborn as always.
(https://i.imgur.com/Oz8722L.png)
The young absolutist on the throne also believes that Anhalt and Luneburg are being obstrusive in their independence and errant Catholicism.
That will be fixed with two short wars, says Simon August.
(https://i.imgur.com/LKpvzkv.png)
Attacking Luneburg gets us some unwanted attention... but nothing we can't win against!
Simon August does recruit a Commandant (+Discipline) and a Quartermaster (+Reinforce Speed) to help our armies a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/sK5MekN.png)
Brandenburg had the largest stack in the north and we defeated them with ease.
(https://i.imgur.com/3zC6EAT.png)
Luneburg is annexed and few days earlier, Wurttemberg had to fork over quite a few ducats for us to accept peace with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/EnR4IOk.png)
And Anhalt is annexed as well, fulfilling Simon August's imperialistic plans.
Archbishopric of Wurzburg is beaten soon afterwards, bringing us almost 500 ducats from their treasury!
(https://i.imgur.com/1UnDbRG.png)
Armies of Lippe keep beating up nearby enemies for money, until Castille decides to give up and offer white peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/w4VAIsS.png)
And so, the war comes to the true end.
We've got even more money out of it by beating up Styria, so we can afford something fancy... a Glorious Monument standing in Berg will do!
Of wait, we have so much cash we can afford a March. Let's build one in Sundgau, far in southeast, by France and Switzerland!
-
PTW Lippe stronk ;v
-
027: CHINA REVEALED
(https://i.imgur.com/GzL1Qtm.png)
Aha, now we've got another special building available. Grain Depot provides +20% to Max Army Limit and cuts Army Maintenance costs by 20%. If you have or want to have a big army that can be sustained by your economy, this is one of 2 'must-haves' in EU3.
The only caveat is that you must build it in a Grain-producing province; we have some, Kassel being close to our capital and thus in a safe spot.
(https://i.imgur.com/bXUwcLg.png)
Serbia asks for help, but as they failed to gather attention of anyone else but Carniola, we will simply send them some money to help their military.
(https://i.imgur.com/DnGtNTw.png)
Well what do you know, maybe Simon August isn't that bad of a monarch, if he managed to convince noblemen of Tyrol to accept his inheritance?
Aaah, that reminds me of the old, old days, when Lippe received Cleves due to inheritance laws. Marriage for the win!
The war against Transylvania ends a year later, with Serbia taking province of Banat from them.
(https://i.imgur.com/pQlsjEF.png)
Some months later our cartographers found the reason behind Polish riches; they own a chunk of Eastern Africa and even Arabian Peninsula; slaves and ivory earning them most of cash.
I have to say that I'm impressed with tenacity and boldness of the Poles... may they grow strong.
(https://i.imgur.com/m5xNssT.png)
Simon August I comes and goes rather early, just as Armin became a legal adult. His own heir, Simon (he will be the 9th I believe?) has nice stats.
Tirol, a quite well developed kingdom on its own, has been inherited by Lippe, and its italian side, province of Trent, comes with an university. Score!
(https://i.imgur.com/aRQv2zq.png)
I keep forgetting I have to fix this error with this invalid string call...
Anyway - Augsburg, led by Kristoph Bollheim, has created a league of Free Cities; a highly diplomatic leader can prompt this event, which sends out alliance offers to all Free Imperial Cities in the Empire, except the creator's designated rivals.
Nevers, Regensburg, Ulm, St.Gallen and Sion all joined the League of Augsburg. Going to war against Augsburg can trigger all those little cities, who - theoretically speaking - can then try and call their bigger friends in.
A while later, we receive atlases of Eastern Asia and Indonesia, allowing us to-
(https://i.imgur.com/wEE7W9P.png)
Für die Liebe des allmächtigen Gottes.
Emperor Armin feels a bit uneasy right now, and has decided to take a break.
-
028: Lippe Long and Prosper
(https://i.imgur.com/qiyltkP.png)
Finally, thanks to adjustments to the Treasury slider (and Grain Depot cutting down military maintenance), we're making a monthly profits now!
It might be 2 ducats per month, but you gotta remember back in 1400s we were losing several (up to 6-8) ducats per month.
(https://i.imgur.com/sWl0EYx.png)
And speaking of money - gifts to the state!
Let it rain!! *clink clink clink* As our current mission is to build a Weapons Manufactory in Nassau, we can now afford that building. It provides both income (even more in a province with Copper or Iron) and +5 to Weapons tech monthly.
(https://i.imgur.com/mRup6EN.png)
It's time that Armin does some proper Emperoring and bullies Lithuania to return Istria to the members of Holy Roman Empire - for example Aquileia.
(https://i.imgur.com/sX7f49L.png)
This is why keeping up with military technology is very important.
You keep up, or you die. Violently.
(https://i.imgur.com/KZ7qNBr.png)
Aaah, we gain Nationalist thought emerges! It gives somewhat decent casus belli against all nations within your culture group, so you can grab them more easier if you want to create a national (Germany, Italy, Russia) blob.
As for the idea, you can see we're taking Regimental System. That plus Grain Depot in Kassel means our land forces' maintenance costs are slashed by 45%. If we traded in Salt enough, we would have 55% reduction, but alas, we're not a global trader.
Gotta have a flaw somewhere, you know?
(https://i.imgur.com/WUkVnaz.png)
Literary reputation of Lippe shines once more, as a ancient text is rediscovered! And it's first time I saw this pop up for me, and we almost passed our chance; this event has cut-off date of 1700 AD.
And of course it's a philosopher's treatrise. Free government investment is great!
(https://i.imgur.com/unk5Nkn.png)
We manage to bully Lithuania hard enough to give up Istria and few hundred ducats.
After a short while of thinking, Armin I decided that he recovered the land, then he is entitled to keep it! Aquileia can complain as much as they want, Istria is ours!
Also, you might notice that we have a valid civic decision availbale. That would be...
(https://i.imgur.com/pUpHj1N.png8)
While forming Kingdom of Westphalia would give us a nice set of rewards, free coastal cores even, it would jump our monarchy from Absolute to the Administrative line.
As well change our fancy multi-square coat of arms into plain white-and-blue one, which is a no-no.
In january 1686, Armin I of Lippe decided that our military must grow, now that costs to maintain it has been drastically lowered. A fifth army will be created, and current units will be enlarged to 29.000 troops each (13 regiments infantry, 12 cavalry and 4 artillery).
(https://i.imgur.com/c3Abgov.png)
Oh right, in EU3, when you complete a manufactory mission, you gain a free 4-star advisor.
The next mission asks for textile manufactory in Altmark, but I'm saving money for another building - Tax Assessor, which reduces inflation by -0.05 yearly. More money we can mint without inflation, the better!
Meanwhile, England and its Irish friends has been awfully quiet lately, I wonder what's up with-
(https://i.imgur.com/wAOuLy3.png)
THE INVASION HAS BEGUN RUN FOR YOUR LIVES!!
(https://i.imgur.com/1S4FF1c.png)
...or maybe, just maybe, we're not destined to become Xin subjects, who knows!
(https://i.imgur.com/ma29qU4.png)
Simon, heir to the throne, having almost died of measles - or whatever he has caught - reminded me that I have not saved in a long while.
Fortunately, he has lived through his fever, and continues to be a heir. Phew!
-
029: Conquests and Liberations
Armin I has noticed that something has passed forgotten by all his predecessors for almost two hundred years.
(https://i.imgur.com/hBa59kS.png)
The city of Cologne is rightful core land of Lippe!
It has been decided that this must be rectified immediately, and that Trier will be taken as an extra so that we don't have to bother with finding a proper owner for it.
Upon declaration of war, Liege, Holstein, Wurzburg and few other minor Princes joined Cologne's side; we will deal with them, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/F7us68q.png)
Holstein has to give independence to Bremen and Verden, and Swiss money arrived in our treasury few weeks later.
(https://i.imgur.com/kJxcqbv.png)
Cologne is annexed in its entirety! We can now lay siege to its allies.
(https://i.imgur.com/JfAmIbF.png)
Meanwhile, Simon, heir to the throne, has penned an ode to the military power of Lippe. Very nice!
(https://i.imgur.com/mdadzgL.png)
After two more years, the enemy alliance capitulated; Wurzburg, Ulm and Liege had to pay a tribute totalling 1475 ducats, and Wurzburg also had to restore Baden, losing half its territory.
All these victories, restorations and conversions have built up enough Imperial Authority for the Kings of Lippe to try and reform the Reichregiment - but the Diet once again says 'no'.
Armin I gets better after the amount of money Lippe has allows him to build Tax Assessor at Altmark and Admiralty at Mecklenburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/7Ldxst0.png)
While we weren't looking, Milan has blobbed, eating up some Italian Princes, and even capturing the Free Imperial City of Sion!
It's time to kick Milanese in the face and demand they restore independence of the little ones.
(https://i.imgur.com/QqiWDl8.png)
Milan is joined by Bavaria, Thuringia and Styria; minor powers that will be beaten up.
And this time, the Italians do not have a technological advantage; the fighting against them proceeds smoothly.
(https://i.imgur.com/qeVD24K.png)
In a somewhat drastic and controversional move, Armin I decides to annex Thuringia instead of simply vassalizing it.
(https://i.imgur.com/SzoFuQ2.png)
The amount of Catholic lands Lippe is acquiring also prompts Armin I to pass the Popery Act, to help convert them faster.
(https://i.imgur.com/lvWi59M.png)
I can hear the spine of Milan breaking already. However, will all their provinces conquered, they have no choice but to accept our terms.
Armin, like several of his predecessors, decided that a new spa is needed, but this time somewhere warmer - like Verona.
(https://i.imgur.com/Hq0BfhD.png)
Charm of von Mecklenburg family reaches even beyond the Empire; as far as into the Balkans!
(https://i.imgur.com/fgAZXjh.png)
To celebrate all those conquests and liberations, Armin I decides that a new palace is required - one that will show just how legitimate Lippe is as the Emperor of Romans.
Glory to Lippe! Now and Forever!
-
030: Educating the Bohemian Fools (Please Pray for France)
(https://i.imgur.com/wxNSZJH.png)
Several years pass and Armin, with concern, notices that his infamy counter does not go down - instead, it goes up.
But then we get another Idea slot, perfect moment to implement Cabinet; now our Infamy goes down by 0.90 per year. In a decade, the currently acrued reputation will be gone.
(https://i.imgur.com/YrSJxDR.png)
Oh dear, that's a rather large rebel stack. Fortunately, the Danziger garrison deals with them well enough that they retreat to Warmia (where the Poles annihilate them).
(https://i.imgur.com/bN7iYi7.png)
Emperor Armin tries to distract the rebellious and detractory thought with a fancy new university at Westfalen, capital of Lippe.
(https://i.imgur.com/1map90H.png)
Aaaand then he dies. Long live Simon IX! His heir, Alexander, is a very competent young adult.
Croatia has been inherited by Lippe, but holding these poor Balkan provinces would be tedious. We will sell them to Serbians, who have a core claim in the region and are of the same national group.
(https://i.imgur.com/puBWaaB.png)
A free core via event? Don't mind if I do!
(https://i.imgur.com/zupjozM.png)
The war we declare triggers a chain of alliance, and Brandenburg, England and Bohemia now assail our lands. We will beat them off after we're done with our primary goal!
(https://i.imgur.com/V28HdUl.png)
This very annoying event has the tendency to pop up very often after 1650 when you have at least 2 ports but not Quest for the New World or Colonial Ventures - aka if you don't colonize/explore.
Fortunately, this late at tech tree, we can afford any slowing of Production tech; it won't yield any new buildings anyways.
At the war front, Brandenburg and Bohemia have an annoying tendency to conquer our provinces before we can. Its but a small inconvenience.
(https://i.imgur.com/NTpIIOc.png)
Battle of Nuremberg ends in Lippe victory, and the beaten stack is chased by Simon IX and his Army to Regensburg where he destroys them.
(https://i.imgur.com/bbOAypu.png)
Unfortunately, while besieging Prague itself, Simon IX got himself killed. Oops!
Alexander I von Mecklenburg ascends to the throne immediately, and his newborn son Simon is there to ascertain the dynastic continuation.
(https://i.imgur.com/qyd9V8U.png)
All those rapid successions and certain events dropkick our stability into negative numbers first time since probably forever.
Despite being an Emperor, the size of our lands make it somewhat difficult to recover stability swiftly, so the man on the picture above will help us with that.
(https://i.imgur.com/rQRWMDr.png)
Lippe so OP even its fledgling fleet is kicking arse. Although that was only about a fifth of English navy, Alexander is quite proud of his sailors anyway.
(https://i.imgur.com/FEqQzYq.png)
The literary reputation of Lippe continues, and that's because University of Armin I is completed, allowing us to pass these two edicts.
School Establishment increases efficiency, Education Act lowers tech costs and boosts prestige gained each year.
(https://i.imgur.com/vZVDwrF.png)
And finally, we enforce harsh demands on Bohemia, emphasizing release of Moravia, for whom royals of Lippe have a certain weak spot.
Also, Serbs, who were valiantly tying up English galleons and regiments in the Balkans, has been rewarded with English coastal possessions. The English are infuriated, we believe. That will show them!
(https://i.imgur.com/tplPIep.png)
France, in the meanwhile, has fallen on some rough times. C'est la vie, friends!
Shouldn't have broken the alliance with us. We will pray for your good luck, though!
-
031: The Great War
(https://i.imgur.com/8zOMCWi.png)
Once again, there seem to be a problem with how much infamy we lose each year. Danzig became a core so its local Embassy was closed, so we will need a new one in Verona.
(https://i.imgur.com/2lXZXgt.png)
Phew! It seems that Ulm world conquest was stopped by Ulm itself, which helps us as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/M9GUGbs.png)
Serbia has been attacked by the vile Hungarians! While they have not send a call to arms, we decide to get involved anyways.
Our ambassadors warns us that 'something very bad will happen because of this silly thing in the Balkans' but what does he know. We're Lippe, just and honorable!
(https://i.imgur.com/EltTlZs.png)
The war has drawn in Poland, Lithuania and Castille too. As you can see, the eastern armies are easily stomped over.
(https://i.imgur.com/X5qKl4f.png)
The pompous music of Baroque will help our victories feel much more epic than before.
(https://i.imgur.com/XQ9GgJJ.png)
As Castille calls in their new friends, Scandinavia and Denmark, into the war, Milan decides it is the best moment to go to war against us as well, dragging in Liege and Bavaria and Aachen as well.
Unfortunately for them, the Army stationed in Verona is more than ready to teach them a lesson.
(https://i.imgur.com/oC2pjOh.png)
Ah, unfortunate; the new units were made available in middle of the war.
While Caroline Infantry would give us several pips worth of offensive strength, a drop in morale due to a switch could prove disasterous. We will have to wait.
(https://i.imgur.com/zujrj9n.png)
Battle of Liguria ends in eradication of Castillean and Polish forces in Italy, allowing us the aforementioned switch.
Meanwhile, our Armies in Poland and Lithuania are battling the northerners, dealing with minor stacks.
(https://i.imgur.com/PuCi9PN.png)
One by one, our enemies are beaten up for money or political shenanigans.
An expeditionary force into Iberia discovers that Castille has ignored its own fortifications REAL hard - some of their core lands having fort level 1, the ones everyone starts with!
(https://i.imgur.com/QIEL1aH.png)
Their forces? Forget their forces - their land forces are terrible as well. And this is the feared-over Castille we're fighting? Pah!
Milan was beaten up and forced to accept teachings of Luther, as well as renounce claims to the most of northern Italy. This should silence them for a long while.
(https://i.imgur.com/RwKo8lk.png)
Finally, the last one surrenders. We decide that Castille must be broken apart, and thus their core lands are separated into the Kingdom of Leon.
In retrospect, the short war to punish Hungary took much more time, money, fighting, sieges and peace treaties than any war before.
Alexander I von Mecklenburg has taken to calling it 'The Great War', for there was no other like it before.
(https://i.imgur.com/eOmX4oC.png)
To celebrate the magnaminous victory of Lippe against its enemies, Alexander I decides to sponsor a new architectural style.
A pompous, disgustingly lavish, absurdly decorated style - Rococo. May the palaces of Lippe shine with gold and marble every day from now on!
-
032: Alexander's Diary
Dear Diary,
(https://i.imgur.com/Yis2yJh.png)
The peaceful years following The Great War allow us, Alexander I von Mecklenburg, to turn to family and God in heaven.
Simon has been introduced to the court, while colleges, and then cathedrals, are planned in the theological centres of Lippe - Cologne, Trier and Altmark.
(https://i.imgur.com/rUtLnAd.png)
But not only religion should soothe the spirits of war-weary peasants!
Baroque music, full of uplifting tones and loud chords, will help as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/PdMjMnd.png)
Just look at it!
Lippe is so strong, so glorious and so prosperous, that people accept the honour of being our vassals when we simply ask them to do so!
(https://i.imgur.com/zCnFmFX.png)
And the third school, the school of sciences, will be promoted thorough Lippe as well.
To be honest, we're leading only in Government technologies, with everything else 5-7 levels behind. We ought to change that.
(https://i.imgur.com/gj9rBjg.png)
And what is the better proof of our literary prowess than this?
Once again, the youngling from von Mecklenburg dynasty is hailed as a literary genius.
(https://i.imgur.com/lTb9zxE.png)
A much awaited upgrade of cavalry troops coincides nicely with expiration of truce with Scandinavia, which is good.
Why? They hold Kurland, a territory considered a part of Holy Roman Empire. And of course, since times of first Lippe Emperors, we need to recover that.
(https://i.imgur.com/gopB7Ec.png)
Lithuania, England and Austria are called in by the Scandinavians, but that won't help them. For our armies are the strongest!
(https://i.imgur.com/YxX30p0.png)
Scandinavians are putting up a respectable amount of resistance, but Battle of Stockholm ends in their defeat despite home advantage and greater numbers.
Elsewhere, Austria is being beaten up by our armies, and Denmark pulls out of war soon enough, followed by Prussia.
(https://i.imgur.com/6X7xHU6.png)
Victory against Austrians make them insignificant, once again, per treaty I enforce upon their king.
After that, we decide to settle for peace with leader of the alliance, Lithuania, for 300 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/1x1Au2o.png)
And our vassals, so loyal to us, that they are happily accepting demands to become part of Lippe, and we even gain cores on their territories!
Such are the civilized, peaceful, progressive ways of our nation. Glory to us!
-
033: All the Litte Wars & Simon the Sick
(https://i.imgur.com/TGhcl6O.png)
Leon decides to take some land in Iberia; they succeed in annexing Galicia, which was their core to begin with. Our involvement was limited to sending some war subsidies and blocking Pope's ports in Italy.
(https://i.imgur.com/bxRnFwZ.png)
In this war, we did even less; blocking of Gibraltar against ships from Indies was more than enough.
Free war taxes, though!
(https://i.imgur.com/PCpoITI.png)
Though this is rather perplexing to see.
Rajput fleet carried soldiers all the way to Kurland. We will sink that fleet, and our soldiers will crush the Hindus.
(https://i.imgur.com/irTb6an.png)
Meanwhile, we decide to switch an Idea; having few Cathedrals gives Lippe about 0.20 missionaries yearly; this positive amount lets us drop Divine Supremacy, and instead pick Espionage.
Sending few spies to bribe defenders does wonders in this era of lvl4 forts staffed with thousands of soldiers. Really cuts down on waiting times, you know?
(https://i.imgur.com/ReolkJ2.png)
After long and prosperous reign, Alexander passes away. Glory to Simon X, King of Lippe, Emperor of Romans!
While the new Emperor might be lacking in skill, his current successor definitely isn't. If anything, that Diplomatic '3' might be of slight worry.
(https://i.imgur.com/DDEvexj.png)
A tropical fever (India is at fault for this!) has claimed Leopold's life, and currently, the royal family of Lippe has no heir.
Simon decides that it is the best moment to insult the court and destabilize the nation. Silly Simon!
(https://i.imgur.com/QGbp4yU.png)
Our worries, both in terms of skill and the heir itself, have dissipated with birth of Simon, son of Simon!
(https://i.imgur.com/nq3GFBy.png)
Blue Coat is the best choice. Beefy and offensive in its ratings.
Few days later, Simon X gets real sick, and we have to ask the nobles to help us with the administration.
(https://i.imgur.com/T8clCIE.png)
León's at it again. Go forth, Leonese soldiers, and have fun!
Simon X decides to follow the recent policy of semi-involvement by Lippe and sends the fleet to blockade enemy ports rather than waste soldiers' lives on taking them.
(https://i.imgur.com/sEU3KrH.png)
First bickering with nobles, then a sickness, and now this?
I guess we shouldn't get too attached to Simon X, just in case.
(https://i.imgur.com/W2Y8iLZ.png)
...like I was saying. Don't get too attached. A toddler is now King of Lippe and Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, his regents taking care of the situation.
And we haven't been in this situation for over two centuries. Very, very inconvenient.
-
034: The Dream of Germanic Unity
(https://i.imgur.com/fZ56kxJ.png)
First time in a while, we get a call for help. From Silesia, attacked by Hungary.
The Emperor - or rather his regents - decides to answer the call! The war, despite Scandinavian involvement, is resolved seven months later, when our forces decimate Hungarian troops and capture Pressburg and Pecs.
(https://i.imgur.com/F2Cs6w6.png)
Continuing the old plan of consolidating and centralizing Lippe domain, Electorate of Saxony has been annexed.
The Electorate passes to Bar, a Protestant territory in far west of the Empire. A long-time considered a friend, it has decided to fervently back up Lippe in Imperial elections.
(https://i.imgur.com/zfh2ID8.png)
As the years go by, and we watch young Emperor Simon grow up, a certain blob is doing what a blob does.
Namely, giving us a casus belli for the near future.
(https://i.imgur.com/Bimqe1Q.png)
And now we launch a series of wars, with Lippe Royal Orchestra playing suitably energetic piece in the background. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBDcJcLoVxE) For Simon XI is assured of Lippe superiority - over all of Germany. We were the strongest, the greatest, the most renowned ones for decades.
It is time to unite the broken, fragmented lands of Germania, under the leadership of the House von Mecklenburg!
First, as a warm-up, we go against Bohemia, to recover NiederOberlausitz, for which we have a core.
(https://i.imgur.com/BKbaAAp.png)
A month after this bloody battle, Bohemia forks over NiederOberlausitz and gives up its claim to Moravia.
Now, time to punish France for annexing Burgundy.
(https://i.imgur.com/qPYbbah.png)
The corpses of Frenchmen pile up like mountains, in Burgundy and Netherlands.
(https://i.imgur.com/gMWZtgI.png)
Considering the description of this novel idea but also Lippe trading methods - please pardon our hypocrisy!
After we conquer aforementioned provinces and rebels rear their heads in southern France, we put forward these demands:
(https://i.imgur.com/xL4OoA2.png)
And they accept these demands without a hitch. Namur will be given away to our vassal, Duchy of Hainaut. Imperial Authority rises steadily, but if the Diet cannot accept Reichregiment, it will have to accept our supreme precedence as best candidate for the Elections.
Next, it's time to punish the evil menace that is Ulm - it has taken Konstanz from Wurttemberg and has annexed Nuremberg! Truly a vile behaviour, typical of Ulm.
(https://i.imgur.com/4J6gxxb.png)
And punished they are! In the meanwhile, Milan dared conquer Genoa, and that's bad.
(In middle of that war, Simon XI decides that Ulm must be annexed despite the truce. Ulm cannot conquer the world if Ulm does not exist *touches forehead, again*)
(https://i.imgur.com/lsutBDm.png)
Milan is indeed punished, and our prestige and authority only grows higher.
(https://i.imgur.com/3AIpGgA.png)
It takes only few months after this battle to conquer and annex Brandenburg in its entirety.
(https://i.imgur.com/N9PpUHW.png)
All the requires provinces are taken; the stage is set for German Unification.
Already plans are drawn to let some states retain certain degree of autonomies; Kingdom of Baden, Freiestadte Frankfurt, Aachen and Memmingen, Republic of Salzburg, probably Kingdom of Holstein too, due to its size. As for Austrian domains... we will think about it later.
All of them, of course, would be the vassals in the great German Empire, for in Germany, there can be only one state leading them all.
At the moment, however, we wait - about two, maybe three generations tops.
-
035: Years Be Passing By
(https://i.imgur.com/Oyid6Zx.png)
Of course we will help the Serbians.
Three years later, they annex Wallachia, take province of Nis from Bulgaria, and impose harsh treaty on Hungarians, curbing their claims and regional power.
Serbia strong! And all we had to do was punch some Hungarians in the meanwhile, easy-peasy.
(https://i.imgur.com/NVQ0DXJ.png)
However, the stacks of our enemies are growing larger whilst ours are under 30k men each.
Simon XI thus declared expansion of Lippe armies, each to include 2 additional regiments of infantry, cavalry and artillery.
(https://i.imgur.com/pLTe707.png)
We hire a 6-star Sheriff that showed up on Oberlausitz one day, and that allowed us to pass Mining Act.
As we're more of a producer than trader, this is a logical thing to implement. Gotta mine'em all!
(https://i.imgur.com/IiAXoW2.png)
Ottoman Republic has decided to share a border with us. Bad move, for Muslims are not tolerated within Germanian borders!
(https://i.imgur.com/d4neb9b.png)
The Baroque is passing away and Simon XI has developed a taste for simpler architecture; the Neoclassicist style is now being prevalent in Lippe.
Meanwhile, we roll over Ottomans in Balkans, and Serbians are having a blast as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/0s5mr2j.png)
After a while, we decide to finish the war and demand Croatia (and money).
As our ally, Serbia, has a core on that territory, we sell it to them for a bargain price of 100 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/173WZhL.png)
We're now entering an era of rapid military development. Cavalry becomes beefy, infantry becomes sharpshooters.
Each new tech will bring new units, and the next upgrade is just 6 years away.
(https://i.imgur.com/q4RgyrK.png)
For Science!
(https://i.imgur.com/MgSe266.png)
For von Mecklenburgs!
-
036: To Trade, or Not to Trade (Greater Serbia edition)
(https://i.imgur.com/ypI3cNv.png)
Another manufactory built, another manufactory mission completed.
Under rule of Simon XI, we will live in eternal prosperity. Money, money, money~!
(https://i.imgur.com/9lj3AZA.png)
Pfft. Polish Venezuela... this not only means that Poland has colonized South America, they also failed to prevent colonial revolutions.
Then again, Brazil's in Western Africa and USA at Hudson's Bay. Maybe I shouldn't be surprised anymore.
(https://i.imgur.com/CQZLVvy.png)
Well, our monarch was on the throne for what, 25 years now? That's respectable reigning time, especially that he did lead our armies few times.
Oh well! Styria has been inherited, Woldemar is the next King and Emperor, and his young heir has decent stats. Better than Woldemar himself, at least.
(https://i.imgur.com/gHXjUzz.png)
Inheritance of Styria also means that we inherit their Electoral Seat on the Council. Metz is our vassal, so we have guaranteed 2 votes at the moment.
Worms and Bar like us well enough that we have another 2 votes in the pocket, albeit Worms is getting pampered by Holland with gifts, so we shouldn't slack off in that department either.
Meanwhile, Woldemar decides to send merchants to Venezia and Jiangmen; both are giving us statistically good chances at our merchants being able to compete there.
(https://i.imgur.com/k3GLLPe.png)
The statistics lied to us, big time.
Woldemar is not distracted by this, and has announced that our policies will change; from depths of Mercantilism, we will move towards balance between it and Free Trade.
Hopefully this will allow us to trade, at least, in foreign-held European markets. Trading in Wine (-25% Stability costs), Salt (-10% Army maintenance) or Grain (+25% Army limits) would be useful.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gnqtteo.png)
Didn't you guys ally Bosnia just few years ago? Or was it a guarantee?
I guess the Serbians are going to try and create Yugoslavia after all. Bulgaria has surprisingly many soldiers, so we will punch them just in case.
Meanwhile, Woldemar, hoping that the Diet has mellowed a little bit, asks them to support Reichregiment reform. The Diet's response surprises absolutely nobody.
(https://i.imgur.com/5ljNByY.png)
Serbians continue fulfilling their dreams and plans of South Slavic unification, although I was wrong about them having a core at Croatia.
Still, somewhere in 1817, we should be seeing a color change in the Balkans.
(https://i.imgur.com/48eOnKt.png)
Apparently, they've decided to annex bits everything and everyone that dared to attack them. Before Moldavia, they also annexed Transylvania.
I mean, I would've done the same.
(https://i.imgur.com/TnLxvZx.png)
Gasp! A bribe! Our prestige is somewhat lacking considering all those unlawful territories, so we reject.
What's 80 ducats for glorious economy of Lippe, anyway?
(https://i.imgur.com/qd5AOkn.png)
Scandinavians tend to inherit all the wrong places, don't they?
We go to war to reclaim Bremen in the name of the Empire!
(https://i.imgur.com/d9izqs1.png)
First however, second-to-last batch of unit upgrades.
(https://i.imgur.com/YETIvFQ.png)
Lithuania was drawn into the conflict, but that only ends in their butts getting kicked.
(https://i.imgur.com/iM0BdKp.png)
Once again, Bremen is back within the Empire's grasp!
Lithuanians are humilitated at Vilna, and we take some money from them.
(https://i.imgur.com/WxDxLbA.png)
The final upgrades, Napoleonic Square (Infantry) and Latin Lancers (Cavalry) are finally out.
The only things we need to research is Government 61 and 65, to grab two last techs.
Meanwhile, our slider toward Free Trade seems to be moving so slowly. Damn those merchants...
-
037: Despot, But An Enlightened One
(https://i.imgur.com/hFsOobP.png)
Ah, Simon is old enough to be introduced to the court.
If/when Woldemar dies, he can replace him as the King of Lippe and Emperor of the Romans.
(https://i.imgur.com/Wp6Qb8r.png)
We get involved in a war against Milan, on behalf of Flanders.
Might as well use some target practice.
(https://i.imgur.com/0fu9DhG.png)
Finally, a pretext to silence Aachen. It has been sending spies to start (or fail, rather) revolts in Lippe and the pop-ups were getting annoying.
The war ends in a White Peace few months afterwards.
(https://i.imgur.com/GumsF5s.png)
*Preussens Gloria starts playing*
To be honest, our Discipline is at 158% only because we have a 6-star Commandant and Absolute Monarchy; the first giving +12%, the other +5%.
And speaking of Absolutism...
(https://i.imgur.com/uVMxt3Z.png)
It was fun and all, but Enlightened Despotism will suit Woldermar's - and his successors - goals better.
Spy Defense will help us as we abandon Mercantilism policies, and Infamy decrease will help us conquer more and keep the Imperial Elections secured.
(https://i.imgur.com/B4gWf9I.png)
Oh no, Serbia is in danger! We will try to help, most probably by going around punting rebels that pop up in the Balkans.
(https://i.imgur.com/7EQrQiK.png)
A wise monarch always says 'no' to Decentralization option.
(https://i.imgur.com/ODFTDUO.png)
Last Idea slot becomes available; Shrew Commerce Practice and National Trading Policy (the latter replacing Scientific Revolution) will help us achieve our trading goal.
Meanwhile, nationalist thought in the lands previously owned by Brandenburg and Ulm have basically perished. Just few more years left!
(https://i.imgur.com/zdhSme0.png)
Agricultural Revolution means we move from small farms to large scale plantations.
Importation Act - a boost to Trade efficiency - would be nice if not for the fact it moves slider towards Mercantilism and gives small penalty to compete chance for our Merchants, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/q7xSzt4.png)
A Strange Fever gets our heir, Simon, killed; but we have an even better spare, Simon Heinrich, who is just a little bit underage. I'm sure we can manage, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZI9zjy2.png)
And it reminds me, I've never showed how strong our dynasty is.
As it stands right now, we're the new Hapsburgs. Woo!
-
038: Assassins, Socialists and Germany, Oh My!
(https://i.imgur.com/alNDXW9.png)
We've sponsored some pretender rebels in Bohemia, as you can see on the image above. Why?
As much as I would like to say 'for teh evulz', Bohemians have been sending spies against us for the last 5 years. They've failed to incite rebellions, and Woldemar I decided to teach the Bohemians how to use spies the hard way.
(https://i.imgur.com/mIuQZRD.png)
Franken and Konstanz are now cores of Lippe. Ulm will join us in one-and-half year, and three years from now, we will have core on Brandenburg.
Which will allow us to proclaim creation of the united, strong, prosperous-
(https://i.imgur.com/KwLCCk7.png)
Irish terrorists strike against us! This will not stand!
BLOOOOOOOOOD!!
(https://i.imgur.com/VYoxnLv.png)
As Simon Heinrich II ascends the throne and his heir, Simon Philipp is being put behind locked doors for safety, its time we raise our army maintenance.
Connacht will be punished, and if Scotland and/or Castille, their allies, intervene, they will be punished as well!
(https://i.imgur.com/QOAoNVt.png)
Leon! I've made you! I helped you reign supreme in Iberia! And this is how you repay Lippe?

(https://i.imgur.com/liWY85I.png)
This is the only fate they're worthy of.
Now back to Leon, they will regret siding with the assassins!
(https://i.imgur.com/Nem8Swn.png)
And to add salt to our injuries so far, the dreaded Socialism appears in Lippe.
The other option is -2 Revolt Risk at expense of
+20% Stability costs, and we absolutely cannot afford such a spike with how large our nation is (and will be, very soon).
We will make sure Socialists get opposed at all costs!
(https://i.imgur.com/v6u2Zji.png)
Leon is broken and we will sell those parcels to Aragon at bargain price just to make Leon suffer more.
(https://i.imgur.com/E3HE2jN.png)
And now, it's time.
(https://i.imgur.com/qbiedDh.png)
To stand up and sing.(https://i.imgur.com/iLfBZ2Z.png)
Deutschland, Deutschland, uber alles,
Uber alles in der Welt!
-
039: The Reunification War
(https://i.imgur.com/V1CSW8e.png)
Kaiser Simon Heinrich II has prepared the plans for the reunification war of the German lands.
Free Imperial Cities produce a large amount of taxation thanks to their priviledges in trading, therefore those will be vassalized. Aachen and Alsace are already vassals, therefore we must acquire control over Memmingen and Regensburg.
Baden-Ansbach as well as Wurttemberg are in middle of the nation, and thus can be retained, as they also provide large amounts of tax.
Archbishoprics of Trier and Wurzburg will be annexed by force. These backwater nations cannot simply provide a satisfactory amount of coin if vassalized.
Small nations in southeast, like Bavaria, Salzburg and Augsburg will be annexed, too.
In the north, Stettin, with its highly developed port, will be taken as a vassal. Verden, Saxe-Lauenburg (based in Hamburg) will be annexed. Holstein, due to its sizeable colonies, will be only vassalized.
We will launch reconquest campaigns against Poland for Hinterpommern - connecting us to Danzig - as well as Bohemia, to retake Lienz in the south; and to get us faster path to Austrian lands, we will take Sudetenla- I mean, Sudety mountains, as well.
Finally, Austria and Carniola will be reduced in size and then vassalized; both have colonies around the world, therefore it would take too much time to conquer them all.
Additional armies will be created to accomplish multi-front objectives faster, and Simon Heinrich II wonders if the initial plan will go smoothly or there will be changes... there will definitely be changes, it's like this every time. Oh well!
(https://i.imgur.com/jCYGAIC.png)
And finally, thanks to our loosening of mercantilist priorities - as well as change of National Ideas - we were able to trade in foreign Centres of Trade well enough we obtain benefits of Wine and Iron trade.
Hopefully, we can get into Grain and Copper trade as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q3xKhEg.png)
As preparations to the war enter final phase, Baden-Ansbach agreed to become our vassals.
We're exerting similar diplomatic pressure upon Wurttemberg, but it's ruling family so far has been stubborn.
(https://i.imgur.com/g9Hd2YJ.png)
Finally, they relent, and just in time; by New Year, we should have enough diplomats ready to declare war simultaneously on Poland, Bohemia, Austria, Carniola and Augsburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/mJKRsHk.png)
Opening battles fare well. Poland is assisted by several nations, like England, but Augsburg, Bohemia and Austria stand alone. Bohemians however have enough forces to pose a threat, at least until we knock them out.
(https://i.imgur.com/tVm2ro0.png)
And they're wiped out. Nothing stands in our way to conquer the lands that will make up the Greater Germany!
Meanwhile, our ally Genoa, has launched a successful landing in the British Isles. Most impressive, I must say!
(https://i.imgur.com/TwJnpID.png)
Treaty of Bavaria has us incorporate Ausgburg and Salzburg lands into Germany.
Immediately after the truce, we declare war against Carniola with intent to vassalize them.
(https://i.imgur.com/WWF5wvv.png)
In middle of the wars, our Bavarian subjects decide to begin the tradition of Oktoberfest.
Freibier fur alles, of course, but couldn't you guys have waited a couple years? We're kind too busy to be partying!
(https://i.imgur.com/pZUaQVX.png)
After Battle of Istria, we drive troops of Carniolans into their capital, where they are destroyed and a siege begins.
The same day, we deliver declarations of war against Wurzburg and Trier; the former actually produces quite a lot of money, and will be spared - Trier, on other hand, is slated for annexation.
These declarations draw in Verden, Meissen, Pomerania, Memmingen and others into the war. Perfect - we can vassalize these countries without further conflicts!
(https://i.imgur.com/a7tvFb5.png)
Bohemia capitulates to our demands, and next day, we force Austria to give us province of Graz. Though immediately we start another war; Austria will become our vassals!
(https://i.imgur.com/P69fJdR.png)
Regensburg unfortunately had to distinction to blob at worst moment, and thus losing the status of Free Imperial City, so that's why it has been annexed.
(https://i.imgur.com/0DvxR5C.png)
Carniola surrenders next, and we have them as vassals.
Few months later, the City of Memmingen also surrenders and becomes German vassal!
(https://i.imgur.com/Vbg3429.png)
With vassalization of Prussia, we now have a direct land route to Kurland and Memel. It wasn't necessary, but is nice to have anyway.
And that allows us to conclude a treaty with Lithuania; we force them to abandon some treaties, like with Holstein, and give us a tribute of 800 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/sUCmZXL.png)
With Serbia no longer involved in our wars, it had the time to finally establish itself as Yugoslavia; nation of all southern slavs.
Good for them! And it's first time I see an AI accomplish this unification, very nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/JgLLguA.png)
With Duchy of Pomerania and Republic of Verden under our seniority, we finally annex Trier.
This allows us to concentrate on final pieces of reunification - annexation of Hamburg and vassalization of Holstein!
(https://i.imgur.com/1G2zcxm.png)
Few weeks after we annex Hamburg and vassalize Holstein, Austria finally relents and becomes our vassal. Our conquest planss have been fulfilled.
Sing praise of the house Von Mecklenburg, for it has truly united Germans under one banner! Long live von Mecklenburg dynasty! Long live United German Nation!! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6GsMF3JydA)
-
040: Them Heirs Be Dying
(https://i.imgur.com/cb1gg9H.png)
The recent war has shown us that our stacks could be larger; we have approximately 80 regiments of sustainable forces left, we ought to recruit them!
We will increase the stacks' size to 39 regiments (17 infantry, 16 cavalry, 6 artillery), plus commission a whole new Army to protect our flank in the Low Countries.
(https://i.imgur.com/cJGposu.png)
Weh! Damn those hunting accidents!
Unfortunately there's no replacement ready for the deceased Simon Philipp.
(https://i.imgur.com/YuYHdGr.png)
Took a while to pinpoint the source of that uncontested claim...
It seems that in the chaos that was Reunification War, someone slipped through our net! It seems we have a country up for vassalization, who's interested?
Simon Heinrich II of course, but that's after we finished expanding our armies. Not only that, its under a truce and is also a vassal of Holland already... we gotta approach that skillfully.
(https://i.imgur.com/JGfbKZq.png)
Now for something different - Simon Heinrich II has been notified of a little economic problem with Baden-Ansbach. The duchy is producing Wine and Salt, yet it earns suspiciously little.
There's some serious infrastructural mismanagement of sorts going on in Leopold's realm. The Duchy will be annexed into direct rule of von Mecklenburgs to squeeze the best money out of those two provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/wAOv6XE.png)
A fight against Milan to keep our soldiers busy.
Milan has, per usual for Milan, blobbed a bit; we will force it to release Savoy and Freiburg, and probably renounce some claims.
(https://i.imgur.com/9qhqrci.png)
During the war, Simon Heinrich II gets himself a heir!
The little kiddo has very good stats, here's hoping he survives till adulthood (or better yet, till ascension to the throne)
(https://i.imgur.com/Lz00iRr.png)
Pretty sure the Bishop of Wurzburg wasn't in there before... Oh well! One extra vote guaranteed.
Shortly after this, Milan capitulates; Savoy and Freiburg are reinstate and Milan has to give up claims on 7 provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/PHiH11J.png)
...Really? That's a second one in last five years.
C'mon game, let me get a heir.
(https://i.imgur.com/e2NvxKW.png)
Thank you!
(https://i.imgur.com/y2ut5fL.png)
A-ha, perfect. With France as a leader, we can conduct separate treaty with Holland, forcing it to devassalize Worms, then vassalize it ourselves in another treaty.
We just need to punch some people first, and punching we're best at!
(https://i.imgur.com/Gn1ll09.png)
For some reason France pulled a Russia in this game and sent almost twice-larger stack against my army besieging Paris.
Fortunately, quality prevailed, but just barely. The French horde was defeated again at Caux, then Alencon, and finally got pulverized into fine cheese dust at Maine.
(https://i.imgur.com/AnrdDJX.png)
A day after Holland's submission to the peace treaty, we demand vassalization from Worms, which is made into a duchy.
Few weeks later, we annex Baden; and true to our suspicions, they didn't even have government buildings or Counting Houses built.
Who the heck lives for 100 years in central Germany and doesn't build up their economy? Ridiculous.
(https://i.imgur.com/4F4RK1k.png)
Despite our greatness, and time passing, some things remain unchanged forever.
Like Diet's refusal to reform the Reichregiment.
*sigh*
-
041: Music for the End (FINALE)
(https://i.imgur.com/F1qBrQA.png)
Let the orchestra begin! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kctzvUY5txM)
(https://i.imgur.com/67vJEHQ.png)
And, with return of Istria to their true, national owners, may friendship with Yugoslavia thrive forever.
(https://i.imgur.com/wOucveQ.png)
Here's to our diplomats, always working hard to persuade people to accept our overlordship.
(https://i.imgur.com/ecKj4NO.png)
Ah, yes, and our Empire; may its ancient customs be never forgotten.
(https://i.imgur.com/ejPRj44.png)
And for the peace and tranquility, we need to thank our ever-victorious armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/CJ8ty1m.png)
And for dealing with certain undesirables, too.
There's a lot of undesirables lately, I wonder-
(https://i.imgur.com/AzixF3H.png)
That was a Lippe-Germany run, sponsored by Von Mecklenburg dynasty, may it rule Germany forever.
Still, that's a lot of rebels popping up lately. Is oppression of Socialism for blame?
Naaah...
(https://i.imgur.com/IDnPOZY.png)
Oh for the love of- CAN'T A MAN HAVE A PEACEFUL END FOR ONCE?
How much does a happy ending of a game cost in here?
(https://i.imgur.com/byyT6q7.png)
The glorious nation ends up with crappy monarch with a crappy regency council. WHATTATWIST!
(https://i.imgur.com/PRkUOed.png)
THANK YOU.Finally, the last two years were terrible.
Catholic rebels and terrible ruling monarchs, ugh.Give me Simon V once more instead, that would be nice...~FIN~
-
Now what :V?
Do we loiter around Europe once more, maybe move to Asia?
Muslim nation, maybe Eastern?
Another try with Poland?
-
I don't know enough EU4 to make a firm suggestion, but I vote something in the Islamic Mongol-descendants.
-
I don't know enough EU4 to make a firm suggestion, but I vote something in the Islamic Mongol-descendants.
I've decided that playing some Nomads would be a good idea, but first we will be playing...
England.
001: Hundred is Too Much; Ten is Enough
(https://i.imgur.com/ljSi8NL.png)
Ah, the fair England!
While the recently crowned Henry IV is not that great, his upcoming successor is. As you can see, we've got 2 superb advisors at start, and ol' Geoffrey is useful on his own.
You might notice that we begin by creating numerous regiments. Why, would you ask?
(https://i.imgur.com/r7ZzEL7.png)
We have cores on Normandy, Caus, Ile-de-France, Armagnac and something else in the south; meanwhile, France has claims for our possessions north of Pyrhenees (Gascogne, Labourd) and Calais.
Heck, even the Burgundians have a core on Calais. Very soon, a very bloody mess will begin.
(https://i.imgur.com/A54KGUC.png)
Our personal mission at the moment is vassalization of Scotland. The thing is, they're guaranteed by France.
We really should crank up the amount of regiments, guys.
(https://i.imgur.com/5YkPXyY.png)
Burgundy accepted our marriage proposal; a week earlier, France has gone to war against Provence-Naples to reclaim its cores near Brittany. Standard procedure for them, really.
We will try to court Burgundy and have them as allies before the inevitable war with France.
(https://i.imgur.com/eAdUjvU.png)
France is distracted in a war with Naples and Provence still, it is our chance to strike. Burgundians unfortunately decided against allying us, but I think we have a chance against the French with just Portugal attending.
(https://i.imgur.com/LZI56Rq.png)
Accursed Scotland joined the war, but at Alencon, then Caux, we defeat and destroy the main French army, led by Charles de Valois himself (he got away).
Next few weeks we rampage in northern France, dealing with French vassal armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/PmJcFfx.png)
We deal with the Scots at Cumbria, and then they're destroyed at their own capital. A larger stack however looms in northern England.
(https://i.imgur.com/kNYpmww.png)
France and her vassals have their stacks mostly broken and Paris has been captured. It will serve as a distraction while Henry IV sails back home to assist General Robert Knolles in defeating the Scots.
Ideal situation would be where we destroy Scottish army in detail, capture the provinces and force them to accept our seniority. We will see how the battles fare.
(https://i.imgur.com/1izZ1v5.png)
Thar we go! Scots have been punted in the face and lost all their units. Henry IV is besieging the provinces while Sir Robert will land in France again.
Duc de Alencon and Charles de Valois have begun siege of Paris, after all.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZaBEWeA.png)
While Henry is away, fighting enemies of England, his court is running the administration. For example, we just expanded the bureaucracy.
Few weeks later, they help introduce young Henry to the noblemen.
(https://i.imgur.com/11ydQh6.png)
Gah! The French southern army has arrived a bit sooner than expected. Sir Robert's army has been recalled to Burgundian territories (may her rulers be praised for allowing our forces to pass through).
Soon however, King Henry should be done with Scots; once we settle a peace treaty with them, we can send our second army to France.
Then, we pulverize the French troops, occupy their provinces, and break power of Valois family so hard they will never regain their power!
(https://i.imgur.com/UU2ytlG.png)
Well shit.
Legend has it that an old woman from Aberdeen threw a brick over the walls of the city, and the brick struck Henry IV in the head, killing him.
Young Henry V's own heir is little Mary. Hopefully we can finish the war before she has to ascend the throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/KGjZRC3.png)
If the Pope himself is reassured in English supremacy, who's there to stand in our way?
(https://i.imgur.com/lkii6jY.png)
The Scots have been broken, and King Robert Bruce is now Duke Robert Bruce. Mwahahaha!
The Welsh have been uppity again; Henry V will deal with them, and then finally, with Sir Robert Knolles, will break the French in two!
(https://i.imgur.com/JOZacDe.png)
France has no more regiments left; only its vassals, huddled in their domains, possess any fighting troops!
Now, the siegeing begins. We want to force France to hork over our rightful provinces in Normandy, then have it renounce overlordship over its vassals. If we can force them to release Champagne or maybe Toulouse as independent kingdoms, even better.
(https://i.imgur.com/842EjJo.png)
First idea, and we will be grabbing Military Drill. We will never have big armies, so let's squeeze the best from what we have.
Henry V and Robert Knolles in meanwhile are besieging various French provinces, sometimes skirmishing with small vassal armies that show up.
(Sir Robert Knolles does not see the end of war; he dies in February of 1407)
(https://i.imgur.com/RNJiHk8.png)
We've recovered our Norman possessions, France lost two vassals and Guyenne in the south.
Meanwhile, Burgundy has decided it wants to have son fun as well and begun a war against France.
I don't think de Valois will be getting up on their feet after this!
-
002: Escalation? = Profit!
(https://i.imgur.com/vRddvlK.png)
As we begin our period of recuperation, Vaclav V of Bohemia has convined the Imperial Diet to do some reforming.
(https://i.imgur.com/RGiNd7T.png)
Meanwhile, we designate Calais as a staple port, to compete against mercantile power of Burgundy.
That will piss them off, of course, but our treaties and common hatred for the French should fix our relations fast.
(https://i.imgur.com/OCWDBgv.png)
After our recovery from war is rewarded with a Stability point (from a mission), our next most holy of quests is to annex all the Irish petty kingdoms.
They're incapable of ruling the island by themselves, so we will help them out.
(https://i.imgur.com/rMh1HEP.png)
Well, things escalated rather quickly, because Ulster called for help from Brittany, who called for help from Burgundy, which sent out a call to Holy Roman Emperor, who got his dependents involved.
Still, Bohemia is landlocked, and after some time they will call a white peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/rEUZGnA.png)
Once more in control of the Holy See, we punished Burgundians accordingly.
(https://i.imgur.com/tIg82MM.png)
With Emperor Vaclav 'triumphiantly' rampaging through our Norman lands, Hapsburgs sensed an opportunity and allied with us.
We promptly called them to war and they obliged, their forces now pouring into Bohemia and elsewhere.
(https://i.imgur.com/9zJz5Ko.png)
Triple annexation, and the whole of Ireland is ours. Bohemian allies; Teutonic Order, some Free Cities, Palatinate, Brittany, have all flaked out.
King Henry V is toying with idea of prolonging the war, to force Burgundy to give us Picardy; the land is considered our core.
(https://i.imgur.com/kwHyAHQ.png)
Battle of Calais, seeing almost 50000 men involved, is the bloodiest of the war.
After Calais, big battles are fought in Artois, Caux and Antwerp, where he destroy Bohemian and Burgundian troops.
With Austria having captured south of Bohemian crown lands already, the little allies of the Emperor are flaking away with haste.'
(https://i.imgur.com/K18UAc7.png)
How well are we doing in the war? We're doing so well that court at London has time, money and opportunity to host a jousting tournament, probably last of the century.
Meanwhile, King of Champagne agreed to let Henry V and his general, Alexander Cavendish, to travail through his lands. We're now besieging Burgundy proper!
(https://i.imgur.com/XvOMl9X.png)
Picardy retaken, Antwerpen (with its wealthy Centre of Trade) seized, Burgundy fragmented.
All is well in the land of Albion!
(https://i.imgur.com/fKMEj17.png)
We accept, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/P9Uh95W.png)
Glory to the English Empire!
-
003: No More Haggis
(https://i.imgur.com/DEoozqJ.png)
As soon as the truce expires, England attacks French; the de Valois family lost all of its southern possessions to Provence and Aragon, and only Paris remains.
Paris, a city that is rightful soil of the Lancaster family!
(https://i.imgur.com/jnkIuXE.png)
Even Provencal mercenaries and Aragonese fleet cannot do much; leader of the enemy alliance, Aragon, finally decides to ask for white peace, and we graciously accept their offer.
(https://i.imgur.com/JWOcHLP.png)
Events give us perpetual problems with stability, but fortunately a master artist has arrived at our court.
We have purchased Sir Middleton's services without delay.
(https://i.imgur.com/cIMqkfk.png)
It came a time to integrate Scotland and end the autonomy of Scottish people. Sure, they will be angry about this, but give them few decades and they will understand that this is for their own good.
(https://i.imgur.com/v5KPkUr.png)
Ah! The ever-victorious Henry V has passed away.
Long Live Empress Mary! Her heiress, Princess Anne, is almost a mirror-image of Mary; both suck at diplomacy, both have very high Administrative and Military skills.
(https://i.imgur.com/0i9JldB.png)
After several years of peace, Empress Mary has to make her first policy decision - and she decides to favour the naval power of England.
Does she has plans for the future? Perhaps!
(https://i.imgur.com/jjgL8bw.png)
That is third revolt this year, and its not even Scots - its the Irish?
And last year, people of Antwerpen rose against Good Empress Mary. Such lack of respect to English crown is worrying.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q5ch6vw.png)
The amount of money and prestige we accumulated allow us to finally push Castille away and become the new defender of Catholic Faith.
God be with England and the Empress!
-
004: Mr.Howard, to the Throne Room, Please!
(https://i.imgur.com/7FRP3es.png)
Time passes so fast lately; the little Anne is now an adult! Her introduction to the court of England has been commemorated with a beautiful tapestry.
(https://i.imgur.com/yGNWOTx.png)
A pretender has risen against Empress Mary as she tried to centralize her power. He was swiftly dealt by Oliver Braddock's army.
(https://i.imgur.com/Sg7lBQ3.png)
Henry V's victories were sponsored by heavy minting, and inflation, currently at 5%, needs to be curbed!
National Bank will help us do just that.
(https://i.imgur.com/95Zc4LZ.png)
Austria calls for help; Empress Mary will of course honor the treaty, but unlike her predecessors, would rather not involve Englishs soldiers.
The Navy, however, will sail to Baltic to crush the Teutonic squadrons!
(https://i.imgur.com/TluP73Y.png)
Tragedy strikes the House of Lancaster. Despite hiring the best medicus there is, illness has claimed the life of Crown Princess Anne.
As the war rages and English forces are victorious, there's much uncertainty about future of the royal dynasty.
(https://i.imgur.com/EU8woOM.png)
Further pursuant to Mary's policies is employment of this gentleman.
Apparently, Empress Mary has heard stories of 'Vinland' once settled Vikings, precursors of Danes and Norwegians, and 'Greenland', which supposedly lies west from Iceland.
She has decided that England has nothing to gain from expanding in Europe, and thus, finding new worlds to colonize would be our best bet.
(https://i.imgur.com/r7wGXVK.png)
The war has ended! English ally Austria has fulfilled its goals and demanded peace from Bohemians.
Thus, the English navy has been recalled to London.
(https://i.imgur.com/5r2rgok.png)
Under auspices of the Kingdom of Holland, Netherlands were united for the first time in history.
Cheers to the lads, and hopefully they can be amicable neighbours. Maybe even allies in the future, who knows.
(https://i.imgur.com/XxXSesQ.png)
Alas! Queen Mary, somewhat too quickly, has passed away to the house of God, leaving no true heir and no Lancaster to occupy the throne. A distant relative and aristocrat, Edmund Howard, has ascended to the throne of England. Long Live Emperor Edmund!
Legitimacy of the government will be his first priority, a statue to Emperor Henry V in the capital will help with that, as well as marriages with Portugal, Austria, Namur and Netherlands. Isaac Gilbert, a traveling Grand Marshal, has been also hired.
(https://i.imgur.com/N1m1Fy7.png)
A heir to the English throne has been born! This secures - at least momentarily - Edmund's dynasty.
(https://i.imgur.com/lOK5RDA.png)
JUST IN TIME, TOO!
What foul curse has befallen the throne of England for this recent string of dynastic instability, and whos responsible for it?
(https://i.imgur.com/YmgG2mn.png)
At least, we have some peace and progress in foreign relations, for Kingdom of Netherlands became our allies.
Let's hope the alliance AND the dynasty lasts long.
-
005: Edwardian Regency
(https://i.imgur.com/aFEW6SE.png)
As the regency continues, our technology improves...
(https://i.imgur.com/AHlgknc.png)
...Not as much as we would like to, however; we're behind continental republics, and even few larger countries.
The regents decided it is time to hire a Statesman, a Natural Scientist, or a Treasurer.
(https://i.imgur.com/g6Rk0g1.png)
We also got enough Magistrates to send for Italian philosophers!
This should help both with our cultural tradition and tech'ing it up.
(https://i.imgur.com/H12WIzR.png)
Now even our administration is trying their best to keep up with the times; formalization of weights and scales boosts tax income, production and trade efficencies.
Still, no scientists or statesmen seem to grace England, so we will have to search for them ourselves.
(https://i.imgur.com/RuccQRG.png)
Might as well join the war and enjoy some free war taxation.
Austria pulls us into another war, and we enjoy three years of higher taxation. I mean, we enjoy, our peasants suffer, but what can you do?
After the war we hire a 4-star Natural Scientist, Edward Moore.
(https://i.imgur.com/DueFvrX.png)
Finally, England has its Emperor!
May his rule be as blessed as his skills are.
(https://i.imgur.com/i0SzgJ2.png)
And his first diplomatic action will be to hear the Dutch call for help!
First time in decades, England is at war. We will be victorious!
-
006: Little Concessions, Great Britain!
(https://i.imgur.com/v4aFd15.png)
And a heir is born! Let's hope his father will not die as quickly as the previous one!
Meanwhile, an event grants us core on Artois, one of the lands of Burgundy. It is a good pretext to fight them and curb their power, but let's wait first till Netherlands finish their own war.
(https://i.imgur.com/XCVXU7h.png)
The Dutch War drags on and Milan got involved; their fleet of Italian galleys could pose a threat to the Dutch, so English Royal Navy has been mobilised and sent to the Mediterranean.
(https://i.imgur.com/kTQqYyY.png)
Two more years and the fighting in the north has ended; Bishops of Cologne are now Dutch vassals, earning them a vote on Electoral Council of HRE, whilst their and Hessian lands were curbed.
Lippe and Nassau are now both independent domains, and we marry both. Who knows, we might inherit them down the line.
(https://i.imgur.com/zD2cok0.png)
Few months later the Dutch War ends, and just in best moment; Burgundy is struggling against combined might of several French domains and their big ally, Sweden.
We will have no better occassion than this to retake Artois, so we will be hauling our troops from Ireland and Scotland to Normandy, and then we strike!
(https://i.imgur.com/WJwasm3.png)
Traitors! We will remember this, Austrians!
No matter; with Portugal and Netherlands on our side, we will crush all the opposition!
(https://i.imgur.com/Hv3oIWC.png)
Our opening offensives are all victorious, but Austrians arrived in Netherlands, and are kicking the arses of our Dutch friends.
We will have to postpone Burgundian conquests till we deal with Hapsburg menace.
(https://i.imgur.com/AyQSUgb.png)
Young Emperor Edward has ultimately decided to pursue Empress Mary's dream of reaching Vinland; any expeditions are to be postponed until after the war, however.
(https://i.imgur.com/eUHTsy9.png)
Battle of Ghent proved both crucial and nearly we lost it, if not the timely reinforcements from Scotland that landed at Picardy.
After this, Austrian allies - Venice, Ferrara, Genoa - all peaced out, not willing to risk fighting against English forces or its Royal Navy.
(https://i.imgur.com/00ukUYC.png)
Another gruesome battle takes place at Brabant; our forces are ultimately victorious, but the dead pile up fast.
We need to reach our war objectives soon and demand peace from Burgundy, lest we bleed out on Dutch soil.
(https://i.imgur.com/E5dJg4S.png)
We had to sue for peace with some of the actively fighting allies of Burgundy. Fortunately they've accepted, letting us concentrate on Burgundians and the Austrians.
(https://i.imgur.com/mf8MrpH.png)
The Dutch pulled out of the war after Austrians took Aachen and Limburg. And we were doing just fine!
Emperor Edward is considering the options and we might have to renounce our claims to Artois after all.
After debating about it in the royal court, it has been decided to concede the war. Holy Roman Emperor agrees to this as the sole demand for ending the war.
After all, why would we need more continental possessions? Our true power will be in the overseas!
(https://i.imgur.com/XrLIqko.png)
And we will be the Empire of Brittania!
Brittania that shall rule the waves! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHNfvJc99YY)
-
007: To Vinland and Beyond
(https://i.imgur.com/qVxzFUQ.png)
Our first explorer is Sir Rooke. Commandeering a three-ship carracak squadron - Providence, Assurance and Destiny - he will first sail to and resupply at Iceland, owned by Swedish King.
From there, they will traverse the unknown seas to the west, seeking Greenland, west of which, Vinland is rumored to be located.
(https://i.imgur.com/THFaZCk.png)
Wasn't that hard! Sir Rooke reports that Greenland was exactly when the scandinavian peoples said it would be. West of it should be another landmass.
Meanwhile, some brave adventurers have already been sent to colonize Greenlander coasts; in the future, they could serve as supply ports for those that will follow Sir Rooke in his exploits.
(https://i.imgur.com/2hVO4KU.png)
(this image is of later date because of file overwrite mishap)
Vinland exists! It truly exists!
Sir Rooke reports that the forest-covered coasts of large landmass were spotted by his sailors. He has been recalled to Greenland colonies for repairs.
Speaking of the colonies; the local Inuit population has been partially integrated into Eiriksfjord colony, raising its numbers above 300.
Fish is their main export now, and its suspected the same will be with Vestbygden. Emperor Edward decided to focus national institutions on development of these two colonies.
(https://i.imgur.com/pxHhnkZ.png)
Aaaand the Emperor dies few weeks later. Well shite!
Some start to believe that the curse - Curse of Scots - is set to kill every British monarch shortly after their ascension.
Whether true or not, it is evident our rulers have trouble staying alive...
(https://i.imgur.com/6uZ2IJF.png)
Those natives! They've killed few dozen of hard-working colonists in Eiriksfjord.
That is only a temporary setback; with national focus on Greenland, almost 80 people per year settle there.
(A month later we learn that Vestbygden will be producing Naval Supplies).
(https://i.imgur.com/Ym7xpuJ.png)
Rest in peace, Sir Frederick Rooke! He served us well and brought us knowledge of the 'New World' as it is called.
His fleet will be commanded by the next explorer we get, but currently we have no colonists willing to steer the 1st Fleet.
(https://i.imgur.com/IbVaUXe.png)
As the 1st Fleet is undergoing repairs at Greenland and the court is sifting through possible captains to lead it, a new problem has arisen.
Smugglers, pirates and other unsavory folk is preying on ships north of Ireland, no doubt wanting to get some profits from colonial trade.
Ireland Patrol has been created to deal with them; and to prevent such vultures from appearing westwards, two more carracks were delegated as Greenland Patrol.
(https://i.imgur.com/rFCBLAe.png)
Sir Braddock is more of a fighter than explorer, but he will have to do. After he will scout the frozen waters north of Vinland, he will then travel southwards.
There has been some talk amongst Italians and Spaniards that this 'new world' is actually India, and its in interests of the crown to get there first.
(https://i.imgur.com/FyTQEFa.png)
A great bay, mostly surrounded by frozen coasts, has been discovered by Sir Braddock.
(https://i.imgur.com/OIn2EUQ.png)
Accursed French noblemen have risen against the British Crown!
Royal Army will be carried over to deal with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/R5hSDWj.png)
Just as the Gascogne revolt is crushed, Sir Braddock sends news about the southern coasts being discovered (no Indians found yet).
Of particular interest is the rich land he calls 'Manhattan'. In the future, it will be the site of strong, rich British colony.
-
008: Supremacy in the East, Colonies in the West
Due to a mishap, 1st Fleet and Sir Braddock went to sleep with the fishes in Labrador Strait. Our sailors need to be more careful next time.
(https://i.imgur.com/76rKJUo.png)
What's worse, the natives in Greenland has been restless for the last months. Two attacks in Vestbygden, and another just now in Eiriksfjord.
It's really annoying, if not those attacks the colonies would be self-sufficient by now!
(https://i.imgur.com/WfDWlg5.png)
Edward rises to the throne, and his first cousin George is his current heir.
This allows us to launch a war against Sweden - Orkney islands, a core of Britain, are held by them, and we want those!
(https://i.imgur.com/BMsHJUG.png)
The campaign was victorious and occured mostly on the seas; while Netherlands preoccupied Brittany, Swedish ally, the Royal British Navy defeated Swedes twice near Copenhagen, and then exerted pressure on their economy via naval blockades.
Finally, the Swedish Queen agreed to our modest demands.
(https://i.imgur.com/PJAu6el.png)
At last! The colonies in Greenland reached over thousand population.
(https://i.imgur.com/GaieAj9.png)
The Navigator that helped chart the western coasts has died, his replacement possessing half the skill he had.
Nevertheless, this will not stop our policy of colonization. A new explorer, Sir Middleton, was hired to steer 1st Fleet down the coast of Vinland.
(https://i.imgur.com/CKtdPAX.png)
In the meanwhile, Emperor Edward spends his time passing civic reforms; the Militia Act will strengthen the Army, while Dissolution Act will help calm people down in times of instability.
(https://i.imgur.com/GtVgsyZ.png)
Civilization has been found in Vinland's south! Or, at least, something akin to a civilization, for the Shawnee are backward, tribal peoples.
However, a dispatch by Emperor Edward was sent to ask the Shawnee to let our ships dock at their coastal villages; and the natives agreed. Truly, they might be intelligent people after all!
(https://i.imgur.com/BUwbD00.png)
We join the war on behalf of Netherlands, who wish to annex Brabant, a territory considered their core.
Emperor Edward does not want to involve our soldiers, and our Navy will be docked as well for none of Brabantian allies have access to the seas. Free war taxation, though!
(https://i.imgur.com/tuuNnVf.png)
Then, Portugal draws us into a Crusade against the Moroccans (and Ottomans, and Algiers).
Royal Navy will provide nautical support, for Ottomans are known to possess quite a few galleys in the Mediterranean.
(https://i.imgur.com/AWFU1D7.png)
Meanwhile, the British Crown has hired Sir Sebastian, from Castille, a 6-star Navigator.
This allows us to send settlers to the Vinland proper! A rush of colonists grants us extra volunteers to faster establish colonies in the New World.
(https://i.imgur.com/96EB7bS.png)
Shortly after Netherlands concludes the war against Thuringia, the heir to the throne, George Howard, proves to be a literary genius. We will add his work to the cultural heritage of Britain.
(https://i.imgur.com/SBYAZBp.png)
Sir Middleton sends a report to Vestbygden; to south of Vinland there's plenty of islands.
As well as some sort of 'Aztec' people, who unfortunately weren't as nice as Shawnee and refused his ships to dock.
(https://i.imgur.com/1EwleWh.png)
Apparently, a Protest against the Church has begun in Aachen.
Protestantism, if you will.
-
I really enjoy these playthroughs as I’ve never been able t get into Europa Universalis myself.
-
009: We Are Not Alone
(https://i.imgur.com/XJegVgV.png)
Another explorer dies! Rest in peace, Sir Middleton. We colonize Ungava and rename its future capital as Middleton in his memory.
We have moderately high naval tradition thanks to all the discoveries made by him, so we ought to have a high maneuver explorer next.
(https://i.imgur.com/L3fNkel.png)
The Algerian crusade ends and Portugal snatched for herself Alexandria, the somewhat rich african centre of trade. Good for them.
(https://i.imgur.com/LBJVIAk.png)
Out of all places where Protestantism had to spread, it was Highlands. Along with Aachen and province of Bremen, these are, currently, the only Protestant regions in the world.
(https://i.imgur.com/TwlKUKd.png)
Just as we were to commemorate the fact that ruling dynasty of Hungary is Howardian, George Howard, heir to the throne of Britain, dies.
His replacement isn't bad at all, though, so the loss is less felt than it would be.
(https://i.imgur.com/Az657EA.png)
With inflation incurred by previous expenses gone, and colonists showing up is rare, Emperor Edward decides to abandon idea of National Bank.
Instead, Colonial Ventures will get us 1 Colonist yearly extra (to the 1.6 yearly total).
(https://i.imgur.com/3RjoYDG.png)
We love Sir Talbot already.
He will be sent to finish Middleton's work and chart the coasts of Gulf of Mexico as well as all those islands south of our colonies in Vinland.
(https://i.imgur.com/haJQWe9.png)
Meanwhile, the reformist theology is further causing splits in the Christian church. Now some Russians in Novgorod made up another religion!
All those schisms with Papal States lead the court of Britain to debate national stance on this religion...
(https://i.imgur.com/vLmjt5R.png)
Look at all those coasts and islands! Sir Talbot is performing hero's work, discovering all the future colonies of Britain.
Unfortunately he made two more discoviers - Castillean and Portuguese ships are scouting the New World, too. Although no colonies were seen, we can assume our southern neighbours will be planting their flags on the virgin soil very soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/1p3JODL.png)
Why, by all means! We will support such endeavour. This will help us get Beothuk and Taqamkuk gain self-sufficiency much faster.
After a short consideration, Emperor Edward decides to accept alliance with Sweden; the animosity over Orkney Islands is truly over, and Swedes, with their big army and fleet could help us against whatever threat rises against us.
Few weeks afterwards, we receive news that Prostestant faith has spread to Western Isles. The Scots seem to be actively trying to meddle with our prosperous rule even after annexation.
(https://i.imgur.com/r5qW28u.png)
Turns out, the southern Vinland is not as empty as we've thought. Sir Talbot believes their colonies must've been created at least a decade ago, if not more, to reach such an extent.
Very troubling, especially that Emperor Edward had plans on colonizing the southern islands. Mayhaps we will still be able to claim some of them, but for that we need a core port in Greenland - or Vinland - first.
(https://i.imgur.com/H7IQgmC.png)
Just as Scots in Ayshire convert to Protestantism and the Welsh in Gwynned accept reformist teachings of Calvin, the Pope hosts a council in Reval, Sweden.
The great amount of conversions in England force Emperor Edward's hand, it seems. Accept the Protestant faith, or invite Counter-Reformists over to deal with the heresies?
Maybe seek a third option of some sort? A happy communion between Catholicism and the Protestant faiths, if that's even possible?
(https://i.imgur.com/dLQ5N4O.png)
Still, we have development in mind, not reform.
And now that we have access to some reliable cannons, we ought to introduce them into the British Armies - will help deal with rebels faster.
-
010: Religious Mayhem on the Horizon
(https://i.imgur.com/dxFGhht.png)
As we develop our colonies - with new one in Labrador, for example - we are interrupted with either Nationalist uprisings, or news of conversion.
This one's especially dangerous, for it has happened near the central Britain.
(https://i.imgur.com/LTCKx5v.png)
Sir Talbot has grown bored and proposed to the crown a new voyage - around Africa, to reach other side of Arabia, and the lands beyond.
With most of the eastern coasts of Vinland, and the continent south of it, charted, Emperor Edward saw no reason to stop Sir Talbot from conducting his trip.
(https://i.imgur.com/RAUiQ0W.png)
Half a year later, Sir Talbot's expedition brings fruit; a strategic location of Cape has been discovered, the local natives docile and small in numbers.
We must colonize the area first, for it makes perfect supply port for the ships sailing in either direction, east or west.
(https://i.imgur.com/bZDUByw.png)
Conversions in the mainland, or rather, risks of revolt those conversions bring, has forced Emperor Edward to hire a high judge to help maintain the dissent.
(https://i.imgur.com/WwDPIGe.png)
Netherlands calls for help; Gelre lost friendship of Austria recently, and thus had to maintain closer ties with some weak states in the HRE, and Netherlands still have a core on Gelre's territory.
Royal Navy is there to help, if any naval help will be needed, but the British Army won't intervene unless necessary. We're on tight budget, and I will feel safer if we have troops on the Isles to deal with any revolts that might happen.
(https://i.imgur.com/pAwA83u.png)
Extra taxation for the war was instead spent on creation of several more colonies in continental Vinland.
See how lovely is the deep red coloration on the coasts? Simply sublime.
(https://i.imgur.com/H21KB1v.png)
Emperor Edward V has died, and his heir is unfortunately few months away from ascension. The court is sure that no crises will arise, however.
As you can see in background, Sir Talbot, free of religious or feudal worries of Britain and Europe, is cruising on the seas of muslims. He has successfully negotiated with Mamluks to be allowed to dock at their ports for resupply and repair.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y4EPCrw.png)
You see, young Edward VI has always despised the passive approach of his father to the concerns of Reformation, as well as late Emperor's fixation on Vinland alone, so these two things shall change.
Bill of Rights will appease the grumbling masses, while colonization of island of Puerto Rico should begin a new age of British colonization, especially that Portuguese sailors speak of rich, valuable plant 'tobacco' as well as prime conditions to cultivate sugar and Arabian coffee on the isles.
What does Vinland get us in the meanwhile? Fur and naval supplies, decent, but not greatest of trade goods.
(https://i.imgur.com/MhqTT0P.png)
Sir Talbot brings much more great news - he has discovered the 'true' India, with their elephants, spices and tea.
Although Indians are not much enthusiastic about meeting us, the small Sultanate of Sind has allowed Talbot's ships to dock from time to time.
(https://i.imgur.com/hDkPdi8.png)
See? Just one colony and we already have British Coffee. Hurrah!
(https://i.imgur.com/iuhbuvr.png)
Cultivation of coffee must've had a stimulating effect on the populace, because suddenly everyone wants to go to the colonies.
Of course we accept the masses, and send them promptly to the Caribbean island of Cuba.
(https://i.imgur.com/yFqbg63.png)
String of good news continues, for there is finally a heir to the throne of Britain, infant Octavius.
Provinces north and west of London continue converting to Protestant (rarely, Reformed) faith, prompting Edward VI to seek a compromisal solution right now.
Although his father faced the same problem, he did nothing, and Edward VI decided it is time to intervene.
(https://i.imgur.com/ScmyDdb.png)
Obtaining some wriggling room at the expense of breaking ties with certain influential man living far, far away from Great Britain will be the first step.
(https://i.imgur.com/L9Xl7tB.png)
This, however, was NOT step number two.
Oh dear.
-
I really enjoy these playthroughs as I’ve never been able t get into Europa Universalis myself.
Thanks!
And I'm glad to know that at least three people read these :P
-
011: Sugar Tale of Japan and Excommunication
(https://i.imgur.com/qOiiQR0.png)
Sir Talbot continues his journey east and has brought us knowledge of the Indonesian islands, along with the Port of Malacca, a place fabled amongst Muslim traders as the richest in the world.
Meanwhile, our soldiers here in Britain are fighting against Scottish and Welsh nationalists, incited by religious chaos in the country (the Irish on the other hand are suspiciously docile).
(https://i.imgur.com/cmeNEJp.png)
Emperor Edward VI is doing all he can to undo the damage the religious instability has brought.
He has decided to back his edict with actual spending, but to ensure we do not fall into the red and have to take a loan, maintenance of colonies and the navy has been reduced.
(https://i.imgur.com/kkdMKKo.png)
Another war we join purely to raise taxes amongst the peasants. Hopefully they will never catch on.
Current situation forces us to hire an Artist (to help with low stability) and another Judge (the previous one died recently).
(https://i.imgur.com/Xio20QW.png)
The other option would give us better relations with the Papal States; the one we take has that juicy, delicious +1 to Stability which we need so much.
(https://i.imgur.com/nIUmUqz.png)
Our trading technology is finally catching up with rest of Europe; and we can monopolize Antwerpen as a result. More profits for us!
(https://i.imgur.com/a7jWYy7.png)
This sweet pop-up was somewhat dulled by the news that at Havana and Innu, two of our colonies, natives attacked British settlers, killing over two hundred.
Those are only temporary setbacks, however. (and later we learn that entirety of Cuba is gonna produce sugar)
(https://i.imgur.com/AraK52P.png)
Despite our best efforts, rebels keep popping up. First Ayshire and Highlands, then Yorkshire and now Munster, in Ireland.
(https://i.imgur.com/8PJaVYw.png)
In other news: Inside Holy Roman Empire, the Austrian dominance has been shattered; their wanton annexation of Bavaria and nearby provinces caused them to become unpopular shortly before death of Austrian emperor, and the crown has returned to Bohemia after a century.
Our high popularity with Elector of Saxony is only because House of Howard has been marrying into Electorate's ruling family for the past thirty years, starting right after ascension of Edward IV, to help legitimize his rule.
(https://i.imgur.com/L1DgLhy.png)
Sir Talbot lives and is doing very well on hiis continuing quest to discover brave new lands and new civilizations.
On home front, the amount of armed rebellions has been smaller as of late. Our high stability, Bill of Rights and work of our High Judge are definitely helping.
(https://i.imgur.com/x4opAbb.png)
And the great explorer does it again! Spurned by tales he heard from Thai sailors, Sir Talbot realized that fabled China - or Xin - is just northwards.
Even better, he has discovered the Japanese Archipelago and became first person from Europe to make an audience with Emperor of Japan. Both these great nations agreed to let him dock at their ports.
(https://i.imgur.com/UVwmnGu.png)
Unfortunately, not everything is well in the colonies, too.
Natives at Innu are growing restless, and we had to defend the settlement against them. We must also direct more colonists to help the colony grow beyond thousand persons.
(https://i.imgur.com/3pUvVl2.png)
Aaand the obvious happened although it took a while. Finally, the rulers of Great Britain have been excommunicated.
We will be buttering him up with money in a short while. After all, we're still seeking a compromise here, not severing of ties.
-
012: The Church of Great Britain, or REBELS EVERYWHERE
(https://i.imgur.com/ZeQm0Eo.png)
Well this is certainly new. For the first time ever, rebels has appeared outside British Isles or France.
Emperor Edward has called for creation of a colonial force along with transport fleet which will maintain order in our overseas territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/hRBu0xC.png)
As the Royal Navy is fetching soldiers to Gascogne to deal with Protestant rebels, Emperor Edward decides that it is time to stop being so pompous.
He is now a King, of the progressive administrative monarchy. More magistrates and faster policy changes are the main reasons, here.
(https://i.imgur.com/wiqeKf0.png)
Everyone shall remember Sir Talbot as the great explorer of West and the East, no doubt about that.
As people mourn his passing, King Edward decreed that the capital of Puerto Rico will therefore be renamed 'Talbot' in memory of the brave explorer.
(https://i.imgur.com/0Jacf20.png)
Castille has managed to inherit the throne of Naples with ascension of King Juan; they now own half of Italy. Very troubling.
Shortly afterwards, a revolt occurs in Talbot, capital of Puerto Rico! We need to get the colonial force going, and soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gs8iU6v.png)
Finally, after many, many years of debate, King Edward VI has found the third, golden option - Church of Great Britain!
With him as the Supreme Governor of this new state Church, we can offer the people of Britain a happy compromise between both Catholic orthodoxy as well as reforms of Protestant and Reformed faiths!
Although this will bring us instability for a while longer, we now have a goal, a unity in mind, which we can pursue without hesitation!
Unfortunately this causes our allies to renounce the treaties, and we can be sure that the Pope will find his way to intervene in an attempt to bring us back into the fold. But we will stand strong and united!
(https://i.imgur.com/VpomrUw.png)
As Protestant zealotry in Scotland is dying off, our missionary efforts will begin there.
Please do not ask about revolt risk in the country at the moment, the double-digit values are scary enough for myself.
(https://i.imgur.com/3ydOiZ0.png)
With British Ruler as Supreme Governor, we can use their influence to raise stability, push sliders toward Mercantilism, and even marry local noblewomen at will to get us a heir in quite reliable way.
The stability cost increase is more of a 'cooldown' than anything.
(https://i.imgur.com/LyG2fQB.png)
And the faith itself has some fairly powerful bonuses, outweighed by the high Stability costs per province and the fact that having a Church of our own will get us no friends and many enemies in Europe.
Strap yourselves bois, the hard part of the game has just begun.
(https://i.imgur.com/nt0XP4v.png)
ISN'T IT FUN!?
Royal Navy should be able to deal with them, and our Armies shouldn't be that bad either. Hopefully?
(https://i.imgur.com/zBDXMjQ.png)
The attempted naval invasion of Britain by the Dutch has been repelled.
(https://i.imgur.com/S9wMxn1.png)
After Dutch Army landed in Norfolk and their Navy split into two, Royal British Navy ambushed both parts and defeated them, causing the panicked Dutch government to sue for peace.
King Edward VI is not suicidal enough to push any demands and hastily accepted.
(https://i.imgur.com/5ygTt9O.png)
And finally, someone outside England has embraced true faith. First step on the long, long road to religious unity.
We also decide to pass Test Act, and while it will make heretics hate us more, it will get has 0.5 missionary yearly. Considering the amount of provinces we have, we need those holy men.
(https://i.imgur.com/OCDIlrg.png)
Edward VI has to personally lead armies on rebel-whacking tour across British Isles.
By the God, there's SO MANY REBELS EVERY MONTH YOU WOULDN'T BELIEVE. British Isles, Normandy, then Gascogne - SUDDENLY! Rebels in Scotland! Rebels in Puerto Rico! Even more rebels in Scotland!
(https://i.imgur.com/BWxvo21.png)
Gah! We ran out of money when I wasn't looking!
Oh well, one loan shouldn't kill us, and might only help us in the long run.
(https://i.imgur.com/VqzntnT.png)
Just as the rebellions were getting tidied up and new ones became infrequent, Edward VI, the reformer and first Supreme Governor, has died.
Hopefully the reign of his successor Octavius will see the end of the abhorrent religious instability plaguing Britain for the past decade or so.
(https://i.imgur.com/3aNfJ7V.png)
I've forgot about the events. I totally forgot I've made events for Anglican faith and instability it brings.
The other option was -1 to Stability and spawning of MORE REBELS, so we will have to swallow the loss of prestige this time.
Maybe this was a mistake. Maybe we should've smooched the Papal posterior and live in relative peace and prosperity, but no, we've chosen the path of 'Having front seats during a Live Disaster Feed', that is our life now, guys!
-
013: Desperate Giveaways
(https://i.imgur.com/ESVsAma.png)
Octavius dies after just two or so years on the throne, leaving little Maximillian in the hands of his regents.
Thank god they're rather hypercompetent, otherwise our situation would've taken a turn to worse.
(https://i.imgur.com/BYespHA.png)
State economy is abhorrent mess at the moment; inflation, loan interest, missionary and military expenses.
We're minting like crazy, and even with no investments into technologies we're still near-top levels of infrastructure.
(https://i.imgur.com/gCWvvRq.png)
We have no other option here, unfortunately, but few weeks earlier our Stability finally got out the red!
What's even better is that the missionaries are slowly completing their work; most of Scotland, for example, follows Anglican doctrine.
And our economy has, because of that, healed; we're no longer in danger of bankruptcy, and are earning 10 ducats yearly.
(https://i.imgur.com/irL0npi.png)
May he live long and prosper, and see the end of the religious chaos in Britain!
Just in time, too, for just few weeks later Maximillian can exert his authority as Supreme Governor. Of course we take the free Stability increase.
(https://i.imgur.com/p6FtZUS.png)
After we have to fight corruption at expense of 1 Stability point, Anne, heiress to the throne of Britain, is born.
(https://i.imgur.com/KNYC8KA.png)
Aren't they persistent, huh?
We will kick their butts once more.
(https://i.imgur.com/fhvbT3p.png)
Raising army maintenance unfortunately drove us under the zero just near the end of the year.
Hopefully kicking Dutch ass will get us some prestige, money, hopefully both.
(https://i.imgur.com/iJsmbJr.png)
*deep breath*
Boi.
(https://i.imgur.com/zh7k6VK.png)
As Burgundians are currently the ones in control of Calais, that will be their problem to fix, ha ha ha.
(https://i.imgur.com/ODsVkRB.png)
We've dealt enough damage to cause Netherlands to renounce their claims to Antwerpen and give us money.
Now to deal with Burgundians, which will be much trickier; they have plenty of troops and allies on their side.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZXjiOtt.png)
We decide to concede the war, giving Burgundy Picardy as well as losing some prestige to have them accept our terms.
(https://i.imgur.com/IDbFnEv.png)
An event bumped our stability up, and the stability slider also happened.
King Maximillian decided to part with the provinces in southwestern france, selling them away to help our economy regain stability. We're currently overminting simply to deal with the expenses.
PS: We sell them for a total of 340 ducats, just in time to repay a loan.
(https://i.imgur.com/xiyR4Wy.png)
The situation in the country is on a somewhat good track... whilst colonies and continental possessions in Normandy remain non-Anglican, the Isles are mostly converted. King Maximillian is even considering if holding onto the Paris is worth it, for it could fetch a big price if sold away...
Then our Theologian had to raise an issue. We had him removed, and hired a new guy in his place. Instability continues, and the end of it is nowhere to be seen.
-
014: Stability Returns to Britain
(https://i.imgur.com/KHqMdlg.png)
Suddenly and out of nowhere, Maximillian has decided to die. Bloody hell!
His heiress, Anne, is currently 8 years old, and the regents watching over her are exceptional administrators but not much else.
(https://i.imgur.com/0zkzQif.png)
As marriages are far and rare for Britain these days, we had to commission a statue to keep the legitimacy high.
Meanwhile, an option appeared to Dissolve the Monasteries, getting us higher tax income as well as hard cash right away, so naturally we will be doing that.
(https://i.imgur.com/5C2y8xo.png)
Good events with good timing are rare, cherish them!
Also, minting has been drastically reduced as we now earn enough money to support our economy and military, and we even had money to become Defender of Faith, boosting our prestige and morale of armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/7x1Ytku.png)
And going with Maximillian's original plan, once Paris falls into British hands, we sell it away. Champagne buys the province Ile-de-France for a whooping 600 ducats.
A large island of 3 provinces in the Caribbean has also been colonized, we must get back to colonization game as soon as possible.
(https://i.imgur.com/snBbx11.png)
Les Cayes, and before it, Barahonas colony, begun producing cotton; few days later an influential merchant dies and we take the money he left us in the will, almost 280 ducats. Very nice!
As you can see in the background, we've hired an explorer and sent the Explorer Squadron to do some exploring; discovering places earns prestige, and that's always a good thing to have.
(https://i.imgur.com/YUGzKcx.png)
The most important military advancement occurs - we gain access to gun infantry. We will go with Tercio Infantry.
Meanwhile, several of our colonial lands in Vinland have cored; we can reach as far as the tip of southern continent!
(https://i.imgur.com/PYRxr6Y.png)
Queen Anne finally ascends to the throne of Great Britain! Even Stability rose to the maximum of +3, unseen at such a number for the last thirty years or so!
We will commemorate this with colonization of islands of St.Barthelemy and St.Thomas, just eastwards from Puerto Rico.
(https://i.imgur.com/yqGxIXG.png)
His exploring was as glorious as it was short. As you can see, we will be naming the capital of St.Barthelemy after him.
(https://i.imgur.com/DscwHLY.png)
Pity this event have not popped up earlier; especially that the other option lowers revolt risk by 1 point for 10 years.
Oh well, we will take what we're given! It will help convert the remaining Catholic and Reformed holdouts (Scottish Protestantism has been fully eliminated by now).
(https://i.imgur.com/t1dtONQ.png)
Yes! YES! Finally some progress, and the doctrinal confusion (along with its intolerance and higher stability costs) is gone!
Long live Good Queen Anne!
Long live Great Britain!
-
015: Good Queen Anne
(https://i.imgur.com/QivAUSw.png)
As the time passes interrupted with our missionaries finishing their work (more often) or rebels showing up (less often), we get first colony that produces Tobacco.
(https://i.imgur.com/Z0ZJNFs.png)
Because Queen Anne cannot use her authority as Supreme Governor to have a consort, and thus a heir, she has to wait a bit.
Fortunately, we now have George; with average stats, but we will take him. Hopefully he breaks the curse of previous boys named George, who all died before becoming Kings of Britain.
(https://i.imgur.com/dNl7VQ6.png)
Look at that lovely dark lavender Anglican shade! We're almost done with Europe, but we will probably leaving Antwerpen alone for some time due to high conversion costs.
We've also begun converting colonies, starting with Greenland.
(https://i.imgur.com/WP3a7Vo.png)
We begin colonization of Bermuda, a lone island in middle of Atlantic Ocean. While not exactly a rich place, it is valuable strategically as a resupply port for navies.
Plans are also drawn to begin colonization of Cape in South Africa.
(https://i.imgur.com/0dzTr3Q.png)
Bah! The other option is to add 3 more points to our already big inflation.
(https://i.imgur.com/epg6a92.png)
We ourselves however hire a better Master of the Mint after accumulating enough cultural tradition.
Minting has been further reduced, and whilst our yearly profits now linger about 90 ducats, we're finally, FINALLY, reducing inflation.
(https://i.imgur.com/TCp473F.png)
After several years of trying, we have a colony in the Cape at last.
(https://i.imgur.com/xLUjp1E.png)
Too late for this, Pope! If it was done earlier, I *might* have considered conversion, but now? With our Church firmly established, with few colonies remaining unconverted?
Good Queen Anne has people's support, and she will endure excommunication if need be.
(https://i.imgur.com/lw7nQAd.png)
An explorer from Middleton family has discovered a new continent, named 'Australia' by the British cartographers.
It's quite large, quite far, and quite barren; deserts dominate the landscape. Sir Middleton is wondering whether there will be any fertile grounds at all.
(https://i.imgur.com/4G0mUVM.png)
God bless Sir David Raleigh! His work brought us the stability we need, and boosts our inflation reduction to boot.
(https://i.imgur.com/trNeWRO.png)
The reign of Good Queen Anne is bringing even more good events!
We will be spending this money on upgrading our military infrastructure, for we have a big empire and so little armed forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/SkG6s28.png)
Crown Prince George is old enough to be eligible for introduction to the court!
This brings us prestige, legitimacy and even cultural tradition.
(https://i.imgur.com/ekEpxFr.png)
Good Queen Anne decides to address a very important issue of Great Britain - stability recovery. For that, it is now mandatory to attend church serives on Sunday.
With that implemented, Queen Anne also decides that we've explored enough of the World already (Sir Middleton has been sent to explore some more of Australia and Northeast Asia), and the Quest for it can be replaced with Press Gangs.
It will cut our naval expenses by half; that's right, cheaper shipbuilding AND cheaper maintenance.
(https://i.imgur.com/OPEzRT3.png)
Finally, as Anglicanism spreads and other religions lose ground in Britain, peace and stability returns truly to our glorious nation! Hurrah!
-
016: The British India Company Has Arrived!
Recently, Queen Anne raised an important question at the Parliament of Great Britain; what do we have to earn in meddling in Europe?
Nothing.
What do we get if we take our forces east?
(https://i.imgur.com/zGpZHwc.png)
An entire subcontinent worth of spices, cotton and tea.
Royal Navy will transport newly created India Army to fight against Ceylon, taking the rich island for ourselves.
Later, we might consider moving inland, or capture more rich lands in the Indochina.
(https://i.imgur.com/oeVDu36.png)
We're poised to strike, and strike we will!
(https://i.imgur.com/qbMQ1RK.png)
We annex Ceylon in its entirety, getting ourselves some Spices as well as extra Sugar.
Meanwhile, Explorer Squadron has been called to rejoin Royal Navy after almost a hundred years of autonomous function.
(https://i.imgur.com/MKGUV8a.png)
This in turn allows us to create British India Trade Company, based in Lancashire.
With this much of a boost into trade and competitiveness of our merchants, our economy will get a boost in turn.
Which will be very much useful as we had to take a loan during the war, oops.
(https://i.imgur.com/a8z4jhY.png)
Oh huh, Holy Roman Empire actually got a reform passed, especially under the Bohemians?
Impressive. Not of our concern, however, for Queen Anne is already planning an attack against Malacca, the rich centre of trade in Indochina.
First, however, we will need to create a separate Indian Fleet to ferry troops in the far east; having Royal Navy away from Europe during last fight against Ceylon made some people at the court worry about us being defenseless in case of an European war.
(https://i.imgur.com/IWhcG9q.png)
Preparations for the conquest of Malacca are suddenly marred by death of Crown Prince George - truly cursed name, this! - who had a hunting accident.
As there's no one to replace him as heir to the throne of Britain, the future of Howard dynasty is endangered.
(https://i.imgur.com/MmqdvSc.png)
Bah! How dare they rise against Good Queen Anne?
We will crush their little revolt!
(https://i.imgur.com/gkzTZE9.png)
We begin conquest of Aceh, or rather Malacca; maybe some nearby provinces as well, because the centre of trade is not as rich as we thought.
After cursory research amongst traders and seafarers, it seems that both Makassar and the Xin recently created two new CoTs, greatly cutting into Malaccan profits and influence... oh well!
(https://i.imgur.com/sIpl993.png)
And so, British India Company now owns 5 provinces, including a Centre of Trade.
Money and prestige await us!
(https://i.imgur.com/k0mHAr3.png)
What's this OwO?
Turns out the competition to Malacca is at the island of Brunei, just across the straits.
Hmmmm...
(https://i.imgur.com/10LF6Qj.png)
Rejoice! We have a heir to the throne of Great Britain, William Howard!
It's nephew of Queen Anne, from her sister's marriage, nonetheless, he is as Howard and he is of legitimate birth. Hurrah!
(https://i.imgur.com/FOa22d3.png)
We couldn't help ourselves. After all - better us than other Europeans!
We will even let them keep their faiths intact, as long as they get us money! Tis we pledge!
-
017: All Good Things Must Come to an End
(https://i.imgur.com/j926yrA.png)
Of course, the moment our Stability gets near zero, something brings it to zero.
We don't have much need to colonial growth or missionaries, so we might as well go Innovative now.
(https://i.imgur.com/Kpfzt74.png)
Our colonial possessions in the Carribbean are finally coring. In few years, we be getting St.Thomas and St.Barthelemy.
(https://i.imgur.com/wiwV7sF.png)
Unfortunately, the other option lowers our stability, and we cannot let that happen at the moment.
Catholic traitors will get to remain in the Parliament for a while longer.
(https://i.imgur.com/lxliYwP.png)
As you can see, we've been slowly crawling across the shores of Hudson's Bay, and now we have exclusive access to Vinland soil.
(https://i.imgur.com/xm2qSUk.png)
The game finds the way to drop our Stability into the red, because the other option is decentralization.
Fortunately for us, the stability slider is nearly filled, and soon we can use our authority to Strengthen the Nation as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/AsrcoTB.png)
Great sadness permeates every corner of the British domains! Queen Anne, ruling prosperously since 1558, has passed away. With her passing, Excommunication is soon ended, its negative impact gone.
Her current heir to the throne, young William, will be tended by the regency council, which unfortunately is below average. Hopefully all will be well during this period.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZPYDpap.png)
The regency progresses rather smoothly, except very occassional revolt in the Indochina or Ceylon.
We even manage to find time - and empty lot - to colonize some more of Caribbean.
(https://i.imgur.com/dq9t3Vr.png)
Despite the court having sent for best medicus in the Isles, illness has struck down William Howard, heir to the throne of Britain and the last legitimate male of the Howard dynasty.
The interregnum begins for who knows how long, and some local noblemen took this opportunity to rebel in Cornwall. The army needs to defeat a stack of 15 regiments while Regents of Britain debate who - and most importantly, when - should ascend to the throne.
God be with Great Britain!
-
018: The Stanleys
(https://i.imgur.com/UixhjJJ.png)
Fortunately, the nobles' revolt was driven from Cornwall, bounced off Gloucestershire and then finally defeated at Wessex.
(https://i.imgur.com/z4rasY9.png)
Ah, finally! First modifier from trade, and its Tobacco, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y1xHRLC.png)
Finally, the Regents of Great Britain has decided that George of House Stanley should ascend to the throne; his roots to Lancasters were traced back to late 14th century!
He immediatelly passes two important edicts; Oath of Supremacy will strengthen legitimacy (at the cost of angry heretics) while Judiciary Act will help lower risk of rebellions.
(https://i.imgur.com/yn68zOZ.png)
He gets himself an heiress, named Anne, no doubt in memory of the deceased Queen.
The girl sure takes after her father! King George I Stanley has also decided to start the programme of colonization of deeper parts of Canada, to deny other nations access to furs and naval supplies.
(https://i.imgur.com/LPPbPQJ.png)
Suprisingly, however, British merchants were able to take a lion share of the markets at Epekwitk, a Swedish colony and centre of trade for Vinland.
Similaringly high chances to succeed are projected for Nanjing in China and Mexico in, well, Mexico. Whilst the second one is landlocked, let's see if we cannot persuade Chinese Emperor to grant British India Company access to the Chinese markets and goods.
(https://i.imgur.com/P9aByee.png)
George I believes that inflation, whilst at 6.4%, is under control and slowly being reduced, and it is time to squeeze extra cash from the colonies.
Few weeks later, the colonial possession at Cape becomes British core, allowing us to settle in Africa if we will; a bit later, our reach will extend to the Indochina!
(https://i.imgur.com/4npZLdl.png)
Speaking of the eastern lands, The British India Company has requested authorization of moving into 'Indian mainland'.
Targets are Travanacore ports from Madras to Malabar, 3 of them producing Spices, and Madurai producing Naval Supplies. King George had decided to go with the Company's plan.
After all, the peoples of South and Southeast Asia are far from Europe, backwards technologically and rich in money, whilst docile after their nationalist urges pass. What's not to like about them, really!
(https://i.imgur.com/MCKPJ0v.png)
Meanwhile, in the Isles, construction of a weapons manufactory begins at Norfolk; it will give bonus to Land technology as well as extra income.
(https://i.imgur.com/85t2j0d.png)
Aha! Ambassadors from British India Company has managed to persuade Emperor of China to let our merchants in. We will try setting just few merchants in Nanjing and Jinan, rather than obtain monopolies.
Our mercantilistic policies unfortunately do not favor adventures in foreign centres of trade.
(https://i.imgur.com/HyqUjJR.png)
Unfortunately Malabar is capital of Travanacore, so we decide to switch for Kongu to get our three Spice-producing provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/PTSpwfd.png)
The citizens of Antwerpen are getting uppity again.... Catholics. Always stirring up trouble. Oh well, some sword and fire approach never failed us!
However, its not only the Flemish; the Indians in Madras and the people of Brunei are restless, and the current forces stationed there can't fight them effectively, prompting King George to create 2nd India Army to watch the subcontinent whilst the original IA will take care of Indochina.
(https://i.imgur.com/VefT3DX.png)
Our rapid economical progress is unfortunately marred with incidents of corruption and smuggling.
The other option is too costly, both in terms of ducats and stability.
(https://i.imgur.com/LgNYOI5.png)
Still doesn't stop us from expanding, like here, in South Africa, blanketing the near-empty provinces around Cape with British settlements.
Thanks to these colonies, a new, highly priced, and highly prized, commodity began to be traded by the ever-competitive British merchants: Slaves.
(https://i.imgur.com/P19mrPR.png)
At the end of this update, have some delicious British pie charts!
Because as King George I Stanley understands it, everyone loves some good pie!
-
019: Against the Orange Elephant
(https://i.imgur.com/dTFrW9a.png)
This a sad day; even more that Princess Anne was nearly adult.
In few years' time, King George will be marrying a local noblewoman to secure himself a heir (or heiress).
(https://i.imgur.com/cFfnVV5.png)
Short time later, British India Company has another request - to war against the Kingdom of Gondwana, to obtain the highly profitable centre of trade at Bihar.
King George acquiesces, for while the Company's methods of conquering are rather ruthless, the British Empire needs any money it can get.
(https://i.imgur.com/TeVKFIK.png)
As the war enters its first phase, a boy is born into the Stanley dynasty!
Court astronomer is greatly disturbed by the child's birth, because he believes his skills will be 'less than mediocre'. He has been fired for this insult upon King's family.
Kingdom of Gondwana is putting up quite a fight, prompting both Corps of India to fight cooperatively on their soil.
(https://i.imgur.com/DFh6Xfc.png)
Mascarene isles of Bourbon and Mauritius are settled by intrepid British settlers.
The war against Gondwana continues, and British India Company has failed to make any inroads, instead being stuck on besieging the coastal province of Bangala.
(https://i.imgur.com/A14wJVT.png)
Cathedrals, glorious monuments - our nation is progressing!
(https://i.imgur.com/qaAO4Rv.png)
The incompetence of British India Company's forces so far is infuriating King George, especially after the nationalists in Brunei managed to gain some land.
Royal Navy has been directed to the India after the Company's fleet suffered massive damage during an ill-timed voyage through the ocean.
(https://i.imgur.com/ycCDddS.png)
At the worst possible moment, Catholics strike once more!
With Royal Navy out of the position and the Burgundians not even willing to hear our request for military access, we will have a bad time in Antwerpen.
King George is recalling the fleet while British India Company has been forced to sign peace with Gondwana immediately.
(https://i.imgur.com/mD15A93.png)
Whilst Bihar was out of the diplomats' reach, two provinces were taken from Kingdom of Gondwana.
Hopefully the British India Company has learned something and won't make the same mistakes.
Few years later, King George orders the Company to concentrate on something else:
(https://i.imgur.com/HufLFUw.png)
Colonization of the Spice Islands!
-
020: Sweet&Hot&Spicy
(https://i.imgur.com/3MuYCv9.png)
Both Mauritius and Bourbon are now self-sufficient cities, and they're both producing sugar. Perfect!
(https://i.imgur.com/W69vn1R.png)
Meanwhile, in southern Europe, a certain blob of salmon coloration has appeared.
I wonder how long they will last.
(https://i.imgur.com/LnjQyls.png)
As you can see, all the little islands are being taken by the British Crown. With this, we ought to monopolize trade in spices and tea on European markets!
(https://i.imgur.com/EweqNmE.png)
Our statesman is doing great!
We go with extra stability, so we can redirect our spending elsewhere.
(https://i.imgur.com/ghv5GCC.png)
Ah, finally, we have our own Chinaware, produced in British workshops and guildhouses.
(https://i.imgur.com/tlysbCq.png)
That is good, and of course we take the money, as stability is high enough and our government research is being prioritized anyway.
(https://i.imgur.com/n6XYz7S.png)
Once again, we fight Gondwana for control of Bihar, but this time the Company forces are lead by competent leaders.
The forces defeated the Gondwana's troops at their capital, and their allies quickly asked for peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/tvVcYr6.png)
This is interesting... out of nowhere, Xin has declared war upon us!
Royal Navy and the British Company Fleet will work in tandem to destroy their fleets first.
(https://i.imgur.com/L7rTw7H.png)
At the coast of India, the Xin attempt to land in our Indian possessions, but the Colonial Fleet blocks their attempt just for Royal Navy to show up.
Together, they pulverize the Chinese navy, seizing ten galleys in the process.
(https://i.imgur.com/lS20dlJ.png)
Gondwana is beaten, and now we can move against Xin and Assam, their Burmese allies.
(https://i.imgur.com/LfV4LdZ.png)
Unfortunately, King George I will not see the glorious end of the war against the Xin; instead, his successor george II will oversee it.
Everyone is looking up for Frederick William, who even in his early age is exhibiting skills of great monarch. May he live till ascension!
(https://i.imgur.com/PoQl2ht.png)
King George II, whilst keeping the state of war with Xin Empire, has decided to have the British indulge in something that hasn't been brought up in past decades - music!
Hopefully that will bring up the cultural tradition of Britannnia to the level comparable with that of Italian states or French kingdoms.
-
021: A Matter of Persistence
(https://i.imgur.com/8lqEJ4M.png)
In middle of the war with Xin, the catholics of Antwerpen once again rise against British monarchs.
Meanwhile, while India Company troops are battling minor regiments, the Royal Navy is dividing and defeating Xin fleets.
(https://i.imgur.com/0DuaIje.png)
Through perserverance, victory! Or rather, attrition and war exhaustion forced Assam to sign white peace with us.
In next two years, all Xin allies also sign white peace with us.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZRkWUyL.png)
Unfortunately while Royal Navy and India Company Fleet are busy, Madurain nationalists took hold of our Indian possessions - not for long.
After we deal with them, we will have to put down less serious, but still dangerous, surprisings in Malacca and Brunei.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZjJWAdA.png)
The Madurai are no more, and the Xin navy have been thoroughly sunk near coasts of Kutei province!
Immediately after that, the Xin Emperor asks for white peace.
No no no, my friend, we will drive your war exhaustion so far and sponsor so many rebels, you will get kicked back to Warring States period!
(https://i.imgur.com/nNQMVAX.png)
About time our Royal Navy gets its might reflected in national ideas!
This one, for example, will make our fleets last longer in combat.
(https://i.imgur.com/MzWRlIX.png)
Their war exhaustion is at more than 18 points, their prestige dropped below 10, and stability dipped to -1 currently, King George decided to accept Xin peace.
More because the Ceylonese have staged an uprising, and we're not interested in losing our first Indian territories to nationalists.
(https://i.imgur.com/UGaGcDF.png)
Now its Pegu that declares war against Britain!
Fools, they have less than quarter of Xin might.
(https://i.imgur.com/dTglAwh.png)
Doesn't take long to persuade them to drop the issue.
King George is worried; if the distant easterners are so eager to try and fight wars against Britain for its colonial possessions, what of European nations?
Construction of new ships and creation of new Army corps have been thusly ordered. Better safe than sorry.
(https://i.imgur.com/5G57gwC.png)
Deva Bengal has risen from the ashes, only to be forced to accept us as their masters, ha.
(https://i.imgur.com/BJVtxn0.png)
The Spice Islands' colonies actually steadily grew in size during the war against Xin. Most of them are now considered self-sufficient cities.
It seems that the Chinese weren't aware of our unprotected, near-virginal possessions in south east. Mayhaps their sailors didn't have proper maps?
(https://i.imgur.com/0ifFqrK.png)
Whilst our navies are being expanded, it seems that once again some Catholic spies have been discovered within British Parliament.
King George, preoccupied with more pressing matters, decided to turn a blind eye to their heretical living. Legitimacy isn't exactly a hard thing to recover.
(https://i.imgur.com/XUwDFMZ.png)
Anglican Church provides! Or rather, peoples of Britain, dutifully going to church every Sunday, provide stability for the country!
(https://i.imgur.com/SR3R5EZ.png)
With wars gone, George turns to family life; Frederick has become an adult.
He has been introduced to the court, and everyone believes that he will be the next King of Great Britain.
Long live House Stanley!
-
022: The Underlands
(https://i.imgur.com/QXBCPGm.png)
I can foresee Cape being one of largest colonies in the future, if the agricultural strength of it continues to grow up through events!
Meanwhile, we receive a free core on Banjarmasin, held currently by Sultanate of Brunei. It's their capital, so unfortunately we would have to annex them fully.
(https://i.imgur.com/5849cRq.png)
Oi mate, we're colonising Australia! According to reports, gold and grain and sheep could be easily the main exports of that land, so why not?
King George also has plans to make some penal colonies in there, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/we1Re2E.png)
Ah! The Tax Assessor is available. We will construct one British Isles, as soon as we have the money of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/VBJiRpp.png)
After many decades of being aliens within Europe, the Netherlands, once our trusted allies, once again sign a military treaty with us.
We both have holdings around the globe and both need protection from bigger, more land-oriented warrior nations, so this is a good idea at the moment.
We have a friend south of the Channel! Woo!
(https://i.imgur.com/aBLT0LT.png)
Tsk, ol' George is behaving erratically as of late; the both options equally costly, we pick the one that lowers our Infamy.
(https://i.imgur.com/XV4Io3V.png)
We also spot a very interesting decision on the list; but it requires a Privateer advisor, whom we do not have, and a ruler with Military stat of 7.
This one will have to wait for Frederick August to ascend the throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/CmdX1cI.png)
Gustavian Infantry is the obvious choice, having the largest number of stats.
(https://i.imgur.com/a7NgAyx.png)
And now, our other maritime neighbour sends us an alliance offer!
Brittany is smaller than Netherlands, and concentrates mostly on South America, but still, an ally is an ally.
(https://i.imgur.com/GXJkdmo.png)
Sweden has united Scandinavia!
This gives them a core on Orkney Islands and Greenland, but they can forget that we will fork them over.
(https://i.imgur.com/3tuXVHy.png)
Our Dutch allies call for help against Oman, and to raise their trust, we agree to join the war.
Mostly to get war taxes out of our peasants. That Tax Assessor won't buy itself, you know!
-
023: Indian Subcontinent Distractions
(https://i.imgur.com/31v0Y3o.png)
As the war with Oman is progressing smoothly, pirates begun popping up in Australian waters, prompting King George to send new patrols formed out of Royal Navy ships.
We order construction of 12 new Wargalleons to bolster the Royal Navy's numbers after that.
(https://i.imgur.com/IZRaqOr.png)
Not a great fan of losing money to totally random events, but the other option is -2 to Stability.
Money in Britain is cheaper than Stability, so 50 ducats go bye-bye.
(https://i.imgur.com/ekxo0aV.png)
Netherlands concludes the war. In the meanwhile, we continue upping our land forces and reinforcing India Company Fleet with new ships.
About time we fight and annex Sultanate of Brunei and expand our power in the Indies once more. Banjarmasin will be ours!
(https://i.imgur.com/V2Q9j7k.png)
An opportunity to test our mettle appears before that - we gain a mission to conquer Mysore, part of Kingdom of Travanacore, which is diplomatically 'isolated' from Pegu, Xin and other big Asian bulls.
It only calls for help from Deccan, which joins the war despite being small (Netherlands called for help against Aztecs, and we obliged).
(https://i.imgur.com/1oDGRqC.png)
We win the war, gaining prestige, a province, and some money.
(https://i.imgur.com/heOJlLE.png)
The call for arms is replied to; Rajputana holds the extremely profitable trade centre of Kutch, which is siphoning most of our profits from Bihar.
Maybe, just maybe, we can swindle it from both Rajputs and the Dutch?
(https://i.imgur.com/9aV2SOE.png)
We have missed the fact that Rajputs had military access through both Gondwana and Orissa; we repelled them from our territories and destroyed their army at Orissan lands.
Rebels and more Rajput troops on the horizon force us to postpone plans to siege and conquer Kutch, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/FupurWB.png)
The East India Company has lobbied for expansion in India; we gain cores on four provinces, including remainder of Travanacore.
And we had to take a loan of over 1600 ducats, geez. That will hurt to repay.
(https://i.imgur.com/z2OrLqG.png)
Khorasan and Assam join the war on Rajputs' side, and they have some infantry and connections to bring to the table, potentially souring our plans.
Nevertheless, we begin the siege of Kutch. Just few days later, Orissa joins the war - those scoundrels.
(https://i.imgur.com/F4Htg2T.png)
The old King George has died, and Frederick August is the new King of Great Britain! His first edict is to Enlist Privateers, boosting our maritime power.
Unfortunately, despite being almost 30 years old, Frederick August has no heir.
(https://i.imgur.com/wJTVWph.png)
There are many questions behind Anne's conception, but Frederick August claism she is his daughter and rightful heir.
(https://i.imgur.com/5Vf5NoH.png)
Bleh!
Right away, Brittany asks us to fight against Kingdom of Two Sicilies... who recently annexed Travanacore.
We become leader of that war, so we might as well fight a war in Europe - after many, many years!
-
I love this playthrough and am always excited when a new entry appears. God save Frederick!
-
024: Hemispheres of Warfare
(https://i.imgur.com/reLkwOM.png)
First combat of the war is a naval one; just south of Iberian peninsula, we crush one of enemy patrolling fleets.
King Frederick's plan for the war is simple; we disregard Sicillian colonial forces and instead siege their Italian holdings.
(https://i.imgur.com/7wXV227.png)
Our battle plans have become a little bit complicated, unfortunately.
(https://i.imgur.com/5trn5Lw.png)
It seems however that the Xin are using very oudated navies; their massive fleet of galleys was defeated by the fleet of Indian Company.
Still, they can overwhelm us with sheer numbers, so Royal Navy has been sent to ascertain British superiority on East Asian waters.
(https://i.imgur.com/R9UFI10.png)
Khmer, Xin's ally and sender of small invasion forces across whole Indian Ocean decides to sign peace.
A day later, at Coast of Transkei, Royal Navy sinks the main Sicillian fleet that was ferrying troops from their colonies back to Europe. 22.000+ Sicillians became fishfood.
(https://i.imgur.com/9tym2h8.png)
We get money and the Indian territories from Sicillians after Naples and Abruzzi are captured.
Royal Navy has caught Xin fleet in Dai Viet ports, allowing our India Company Fleet to reign supreme on the coasts or in colonies.
(https://i.imgur.com/CaGiRe5.png)
Through skillful maneuvering, the Royal Navy manages to deal the Xin fleet numerous defeats, including one at Mekong Delta, where almost half of their ships are sunk and few captured.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fdxr5CG.png)
It took several years for the Xin to finally offer white peace. Even if status quo is maintained, Xin lost an aggressive war, and that will hit their prestige and legitimacy.
(https://i.imgur.com/B2bj2U0.png)
Lubeck and its tribal allies in Vinland fight against Brittany, our ally.
An opportunity to expand our colonies!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZSF8tyX.png)
Aha! Finally, we can move onto more advanced form of government - Constitutional Monarchy, which gives 2.2 Magistrates per year and slows down Prestige decay.
Not that great set of bonuses, but easy to transition into. We switch immediatelly, losing only 1 point of Stability that is easily restored.
(https://i.imgur.com/hdfh2Ro.png)
And now, we bite off a piece of Lubeck's colonial possessions.
Next time, we definitely can fight and annex Sultanate of Brunei!
-
025: Back to the Past (and Annexation of Brunei)
(https://i.imgur.com/4Gs0G2V.png)
We begin this update with terrible news - Princess Anne has died of some fever despite King Frederick having sent for best healer in the Isles.
(https://i.imgur.com/vzK11Lu.png)
A very good harvest however brings lotsa money to the British coffers!
We will spent them on construction of an Admiralty in Calais, once its naval base is complete, as it became headquarters of Royal Navy.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yjm5uMw.png)
Oh bloody hell, where did the Aztecs hide all that gold??
Nevertheless, this allows us to pursue that one goal we haven't been able to pursue for decades now - conquest of Sultanate of Brunei!
(https://i.imgur.com/YVeZ7WN.png)
An even better opportunity presents itself, though - Scandinavia holds Epekwitk, plus has cores on some of our territories.
If we can punch them hard enough, mayhaps we can fulfill both war goals at once??
(https://i.imgur.com/8yOYMXH.png)
We give them a sound beating at Coast of Brittany; this is followed by similar victories at Helgoland Blight and near Copenhagen.
King Frederick has other things on his mind, however.
He is reaching forties soon, and despite death of Princess Anne several years ago, no children are popping up...
(https://i.imgur.com/5fj0kgA.png)
We begin conquest of Brunei; neither Khmer or Pegu, both locked in war against each other, honor their treaties with the tiny sultanate.
In the meanwhile: Scandinavia is fully blockaded, its Finnish subjects are revolting, a pretender rose against Queen Ulrika Eleonora II, and their war exhaustion is over 10 points.
They refuse both ours and Dutch demands for peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/r6PF8kj.png)
We also have begun colonization of southernmost Australia. With Wergaia as national focus, provinces around it will receive a boost to colonial growth.
(https://i.imgur.com/x8DZg80.png)
Brunei falls into British hands; the northernmost province is not a British core, but the India Corps will be stationed there to maintain peace.
Scandinavia continues refusing to surrender to our terms.
(https://i.imgur.com/4IyZcvB.png)
SCORE!!
(https://i.imgur.com/73YCe8t.png)
Immediately, King Frederick implements a mandatory Gold Standard for coinage, which will help us battle inflation by 0.04 points monthly.
This way we can get rid of our Master of Mint and replace him with someone else. Maybe a Statesman, or a High Judge, or...
(https://i.imgur.com/KQb0KwH.png)
Or someone to boost our Legitimacy because that's yet another British dynasty that has been ended. Bloody hell!
After about 300 years of absence, Plantagenets once more occupy the throne of England - or rather, Great Britain this time. Long live King Frederick II!
The new dynasty on throne of Britain does not sit well with several of our 'buddies'; for example, we have hard times to persuade Netherlands for marriage.
(https://i.imgur.com/blWMxvs.png)
One of Frederick II's first edicts are to give liberties to mining companies, increasing tax and production values at the cost of trading proficiency.
In the plans there's also Navigation Act (boosting our trade and colonial income) and Separation of Powers (boosting Prestige and giving extra 0.5 Magistrates/year).
(https://i.imgur.com/hS4SX24.png)
Once again, we get nothing out of the Dutch war, but that is okay.
We've got plenty of stolen ships! We will decommission and destroy all the old Cogs and Galleys and Barques, saving us up to 5-6 ducats of maintenance monthly!
(https://i.imgur.com/GSfa5zn.png)
King Frederick II has decided that edict-making will be his gimmick. And that is good!
Long Live Great Britain! (hopefully without further dynastic changes)
-
026: Great Britain vs Great Xin
(https://i.imgur.com/Zqu9ocG.png)
It seems that Xin wants another rematch, and we are happy to oblige.
Once again, it will be our ships that will win the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/e8YJRTb.png)
Bali-Lombok, and then Khmer (and few days later, Bengal) all join Xin's alliance, but that won't help them.
Royal Navy is already on Indian Ocean, and India Company Forces are marching into Bangala.
(https://i.imgur.com/yboz7xZ.png)
Finally, an event occurs where a minor noblewoman offers herself to Frederick II to provide him a child.
May Princess Anne live long and prosper.
(https://i.imgur.com/bxV37X3.png)
Once again, Mekong Delta becomes graveyard for Xin ships.
Two more naval engagements in that area and we completely destroy Xin navies. Blockade of their ports begins.
(https://i.imgur.com/rQTR3Dm.png)
We annex Bengal, taking their tea-producing plantations.
The same day, King Frederick II passes Colonial Expansion act, increasing colonial growth and chances for colonists. It drops our infamy limit by 3 points.
(https://i.imgur.com/EgOfT9d.png)
Khmer and Bali-Lombok flake away, and Royal Navy has the ports blockaded. It has been suggested that India Company forces begin capturing Xin islands; Taiwan, Macau, Hainan, maybe their colonies in South-East as well.
Who knows, we might force the Xin Emperess (who is ruling the Empire since 1667) to surrender one or two to the British Crown?
In the meanwhile, King Frederick has agreed to fund creation of India Co. Corps III; our possessions in Asia are too vast to be effectively guarded with just two Units.
(https://i.imgur.com/BtIyyya.png)
Meanwhile, at home, Princess Anne dies of fever.
King Frederick II marries another local noblewoman (to displeasure of Brunswick) and gets another heir, with splendid stats.
(https://i.imgur.com/RuYBmLb.png)
Ah yes, we gain access to Grain Depot. Building it will greatly decrease amount of money we spend on land forces.
War with Xin is progressing; our allies have taken control of their colonies in Southeast Asia, and we control Taiwan and Macau, whilst Hainan is under siege.
(https://i.imgur.com/QjJYm9o.png)
Few percent costlier merchants in exchange for trade efficiency and compete chances increase?
Frederick II sez: why not!
(https://i.imgur.com/lrDqO5s.png)
We also receive map of inland East Asia!
Xin Empire is sure big, but most surprising is Assam; I remember it being confined to the peninsula only.
(https://i.imgur.com/f4FWjnp.png)
The Empress is humilitated, and Hainan is now ours!
The island is planned to be made a centre of trade to siphon profits from Hanyang and Nanjing.
-
027: A Cup of British India Tea
(https://i.imgur.com/9cPzZsJ.png)
King Frederick II has decided that we shouldn't loiter around and simply retake our cores; one is capital of Vijayanagar, Bangalore, and the other is in Deccan, the province of Raichur Doab.
As Deccan is ally of Vijayanagar and joined the war (along with few others), we might be able to score two birds with one stone! Or how the saying goes.
(https://i.imgur.com/zl1iExw.png)
Sind controls the extremely profitable centre of trade at Kutch, all-time rival of British-held Bihar!
Forget the cores, we must obtain Kutch immediately!
(https://i.imgur.com/Jdgdqpp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/oJYeEbq.png)
Shortly afterwards, we get Government Tech to level 33, obtaining another Idea slot.
King Frederick decided on National Trade policy, for it provided him with three more edicts to issue: Navigation Act, Importation Act and House of Trade, all boosting our trade efficiency, compete chances, or boosting up our navy and income from abroad.
The drawbacks are either higher stability cost, price of merchants and ships, and another trickle of infamy. Nothing especially damaging, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/js3RvAx.png)
At last! At long last!
SEND ALL THE MERCHANTS!!
(https://i.imgur.com/OlAzv6E.png)
Look at it; all the Indian and Southeast Asian goods are in our control.
India Company Corps have resumed besieging the provinces belonging to Vijayanagar and Deccan; we will have to annex the former fully to grab on Bangalore, but, eh.
Infamy goes away sooner or later!
(https://i.imgur.com/1RnquXB.png)
Half of India is ours; we will soon be concluding our war against Deccan, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/WWo6mNu.png)
From Deccan, we take just the province we need, and some cash. Our income boosted into positive two digits, we're now on the way to unspoken riches!
King Frederick believes that yet another India Corps needs to be raised; numbered IV, it will share with duties of II in maintaining order in the India proper; I is currently stationed in Hainan, and III is at the Spice Islands.
(https://i.imgur.com/iu3ONwU.png)
We dodge a bullet here; young James is spared by the Allmighty from dying to horrible fever.
A good reminder that you save often in this game, people!
(https://i.imgur.com/y4q2TsT.png)
With our monthly income at 16 ducats each, King Frederick is able to do what many Howards and Stanleys couldn't - sponsor some artists!
At last, the charter of Baroque music will be broadened with British names.
(https://i.imgur.com/cxDZVOS.png)
With Vinland, Spice Islands and Australia fully taken, we now set our sights somewhere else:
To the mystical land of Eastern Siberia. The Dutch has told tales that gold and iron can be found here - a perfect addicition to our collection! Kamchatka is already settled, Kurils will soon follow, and then, the inner coastline!
-
028: Hurrible Huron and Insolent Indians
(https://i.imgur.com/XGTOdJK.png)
Two years of lull and the Dutch ask us to join a war against Mutapa in Eastern Africa; we do so simply to fulfill our obligations.
(https://i.imgur.com/HkZ5zTp.png)
Short time later we receive news that Austria did what Austria does; that also stamped 24 points of infamy onto them. Whoopsie!
In domestic news, King Frederick II has ordered that the magistrates concentrate on upgrading fortifications and building of new drydocks, as this infrastructure has been neglected.
(https://i.imgur.com/xTY06IP.png)
>British nobles' uprising
>but in Kutei, South East Asia
King Frederick II is very perplexed at this proclamation, nonetheless, India Corps were sent to crush the, err, local British nobles.
(https://i.imgur.com/AG2iLBQ.png)
This is somewhat annoying. Are they gonna do this every ten years?
Few days later, the Vinlander tribe of Huron decides its best time to try and steal our colonies near their lands. We will conquer them.
(https://i.imgur.com/Mm8KosJ.png)
We don't even sink half of their navy and block only few ports and Empress Ninde sues for peace.
Pffft.
(https://i.imgur.com/7YFiVxl.png)
It has been decided that the Huron won't get away as easily, however. Annexation will be followed by forced conversion.
We will make civilized peoples out of them, yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/pZ9rggi.png)
India Company demanded that we get more land - and that gave us SEVEN free cores in India.
Seven high-price goods-producing territories.
That we can take with no penalties.
*rule_brittania.mp3 intensifies*
Ahmadnagar we can conquer with no drawbacks, Deccan and Orissa with 4 infamy for non-cores, and then we can punch Gondwana just for the lands we need.
(https://i.imgur.com/60y50wH.png)
We take three provinces from them; next time, we will force the remainder, with a better casus belli that will lower infamy penalties.
(https://i.imgur.com/amiQu7j.png)
Oh really now?
Orissa has the unfortunate distinction of having joined that war. That means we will have to punch them for the cores we need.
(https://i.imgur.com/QLHd3YI.png)
Bam!
(https://i.imgur.com/N5FWYHX.png)
James has come of age! Celebratory court introduction time!
(https://i.imgur.com/YFqxzyA.png)
After we nom a piece of Orissa and punt Assam for monies, we immediately declare war against Deccan.
This time we will be fully annexing them. No mercy!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZO4NAbq.png)
James Plantagenet dies in a hunting accident, but that does not stop King Frederick from marrying another woman to get him another heir.
Unfortunately, it seems that lil Freddie is not as skilled as his deceased brother.
(https://i.imgur.com/QbyP9kw.png)
Just before we vassalize and fragmentify Deccan, we declare war against Gondwana; King Frederick has decided to act upon the momentum.
Manchu, Pegu and Khorasan all join the war, but they can do zilch.
(https://i.imgur.com/Md8jE7S.png)
We recover a core from Gondwana, splitting their possessions in two and forcing them to give us money.
Two weeks later, leader of enemy alliance, Kingdom of Pegu, asks and is given white peace.
Glory to Britain!
-
029: Kicking the Guy on the Floor
(https://i.imgur.com/Y8bfscb.png)
WAR! King Frederick II has decreed that the Burgundians must be oppressed by their cruel overlordship of most of France, and this is the moment we strike.
Absolutely nobody fails to notice that Burgundy, after almost ten years of war with Bohemia, has no troops and no fleet to speak of.
(https://i.imgur.com/wlgU0c0.png)
We put pressure on their vassal and their capital.
(https://i.imgur.com/jXxySUW.png)
Takes them a while to get their armies transported from colonies, despite Royal Navy's efforts to patrol the Atlantic.
Still, we manage to destroy these, as Netherlands and Brittany continue to occupy their colonies and French possessions!
(https://i.imgur.com/hm7C6Ud.png)
The war is going so bad for the Burgundy that Granada, a kingdom they ruled in personal union for last 120 years or so, broke away.
We have no ill with the Umayyads, so we agreed to white pace, as seen above.
(https://i.imgur.com/IDbFUBn.png)
Little Frederick dies, but his father is above worldly desires. Using his influence as Supreme Governor of Church of Britain, he marries a local noblewoman in sanctioned marriage.
The new heir, William, is prophesied to be a great diplomat, and not much else.
(https://i.imgur.com/rACfUsj.png)
A financial disaster looms, but the British Treasury is able to spend money on averting it.
(https://i.imgur.com/4iLvTYy.png)
Accursed Catholics! It's the work of the Pope, I can bet on it!
The war has left our Armies depleted as of late and we cannot have Antwerpen looted, or worse, sacked by rebels. We have to swallow the bitter pill of disgrace and meet with the Catholics at negotiation table instead.
(https://i.imgur.com/jQUdPcl.png)
Assassins? Papal curse? Weak seed? Who knows!
Another of Frederick's sons is dead and he is infuriated because he is ruling for thirty-some years and has no-one of his own to inherit the throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/mHzaUEC.png)
The British tire of war, and so does Frederick. He has settled on peace that fragments the French possessions of Burgundy.
Furthermore, Namur will be married, influenced and vassalized.
(https://i.imgur.com/t4gevWx.png)
I very much dislike bastards

Our navies will blockade their ports and force them to sign white peace!
(https://i.imgur.com/N2EeB99.png)
Any heir is better than no heir (and Netherlands received a monetary apology).
Hopefully, Plantagenet dynasty will continue on.
-
030: Wars for Profit and Enlightenment
(https://i.imgur.com/IcqrkkD.png)
After a long while of ping-ponging Khmer and Xin navies, they are destroyed, and we can begin a land campaign.
Here, we rout the Khmer from our possessions in Malacca.
(https://i.imgur.com/U7a4ojT.png)
Xin decides to ask for white peace, and we accept.
Khmer is alone now and we can do what we want with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/C24U6Mm.png)
Frederick II has plans; urged by Indian Company, he declares war against Sultanate of Adal to conquer Berbera, trade hub for ivory and slaves in eastern Africa.
(https://i.imgur.com/u1FeGJm.png)
We finally push towards maximum Naval to get that juicy +25% income from Tariffs (colonial production).
(https://i.imgur.com/2zuzTkf.png)
We mug Khmer for some money; the maximum we could go for was 625, but their reserves amounted to 1600.
We weren't interested in prolonging the war to gain enough victories to take all of that money.
(https://i.imgur.com/8mIiy4s.png)
Once more we are victorious, and once more we take a centre of trade all for ourselves.
That extra province is only because it is producing slaves, a very valuable commodity.
(https://i.imgur.com/yDKkSLt.png)
Another war to get some lands from Gondwana and to curb its political influence in northern India!
We have a valid mission to conquer Lucknow after all, we might as well use that to our advantage.
(https://i.imgur.com/6ghYmEy.png)
The opening moves - siege of Gondwanan capital and defeating their main army - go swimmingly!
Lucknow, for which we have a mission, will soon be ours.
(https://i.imgur.com/FTuUnPv.png)
Ooh, we begin the era of musket-totting cavalry! All three are similar, but Armee Blanche has an extra point of skill than others, so we will stick to that.
King Frederick II orders creation of India Co. Corps V, due to the fact we need to post one of them in Berbera to maintain order.
(https://i.imgur.com/yFkMbpM.png)
We've got them! Lucknow ours is.
(https://i.imgur.com/wHuMNhY.png)
Good for them (he begins by establishment some Free Cities in Switzerland) - for us, it might complicate affairs when we fight a war in Europe.
Currently we war with Huron in western Vinland, its about time we absorb these heathens and teach them the true ways of Anglican enlightenment.
(https://i.imgur.com/0DIiREF.png)
Day after we confirm this, Samuel Clive, an expert at troop movements, is made commander in charge of Colonial Force.
Meanwhile, Anglican missionaries are sent to Huron villages to spread the word. For Enlightenment!
-
031: The Red Lion's Predicaments
(https://i.imgur.com/3r04Uuz.png)
Obviously we help our allies, if only to get some war taxes to counter the very high costs of our widespread colonization in Vinland and Siberia.
(https://i.imgur.com/yHvpAFE.png)
King Frederick II came to an important conclusion; we fervently fight against Catholic influence, and our Indian and Southeast Asian conquests brought us millions of Muslims, Hinduists and even Buddhists.
A change of policies will now see those distant subjects of British Crown are treated better (to boost population growth and lessen revolt risk) - better than Catholics, ironically, who live in Europe, just across The Channel.
(https://i.imgur.com/zInaLTH.png)
This is extremely disconverting and worrying - our colonies in Siberia are merely going up at the moment, and we don't even have any troops stationed there!
We will try to solve the war before they ravage the precious Siberian holdings.
(https://i.imgur.com/HHV2LOD.png)
There will be hell to pay - the Manchu agreed to our white peace at exact same day they seized Saghalian Oula.
This vile Manchu trickery will not be forgiven OR forgotten.
(https://i.imgur.com/r3E5zSM.png)
King Frederick decides that it is a good moment to capture and annex Orissan provinces, one of those being a British core (thanks British India Company, <3 u)
(https://i.imgur.com/G8xq38q.png)
Not this time, you filthy Catholic scum!
(https://i.imgur.com/plD6qtA.png)
We annex Orissa; meanwhile Deva Bengal, our vassal, is doing its damnedest to prick Assam in the side.
We will help, and reward their bravery with a province; they have some cores downwards from their capital.
(https://i.imgur.com/4emcmSk.png)
As you can see, we're good overlords!
Netherlands asks us to partake in a war against Alsace so we gladly accept-
(https://i.imgur.com/MLqxtgn.png)
-whoa mama Netherlands dropped the ball hard!
(https://i.imgur.com/et1QRsn.png)
We decide that Antwerpen was given a leeway for too long; preachers are sent to this final outpost of Catholicism within Great Britain!
Meanwhile, we put pressure on Alsace whilst Netherlands is getting its shit kicked by Austria and friends.
(https://i.imgur.com/ld9SM0E.png)
Alsatians are mighty fine warriors, but we prevail in (most) engagements.
After retreating from Elsass, we catch them unprepared at Mainz, and defeat them in detail.
(https://i.imgur.com/cbKNLTB.png)
They sneak through Champagne and Brittany to strike at Normandie; King Frederick II takes command personally.
Fighting them twice is enough to destroy them at Caux.
(https://i.imgur.com/ygTqS3s.png)
Soon enough, that prompts them to seek peace with Netherlands.
King Frederick sends monetary subsides to Netherlands as they do not call us to help.
(https://i.imgur.com/cIQi5SC.png)
They do, but against Portugal, who decided it is an opportunity to steal their colonies.
We will help them rethink that idea.
(https://i.imgur.com/CkHfzBA.png)
King Frederick, despite being aged about 60, personally oversees that it shall happen!
(https://i.imgur.com/VHKMuBY.png)
And with the landmark that is possessions of 100 Big Ships, we can get this bonus.
Two weeks later, Portugal agrees to a white peace.
Still, Netherlands is far from safe or victorious. The British pray for their safety!
-
032: Brittanian Brittany and Manchurian Misfortune
(https://i.imgur.com/gOCZgXS.png)
Hard cash is just exactly what we need. We're subsidizing Netherlands so that they get out of the terrible situation they're in, and currently we are losing money (84 ducats, to be more precise) per year...
(https://i.imgur.com/JnFhL28.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/GA2FDH1.png)
Out of nowhere we get an information that the ruling dynasty of Brittany died out, and elderly Frederick now rules both kingdoms.
Brittany is the greatest colonizer of South Vinland; cotton, gold, tobacco, sugar, grain and copper are produced in great amounts in their colonies.
We just need to butter the Breton nobles with money and promises, for their relationship with us is quite sour.
(https://i.imgur.com/LhjdiKv.png)
George, heir to British throne, has managed to reach adulthood. Time to celebrate that fact!
(https://i.imgur.com/HlUONCr.png)
5 points of Prestige isn't anything we can't recover in two years or so; the benefit boosted our Naval research a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/fUKlwdm.png)
As our newly established Siberian Force is underway to, well, Siberia, a curious situation has developed without our input.
The core in Deren spawned Anglican zealots, and Saghalian Oula had patriot uprising; both, if successful, will have the provinces defect to us.
(https://i.imgur.com/aXjmMat.png)
At last, the war Netherlands was embroiled in has been called to an end; they lost 3 colonies and core lands in Brabant and Gelre.
(https://i.imgur.com/zJVyNSV.png)
The revolt failed, but it has inspired the Parliament to ask King Frederick to declare a war to liberate the English nationals of Saghalian Oula.
To war! Our friends will help us, except Netherlands. The war declaration brought Xin, Assam and Nepal to the fray on Manchu's side.
(https://i.imgur.com/5bDtBiB.png)
Naturally, we must cripple Xin fleet before we can do anything more solid. Unfortunately in the meanwhile, Manchu capture the defenseless colony of Nerchiyansk (or whatever its name is).
(https://i.imgur.com/5h5Mfi4.png)
Xin and Manchu remain alone as we dislodged the others from their coalition; despite occupation of Siberian colonies, our fleet is crippling their war exhaustion by blockades.
Victories like here allow us to pressure Manchu, but not yet; not until they give back Saghalian Oula.
(https://i.imgur.com/rmfGp4m.png)
Brittany especially helped here, dealing with Manchu fleet and their colonial (they have bits of East Africa) forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/l0NUfy0.png)
Xin Empire however is suprisingly stubborn, despite entirety of their coast blockaded and our forces destroying their troops in Siberia during battles like this one.
Only on 12th of July, the Xin Emperor finally relents and sends us an offer of white peace, which we agree to.
(https://i.imgur.com/SWGx5bG.png)
Aha, the population of English-born Persian-cultured Anglican-zealot Deren has declared itself subjects of Great Britain.
We don't even have to fight Persia for that one, woo!
(https://i.imgur.com/8g32RZ8.png)
But celebrations of the Christmas on the same year are marred with great mourning - King Frederick II Plantagenet has passed away and George III ascended to the throne.
Having ruled for 55 years, he has long surpassed the reign of Good Queen Anne. May he rest in peace!
-
033: The Savant
(https://i.imgur.com/X4slpUe.png)
George III's first policy is construction of an Embassy in India, as well as strengthening of Siberian frontier against the chinese.
Several nations, mostly our longtime allies, married into Plantagenet family once again, strengthening the King's legitimacy.
(https://i.imgur.com/rHxmdcp.png)
Aah, the largest of ships in the game, Threedecker, is now available to us!
Not that we exactly need the design, considering how huge our fleet is, but it is still nice to have.
(https://i.imgur.com/j6915hF.png)
George III might not be the brightest of men, but he sure is loved by the populace and the clergy, who worked in tandem to bring stability to Great Britain.
(https://i.imgur.com/4vdZyg0.png)
It seems that other European powers with colonies in Vinland are having some separatist movements going on.
Fortunately for us, our brilliantly managed colonies are all happy and docile.
(https://i.imgur.com/aFtha16.png)
Our judges, concerned for well-being of themselves all the good and honest British, helped in the Indies by constructing a Courthouse. That's new!
(https://i.imgur.com/TkEX8I9.png)
Netherlands, in its hour of weakness, has been assaulted by Alsace, so we decide to help them. As we lack army traditions and our money is thin, George III will personally lead troops.
Prussia joins, and because Prussia is coastal, the Prussians will soon face blockades! Meanwhile, Kingdom of Brabant agrees to let out forces pass through.
(https://i.imgur.com/hJ6ANPy.png)
The lesser Alsatian army was defeated at Nassau and then annihilated at Berg.
(https://i.imgur.com/AHr008D.png)
King George, against better judgement, sent himself and his Army to Cologne; the Alsatians suffer a defeat!
Then, another at Koblenz, and finally their entire army is destroyed at Pfalz.
(https://i.imgur.com/PYCjlpy.png)
Normally, one takes Blucoat Infantry for its amount of 'pips' and the fact how brutal they're on offense.
However, we need greater staying power for we have few big armies scattered across the globe. That's why we take Redcoats, who, of all choices, have highest morale ratings.
The fact that Redcoats are indeed British invention does not go unnoticed, lest assured. We will switch after the war with Alsatians.
(https://i.imgur.com/SujY5rk.png)
Ah yes, the fine tradition of British heirs dying randomly and suddenly continues. A church in Edward's memory has been erected in Deren, in distant Siberia.
As King George has recently exerted his authority, there's no one currently to succeed him.
(https://i.imgur.com/red0f1v.png)
The noblemen in charge of the eastern possessions of the Crown sure like to rebel. Accursed nobles.
They don't last long after we switch to Redcoat regiments and then crush them all the way to Goa.
(https://i.imgur.com/gfk3hlF.png)
Wifey helps!
(https://i.imgur.com/WV5GvXD.png)
EU3 y u do dis
(https://i.imgur.com/DV2v5vt.png)
Alsace is halved in its size by this peace treaty.
(https://i.imgur.com/Vuzz9js.png)
King George, again, against better judgement (or so his courtiers believe) has decided to colonize the wild lands west of lakes Michigan and Superior.
These lands, compared to those in the east side Vinland, have murderous hordes of natives, but King George believes they, too, can be enlightened by teachings of Anglican Church and European philosophy.
Time will tell if King George was indeed right.
-
034: Oh, Canada!
"Time to ask Namur to become our vassals."
"But King George, people question your ability to successfully conduct such a diplomatic move what with your 3 points in Diplomacy. It is 'Very Unlikely' that you will succeed!"
"I will ask anyway."
"George no."
"George yes!"
(https://i.imgur.com/W6hRPSK.png)
Several ministers in the Parliament have quit, citing health reasons, after King George, once more against better judgement, went on his own and asked Baldwin of Namur to become a vassal, and succeeded.
The royal family believes that its simply Lady Luck who's smiling upon George, nothing more.
(https://i.imgur.com/cR4VeKl.png)
These started to pop up with unsettling frequency; its prelude to colonial separatism.
(https://i.imgur.com/jjUIX61.png)
The first colonial nation has formed and its United States of America - as the Europeans call Vinland.
(https://i.imgur.com/4zwueY4.png)
Particularist revolt in Siberia, without foreign influence or an event?
Well, that's both new and distressing.
(https://i.imgur.com/XGkLcwt.png)
The fur and timber producing colonies in Vinland, near or around Hudson's Bay, are growing restless themselves.
Fortunately, revolt risk is low and the Colonial Force has been readied to deal with any insurgency.
(https://i.imgur.com/qn9UnBI.png)
Alas, our long-time allies, the Netherlands, have succumbed to the dreaded Dynastic Death, and Austria rules them directly, their boy-king, Joseph, rising also to the throne of Holy Roman Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/Gkluq84.png)
We, in the meanwhile, wage war against Gondwana; we continue to hold a core on their capital province, giving us near infinite reason to war, and take land from, them.
(https://i.imgur.com/LfICM1p.png)
Canadians rise against us. So much for humanist tolerance and good governance!
(https://i.imgur.com/R5oWIib.png)
This (and a follow-up in Gorka) is the only major engagement of our war in India. The Hindu have advantage in numbers, but ours is superiority in morale and firepower.
Afterwards, we slowly capture their provinces, not stopping until we have perfect warscore.
(https://i.imgur.com/m0aWHTZ.png)
We chomp off external bits of Gondwana. This raises our infamy back to near 20 level.
(https://i.imgur.com/hLPEgvm.png)
King George, against better judgement (per usual for him), has decided to grant the Canadians 'freedom' they demand, and made Duchy of out their lands.
With drop of infamy to 0 because of this, we can go with Benign Neglect will ensure that peoples under our good rule will be more eager to settle in colonial lands.
-
035: Southern Vinland Fever
(https://i.imgur.com/3HkFHDA.png)
Not the ideal location for a new National Focus but hey, money is money.
(here was image of king dying and Brittany inherited)
This was a thing I was so woefully unprepared that you don't even know.
Despite our relationship with Brittany being neutral at best, the nobles decided to pass it - and Breton colonies - to the British throne.
We're now facing a whole continent of rebellious, non-cored colonies.
(https://i.imgur.com/Msejqz4.png)
First of all, continental, Catholic Brittany is released as vassal. As rebels start popping up in southern Vinland, we're creating two armies that will keep watch over the colonies.
I mean, we've got a centre of trade and whole blob of highly profitable colonies. We want to keep those, if possible, although random bits in Mexico, Southeast Asia and Africa will be sold away.
(https://i.imgur.com/B3ciTzY.png)
I have to say, some of these random bits are selling for hella monies.
Royal Army of British Isles is being ferried to Arequipo, where rebels are converging. Peruvian separatists meanwhile move onto Nazca and other provinces in Andes Mountains.
(https://i.imgur.com/5wHqhL2.png)
Colonials declared independence from Granada and our non-loyal Breton subjects down there decided to defect as well.
Curse them all! We seek peace with Chile soon enough, and they allow our merchants to control the trade centre at Patagonia Occidental. To try and mitigate further revolt problems, we hire a High Judge, Sydney Boscawen.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y9Iao6d.png)
Peru is next, and we sign peace with them. They take mostly grain-producing provinces, so we can part with those.
(https://i.imgur.com/bAy1Jma.png)
Those are showing up there because we had to assist Castille in putting down Brazillian separatists; Brazil has cores on most of our eastern colonies in southern Vinland!
Our Royal Navy is back home, preparing to ferry new colonial forces to battle the Breton rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/MiQaG4V.png)
Quebecois have rebelled against Scandinavia, and now own Epekwitk centre of trade. We will make sure our merchants maintain rule over the market there.
Meanwhile, we managed to supress all rebels in southern Vinland. No separatists or patriots remain on the loose there.
Our colonists and missionaries are working hard to convert them all to our culture and religion.
(https://i.imgur.com/6IKlsHv.png)
Apparently a 3/3/3 ruler invokes 'God have mercy on us all!' pop-up, huh? Always a first time to see anything with this game.
Considering that HRE is split in half in giant war between Bohemia and Austria, colonial nations are popping up right and left, and Xin China has conquered a quarter of Scandinavia, I think entire Europe is suffering from some sort of a curse.
I hope it has a time limit on it.
-
036: The Pope Strikes Back
(https://i.imgur.com/pIjFYJH.png)
If someone can explain to me, how Royal Navy, ordered to return to Britain, got 3 transports lost in Pacific before I've found them near Tahiti... I will be thankful.
Personally I bet the Pope is at fault for this. Or Catholics in general, yes.
(https://i.imgur.com/aLkS7j3.png)
King George IV has a crafty idea in mind; using fake reasons for war - namely Liberation - we will conquer little parts of India for profit and enlightenment!
Members of Parliament did point out that this will bump our infamy, but the King is undeterred.
(https://i.imgur.com/BnFiVh1.png)
Malwa and Gondwana (and Assam) join the war; the former two being on our hit list as well - Khandesh especially because of its centre of trade - we will turn the India red in one swift war!
(https://i.imgur.com/VSQP4FF.png)
We smash apart Khandeshi and Malwan armies and begin sieges of their provinces; meanwhile, Rajputana joins enemy's side.
Their three provinces will make a fine addition to our collection! We need to punch Assam for that, as Rajputs are their vassals.
(https://i.imgur.com/3eoQzzu.png)
Khandesh falls into our hands!
To placate the intellectuals opposed to these conquests, King George sponsors the Neoclassical artists and architects of Britain with the funds acquired for the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/2SH3qOP.png)
Little George Plantagenet dies despite best efforts of hired healers.
Continuing the Anglican tradition, George IV quickly divorces his wife and marries another woman, souring relationship with Brunswick.
(https://i.imgur.com/2cHZmkn.png)
The elusive King of Assam and his army are cornered in Naga and destroyed!
In meanwhile, we manage to subdue Gondwana. King George is already busy drafting a peace treaty.
(https://i.imgur.com/lqwZUVE.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/0xhg291.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/My01C0Y.png)
Deva Bengal is rewarded for its loyalty and given one of provinces it considers cores. Nepal becomes independent and Rajputs are devassalized.
Which allows us to grab one of Rajputs' provinces, and quite some cash.
Finally, we humilitate Gondwana, also taking money and a province from them.
The British India is now a singular, connected domain! George IV returns home to celebrate his victories in India.
(https://i.imgur.com/uUrignf.png)
King George IV has been assasinated! By the Papal emissary, no less! It seems that the Catholic patriarchs have not forgotten - or forgiven, indeed - that Britain broke up with Catholics over two hundred fifty years ago. Sure picked the best moment for this, too.
All of Britain is now harboring deep hatred against the Pope, and efforts are being increased to root out the Breton Catholics out of southern Vinland in response to this.
Young Charles is only four years old by now, and a regency period begins, his tutors and protectors unsure of the dynasty's future. God be with Charles!
-
037: The British Raj
(https://i.imgur.com/xBO1z4m.png)
How did this happen??
(https://i.imgur.com/0Eg5uab.png)
Anyway, back to Great Britain.
Paraguay declared independence from Castille, and that caused two of our ex-Breton colonies to defect.
The regents are pondering whether to abandon these to Paraguay or fight for them, we will see how the uprising goes.
(https://i.imgur.com/4VlshHG.png)
They had the ire to attack Ceara, so we decided to attack back.
Out of two provinces with english population, we take the one that produces gold.
(https://i.imgur.com/p9c4auS.png)
These keep popping up; whilst normally they showed up in India or southern Vinland, here we have first of these in Ireland.
The Irish, long ago pacified, are now at 3% revolt risk! Army of Ireland will be moved there from Meath to pacify the population.
(https://i.imgur.com/rhYFVOR.png)
Although occassional rebels keep showing up, the recent years passed in relative peace.
Infrastructure is built, Breton colonial are being converted and national and patriotic sentiment is sizzling out.
(https://i.imgur.com/WWW9Ews.png)
And there we go! Charles ascends to the throne; his brother George is next in line, a greatly skilled child that one.
He immediately begins with pursuing a more narrowminded policy to boost our missionary efforts.
(https://i.imgur.com/4JSN3tE.png)
King Charles has been concentrating mostly on assimilation of Bretons in southern Vinland.
This requires colonists, so a stop was put upon the colonization of native lands west of Great Lakes in the north.
(https://i.imgur.com/KHyuwhU.png)
In India, militaristic policy pursued by King Charles leads to another war with Gondwana, and Gujarat, its only ally.
The goal is total conquest of these two.
(https://i.imgur.com/Oe5N8mC.png)
A quarter of colonial tariffs is lost due to piracy, smuggling and corruption, due to lack of proper protection on the sea and near the ports.
Having pinpointed the problem, the Parliament has asked King Charles to order construction of some Threedeckers; a total of 16 will be built in Normandy, Caux and Calais shipyards.
(https://i.imgur.com/qDteby6.png)
Gujarat is annexed, and bumps infamy to high 20's.
It has dawned upon King Charles that these conquests also need sealane protection. Orders for Norman shipyards have been upped to 40 ships in total.
(https://i.imgur.com/GAuJ7ek.png)
Out of nowhere, Khmer declares war upon Great Britain, dragging Xin into it.
Next day, Granada also declares war. Our navies will put pressure on their lands, and force them to sign white peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/fifhWaT.png)
Its fleet destroyed and ports blockaded, Granada quickly surrenders to our demand for money.
Meanwhile, in the eastern seas, fighting against Xin and Khmer continues, many of their ships sunk during each encounter.
(https://i.imgur.com/cUNtfFZ.png)
Once we control their seas, the Khmer, leader of enemy alliance, asks for white peace.
Not interested in gains in Indochina, King Charles graciously accepts their terms.
(https://i.imgur.com/1VntSHw.png)
A new, powerful shock cavalry unit is at our disposal!
Occupation of Gondwana continues; we're waiting for our infamy to drop before annexation, for doing that will increase it by 12 points.
(https://i.imgur.com/zb9c0YC.png)
And it is done. Out of all Indian kingdoms and empires, only Rajput remains in northwest, and Maharastra, huddling in its city-state of Dadra.
This subcontinent full of wealth and wonder has been acclaimed as 'Jewel in the British Crown'.
Long live King Charles! Long live Great Britain!!
-
038: Charles, George, and Socialism
(https://i.imgur.com/4SXujm4.png)
Henry Fairfax is best theologian we've ever had! In six previous months we even converted 8 different Breton (now English) colonies in Southern Vinland thanks to his influence.
(https://i.imgur.com/RqQTQUq.png)
How quaint; our long-term relationship with Bremen resulted with them becoming our vassal. As you can see, once our infamy dies out, we will receive their vote as Holy Roman Emperor.
King Charles is currently entertaining the idea of doing the same with Provence; whilst we haven't inter-married into their ruling family as often as with Bremen, they still value our friendship rather highly.
Who knows, maybe in the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/VYK9Cdp.png)
Excuse me, what?
Haitian separatists, okay, but in northern Vinland? Y'all need compasses in your lives.
Unlike Canada, these two provinces produce highly prized cotton and sugar, so we won't be surrendering those as vassal state.
(https://i.imgur.com/iIlS2Te.png)
This time, the healers were on point and Prince George has survived the illness.
On the world stage, Xin and Khmer decided 'screw peace in Asia, we want land' and has been partitioning, in order, Malacca, Assam and Manchus so far.
(https://i.imgur.com/iUrtVCp.png)
Assimilation and Anglicization of colonial Bretons is nearly complete, and since early 1802, King Charles has restarted colonization process in lands west of Great Lakes.
(https://i.imgur.com/bzzMTc5.png)
Too much hassle to root them out.
Meanwhile, our infamy dropped low enough for King Charles to seriously prod Bremen and Provence to vote for us in Imperial Elections.
(https://i.imgur.com/m2epNfK.png)
WHAT HAVE I TOLD YOU ABOUT COMPASSES??
We will get our two core provinces back.
(https://i.imgur.com/7TMG5t7.png)
Meanwhile, to punch Paraguay in the nose, we create a new centre of trade in Sao Vicente, to take profits from trade of coffee, cotton and tobacco.
(the trade value of Sao Vicente balances at about 750-800 ducats by August).
(https://i.imgur.com/7lYjyUe.png)
Two sieges and some naval blockades later, the despicable Haitians surrender the English-populated provinces to us.
(https://i.imgur.com/71xmP7F.png)
As we lay siege to Provencal capital to relieve our friends from rebels, we get new infantry formation available.
We go for the rigid, high-morale and defensively oriented Square Infantry.
(https://i.imgur.com/Sss7FYn.png)
Charles is dead, long live George!
His relative, also named George, has equally good stats and is already an adult, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/I4WTEK6.png)
The social turbulences of early 19th century are catching up with Great Britain, too.
King George had to choose, and decided to, endorse the enlightened principles of Socialism. We can regain stability per being Supreme Governor of Anglican Church, but rebels is what we experience often.
Surely nothing bad will come from this decision.
(https://i.imgur.com/5r75vjb.png)
As you can see, we've reached 61 level of Government technology, allowing us to take second-to-last of National Ideas.
We grab Seahawks for the heck of it, plus the fact that we can establish Fleet as our Wooden Wall, cutting down all ship construction times by 10%.
(https://i.imgur.com/rWnVl4L.png)
Truly, Mr.Ben here is a godsend.
The other option would give us prestige in place of stability, so the choice is obvious!
(https://i.imgur.com/CyyLWbF.png)
With acquisition of a statesman, we can pass government Reform Act, which in turn pushes us just enough towards innovativeness that we can go with Education Act as well.
Thank God we live in such enlightened times!
-
039: Khmer Khmemery and Other Terrible Jokes
(https://i.imgur.com/JgnzACg.png)
Again? Alright, I believe Khmer needs to be knocked down a notch. The plan is to steal some provinces in Indochina.
We will first make sure that Xin Empire pulls away from the war, and that means b-l-o-c-k-a-d-e-s!
(https://i.imgur.com/hWT8Ixn.png)
Bleh, the social classes are emerging from all this Socialism!
A slight slider move towards plutocracy won't hurt. Also, due to our Army maintenance being low and new upgrades being pushed just before start of the war, we lost the stack in Hainan.
(https://i.imgur.com/5HcVbip.png)
We politely ask the Xin to stop with the fighting and they agree. How nice of them.
*cracks knuckles*
Hey Khmer! HERE COMES BRIIIIIITAAAIN~!
(https://i.imgur.com/DEctThu.png)
*knock knock*
Alyoooooo?? Is only your friendly neighbour Britain! Gib provinces, kthxbai!
(https://i.imgur.com/OCgOVw6.png)
These kinda battles happen rarely. Why?
Khmer transferred its main army to Brunei, and then its fleet was promptly destroyed. It stays there while we rampage through Khmer proper.
(https://i.imgur.com/gvtwUAi.png)
Aaaah, wonderful. And it's even one of the Spice provinces I was going to ask for in the peace treaty.
(https://i.imgur.com/H5Psq59.png)
This spam of core province notifications can mean only one thing:
50 years have passed since inheritance of Breton Southern Vinland, woo!
(https://i.imgur.com/iG74ryi.png)
Final idea. There are more modern and advanced ideas to choose from, but Commerce Practice will help our markets stay ours and foreign markets to bring profits to us.
Meanwhile, India Corps III boat their asses up to Brunei and decimate the Khmer army, led by their King no less, at province of Kutei.
(https://i.imgur.com/F7uJkqc.png)
The Khmer has been snapped in two thanks to Lan Na, and their days of greatness are totally over.
Taking Sukadane means we have entirety of the Isle of Brunei for ourselves.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cd9j2fa.png)
As you can see, we need another India Corps, numbered the 6th, to better maintain control (and respond to rebels) in India.
(https://i.imgur.com/FpWlYGv.png)
After lotsa bri- I mean, gifts, and polite requests, Provence agrees to become British vassal.
With two votes on Electoral Council, and others variously split between Two Sicilies, Austria and Bohemia, we can probably throw a wrench into HRE workings one day.
Why? For the lulz of course!
...Meanwhile:
(https://i.imgur.com/r1quaiX.png)
Across from Australia, some islanders are getting upset with Portuguese rule.
Go Kiwis, go! Become free range birbs!
-
040: Something About Three Empires
(https://i.imgur.com/ayjdu0t.png)
Rest in peace, Ben! While his successor Adolphus Cornwallis is equally skilled, he won't fire a 'great diplomat' event, for that's one per country.
(https://i.imgur.com/F5RlBnN.png)
Ahahahahahah.
*snort*
Haaaa-ahahahahah. That was fast.
King George V said 'meh' and will not lift a finger to do anything for this decrepit, dysfunctional, deadman of a institution.
(https://i.imgur.com/JcH7hLd.png)
The other option is to get us 4300-something ducats but, ehh. What would we ever do with all that money anyway?
(https://i.imgur.com/dcFt41y.png)
Oh. Again? Sure. *click*
(https://i.imgur.com/q3vfMnU.png)
See Khmer? That's what happens if you poke wrong person. You lose land to us, then you lose land to rebels, and then you die horribly.
I mean, Xin just broke the alliance with you, it's not hard to imagine what's gonna happen in near future!
(https://i.imgur.com/oqiyQjB.png)
Oh boy, Europe's only now getting fun times.
Speaking of fun times - an old document was found that marks Jiangwen, across from Hainan, as a core of Great Britain.
King George sent orders for Royal Army, Royal Navy and India Corps. Secret, preparatory orders.
(https://i.imgur.com/JRk1msN.png)
We invade in full force!
Through Lan Na, 2 India Corps will march into Sichuan valley.
Meanwhile, two amphibious landings will be made - on Macau, and at Jiangwen.
Royal Navy and India Company Fleets were fragmeneted and made to simultaneously blockade Xin ports.
In Siberia, the Siberian Force is baiting the Xin legions at the poorly protected Albazinsky province.
This way, we have 3-pronged attack, and safe way to siege and capture Jiangwen and Macau.
(https://i.imgur.com/gPajCvH.png)
We win in Xichuan Banna; at Jiangwen, our superior numbers utterly annihilate over thirty-five thousand Xin soldiers.
Mecklenburg, in coalition with Lubeck and Portugal, declared war on us. They will be punished, in time.
(https://i.imgur.com/icA20N3.png)
Portugal is punished and forced to give Susquehanna, for which we have gained a core some decades ago.
War with Xin progresses smoothly. Blockades are doing disasters to their economy and war exhaustion, while their mighty stacks die en masse against our troopers.
(https://i.imgur.com/6BGwUj7.png)
If my calculations are correct and I didn't miss a victory, so far we've destroyed 7 stacks (not to mention smaller troops, and one-unit reinforcements), together worth approximately 260 thousand dead Xin.
For comparison, our manpower reserves lately didn't even budge.'
(https://i.imgur.com/mQ422nl.png)
The chinese Emperor dead on battlefield, Xin regents running around on fire, their national stability at -2... we decide that Xin is crippled enough.
The treaty demands they part with most of their southern coast and ton of money; to add salt to the wound, we create a centre of trade at Hainan, to siphon money from local territories.
Bohemia declared war, by the way. They're big and King George is not particularily interested, so we will seek peace. Or we will punch them, then seek peace. Either works.
-
041: A High Turnover Rate Up There
(https://i.imgur.com/RTCGHsR.png)
March a troop through entire Holy Roman Empire and plant it at Prague?
King George V believes this to be the best plan. Royal Army, fetched by Royal Navy, will strike their possessions in Crimea in the meanwhile.
(https://i.imgur.com/hSumrqO.png)
We're reaching final levels of technologies, so we can afford taking such acts that slow down tech progress.
Meanwhile, Army of Normandy has been routed from Prague, and has been traversing through Austria to join forces with Royal Army that landed at Cherson.
(https://i.imgur.com/kYCqNj3.png)
Darned colonials are getting restless again. This time in Australia!
The Parliament is debating whether to release them like Canada - Australian provinces produce most grain and wool, with only one gold mine.
Decision on this will be postponed till we deal with Bohemia.
(https://i.imgur.com/bmKqWZy.png)
With sheer numbers, we've defeated Bohemians at Banat, then at Szolnok...
(https://i.imgur.com/52AHKEK.png)
Haha!
While King Ruprecht fled to Prague, the entire stack of 54k Bohemians was annihilated at Somogy. The way to conquer Prague is clear!
And our fleets have been successful as well, as seen above.
(https://i.imgur.com/6ObKGrr.png)
Another great stack arrived to attack us at Prague. This time we win, and destroy them at the feet of Sudety mountains.
(https://i.imgur.com/jgXVpLe.png)
One King George dies, another ascends to the throne! Unfortunately, he lost the Emperorship, for Austria had one vote more than the Plantagenets of Great Britain.
George VI's adult heir, Edward, has good stats and ain't too old himself.
(https://i.imgur.com/1CW5nln.png)
Sudety, Bohemia, Erz. Sudety, Erz, Bohemia, Sudety.
Our armies continue to fight with Bohemians on even ground; they have slightly higher morale, but we have slightly bigger numbers.
(https://i.imgur.com/PgIv9a3.png)
Though in the end, we are the ones victorious!
Release of Poland torn Bohemian lands in two, separating the Hungarian and Crimean plains from core Czech territories.
Tangiers is a prize; a port right at entrance onto Mediterranean, it will serve as a naval base in case we need to blockade entrance into that sea.
(https://i.imgur.com/Bv4Zcxw.png)
The ink on the peace treaty with Bohemia barely managed to dry off, and King George VI dies.
Edward ascends to the throne, and his own heir's stats aren't as impressive.
(https://i.imgur.com/LFnOxz9.png)
I think they're trying to break a buncha records here?
Long live King William!
Or so we hope.
-
042: Rule Brittania! Brittania Rules the Waves! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHNfvJc99YY)
(https://i.imgur.com/nXrvegg.png)
Not one to be picky, William IV accepts the offer.
The newborn heir to British throne is named Henry, and has average stats.
(https://i.imgur.com/E0fFXSt.png)
Also, we have a core on Transkei, which is held by Castille.
As our prestige is rather low at the moment, its perfect time to recover a core and boost our prestige back to 100. Onwards!
(https://i.imgur.com/QpTsTFS.png)
After what the Pope pulled on us last time, there will be no leniency toward the Catholics.
Henry Hastings leads the army in Meath, but his rebellion is quickly crushed by Army of Ireland.
(https://i.imgur.com/3PQQTjO.png)
A diplomatic incident sparked a war with Nepal.
It is forced to pay money and submit to British overlordship as a result.
(https://i.imgur.com/5ajdaPc.png)
Not all is well with William; ministers and Parliament members are tasked with helping him rule Britain for the time being.
Meanwhile, the war with Castille has hit a snag; Transkei is occupied by Paraguay, who doesn't seem interested in leaving the province.
(https://i.imgur.com/bybYOf3.png)
Somewhat controversionally, King William, after recovering from his bout of madness, ordered that Hainan is Anglicized and settled by English people.
A pretender in Transkei is besieging the province, the man not at all sponsored by British ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/LpRw440.png)
After we seize Transkei, we also take Asturias from Castille at the peace table.
We do not hold it for long; King William immediately pawns it to Leon, which had a core on it, for almost 500 ducats.
Meanwhile, policy of settlement is revoked for Hainan, but all non-European centres of trade are to be Anglicanized to make them less prone to rebellions and have the cities grow faster.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yoe7YS7.png)
A-ha! The Xin merchants have slipped in their mercantile vigilance.
While Jinan is firmly held by them, European merchants - British included - are now swarming the centres at Hanyang and Nanjing.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q2BM2Gk.png)
As all that can be colonized has been finally colonized, we do not need extra merchants from Colonial Ventures idea; we swap it for Grand Navy for this act.
It is a simple one that boosts all Tariffs income (colonial production) by 5%.
(https://i.imgur.com/R2rHHf3.png)
King William IV has decided that it is time to grant equality to subjects of Great Britain, be they in Asia or Oceania or Vinland.
Of course, this means Catholics (and others, for that matter) will also have to be tolerated, but only to a certain degree.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fy8F65Q.png)
That was one of his last edicts; he died in his sleep, and now quite competent regents are watching over young Crown Prince Henry!
In few years' time, he will ascend to the throne of Britain.
(https://i.imgur.com/xBrlWtK.png)
And he will have something to do upon ascension, too!
Diamentina separates our provinces in Southern Vinland. Seizing it would unite them and provide a way to get back and forth without involving passage permissions with other countries.
(https://i.imgur.com/qzt4pYq.png)
Truly, Crown Prince Henry and his regents are loved by the country. Look at that cash~!
(https://i.imgur.com/LpXxkGt.png)
And finally he ascends to teh throne of Great Britain!
His cousin George has slightly better stats, and is to become a great diplomat.
(https://i.imgur.com/5WzFpyS.png)
A quick war with Haiti proves that King Henry IX is worth his word. Diamentina is taken and immediately a missionary is sent to convert its populace to the true Anglican rites.
(https://i.imgur.com/AQMy7uX.png)
Who knows what else the world holds for Henry? His empire is stable, prosperous.
And bloody hell, is it HUGE!
(https://i.imgur.com/oNJgztg.png)
-
001: Timur Timurid and Nomadic Super-Wars
(https://i.imgur.com/GsphhQQ.png)
We're the Timurids; with Golden Horde, we're two most powerful nations in Central Asia. Because we're nomads, we go to war with every non-vassal neighbours roughly 5 years after a truce is called.
We have the mighty leader that is Timur Timurid (Tamerlane, as some might know him), and he is a beast. He is also incredibly old; his enthronement in 1370 obscures the birth date of somewhere near 1330.
He will die soon - and that means nationalists (in non-core lands, which we have by dozens) and pretenders will pop up aplenty amongst our lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/P66scGJ.png)
Did I mention that nomads start at war with all neighbours at once? So we have 11 wars going on. Fortunately, Timur is a hyper-competent general with 6 Fire, 6 Melee and 6 Movement.
Honestly, the only pre-determined general better than him is... Napoleon if you start in the 1790s, who has 1 more star in Siege (out of 4 possible in that particular stat).
We have 3 big armies; two in far west, and another near Fars. Our chief enemies Mamluks, for their sheer numbers, and Ottomans. They are relatively small compared to us or even Mamluks, but they have high manpower and a tech advantage.
We need to stomp these two as soon as possible. Jalayirids own some of territories that we consider cores, so we can grab those.
(https://i.imgur.com/GgJ6LQN.png)
Our long-term goal is this, however. We can vassalize non-nomads ONLY by beating them up and if they're 5 or less provinces in size.
We cannot ask for provinces in peace deals - instead, if we occupy a province for about 2 years, it automatically defects to us. That doesn't give a core, so rebels show up very soon.
This means that not only we have to beat up enemy armies, we need to occupy their lands, and, depending on what we need, either hold them for 2 years OR quickly secure peace.
Securing peace is rather easy - punt their armies or grab a province, and they will offer to concede defeat. Once I unpause, we will get all the pop-ups about fighting or our provinces getting sieged.
(https://i.imgur.com/5IifTUE.png)
Our first two immediate things to do will be vassalizing Georgia (per mission) and obtaining cores from Jalayirids.
Georgia is no threat, having only five thousand troops. Jay's gonna be crushed soon enough.
(https://i.imgur.com/9tUl5cb.png)
Timur fights and wins against Ottomans in Sivas, but a bigger turkish stack looms nearby.
To deal with the pesky Indian states, we've created a new army.
(https://i.imgur.com/7jSQrrT.png)
See Ivan Timur, if you go to war and win, people are getting un-tired of war and are okay with more wars.
Genius!
(https://i.imgur.com/H4DHVgd.png)
First a comet brings our stability to negative, and now our heir dies.
There's no one to replace him.
Aren't we off to a good start?
(https://i.imgur.com/gHOCpRP.png)
Trebizond concedes defeat, Iraq-i-Arab defects to us, and then Georgia agrees to tribute treaty.
I'm starting to like this whole nomadic conqueror thing!
(https://i.imgur.com/OdqxUGJ.png)
As Mamluks enter the fray, having fetched their forces from Africa, we coalesce into a giant blob and fight their blob.
It's Clash of the Blobs.
We win it, and then chase the Mamluks for a year, cutting down their broken stacks, troop by troop.
(https://i.imgur.com/LBTx86m.png)
With our cores in Iraq recovered, we can now seek tribute frm Jalayirids.
Meanwhile, Persian revolt is in process of being crushed; Sind continues to conquer our provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/mJZKCxq.png)
Whaddaya know, there's actually a herald informing you of an enemy nation building a settlement on your pristine nomadic plains!
If only it went other way too and I had a 'since-conquest-until-annexation' timer, too... Khan Timur is considering letting Ottomans take Erserum and Van, for we have no cores there.
(https://i.imgur.com/jylD6Qu.png)
Just as Mahmud the Terrible (what do I need diplomacy for??) is born, I realize that we've run out of manpower.
I'm starting to dislike this whole nomadic conqueror thing.
-
Well, I tried to take Timurids' game anywhere...
3 tries and 3 defeats because I was either torn apart, or torn apart and conquered.
So let's go and play as...
001: The Purple Remnant (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdDHGtrunQQ)
(https://i.imgur.com/BKssc48.png)
That's all of Byzantium that's left on 14th October of 1399. The Byzantine capital itself, Constantinople, and our Morean holdings on the other end of Aegean Sea.
The gigantic light green blob you see all around us is the Ottomans. Not only they occupy most of of our claims (Balkans, Anatolia), they also have a chance to get a fancy mission that gives them bonuses if they kill us and conquer Constantinople.
Greece is predominantly occupied by Venice, with its vassals of Naxos and Corfu, whilst Achaea and Cyprus are both to some states in Western Europe. Epirus is independent, but Naples has claims on it, and will surely come knocking down on it soon.
It's a long, loooong road from here to undo the damage and restore the Imperial Purple Blob, but its doable.
First step is to...
(https://i.imgur.com/SenhkoM.png)
Start reconquering the areas held by the little Turkish guys. Candar, Karazan, Dulkadir, Ramazan.
Pretty sure I saw Ottomans get 'Vassalize Dulkadir' mission and they're bordering Timurids, so our light-green doomfriends will be occupied for a while.
(https://i.imgur.com/PN1mOf3.png)
As our (re)conquest of Candar continues, advisors across the Eastern world become available; we hire a Lithuanian Master of Mint and a Wallachian Master Recruiter, supplanted by true Byzantine statesman.
Trebizond in the meanwhile gets vassalized by Timurids; I'm not sure if that gives Timurids that automatic war trigger against us when we seize Candar...
(https://i.imgur.com/axLnKch.png)
Byzantine noblemen be blessed! 100 ducats this early in the game is truly a treasure trove.
(https://i.imgur.com/TMYn5Jv.png)
So far, so good! The other bonus of holding Turkish provinces is that we can recruit their units who come with 2 or even 3 'pips' more than Eastern European units of Byzantium.
Our next target will be Ramazan Sheikhdom; they have only one province, and border our prospective next target, the Karaman.
(https://i.imgur.com/zlRAw5k.png)
Constantinople gets its own Metropolitan, a modded modifier that helps with keeping big cities less prone to revolts. It cuts their tax income a little bit, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/HqjX9BG.png)
*teeth_grinding_noises.wav*
I can beat up Karaman OR Ramazan alone, but not both at once. We retreat for now, to build more cogs and recruit more Muslim cavalry.
(https://i.imgur.com/BFh9w5Z.png)
Emperor Manuel scores a diplomatic victory!
Georgia, while squished between nomadic hordes and the Ottomans, has just enough troops and ships to help us beat the Turkish minors.
(https://i.imgur.com/O9zvdjH.png)
An interesting situation has developed - Morocco has decided to punt Ramazan, leaving us only Karaman's forces to contend with.
We will fight them for those 3 juicy provinces, then! Just to be on safe side, we will call in Georgians for help, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/dgf6J6b.png)
Ha ha! Our plan was successful! Only Najd and Yemen, two distant sultanates (on the wrong side of Arabia to boot) replied to Karaman's call for help.
Georgians turned their backs on us, but that's alright. We can handle Karaman by ourselves, now.
(https://i.imgur.com/JOE727q.png)
From 2 to 7 provinces in five years, that's some good strategy, right?
(https://i.imgur.com/FPsZI5x.png)
After some negotiations, we obtain two allies; landlocked Wallachia, and the somewhat maritime Kingdom of Naples.
(https://i.imgur.com/UYM2kHN.png)
If not for Naples, we would be very much dead, for Morocco has Ottomans (or had, I haven't seen them join the war) as allies.
(https://i.imgur.com/A2S560u.png)
AWWW FUCK.
(https://i.imgur.com/EyYSfn8.png)
Neapolitean marines are besieging Ottoman provinces, Serbia and Wallachia are duking it out, whilst the dreaded Ottoman Army is nowhere to be seen.
And I had to take a loan for this war. The only saving grace is the fact that its Morocco who's the war's leader. If we manage to force them to sign peace, Ottomans will have to follow their lead.
(https://i.imgur.com/t5oW4xD.png)
HELL YEAH.
If it only weren't sacriledgeous, I would smooch the Sultan.
(https://i.imgur.com/lfl88ZH.png)
Just why!?
Fortunately for us, the Mamelukan fleet is at the Red Sea.
(https://i.imgur.com/pQzr4Vd.png)
I've bribed Serbians into white peace, but Bosnians are very stubborn. We must save our capital from them!
(https://i.imgur.com/xAexbdJ.png)
Giving nobles of Byzantium way too much priviledges is a risky scheme, but the only one we can afford now.
They sprung up in Thrace, ready to maul the Moroccans into bloody pulp.
(https://i.imgur.com/jTO1Rl3.png)
Finally, Morocco decides to send a request for money.
We're still at war with Tlemcen, but we can handle that.
(https://i.imgur.com/F8wryK8.png)
At long last, the Berbers of Tlemcen send an offer that we can afford, thanks to some events and whatnots.
Our Prestige is abyssmal, our Army non-existant, and loans and revolt risks loom over the Empire. May Christ save us all!
-
002: Always a Bigger Fish
(https://i.imgur.com/NdoVwTJ.png)
As we try to recover from the terrible wars that cost us nearly anything, Morean peasants rise in revolt.
Shortly afterwards we obtain a National Idea slot. We will take Military Drill, for Muslim units are technologically advanced, and we must counter-act this in any possible way.
(https://i.imgur.com/AHQJdrf.png)
Morea can wait; we cannot let Turkish nationalists seize any of our provinces.
Fortunately, Manuel has assembled a troop of five thousand muslim soldiers by now.
(https://i.imgur.com/KidJObz.png)
We bounced the Turkish rebels off onto Ottoman territory, and then Manuel swiftly dealt with Morean peasants.
I'm gonna report that, Italians (including Genoese and the Pope) are extremely busy fighting for their lives against Georgia, because obviously its remote Christians you gotta subdue rather than the local Muslim menace.
Typical Italians.
(https://i.imgur.com/UK1KKKB.png)
More and more Turkish nationalist rebels, whom we bounce off onto Ottoman lands.
By now, the Ottomans have about 10k troops left; its mostly their vassals, Serbia and Bosnia, who do most fighting.
I'm not sure what's going on with Ottoman-Timurid war, but its been ongoing for twenty years now.
As much as we could try and blockade the straits to stomp across Balkans with our Wallachian allies, the Ottoman Navy, 30+ ships strong, would quickly deal with our galleys and cogs.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZXTCM9Y.png)
What's this OwO
Ottomans, OTTOMANS, I know you hate me, but pls, keep the black death raiders away from our borders.
(https://i.imgur.com/DqZblPg.png)
Oh.
That's actually a bit dangerous.
I hope Ottomans pay tribute to the Timurids to stop the expansion of the REDS. Or at least concede defeat? Come on Ottomans, you're down to 10k soldiers, you're risking a lot.
(https://i.imgur.com/hroNYVG.png)
Haha, what is prestige amirite?
We bleed so much Prestige from un-taken core lands that 10 points is nothing.
(https://i.imgur.com/zfWW0OF.png)
Peasants are getting less rowdy, our Army is rebuilding, and our economy has recovered from the plunge.
I ask that you just ignore the red stripes across the border. We don't about the red stripes around here. It's better this way.
Wait, where did the Ottoman Navy go?
(https://i.imgur.com/eqazBG8.png)
They've scuttled it.
They've scuttled the fleet to save money.
All of it.
Bruh.
-
003: The Great War of AAAAAAAHH and the Good Rebel Boys
okay
lets
do this
(https://i.imgur.com/ROkn3UV.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHH
(https://i.imgur.com/vrKVLRl.png)
AAAAAH!?
(https://i.imgur.com/F07Jomw.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!
(https://i.imgur.com/w1r6rtW.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHAAHHH!
(https://i.imgur.com/CoxhMlL.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH
(https://i.imgur.com/cRytF65.png)
AARRRGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!
(https://i.imgur.com/zu6Vc2H.png)
WAAAAAAAAAAAAA!?
(https://i.imgur.com/L1vayNM.png)
YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!
(https://i.imgur.com/2CS9sMz.png)
YAHAHAHHAAAAAAH!!
(we vassalize Bosnia right away)
(https://i.imgur.com/fB9grPl.png)
WE'VE WON THE WAR!
(https://i.imgur.com/2Bc7Wz1.png)
Greek Patriots and Orthodox Zealots are now rampaging against their Ottoman overlords in Greece!
They will convert said provinces to us upon victory!
(https://i.imgur.com/QyxbF5R.png)
Who are the good boys!?
They are the good boys!!
(https://i.imgur.com/fhZ5c0Q.png)
Hahaha, they went for Venetian holdings in Greece!
I'm not sure whether they will actually succeed; Venice has lots of money, manpower and mercenary troops at her disposal.
No matter.
(https://i.imgur.com/20lBLJr.png)
For I'm fine with this.
Very, very muchly fine.
*starts chanting hymns for glory of Χριστός* (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Q8i0CYs-CM)
-
004: The War for Greece
(https://i.imgur.com/ZneDZ84.png)
While Imperial Court is doing its best to foster amicable relationships with Italians (Naples are now allies with us!), Emperor Manuel has some rebel-purging to do.
Its either Bulgarians or Sunni zealots nowadays.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZKKxAMQ.png)
Those Bulgarians are starting to get on my nerves.
Fortunately for us, our Muslim subjects got their hands on new infantry formations - Azab - meaning we can get them too from Bithynia.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y9SDCsW.png)
Dangit Morocco, I'm busy recovering!
Fortunately, both Wallachia and Naples stand by our side; Neapolitean fleet and Wallachian soldiers will greatly help in this conflict.
(https://i.imgur.com/RGy0vs0.png)
Pretty sure that this particular troop was led by some Yarinid guy.
Did we kill Sultan of Morocco in battle??
(https://i.imgur.com/DlLbVcY.png)
Apparently, we did!
Not that much, mind you, as seems he had adult heir at the ready.
Still, serves them right for Jihading us.
(https://i.imgur.com/YLygTWj.png)
Compared to previous wars, this one isn't that bad.
Morocco has problems coordinating troops and its transport fleet prohibits large landings. We will try to crush their armies and then demand Adana during peace negotiations.
(https://i.imgur.com/7W377SD.png)
Yes, good, Moroccan allies are flaking out...
(https://i.imgur.com/pf73zSt.png)
...aaaand another Emperor dies!
Both his successor and the successor's prospective heir have very decent stats.
(https://i.imgur.com/wi7u0sD.png)
Ioannes IX didn't want the core in Antalya to expire, but that has drawn half of Muslim nations - and Venice, for some reason - into the conflict.
Morocco's white peace is therefore quickly accepted, and all efforts are directed against Mamluks, Ottomans and Venice.
(https://i.imgur.com/XDyygzY.png)
Mentese is annexed and another province is taken from the Ottomans.
Meanwhile, Naples, Bosnia and our own Byzantine troops are besieging Venetian holdings in Greece; Athens and Bursa are already occupied!
(https://i.imgur.com/g2EPCBW.png)
Evading Venetian fleet is an intense piece of work, but we managed to fetch our troops through Anatolia and Greece.
All but Crete and Rhodes are now under our control, but Venice is stubbornly refusing to come to negotiation table.
No worries; their war exhaustion is piling up, so all we need to do is wait a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/8CIyub7.png)
I think Tripoli got them wrestled out from Moroccans; too bad we have a core on Adana!
(its annexed six months later)
(https://i.imgur.com/rum6lqS.png)
Ah goddammit!
Golden Horde has hacked its way through the Ottomans, and now declared war against us!
(https://i.imgur.com/niudCmT.png)
Wars with Golden Horde and Venice (and Mamluks) continue on.
However, we seem to have everything under control for now. Especially after we've saved up money (thanks for Austrian subsidies) to become Defender of Faith.
That bonus morale and war exhaustion reduction sure is handy~!
(https://i.imgur.com/vUjIOCv.png)
The Horde's troops were destroyed, and we're free to (re)civilize Sivas province.
Meanwhile, Venice, despite being at brink of collapse, refuses to yield to our demands.
(https://i.imgur.com/rF7LJt4.png)
On Friday, 29th May 1453, Venice finally relents, returning Athens, Naxos, Bursa, Janina and Albania to us.
Crete was freed by someone else, whilst Mamluks begged for white peace and where given it. Rhodes is currently undergoing a rebellion by some Greek Patriots, too.
Soon, the Empire will be fully restored!
-
005: All the Little Things
(https://i.imgur.com/Qzkr0PO.png)
We begin this series of events by attacking Trebizon with intenton of annexation, which might not happen - they're vassals of Golden Horde.
The reason for war is simple - we have a core. Trebizond also have an unfortunate distinction of having national colour very similar to Venice, and all things Venetian must perish.
(image lost to overwrite mishap)
As our control over Black Sea strengthens, so does our infleunce over its trade.
From now onwards, every coastal province (plus some provinces along the Danube river) we own shall get a bonus to local trade income.
(https://i.imgur.com/9JxyI6C.png)
Greek rebels in Kaffa have overtaken Genoese garrison, but swore allegiance to Trebizond, and not Emperor Ioannes!
That means we will recover two cores in single go, yay us!
(https://i.imgur.com/YlBLiKZ.png)
Oh, would you look at it! Even with Trebizond being a vassal, we can annex it in its entirety.
Must be some nomadic overlord exclusion principle or something.
(https://i.imgur.com/8dkjBuJ.png)
This happens when you're not Western technology country and have high enough relations with your neighbour, who is at least 1 Land technology level above.
I always consider this a boon rather than a penalty - Prestige is easy to gain and even easier to lose.
(https://i.imgur.com/H3rmynj.png)
Our conflict with Golden Horde has taken onto new stage - Crimea.
Napels is losing its holdings here and we must step on some nomads to wrangle a concession of defeat from them.
(https://i.imgur.com/JmOnZgf.png)
The Greek rebels on Rhodes, however, properly switch over to us.
Venice can't do anything about that at the moment. We disband the rebel troops and relocate their commander due to their relationship with Bohemia.
Just to be on the safe side, you know?
(https://i.imgur.com/P2a9MU8.png)
Emperor Ioannes IX has also started the campaign of forced conversion of Anatolian turks; the populace of Kastamon converted after only two months, very nice.
In domestic affairs, Michael, heir of Ioannes IX, is introduced into the Byzantine court. Abkhazia, former province of Georgia, is being colonized by Greek colonists.
(https://i.imgur.com/7M9XhQo.png)
Capture of Abkhazia brings us to conflict with Qara Koyunlu.
Just like Golden Horde or Timurids, they're Steppe Nomads, but much smaller in size and ferocity. They are quite stubborn, and even after 3 years, they refuse to pay tribute.
(https://i.imgur.com/0UzXUQm.png)
The war with Qara Koyunlu is concluded on favorable terms, and Emperor Ioannes IX decides to implement some religious edicts.
While raising revolt risk is potentially dangerous, that +4% conversion chance is a great boon to our missionary effort.
(https://i.imgur.com/BxjgboQ.png)
A very sad hunting accident takes away the life of Michael.
Then we learn that this is potentially disasterous risk, for Ioannes IX has no other heirs.
The Palaiologos dynasty is in grave danger!
-
006: The Constantine Restoration (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q1BiahgB6t8)
(https://i.imgur.com/PHnevmz.png)
Fortunately for the Palaiologos royal family, little Konstantinos is born not long after Michael's demise.
Ioannes has decided to remain in the imperial palace while preparations are made to raise a 3rd Thema, because relations are breaking apart between local Muslim states, giving us perfect opportunity to defeat and annex Ottomans once and for all!
(https://i.imgur.com/EirJOWm.png)
Those preparations need to be postponed; unfortunately, Golden Horde is at our borders again.
Emperor Ioannes hopes they can be beaten off quickly.
(https://i.imgur.com/Kn2atfQ.png)
Alas, the victorious Ioannes IX is dead! Regents now take care of the imperial affairs and the little Konstantinos.
(https://i.imgur.com/dJGiqBC.png)
War with the Golden Horde (and Qara Koyunlu) ends, as expected, fast.
We're currently waiting for Konstantinos to grow up. Meanwhile, Bulgarians, Sunni zealots, Noblemen and Turkish patriots pop up every so often to keep our armies ready for fighting.
(https://i.imgur.com/ppdwDQq.png)
Both rebels and the nomads keep us company for years before Konstantinos XI finally rises to the throne of Byzantium.
Immediately the generals are notified and our troops converge on the borders of Ottoman provinces, which suffer a civil war thanks to a turkish pretender to their throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/LwOibcf.png)
Meanwhile, Hungary seem to be kicking Bohemian arse so well that the ancient Principality of Nitra reappears on the map.
Go Hungarians! Keep the vile pretenders of Rome away!
(https://i.imgur.com/rFMQABB.png)
Konstantinos got himself a new vassal, and by the way of diplomacy, too!
Unfortunately the attack on Ottomans had to be postponed, because while our current Emperor was growing up, the Muslims 'got it together', as to speak.
(https://i.imgur.com/FoNL9mP.png)
Succession problem has been resolved. A minor noblewoman became Konstantinos' wife, as we had to swallow a bitter pill of prestige penalty.
(https://i.imgur.com/1yBOXNo.png)
As years go by, Konstantinos seems to concentrate on internal matters of the Byzantine Empire.
Infrastructure - marketplaces and armories - are built, and Orthodox missionaries are sent to once again preach words of God upon Anatolian peoples.
(https://i.imgur.com/i6K8N7m.png)
As it turns out, however, its the Muslims who throw war into hands of Konstantinos.
Too bad we have Naples, Achaea, Serbia and Bosnia at our side.
Soon enough, we will teach Morocco and Ottomans a lesson!
(https://i.imgur.com/Tty5a72.png)
At last, at long last - the Ottomans are no more!
This allows us to reestablish the old system of Thema.
(https://i.imgur.com/ceFZ2ix.png)
No longer there's Yazgod or Sivas or other such names on the Anatolian maps.
Instead, we have Cilicia, Sebasteion, Seleukia - all of the old, good, Byzantine names! As a gameplay bonus this decision boosts our Manpower reserves by +25% maximum. Yay!
Shortly afterwards, as our navy sails to Berber shores, Sultan of Morocco sues for a white peace - Emperor Konstantinos XI of the Byzantine Empire accepts.
-
007: Konstantinos the Gambler
(https://i.imgur.com/JAc6NdF.png)
What do you get when wrong-culture, wrong-religion, excommunicated-ruler kingdom annexes its vassal?
(https://i.imgur.com/JNnq0jp.png)
Patriot rebels, of course.
Emperor Konstantinos, however, denies any involvement, considering high risks of detection would be a deterrant for him to try.
That they're numerous and well-equipped is simply the will of God, he says, nothing else.
(https://i.imgur.com/KJxTp6B.png)
Finally we manage to get to Land 8. Training Fields will be built everywhere in the Empire, prioritizing the coastal Muslim provinces (for their advanced troops).
(https://i.imgur.com/rpYTH9q.png)
Whilst we've lost the core on Cyprus, Emperor Konstantinos managed to wrangle them from French influence and turn them Byzantine vassals.
(https://i.imgur.com/cN2Jy5S.png)
Greece is fully Byzantine now! Conquest of Southern Italy is our next mission.
To ensure that we're prepared, alliance with Naples has been annulled and their military access rescinded, prompting Neapolitean King to withdraw troops from Crimea.
(https://i.imgur.com/1YAvj0k.png)
Emperor Konstantinos decides to gamble and afterwards nothing untoward happens in Kappadokia.
We can only assume he stared down at the angry crowd till it dispersed. Or something like that.
(https://i.imgur.com/kPzxsih.png)
After looking through local maps and documents, it seems that we've forgotten about our core on Island of Crete.
Its only 'reliable' allies are Castille (Catholic Defender of Faith, who has multiple treaties with us), and Georgia and Armenia, our friends in Caucassus.
Once again, Emperor Konstantinos has decided to gamble, and force the ancient Cretean domain into Byzantine fold.
(https://i.imgur.com/rfxvvWb.png)
Some courtiers in the Palace has loudly complained that the Emperor probably likes his dice too much.
'Do not fret!', he re-assures them, and he has a reason. Georgia, and not the dreaded Castille, is the leader of the war.
If we're fast and efficient enough, we can annex Crete, beat up Georgia and abscond with prizes without the Spaniards even landing on our soil.
(https://i.imgur.com/3alVNiR.png)
The gamble didn't pay off, and Castille managed to rampage through Greece.
Yelled at by his advisors, Konstantinos XI quickly sent tribute to leader of the war, distant Novgorod, which resulted in end of the war.
Still, we've got Crete. A core province is invaluable, while ducats can be regained.
(https://i.imgur.com/qxRU48N.png)
Not long after conclusion of the war, Emperor Konstantinos XI was found dead in his bedroom. Royal physicians ruled out foul play right away, saying that he died 'of natural causes'.
Pretender Manuel was quickly deal with, while regents from Imperial Court are zealously watching over young Theodoros.
They make sure he will be taught well about virtues and vices, especially that gambling is very, very, very bad.
-
008: O THEOS THELEI
(https://i.imgur.com/Hd2dRf4.png)
It seems that the Holy Roman Empire (bleh!) is organizing its loose structures into something more complex under Austrian leadership.
They're still not a threat to the integrity of Byzantium, however.
(https://i.imgur.com/l2mXi5s.png)
Our most pressing problem is the inflation, as evidenced by this event.
Previous Emperors minted heavily to afford troops and ships to destroy Ottomans and reconquer much of the Empire.
Regents of Theodoros have agreed that a Master of the Mint is needed, and with high enough level, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/3upm4sS.png)
Finally, Emperor Theodoros can rule on his own. His heir is already adult Konstantinos.
He decides that hiring a Master of the Mint and pay off the last loan taken by his father, Konstantinos XI, to be his first decisions.
(https://i.imgur.com/1dyyuCL.png)
A very, very, very strange thing happened when Emperor Theodoros was visiting Thema Thrakes stationed in Mus.
He suddenly died overnight, and his just recently appointed successor, his older cousin, Konstantinos, was hailed as Emperor Konstantinos XII.
Emperor Konstantinos, a warrior just like his forefathers, has decreedd that its prime time to strike south, and TAKE JERUSALEM!
(https://i.imgur.com/N945scJ.png)
The war plan is very simple; while two Themas strike through Syria and Palestine, a Thema under Stefanos Syropoulos will land at and besiege Alexandria.
The goal is to maximize war exhaustion on Mamluks' side, destroy their reserve force and then demand a strip of land from Mus to Judea.
(https://i.imgur.com/s9K5wiG.png)
Hahaha! While we're fighting to TAKE JERUSALEM, the Catholics are fighting over theology.
Serves the succesors of Pope Leo for being arseholes!
(https://i.imgur.com/qxEQ8bm.png)
Hmmm, this might complicate matters a little bit.
Nonetheless, we're very near ending of our war with the Mamluks.
(https://i.imgur.com/X10uOA3.png)
Oh thank you Lord in Heavens, Jerusalem is in Christian hands once again! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2DD_NR8fIpw)
Now to keep it in them.
(https://i.imgur.com/N2IW89h.png)
Morocco's fleet is actually faring worse than we expect, huh.
Now to fetch our troops across the Aegean and relieve the besieges provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/5SyL51u.png)
Serbians prove to be trustworthy and valiant vassals; if not for their well-timed arrival in Albania, we might've lost the battle.
Moroccan army is bounced between Janina and Macedonia for next few months before its ultimately annihilated at the Second Battle of Albania.
(https://i.imgur.com/htgYHbs.png)
Rebellions in newly-conquered Judea and elsewhere force Emperor Konstantinos XII to accept Moroccan white peace offer.
The Muslim rebels are then quickly decimated. Forced conversions will be necessary to bring peace to the region.
(https://i.imgur.com/6a6uKiV.png)
This is also a situation we must deal with, one way, or another.
I mean, what are our Emperors made of that they die so quickly? Papyrus??
-
009: Orthodox Iconography and Catholic Heresies
(https://i.imgur.com/5vzUYbe.png)
I've come to view this particular Idea as basically mandatory for anything with more than 15 provinces.
We've adopted Church Attendancy Policy as our Government Tech reached level 9 (next Idea is at level 11).
(https://i.imgur.com/at7YyOj.png)
Meanwhile, just across the border, another sect rises against the Catholics and the Pope.
I just hope the Reformists won't spill across border into Bulgaria or Kaffa, we've just recently finished converting them.
(https://i.imgur.com/JRYHWi7.png)
After dopting Church Attendance and saving up some money, we can enact Gilded Iconography decision.
It lowers tax income a bit but boosts missionary chance and increases yearly cultural tradition.
(https://i.imgur.com/Pbb1gEP.png)
I've modded in EU4-like Icons into EU3, which become available after you take Gilded Iconography.
Besides St.Michael, there's also Christ Pantocractor (cheaper buildings and tax income increase), St.Nicholas (bonus to diplomatic skill and faster infamy reduction) and Virgin Mary (-1 national risk and bonus stability investment).
Soon enough we will commission an icon to Virgin Mary, for we lack proper stability buildings like Spy Agencies or Cathedrals, and because active Missionaries do tend to provoke crowds into rebellion.
(https://i.imgur.com/KvrorO9.png)
For sake of completion, the other decision I modded in is Monasticism. Unfortunately, it requires the nation to be quite Narrowminded first before you can enact it.
Maybe later in the game we can promote new monastic orders.
(https://i.imgur.com/otD4CmG.png)
As we wait for young Konstantinos to grow up, the court of Byzantium listens in to world news.
For example, Counter-Reformation just started, thanks to Council of Evora. I wonder if they will be successful (they usually are, at least in my playthroughs).
(https://i.imgur.com/i1ixyX1.png)
Constantinople and Antioch, two seats of the ancient Pentarchy, are now Orthodox.
To restore it, we need to do the same with Jerusalem, Alexandria... and then Rome itself.
(https://i.imgur.com/LPAltBk.png)
Technically speaking, we're 60% done.
(https://i.imgur.com/YMbFXkr.png)
Crimean Tatars have managed to get a border with us. Not a good thing for them.
For us, a pretext to expand our control over the shores of the Black Sea!
(https://i.imgur.com/cHzGf8q.png)
These 'Cultural Assimilation' pop-ups appear more frequently as of late.
We're making inroads into Turkish Anatolia by now.
(https://i.imgur.com/l9ZKJnn.png)
Konstantinos XIII ascends to the throne of Byzantium and his heir and cousin Andronikos is almost an adult himself.
And look at those stats, man! He either dies to an event or in the first battle, for sure.
(https://i.imgur.com/ggBWnIi.png)
I understand the angery with the Pope, and the need for religious independence, but I think that some Catholics up there are running short on creativity when it comes to names.
I mean, come on, 'Church of England'? That name will never catch on!
(https://i.imgur.com/CvqjpGN.png)
*shakes fist angrily*
HUNGARIANS!!
-
010: Syria, Palestine, and Egypt
(https://i.imgur.com/kxi766R.png)
Because of the core of Naples in this province, the local populace can create Culverin cannons for us.
Whilst we're, oh, whole 5 or 6 levels of technology behind?
Emperor Konstantinos comissions three thousand of these devices of slaughter for the Byzantine Army. Some Condotta Infantry corps will also be created.
(https://i.imgur.com/T4r3cPF.png)
I've modded those Court events weeks ago but one fired only now.
Fortunately, it's not the other one 'best friend' event. We will take the general for free, sure (and take the time to fix some bugs...).
(https://i.imgur.com/6CabFGR.png)
WAR!!
The Mamluks are in a baaad time, for the Arabs must be purged from vicinity of Antioch, Jerusalem and also Alexandria, says Emperor Konstantinos.
Pentarchy will be reborn and our Coptic brothers will be free!
(https://i.imgur.com/GaIhoTn.png)
It seems that while Konstantinos is rampaging through Mamelukan territories, his heir Andronikos is sleeping around.
He was scolded for his behavior to avoid legitimacy problems in the future.
As for the war itself, Mameluk soldiers are easily routed and their provinces easily seized.
(https://i.imgur.com/5RfDwcy.png)
Winning a conflict whilst using the Holy War pretext is like smacking a pinata.
Prestige and territories just land in your hands like candy falls into hands of a child!
(https://i.imgur.com/R8BwAZX.png)
And third Slavic vassal get! Serbians, Bosniaks and now Wallachians are ruled over by the Byzantines.
(https://i.imgur.com/rzqW1O1.png)
Our stability is good enough that we do not need Holy Mother's help at the moment.
We commission the icon of St.Michael, mostly because Golden Horde got itself together and our truce with those nomads will soon expire.
(https://i.imgur.com/FiVAq7M.png)
Fighting the Golden Horde wasn't worth a mention. Meanwhile, we are getting some progress with technology!
Emperor Konstantinos XIII's thirst for provinces has not been quenched yet. Orders are distributed to prepare for another war with the Mamluks.
(https://i.imgur.com/lKD3Avd.png)
He won't be around for that war, though.
Long live Emperor Andronikos IV! His heir, also named Andronikos, unfortunately does not share his talents.
(https://i.imgur.com/g7EiGe7.png)
Once more we fight the Mamluks, and this time we're aiming to take control of Alexandria!
As you can see, even our distant allies, the English, agreed to support our most holy cause!
(https://i.imgur.com/MzNlrtO.png)
Well, it seems that Sicillians have managed to unite themselves under one banner.
Meanwhile, our war is going splendidly, we've occupied almost whole of the Egyptian coast.
(https://i.imgur.com/hODewQW.png)
One of those accursed Hunting Accidents have taken away Andronikos, but his younger brother Ioannes is almost an adult.
And he has better stats, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/K0Dk4sD.png)
We will have to be Innovative, which means we get penalty to yearly Missionaries we get.
Divine Supremacy is therefore a must if we want to convert Arabia, Egypt and beyond to Orthodox faith.
(https://i.imgur.com/LKkUAPQ.png)
The fourth seat of Pentarchy is in our grasp now!
A true sign that Palaiologos dynasty has been blessed by the God!
-
011: Purple-Colored Steppes
(https://i.imgur.com/Fvxkojp.png)
The Golden Horde has been a nuisance for the last hundred years.
Emperor Andronikos has decreed that they must be beaten so harshly and humilitated so badly that they send tribute to Constantinople and dare not attack us again.
(https://i.imgur.com/STJ6men.png)
The spymasters of Andronikos managed to get us cores on nearby lands.
This means we can colonize Kalmykia and don't fear Tatar uprising.
The core on Libya will prove useful when we fight the Mamluks again.
(https://i.imgur.com/XM6TQDI.png)
There we go! Basically painless.
Emperor Andronikos however wants Astrakhan, a centre of trade just east of Kalmykia.
We could also colonize Alania and then sell it to its rightful owners, Georgia.
(https://i.imgur.com/pyT5rI1.png)
The ever-victorious Andronikos have passed away, and Ioannes X ascends to the throne of Byzantium.
Of course, he continues the war against the Golden Horde.
Meanwhile, we get access to Culverins, Eastern Pikes and Eastern Hussars thanks to Land Tech 13.
(https://i.imgur.com/HoaazFl.png)
We grab Astrakhan, but that gives Nogai and Qara Koyunlu a border with us.
Even more nomads to deal with, bleh!
We prolong the war against Golden Horde, by the way. An event gave us a core on Cherhassk, would be a shame not to take it.
(https://i.imgur.com/b2dv3t4.png)
First of our Syrian provinces have been cored!
It's been 50 years since first war with the Mamluks? Time flies, eh.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ue5Sa66.png)
Nogai have been beaten and they now pay tribute.
Same treatment will be given the Qara Koyunlu tribe.
(https://i.imgur.com/rwY6Rfs.png)
Alexandria is now Orthodox.
Only one seat of Pentarchy remains in hands of heretics, and that's Rome, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/TlhwKCY.png)
Stupid floating newborns, disturbing my hunting time.
Though a heir would be nice, a random infant from who-knows-where won't do.
(https://i.imgur.com/nx1bomN.png)
See, all we had to do was just wait.
He might have crappy stats, but he is a Palaiologos alright.
(https://i.imgur.com/3tQJKk4.png)
That took a while longer than I've expected.
It's also all that we wanted from the Nomad-infested steppes.
Unless there will be a good reason to, no more colonization will happen north of Caucassus mountains.
(https://i.imgur.com/A3BGVRL.png)
Stability went down to a level I do not like. Virgin Mary's help is needed!
Also, as you can see, there's a revolt in Zeta and high revolt risk in Corfu, both Austrian possessions (and they seem unable to deal with those).
Maybe we can sneak in and recover two more cores?
(https://i.imgur.com/1wPuUEu.png)
Eh, even one of them will do!
-
012: The Quicksands of Egypt
(https://i.imgur.com/fZK8TVC.png)
Yet another war with Mamluks awaits! This time, to completely annihilate them.
For that we hope our ally Ethiopia marches from the sources of the Nile and takes a province or two.
(https://i.imgur.com/gDqZKMy.png)
Few days later, Emperor Ioannes writes up a reform plans for the military.
We decide that Army reform is more important than Navy (this ends with us getting +1 Land tech level!).
(https://i.imgur.com/AAo8X4a.png)
The main Mamelukan army disintegrates after Second Battle of Cairo, and we decide to besiege all nearby provinces at once.
This will speed up the process of Egyptian conquest considerably! Spies are sent to the south to help Ethiopians with their sieges.
(https://i.imgur.com/LlfWs4h.png)
Unfortunately, the cost of their provinces (Cairo being main culprit) was too high.
Oh well, we can wait ten years; in meanwhile, we answer Georgia's help in war against Iraq and Persia.
(https://i.imgur.com/SYG20DJ.png)
We don't even move troops into Persia, for Georgia and our vassals can manage on its own.
We had to help deal with the Persian army as it entered Van once.
(https://i.imgur.com/hCC3Rnu.png)
Then Emperor Ioannes commands troops into Tlemcen-held Egypt and Cyrenaica; we will take those lands from them to solidify our rule in Eastern Mediterranean!
Yemen and Zaporozhie are counted amongst their allies, and we will try to subdue the latter (and avoid the former).
(https://i.imgur.com/CMCyx4l.png)
Ironically, their greatest ally, Morocco, abandoned Tlemcen and declared a tribal war against them.
We take their lands and post our forces to keep peace and prevent Arabic Muslims from taking them back.
(https://i.imgur.com/TGks3db.png)
Emperor Ioannes X issues the anti-piracy act; this will help reduce our infamy.
(https://i.imgur.com/V83wyx9.png)
Andronikos is introduced into the Byzantine court.
Maybe his terrible stats will bless him with good luck and good advisors?
Emperor Ioannes X in meanwhile makes preparations for future, and final, war with the Mamluks.
(https://i.imgur.com/9Exsciw.png)
That's it, the final war against Mamluks. No matter if Ethiopians take a province or not; we can annex the Mameluk state in its entirety.
(https://i.imgur.com/dC5EV7j.png)
Alas! Maybe Ioannes X's bloodthirst was his undoing.
The middle-aged Emperor has perished during the conclusion of the Battle of Ibrim.
Andronikos VI now sits on Byzantine throne, and his heir, named Andronikos as well, is barely an improvement.
(https://i.imgur.com/anP9StD.png)
To improve relations with non-Orthodox Christians, Andronikos VI issues an edict of indulgence.
Then he follows his father unto Egypt, to command the armies conquering the lands of Mamluks.
...I also wonder why, despite at war with Golden Horde, the nomads haven't invaded our-
(https://i.imgur.com/BvOMTRB.png)
Oh, why, hello there, Novgorod.
How are you doing? Colonizing the steppes, I see?
Have fun my friend, I will be in Egypt if you need me.
(https://i.imgur.com/r8zjRtx.png)
At last! Our soldiers can wield gunpowder weapons!
About time we got rid of the old Muslim troops, and create truely Byzantine armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/H30omZp.png)
Gamóto! Emperor Andronikos is dead! Curse the sands of Egypt!
Fortunately, his successor is not far from being enthroned. All we have to do is-
(https://i.imgur.com/hGXEXN1.png)
...
*slowly and carefully moves cursor up to option 1 and clicks*
(https://i.imgur.com/cmbZ8Hh.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/brGp5Tk.jpg)
-
013: Messengers of Old
(https://i.imgur.com/TfRdNod.png)
The Byzantine Empire is without heir and a ruler at the moment, so our overseers, the Epopton, rule instead.
As they're debating about the most legitimate successor to the deceased Palaiologoi, they order construction of an University in Constantinople.
(https://i.imgur.com/EBre4Va.png)
Not exactly sure how to progress, the overseers decide to establish Battlefield Commissions.
This way Byzantine army can get decent Generals not during, but before we do some conquering around.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ko0Alsf.png)
They're, of course, very wise and opportunistic men. A revolt in Ragusa might see it declaring independence.
As we have a core on that particular strip of Adriatic coast, an Army in Zeta will watch the proceedings like a vigilant hawk.
(https://i.imgur.com/MLlg3wR.png)
The council of Epopton have found a suitable replacement!
A promising statesman and military leader of the Angelos family has been declared the new Byzantine Emperor!
May the rule and the family of Theodoros III last long!
(https://i.imgur.com/cT9E3dU.png)
Even the clergy have decided to commemorate the ascension of Theodoros, and mobilized the populace to rejoice.
This is clearly a sign that Theodoros is chosen by the God!
(https://i.imgur.com/M0YKhr3.png)
Emperor Theodoros concludes the war with Mamluk and there's only one outcome of that.
Few days later, little Ioannes, heir to Byzantine throne, is born.
Court astrologers, much to dismay of Theodoros, believe his wisdom and skills will be only mediocre, at best.
(https://i.imgur.com/MaMhlFX.png)
It seems that Byzantium will have to invest in a patrol fleet of the Gulf of Suez!
Pirates, no doubt some unsavory muslim folk, are preying on local ports. That will not stand!
(https://i.imgur.com/Zx4q7N0.png)
As territories to north fell under influence of Novgorod, and the south to Fars and Alexandria, Astrakhan stopped being important.
All provinces that traded through it were re-routed to Alexandria, which now boasts the worth of about 680 ducats (compared to previous 500 or so).
(https://i.imgur.com/w0DiPjS.png)
Emperor Theodoros III have decreed that the Army is to be reformed and the Muslim units dispersed.
Instead, proper Eastern musketeers will replace the old Islamic soldiers.
As to not appear weak, only two Thema at once will be reformed.
(https://i.imgur.com/bPmHVZ0.png)
We accept their call to arms only to raise War Taxes.
Our vassals can do the fighting, we're still replacing military units.
(https://i.imgur.com/IqJC2GK.png)
It seems that we're finishing up our military replacements just in time.
Typical for the Russians, they cannot handle all the revolts the Muslims and Nomads stage in the steppes.
(https://i.imgur.com/nOp85ig.png)
White peace with Persia instead of any gains, then near-death of Ioannes, and then plague in Crete must've weighed heavily on Emperor Theodoros III.
The court asked the military governors and offcials to help rule the Empire as Theodoros rests.
(https://i.imgur.com/USEjOH2.png)
After Theodoros' recovery, the aristocrats have remembered that they were granted certain rights - and demanded that they get more.
The Emperor laughed at them, saying that he does not fear their words. Nobles, of course, got pissy and rebelled.
Unsuprisingly, our recently modernized, expanded Themas made short work of the multiple noble rebellions, capturing and executing the ringleaders.
(https://i.imgur.com/fnILBcz.png)
Four years of peace come and go, and Ioannes, heir apparent to Byzantine throne, is introduced to the court.
Virgin Mary shall bless him, as she blesses our nation today!
-
014: Ioannes XI Angelos Apokatastatis
(https://i.imgur.com/CdbNsCE.png)
Theodoros III has passed away, but not everyone is confident in Ioannes XI's ability to rule!
Unfortunately for the pretender, he has support of Zeta province, one of smallest in Byzantium.
His two-thousand troop of rebels was utterly massacred by Thema Makedonikon stationed there earlier to conquer Ragusa (which still didn't declare independence).
(https://i.imgur.com/OWT8oV5.png)
"Emperor, we can't even reach India!" "Ethiopians call for help, and Byzantium will answer!"
And so we're at war with Vijayanagar, far in the India.
Might as well use the war taxes for something, right?
(https://i.imgur.com/vqGugF2.png)
Castille, lords of Iberia, have offered alliance!
We've politely accepted. Ioannes XI, in his confidence, have ordered Thema Makedonikon to board the ships.
"But Emperor, where are you sending them?"
(https://i.imgur.com/yA0M0C5.png)
The answer chilled the noblemen spines.
There was no proper casus belli, Castille was defender of Catholicism and Kingdom of Two Sicillies considered Rome its protectorate, and Byzantium was far too unstable at the moment to pursue such risky endeavour.
But Ioannes XI did not budge, and ordered what his predecessors always only considered - conquest of Rome.
(https://i.imgur.com/nD7JJXO.png)
The opening of the war was rather optimistic, for Castille did not come to help the Pope.
Emperor Ioannes quickly called for his vassals and Orthodox allies to provide numerical strength.
(https://i.imgur.com/CxvD72v.png)
Then, via Bohemian Empire, the Burgundians entered Cherson, the northwestern border of the Empire!
Two Themas stationed in the north, one led by Ioannes himself, converged nearby, ready to defeat the Burgundian troop.
(https://i.imgur.com/DskO3cQ.png)
Timely arrival of Georgian Army allowed Ioannes to win over the Burgundians, routing them just as another of their troops entered the area, forcing them to retreat.
Neapol, capital of Kingdom of Two Sicilies, leader of the war, fell shortly afterwards. Rome however remains unshaken.
This bothers the Emperor and his courtiers. Time is of the essence here.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZlqduZh.png)
Besieged by Paulos Phokas, siegemaster of Byzantium, Rome finally fell.
Immediatelly the Pope was forced to evacuate the city as Byzantine troops entered the Seven Hills.
(https://i.imgur.com/4Pmo6dc.png)
And so, the unimaginable happened.
A new Patriarch of Rome has been installed in the city, and already preparations are made to convert the populace.
Orthodox authorities hail the Emperor as Ioannes XI Angelos Apokatastasis, the Restorer.
(https://i.imgur.com/Tc9W0Y2.png)
Apparently, just few weeks after the war, the Burgundian King and Holy Roman Emperor, Louis II, was assassinated during an audience.
The Burgundians had the nerve to accuse Emperor Ioannes XI of this!
(https://i.imgur.com/Ogk6tDG.png)
God wills it! The schism will be mended, and Byzantium will see to it!
We just need to hire a Theologian and move our National Focus there, and it shouldn't take more than few years, tops.
(https://i.imgur.com/3T7GCWw.png)
We even abandon our ancestral mission to recover Souther Italy.
Instead, we pursue the most sacred goal of restoration of Pentarchy.
(https://i.imgur.com/FqXuosA.png)
And apparently, our marriage with Castille ends with an Angelid child as the next in line for their throne.
Simply sublime! Maybe, just maybe, we will inherit the golden kingdom one day?
(https://i.imgur.com/n9jo1SW.png)
Then, the victorious Ioannes XI Angelos Apokatastatis, conqueror of Rome, passes away in his sleep.
Regents now rule in Byzantium, waiting for young Michael to grow up and assume the title of Emperor.
May his life be long and prosperous!
-
015: Peace, Progress, and The Pentarchy
(https://i.imgur.com/5GAK9wS.png)
RIP indeed, for he was working for us for about 45 years.
We need to find a skilled replacement, and fast.
(https://i.imgur.com/DkR5CFa.png)
Our noblemen love how we govern the country, and donated cash.
Hmm, we could sponsor new ships or a whole new Thema with that...
Oh wait, we're nearing the limit for land forces. New ships it is!
(https://i.imgur.com/OXxb1U7.png)
After over five hundred sixty years, the wound is healed. No longer there is any schism between the east and west.
There's now only Pentarchy - where Patriarchs of Constantinople, Rome, Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem are as equals!
(https://i.imgur.com/bvtFopS.png)
Into this new era of glory and orthodoxy, Michael X Angelos ascends to the throne of Byzantium.
He is, as the courtiers say, truly blessed.
(https://i.imgur.com/IKWdVy1.png)
It takes him only a year of negotiations to have the Armenian peoples accept Byzantine seniority.
He also calls for the Orthodox clergy to consecrate Metropolitan bishops in North African provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/qfhvKgP.png)
He reforms the judical courts, bringing peace and stability to the common peoples!
(https://i.imgur.com/NTQ99r9.png)
And then, Michael X decides that it is time to abandon the old ways.
The Byzantine Empire, though vast and prestigious, has been for a while behind the Western Europe in terms of culture and technology.
No more! We will take over their customs and make them better through Byzantine creativity.
Many will oppose this move and we can expect the military to be the most stubborn. But we will prevail, and Byzantium will enter a new era of progress!
(https://i.imgur.com/Tukqv9v.png)
Unfortunately, he gets himself a daughter instead of a son, as a potential successor to Byzantine throne.
Well, you can't have everything!
(https://i.imgur.com/p9C9dvl.png)
The outdated, obsolete even, priviledge of Liberum Veto must also be dealt with.
Some noblemen do not understand it, and will be exterminated along with their supporters!
(https://i.imgur.com/3tYUtiy.png)
"Emperor Michael, we're doing what??"
"We're spreading Orthodox faith unto the Indies!"
And so, Byzantium, progressive and God-loving country, began its own colonization game. (Later we create a colony near Cape, in the furthest south of Africa)
(https://i.imgur.com/mmP6ZGW.png)
Blessed be Byzantium!!
-
016: Too Short of a Lineage
(https://i.imgur.com/mJUhPKF.png)
By taking this idea, we can start colonizing further away from Sinai.
As a Westernized (and Innovative) nation, we're raking new Technologies must faster than ever before.
(https://i.imgur.com/5Jddven.png)
Meanwhile, the unity of Orthodox Balkans is strengthened as Moldavia, formerly a Bohemian mini-friend, becomes a Byzantine vassal!
(https://i.imgur.com/k7fLB6f.png)
A little bloody conquest of Tripoli fiefdom to extend our power in the North Africa.
(https://i.imgur.com/r0btJQV.png)
It's mostly to commemorate Zoe's coming of age.
Michael X decided to rename city of Sirt as 'Zoenia' to honor his daughter.
(https://i.imgur.com/rMnzj8g.png)
Thanks to sharing of maps of some European explorers, we find an unclaimed island.
First Orthodox colonists are en route to claim it for Byzantium!
In other colonial news, Mahe and Little Karoo colonies will soon be granted status of a city.
(https://i.imgur.com/cRfR4HI.png)
And finally, mayhaps a bit late, we formalize our weights and scales.
You can't be a modern country with having percentages and halves in your units, after all.
(https://i.imgur.com/K9Mjig4.png)
Tragedy strikes! Beautiful and wise Zoe perished after a fever.
Emperor Michael X is devastated, especially that he is almost forty years old and has no adult heir to replace him.
(https://i.imgur.com/PSGEhp7.png)
The bereaved Emperor turns his thoughts to far east.
On board Hermes, the brave (and first) Byzantine explorer, Prokopios Batatzes, will first visit the amicable Sultanate of Brunei.
Then he is to chart the numerous seas and islands south and east of said Sultanate. While Brunei is civilized and Muslim, the other lands are virgin and pagan.
(https://i.imgur.com/XghnswD.png)
Alas! When Captain Batatzes returns to Sinai, and the Empire, he will learn that a new Emperor rules Byzantium!
...of the vile Bohemian Podebrad dynasty. No one is sure who allowed the Czech man to sit on Byzantine throne, but few accept him freely.
After just two months of monitoring the situation, its clear that nobody is raising any torches and pitchforks. Long live Jan Podebrad?
-
017: Chronic Dynastic Instability
(https://i.imgur.com/6hqkC7D.png)
Our monarch begins with forming new marital relationships.
For example, with the newly established British Empire.
A Grand Marshal is also hired to help with legitimacy.
(https://i.imgur.com/rEo7dQZ.png)
Meanwhile, left to his own devices, Captain Batatzes does what the sailors of France and Castille did - discovers a new continent!
Unfortunately for us its mostly desert filled with murderous animals (and angry aborigines), so we won't be setting foot on that.
(https://i.imgur.com/PLXv8s8.png)
Ioannes Podebrad makes alliances and marriages in all the wrong places.
Unable to contend with military and diplomatic might of Austria, we had to show our backs to Kingdom of Denmark, angering many people.
(https://i.imgur.com/UBWNkNy.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/HeVkF2c.png)
It's the envoy of the Kingdom of Lubeck, for sure!
Ioannes XII Podebrad is dead and a minor politician of the court, Konstantinos Kantakouzenos, is declared new Emperor of Byzantium!
Byzantine nobles swear he was the best candidate we had at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/WyE5yHu.png)
He gets himself a son of somewhat questionable motherhood.
Byzantine nobles continue to claim its the best possibility at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/f4zwui0.png)
As the nation stabilizes after recent political upheaval, the era of Crusades and Holy Wars comes to an end.
Finally the Pope and the rest of Catholics will be less important.
(https://i.imgur.com/lp1zSee.png)
Emperor Konstantinos XIV decides that Orthodoxy must be spread further east.
The first colony in East Indies, on isle of Flores, is therefore underway!
(https://i.imgur.com/hh8LUSO.png)
Our stability is way too low. This is third uprising in span of a year!
We must commission either an Artist or Icon to Virgin Mary, and fast!
(https://i.imgur.com/9P0GCLe.png)
And worst of it all, Captain Batatzes has died!
The island of Sulu, the newest Byzantine colony, was renamed 'Batatzes' in memory of the fallen explorer.
(https://i.imgur.com/uwgvjk0.png)
Our friends, Ethiopians, are losing control over their African holdings.
Obviously, we cannot let the Mamelukans resurface. Once they appear, we will conquer them!
(https://i.imgur.com/PtGOou8.png)
Nobles demand concessions, Konstantinos suffers a bout of insanity, we had to take a loan of 800 ducats, but hey.
At least we have core on Rome, making it part of our Empire!
(https://i.imgur.com/83poTSz.png)
Mamluks have risen!
We will put them down.
(https://i.imgur.com/QRsUzY8.png)
After taking over the Mamelukian provinces, we receive first batch of beans from Flores.
Hurrah for Byzantine Coffee!
-
018: Red Numbers of Death
(https://i.imgur.com/utwYJwM.png)
While the state and populace are struggling, the land itself seems to be blessed.
These pop-ups have started showing up more often lately. Must be due to all those grain provinces we've got.
(https://i.imgur.com/OP6R2bJ.png)
The loan - and the interest rate - that were potentially going to cripple us (interest itself was 6.5 ducats monthyl!) are paid off in time.
Now we can resume building up infrastructure and colonizing the Indies.
(https://i.imgur.com/SxF9vXG.png)
Aha! The colony on Ternate will be known for its cultivation of mace, nutmeg and cloves (amongst other spices).
Our stability struggles to raise. Someone cursed it!
(https://i.imgur.com/IblNNp6.png)
WAIFU WHY U DO THIS!?
Other options are worse, cuz they lower stability.
(https://i.imgur.com/r7UiFDI.png)
Despite the stability hit, we could really use some war taxes.
I mean, being in good graces with Novgorod.
(https://i.imgur.com/SDvOLpj.png)
A series of negative events seemingly left Konstantinos XIV without will to live, and he perished.
His twenty-years-old son ascends the throne as Emperor Ioannes XIII, and he seems to have a younger brother as a spare. Very good.
(https://i.imgur.com/sGJYjYq.png)
Southern Cossacks formation is better than other two by a wide margin.
Also, whenever we up our Stability to -1, the game tosses something that brings it back to -2.
NEVER-ENDING STAAAAB HIIIIITS (oooooh oooh ooooh~!)
(https://i.imgur.com/ULkY0uW.png)
WHAT'S WRONG WITH THIS FAMILY!?!
REEEEEEEEEEEEE
(https://i.imgur.com/1GyVdzA.png)
A new tech and finally stability at 0!
Now to get to +3 and finalize the Westernization process and get Western military units.
(https://i.imgur.com/dtFjD8Z.png)
At least we can do what we do well, and eradicate some Muslims.
Or at least try to, if our fleet gets its repairs done. *sigh*
-
019: Byzantine Mecca and Japanese Ethiopia
(https://i.imgur.com/BdKxHcH.png)
As war with Tlemcen and others progresses, we save up enough money to wrestle the tile of Defender of Faith from Novgorod.
Prestige and glory will return to us!
(https://i.imgur.com/VFsN3hV.png)
Three years pass in which we fill our coffers with war taxes. Castille finally takes some lands from Tlemcen.
Meanwhile, we've managed to raise our Stability to +2, oh yeeeah!
(https://i.imgur.com/FUswkI6.png)
Thanks to skillful management of Imperial Treasury by Ioannes XIII, we scrounged enough money to afford a Fine Arts Academy of Athens (a refinery in Achaea follows next year).
From other news: In the HRE, first time in ages, the throne is occupied by neither a Burgundian, Austrian, Savoyard or Bohemian monarch.
Good job Hesse, now lets see if you can keep it.
(https://i.imgur.com/jyAlFyg.png)
The price for big ships gets ridinkulous lately, so our government decided to adopt this particular idea.
Few levels down the line, we can take up a similar one, but for land forces.
Some sharp-eyed people might notice that we're converging troops at border with Hedjaz and Iraq. There's reason for that.
(https://i.imgur.com/fUhmuK7.png)
Iraq, protector of Hedjaz, did not come to war, probably not awares of what we're planning to do.
Emperor Ioannes XIII decreed that Mecca, holiest site of Muslims, will be conquered and converted.
This will deal a crippling blow to Islam across entire world.
(https://i.imgur.com/8PbvDek.png)
That prestige! That missionary bonus!
Truly, there's no better faith than Orthodox Christianity!
(https://i.imgur.com/l3FuYls.png)
I love gifts <3
(https://i.imgur.com/1IqydBB.png)
In process of vassalizing Ethiopia, we have been entangled in a war with the most unlikely of foes: Japan.
Now for crash course history - since early 1500s, Minamoto Shogunate has been poking Swahili and Mutapa for land.
Then the Japanese learned of Ethiopia and its trade of centre at Sokotra. They've taken it, and has been poking Ethiopia for a piece of land or two every so often.
Now, by the end of 1600s, Minamoto has gotten most of Horn of Africa for itself. We will help stop this Japanese conquest of Africa.
(https://i.imgur.com/zVKBwrb.png)
We were worried for the battle's outcome, but turns out Japanese musketeers and soldiers are very lacking in terms of combat prowess.
(https://i.imgur.com/NmRh2D4.png)
And there we go, Japanese Emperor relented and asked for white peace.
Emperor Ioannes is produ of what he has accomplished, and that we can still deal with Muslims easily.
He has retreated to his study to consider battleplans against other Muslim nations in the region. Will this brooding bear fruit, or just be idle brooding? Who knows!
-
020: Giant Steppe Nomads Outta Nowhere
(https://i.imgur.com/Rdx5Ia9.png)
The new trade centre at Adrianople will be created to give more work to our merchants.
That wrestled some previously Lubeck or Novgorod aligned provinces, routing their trade to Adrianople.
Alexandria's worth diminished, but is still at near 300 ducats (Adrianople rates at about 650).
(https://i.imgur.com/OqNfR6Q.png)
While we join Castille's colonial war against France, the heir to the throne of Byzantium, Andronikos, is hailed as a great writer.
It's first time one of Byzantine heirs gets this!
(https://i.imgur.com/EsliyLG.png)
Novgorod lost its grip over the Steppes once again, and Kazan Khanate now threatens our borders.
We could colonize their lands, but having them close gives us a Colonist bonus.
(https://i.imgur.com/zhNASrE.png)
The what.
And they have how many troops??
We must send our troops to save our vassal from immediate destruction!
(https://i.imgur.com/ShxJJl4.png)
I think Ioannes XIII was barely into his forties when this happened.
Long live Emperor Andronikos VII! May his reign be peaceful and prosperous just like his predecessor's.
Little Ioannes, heir to the throne, has quite nice stats.
(https://i.imgur.com/vImkq1n.png)
Timurids are beaten and we roll out new type of troops.
Petrine Infantry is on more defensive-side, and has less pips.
(https://i.imgur.com/K46NEPx.png)
Emperor Andronikos VII seizes another island for Orthodox faith!
Unfortunately, both Castille and Persia have started showing up on islands in the area.
We might not be able to claim entirety of the archipelago for ourselves, alas.
(https://i.imgur.com/075u9ZB.png)
I could swear that we had a Master of the Mint event already? We're under 2% inflation...
Oh well, its a godsend anyway! +2 Stability after series of negative events is nothing to scoff at!
(https://i.imgur.com/4DMSSg3.png)
Except for passing-by of Captain Batatzes decades ago, we haven't had much contact with Xin.
Until now; the Xin Empire is also fighting Kazan nomads, and currently the few steppe provinces Kazan own is all that separates the Chinese moloch and our Orthodox domain!
Funny how small the world is, eh?
(https://i.imgur.com/tu83Rpb.png)
Sarai becomes a civilized land, letting us seek a peace treaty with Kazan nomads.
Meanwhile, the island of Timor, in East Indies, will be colonized as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/n7H4uDh.png)
As we go to war against Japan to protect Ethiopia again, Croatia becomes another Byzantine vassal!
(https://i.imgur.com/PXDyP4m.png)
The Imperial administration is outdated and dysfunctional, Emperor Andronikos says.
He decided to exchange his purple coat for a new red one, and no longer is Emperor, but King.
King who is absolute ruler of Byzantium, now and forever!
-
021: Wars of Protection and Conquests
(https://i.imgur.com/YO9itA4.png)
The fighting at Horn of Africa is intense; our troops suffer from attrition while the Japanese are sending new ones in bulk.
(https://i.imgur.com/PHtXEQg.png)
But there is a plan in motion; Admiral Constans Botaianates has declared that he will sail to Japanese archipelago and blockade their ports.
Byzantine courtiers complain that this is madness, but, with our colonies in East Indies and English Ceylon having its ports open, Admiral Botaianates is sure he can accomplish the mission.
(https://i.imgur.com/TfgUn5k.png)
Report comes from the far east - apparently, Admiral Botaianates has put a choking grip on the commerce of Japan.
Meanwhile, our troops, unable to cross the Red Sea due to Japanese naval presence, are marching through southern Nubia to help Ethiopian forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/nODIdbE.png)
Our successes with naval blockade and destroying of Minamoto forces caused Japan to sign white peace with Ethiopia.
That is not satisfactory for us, and we will punish the Japanese for leaving their little archipelago.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xx6vTgI.png)
I am impressed. I'm truly impressed.
The fake that is Holy Roman Empire has seriously stepped upon the road to unification into one single state.
And under the banner of Hessians, no less!
(https://i.imgur.com/G8Njzt8.png)
The five Cathedrals - in Alexandria, Jerusalem, Antioch, Constantinople and Rome - have been completed.
In total, they provide +0.25 Missionary yearly and +50 Stability investments per month.
(https://i.imgur.com/taUyKhN.png)
We won't hold on those provinces for long; they will be sold for symbolic amounts of cash back to the Ethiopian royals.
Meanwhile, a core and a mission give us two valid reasons to fight Iraq.
Emperor Andronikos sees no reason not to do just that!
(https://i.imgur.com/ekkaix9.png)
As preparations for the war near completion, we commission the icon of St.Nicholas.
It will boost our diplomatic skill and help reduce infamy.
(https://i.imgur.com/Eo5j6RI.png)
In the meanwhile, we also send help to Castille. They're family after all!
They receive the most lucky outcome, boosting their Stability by whooping 3 points!
(https://i.imgur.com/pmI2Ubu.png)
The war against Iraq has drawn in both Yemen and Hedjaz.
We will try to capitalize on this situation, and try to steal a strip of provinces from Van all the way to Mocha at the southern corner of Arabian peninsula!
(https://i.imgur.com/fzjz0dU.png)
The first of many crippling treaties is applied - Yemen has to give up Asir province.
By the way the Arabian Muslims are fighting against us, Emperor Andronikos assumes that the war will be over very soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/pn4svMR.png)
What has been planned, has been achieved!
Our infamy is extremely high, however, prompting a construction of an Embassy and employment of a Diplomat.
Hopefully, we can recover from the image of brutal warmongerer.
-
022: Reforms and Reorganizations and Regency Again!
(https://i.imgur.com/Jh3NGag.png)
SOON.
And by soon I mean not really; Austria, Holy Roman Emperor and Burgundy are all friends with Venice.
We might have to postpone this indefinitely, just like with region of Naples.
(https://i.imgur.com/kZVEWs7.png)
The hero of the War with Japan has passed away!
May he rest in peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/MPvgwHo.png)
I'm sure Persia is boiling in anger at this.
No worries; Emperor Andronikos has plans for future conquests.
After all, the ancient Roman Empire did have province of 'Mesopotamia' amongst its territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ezh4fW3.png)
Meanwhile, Castille is again in dire straits, the Army enforcing order in the colonies.
One of our Themas will be landing at Alicante, and then will help the underage King Enrique VIII remain on the throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/PUtFiGX.png)
And there we go, we can sponsor Baroque Music!
Romanos Phoucas and Thema Makedonikon have put down 3 pretenders and two angry masses of Portuguese nationalists so far.
They're now on the more to Pyrhenees to deal with some Catalan rebels, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/eJo1SPE.png)
We gain access to Grain Depot; we will build it in Larissa, as its in centre of our Empire and produces grain.
(https://i.imgur.com/jYc8MJo.png)
King-Emperor Andronikos VII has also plans to further reorganize the imperial bureaucracy. We will abandon our old Ideas:
National Bank will replace Quest of the New World.
And, because we have many Missionaries, we can abandon Divine Supremacy. As we control colonies and centres of trade, a National Trade Policy is in order.
(https://i.imgur.com/okzw3mA.png)
In midst of the reforms, the old Andronikos dies and Ioannes XIV ascends to the throne.
His heir is broadly skilled and learned Michael.
(https://i.imgur.com/r57M6WW.png)
Emperor Ioannes positively replies to Ethiopian calls to arms. We will help them regain Massawa!
Who knows, we might grab a province or two as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/KwZ5kAt.png)
In midst of the war, Michael falls ill and perishes. His replacement, young Konstantinos, is not as good.
However, he already shows a skill of administrator and ruler.
Meanwhile, we continue to reorganize the administration; days after Michael's death, a National Trade Policy is introduced into Byzantine economy.
(https://i.imgur.com/2bnypXw.png)
We should've learned from our past mistakes, alas!
After crushing Moroccans at battle of Fez, Emperor Ioannes XIV dies during the early stage of the siege.
Regency council now rules Byzantium and everyone prays for young Konstantinos Kantakouzenos to not fall to illness or injury whilst still young.
-
023: The Western Model
(https://i.imgur.com/WmsF0n1.png)
Well then, I guess- (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jhFnP6dxhns)
Oh wait, they come from Novgorod, so there's no Tsar to fear!
They have so many claims to retake from us, its better we get on their good side.
(https://i.imgur.com/bSs9CrV.png)
The war dragged on for a long while before Ethiopians and Moroccans agreed on a peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/PK1HjZw.png)
A loan we had to take during the preivous war is repaid.
(https://i.imgur.com/vLQr5IW.png)
Less than a year until Konstantinos reaches adulthood and this regent dares raise against him.
To the salt mines with him!
(https://i.imgur.com/avbJ2kb.png)
Even Castille has recovered from the dumps and Enrique VII sits on the throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/TVn4nU7.png)
And finally, Konstantinos XV ascends onto the throne of Byzantium!
His cousin Zoe seems to be our heir.
Konstantinos first order of priority will be finish the modernization of the nation and adopt Western military schematics.
(https://i.imgur.com/wgq2B9G.png)
And finally, we modernize the Army!
An icon to Virgin Mary is commissioned to help us recover and weather the instability and reactionaries that might show up.
We finish expanding our Themas with infantry, and a new war of conquest will be waged against Hedjaz.
(https://i.imgur.com/TdM4dJf.png)
Saves us over eight ducats monthly!
That's slightly under a 100 per year.
(https://i.imgur.com/CAvF5RV.png)
The war against Hedjaz draws in Persia, so we call upon our vassals, Castille and Georgia to come over and help.
(https://i.imgur.com/eqilxa2.png)
The main Persian army has been defeated.
Our capture of Hedjaz lands is proceeding just as smoothly!
(https://i.imgur.com/FJoha9F.png)
Hedjaz is annexed, but Emperor Konstantinos wants more.
The peace with Persia will come only when they agree to transfer Basra, a great city of spices, into Byzantine ownership!
We also go after Sultanate of Makassar to take control of them and their trade.
(https://i.imgur.com/yoq854d.png)
Shortly after introduction of Zoe into the court, terrible news arrive from Fars!
Emperor Konstantinos has been killed during the siege. Zoe is now Empress of Byzantium, and she swore to continue the war.
Courtiers doubt her skill, and are further unsure of the future for there's no Kantakouzenos heir to replace her in need be.
(https://i.imgur.com/JrkB9w1.png)
She accepts the hand of one of the sons of Duke George I Kotromanic of Wallachia.
Andreas is the fruit of that particular martial union.
While the dynasty is scheduled to end, the continuation of Byzantine monarchy is not.
(https://i.imgur.com/tRDJLmg.png)
Basra is ours! Persians have been soundly defeated and Makassar now pays handsome tribute to us as a vassal.
Empress Zoe is praised for her victory, but her work has only begun.
(https://i.imgur.com/HRTUkKz.png)
Castille calls for aid, and we shall answer!
FOR GOD AND CASTILLE!
...Now that sounds a little weird, heh.
-
024: A Murder Most Foul
(https://i.imgur.com/HqgZ5dZ.png)
Monasticism becomes the movement of Orthodox clergy in Byzantium, thanks to patronage of Empress Zoe.
Meanwhile, her administration adopts the Gold Standard, helping curb inflation by making sure the money is of quality gold.
(https://i.imgur.com/3ReNKgG.png)
Our campaign against Russia is going quite well!
It only took some ping-ponging around the steppes to bleed their manpower a bit.
Meanwhile, our minting practices allow us to earn 11 ducats monthly. We will be rich!
(https://i.imgur.com/o6E5NCk.png)
And to emphasize on that, Empress Zoe commissions art in Rococco Style.
Marble cherubims, decorated interiors and golden tableware everywhere. Simply sublime~
It doesn't go unnoticed by many that on one hand, Zoe promotes ascetic devotion to Christ, and on the other, lavish and opulent lifestyle of the rich.
(https://i.imgur.com/xibRAmX.png)
*Byzantine_expletives_1houredition.mp3*
We were going to do SO MUCH in the coming years!
Conquests! Diplomacy! Now we must suffer, what, twelve years of regency until young Andreas comes to power?
If he survives that long and we won't have a takeover by some other dynasty. Curse them all!!
(https://i.imgur.com/hNH1hwc.png)
We had to commission a Statue to help boost our Legitimacy, as we have few marriages and war exhaustion also saps the people's belief in our divine rule.
Curse those Auvergenians twice again!
(https://i.imgur.com/Knhn0hm.png)
This war is going on for way too long, so General Monomakos was sent to capture Savoyard capital.
(https://i.imgur.com/Hf2OIue.png)
The war continues and we've found out hard way that our troops are too small and too inadequate for fighting against Western Europeans.
Gustavian Infantry will replaced Saxon Infantry and each Thema will be reinforced with seven thousand soldiers.
(https://i.imgur.com/SCb40bp.png)
War with Savoy ended, and Castille calls us into a new one, against resurgent Tripolitania.
We have a core on their capital - if we're fast enough, we can annex them from under Castillean nose!
(https://i.imgur.com/n3klHTY.png)
Or not.
Maybe next time we will have better luck.
-
025: Om Nom Nom Nom
(https://i.imgur.com/w7bz47G.png)
All those years of regency, and thus peace, have made our recruits soft and weak.
Away with them! We will get new ones for the incoming wars that will be led by Emperor Andreas.
(https://i.imgur.com/pogr1xW.png)
Persia is long past its height in terms of military power, but they have enough money to buy themselves mercenaries.
We will thus help Georgia against the Persian mooks.
(https://i.imgur.com/ScFXeYD.png)
Aha, Emperor Andreas is of age! He has nominated his cousin Manuel as his successor.
While most of our troops are fighting Persia (and Kazan Khanate, which has reappeared again), others have been sent to Rome, Joannina and Sirt.
(https://i.imgur.com/ddEMg7D.png)
The war in Persia rages on, and this is the 'biggest' battle Persians could afford.
After ping-ponging their troop back and forth, they're annihilated at Azerbaijan.
(https://i.imgur.com/iwv0Nzi.png)
A new Royal Palace will be built in Constantinople, in Rococco style.
Apparently Emperor Andreas thinks of the ancient Imperial palace as 'dull'.
(https://i.imgur.com/ppnGWEt.png)
The war with Persia was finally over and Georgia has retaken Mazandaran province.
Now it is time to fight our own war!
(https://i.imgur.com/T3r7Dbn.png)
One war has been won, Tunis is ours! Now for Tripolitania!
...At least as soon as truce is over, that being 1st January 1748.
(https://i.imgur.com/By1rkdZ.png)
After fighting on their side so many times, subsiding and donating to them...
Ethiopians decided that one guarantee is worth more than friendship with us.
They shall be punished.
(https://i.imgur.com/b8wJS98.png)
Another victory declared, this time over Tripolitania! Byzantine Empire continues to grow!
And then, whilst still at war with us, Ethiopia calls for aid because the Japanese have attacked.
Emperor Andreas I has laughed their emissary off and took few days of celebratory vacation.
(https://i.imgur.com/RPrscOX.png)
See? I've told you, we can become friends with the Russians!
Emperor Andreas believes this alliance will help us very soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/uXD7uUt.png)
Well this has escalated rapidly.
Russia and Castille, however, are at our side! We will capture Venezia, beat Tuscany into submission, and then demand peace.
At least this is the plan we've got at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/jxMJgK4.png)
Burgundy and their friends joined the war, and the amount of troops they can put up is scary.
Still, Emperor Andreas believes our plan will be succesful.
Excepting the fact that now its Burgundians who are in charge of the war. Oops.
(https://i.imgur.com/XVYApBh.png)
Venice is ours!
And so its centre of trade!
Now, how do we conclude this war without losing horribly?
(https://i.imgur.com/oWwChqD.png)
Apparently, you bribe Burgundians with a core they had on Roussillon. 'Best trade deal in history of trade deals, maybe ever', says Emperor Andreas I.
The situation amongst allies must've been tense after the controvesional treaty was accepted, because there has been insults and warnings sent amongst Hesse, Burgundy and Savoy.
Meanwhile, we've consoled Juan IV of Castille with some money and he said 'no problem bruh'. What a nice guy!
(https://i.imgur.com/wqMkFdI.png)
Iraq on other hand has been sending warnings and also 'spies from unknown nation' popped up lately.
I mean, you can't send out spies when you're annexed, right?
(https://i.imgur.com/zSc2lAl.png)
New troop formation has been rolled out! Pity this didn't happen before War for Venezia, but oh well.
As you can see, we're siegeing Tlemcen as well. At five provinces, it should make a decent snac- I mean, addition to our Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/khK5Pdc.png)
They own some provinces in Central Africa, for some reason, and therefore we had to bite off only this sizeable chunk for ourselves.
Now we just need to finish up with Iraq and force peace on Morocco.
(https://i.imgur.com/KBIX1PQ.png)
*burp*
Ahh, nothing better than a delicious plate of conquests and loot, don't you agree?
Maybe next time we can eat even more?
-
026: Quiet Before the Storm
(https://i.imgur.com/cO30FAD.png)
This event started popping up in past decades, but with doubled intensity lately too.
As we have the Grain Depot, we can safely cut production investments; both government and military are too important to even consider.
(https://i.imgur.com/xIZ2gUo.png)
As our relation with Holy Roman Empire is deteriorating rapidly, Emperor Andreas believes we should expel Imperial officials from Venezia.
This in turn prevents the Hessian Emperor from trying to get it back.
(https://i.imgur.com/xc4UXDx.png)
A sanctioned war to eliminate Golden Horde tribals.
Smolensk Principality sided with them; they will be punished with vassalization.
(https://i.imgur.com/zzXagQj.png)
I've forgot we had a core on Bogutjar. As Golden Horde has holdings in Siberia, we simply took the province.
Smolensk has been vassalized, and forced to renounce Catholicism in favor of Orthodoxy.
(https://i.imgur.com/3H43Egc.png)
A new colony in Demak has allowed us to found Byzantine East India Company!
In turn that allows us to promote protectionism of our company stock.
Mercantilism, ho!
(https://i.imgur.com/5sffKmy.png)
A-ha, it has begun.
The colonial nations of North and South America begin to appear and fight for their independence.
Fortunately for us, we have no holdings on these continents. We're safe from revolutionary, republican rebellions.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZYjFnKI.png)
Emperor Andreas I, in his magnaminous wisdom, has decided to support the Enlightenment.
The republics of France and Switzerland have up to twenty or thirty levels total of technology more than us.
This situation must be reversed, and Byzantium has to become shining beacon of sciences!
(https://i.imgur.com/golgqNk.png)
See? Effects already!
(https://i.imgur.com/4Z0i63Q.png)
TO WAR!
(https://i.imgur.com/CKzXrW9.png)
It seems that Persia lost all its strength.
After capturing just one province and defeating their army just once, they agreed to our demands.
Our borders expand but our Army doesn't, and a new Thema will be created.
(https://i.imgur.com/BgeDEYC.png)
But the time for peace and build-up is over! Smolensk, protectorate of Russia, has been attacked by Bohemian scum.
Russia, in turn, called for us to help fight the invasion. Emperor Andreas I will not back from a fight, even if it will be a long, grueling, difficult fight.
For Orthodox!!
-
027: Seven Years' War
(https://i.imgur.com/HLMmxVf.png)
The situation deteriorates rapidly and unexpectedly when Hesse starts a war for Rome!
As we become leaders in Russian-Bohemian war, we call in Castille to support us as well.
This means that Russia, Byzantium, Castille, Denmark, and half of Holy Roman Empire's states are embroiled in one or two conflicts at once.
(https://i.imgur.com/thFJoVe.png)
We need to replace our Great Men; we cannot allow Salzburg and other republics to plant spies across our nation.
A Morale or Discipline instructor are also needed.
(https://i.imgur.com/juw8rzv.png)
The first Byzantine-Bohemian fight is in the Balkans. Thanks to help from Stjepan and his Bosniak sharpshooters, we rout the enemy!
Another big stack awaits at Kalmykia. This one will be engaged by two of Byzantine Themas.
(https://i.imgur.com/0JHWU7a.png)
Praise be the God in Heavens!
We've formed Personal Union with Great Britain, a major maritime and colonial power!
They've been called into the war immediately, as their invicible navy can just sail up to Hessian mainlands and deploy landsings on their shores.
(https://i.imgur.com/4qnseSD.png)
Hessian Emperor learns of the British entry into the war very fast, and even faster he asks for peace. We accept.
Bohemia, however, will be punished. How many centuries of overlordship did the Polish, Romanian and Lithuanian peoples had to endure?
We will set them free, you just see!
(https://i.imgur.com/M2bTwZx.png)
After the Battle of Kalmykia, we annihilate a Bohemian army at Kouban!
At least five more Bohemian stacks of 40k+ troops remain.
(https://i.imgur.com/68L2QTd.png)
Battle of Bessarabia is another battle where two of our stacks can comfortably attack one Bohemian stack.
(https://i.imgur.com/Co3GUAa.png)
Similarily to Bessarabia, another such battle occurs at Vyazma.
Another Bohemian army lurks nearby, though, so we will have to be careful.
(https://i.imgur.com/2OWXi8d.png)
As the war rages in Balkans, with battles won in our favor, we barely manage to defeat Bohemian armies in Rus provinces.
Shortly before victory at Bryansk pictured here, Russians capitulate to Bohemia and give them the province of Smolensk.
However, Castille and Great Britain are still with us! We will continue our policy until Bohemian defeat!
(https://i.imgur.com/HKiDEHH.png)
Never! We will win or we shall die!!
The former might come closer to truth for the new Thema, commissioned by Emperor Andreas shortly before the war, will soon be complete.
We will send it to wage war in the Balkans immediately.
(https://i.imgur.com/VvmOUIe.png)
Exactly as we're starting to hit the rock bottom of manpower reserves.
Truly, the God himself is supporting our cause!
(https://i.imgur.com/XkL12aH.png)
Bohemian allies flaked out or accepted nominal tributes to pull out of the war.
Their stacks are mostly gone, as is our manpower. From rapid movements and fierce battles, its down to sieges and waiting.
(https://i.imgur.com/brX5sRz.png)
The war with Bohemia drags on; they lost their steam for sure, as they usually avoid battles like here, at Bessarabia.
Emperor Andreas remains unbroken and rejects any peace offer Bohemian king is sending him every two or three months.
Minor battles occur over the next two years, as we slowly lay siege to Bohemian provinces (and vice versa).
(https://i.imgur.com/7MqatjW.png)
Across all of Byzantium, Emperor Andreas I Kotromanic is hailed as the greatest military leader of all time!
Bohemia has been humbled. Two provinces that were made cores by events during the war are taken. Transylvania is no longer theirs, and will be added to our herd of vassals.
We've won the war against Holy Roman Empire's military powerhouse, and its time to celebrate (and rest and recover our manpower)!
-
028: Victories Left and Right
(https://i.imgur.com/GLqT7HR.png)
Scots have taken arms against Great Britain and rose in revolution!
We will take our most intact stack and fetch it to the Isles to deal with the rebel scum.
Quartermaster of Byzantine Army says that we have about 115 thousand of troops to replenish.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZRjIvi9.png)
Shortly after we deal with Scottish occupation of British lands, Russians annex Scotland in its entirety.
C'est la vie, Scots!
(https://i.imgur.com/4GSIt0O.png)
Do you know what this war means!? We can grab Calabria from Sicily!
Or just take entirety of the petty Kingdom for ourselves, and nobody shall stop us!
(https://i.imgur.com/spbcf2p.png)
In the meanwhile, pesky Iraqi and Berber patriots pop up in Tunis and Basra way too often for our liking.
Fortunately, our Generals are fast enough to respond to the rebellions and crush their forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/9P5DWwM.png)
I wonder how bad is current Austrian situation if, after so many centuries of ownership of Corfu, the Greek people living there are revolting.
Could it be that we recover the final ancient core of Byzantium in few years?...
(https://i.imgur.com/TUpRYib.png)
Calabria is ours, and so is quite a bunch of Sicillian ducats.
How do we get Apulia and Naples is still a mystery.
(https://i.imgur.com/gyo23L8.png)
On behalf of Georgia, we go to war against Persia once more.
Also, our Themas replenished their numbers, and manpower reserves have begun to grow.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ok7WdA5.png)
Some upstart Nomads have showed up.
Emperor Andreas I have decided to colonize Bersh and teach the Nomads the way of civilization.
(https://i.imgur.com/XLeAqv5.png)
Island of Corfu is part of Byzantium once again!
It's been several centuries since Austrians began to rule the island, but no more the German language is spoken on the isle!
(https://i.imgur.com/iudujat.png)
And now France is bleeding its colonies, too!
Welcome to the world, New Zealand!
(https://i.imgur.com/7XqrVA9.png)
For Science!
...actually I can't believe how backwater-ish our Government is.
(https://i.imgur.com/FV1MwWl.png)
For, errr.
For classical appreciation of beauty, I guess?
(https://i.imgur.com/0XwHKIi.png)
Two years before expiration of the treaty with Bohemia, Transylvania agrees to become a Byzantine vassal.
They're no longer threatened to be annexed by Bohemia unless Bohemia defeats our whole Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/SU5g2ee.png)
Scourge of the Arabs, Smacker of Bohemia, Conqueror of Venezia, the Great Emperor of Byzantium, Andreas I Kotromanic, after nearly forty years on the throne, have moved on to the house of God.
Manuel IV Kotromanic now sits on the throne of Byzantium, his young son the heir presumptive.
Also, Great Britain has been inherited in its entirety, giving us a whole archipelago of angry, non-cored Brits to contend with.
(https://i.imgur.com/LYYzn2H.png)
After only two weeks of consultation on the matter, Emperor Manuel IV decided to create Duchy of Great Britain.
Cornwall was sold to Wales, and Munster of Ireland will be sold to Kingdom of Connacht.
Suprisingly, that's about all of British possessions, as they've bled many colonies in past twenty years.
Two small settlements in middle of North America will be sold to Canada, which holds cores on these two colonies.
(https://i.imgur.com/YbzZz8X.png)
Oh, and the Azores are also ours.
We will keep that one. Its cute!
(https://i.imgur.com/61STUt4.png)
Expansion of existing Themas and creation of a new one is on schedule!
Our economy, even after we surpass our numerical army limits, can still dish out hundreds of ducats yearly.
That's why Emperor Manuel IV believes we can support an army way above the limits.
Byzantium strong!
-
029: Religion and Governance
(https://i.imgur.com/5sdvh1u.png)
Due to our recent governmental improvements, we can get this decision passed.
A centralization within the Church! We need a 5-star Theologian AND Statesman to pull it off, which will be tricky.
And as you can see, we have a bunch of provinces to convert first.
(https://i.imgur.com/5jB4PLf.png)
In midst of our army expansion, Georgia pulls us into a war against Shaybanid.
We will help just by the way of making sure Georgian heartlands won't get devastated.
(https://i.imgur.com/UCN9VlC.png)
Rajputana, an Indian kingdom, joins the war.
Meanwhile, Emperor Manuel IV decides to enact Blasphemy Laws; their penalty to Stability will be exactly evened by Holy Synod's bonus.
Speaking of Holy Synod, the Theologian required has been procured.
(https://i.imgur.com/hOgUK3L.png)
I don't think Xin is doing well, if Korea and Manchu are punting them and rebels are popping left and right.
(https://i.imgur.com/EYCxW2H.png)
We gain another Idea slot!
With all crucial ones taken at the moment, we can take Bureaucracy.
With current Tax income, it will give us about twenty ducats more yearly.
(https://i.imgur.com/LVKRRC8.png)
Not so long afterwards, we establish the Holy Synod of Byzantium!
We can kick out the Theologian and replace him with someone more useful, it means.
(https://i.imgur.com/E8uGaXC.png)
Aha! Bohemians are going for a rematch, I see!
TO WAR!!
-
030: Bohemia Rematch and Punting Austria
(https://i.imgur.com/aDDyy6B.png)
First battle of the war and we win at Podolia!
(https://i.imgur.com/5TNizfc.png)
Major battles are won left and right.
This feels very different from the previous war. Almost... calm.
(https://i.imgur.com/JBAYMwm.png)
There's lots of jumping around, but we destroy Bohemian stacks one by one.
At Somogy, third such 'stack' is destroyed completely. At least 3 more remain.
(https://i.imgur.com/slNGyfd.png)
Emperor Manuel IV believes there could've been much more achieved from this war.
But, Bohemia requested peace from Georgia after losing 5 stacks.
(https://i.imgur.com/0bLrLbR.png)
Emboldened by the swift victory against Bohemia, our Emperor decides that we can take back the core of Treviso.
We've got it after conquest of Venice. If we act fast enough, Austria will have no choice but to capitulate to our demands!
(https://i.imgur.com/dugoFFu.png)
All pieces set into place, the war is declared, which immediately brings Hesse and their friends Norway into the war.
Of course, Castille and Russia have something to say about it; their troops and navies prepare for war in Scandinavia and Germany!
(https://i.imgur.com/GP5UDMn.png)
We storm the walls of Austrian castles; unlike Bohemian fortresses, Austrian forts are level 2 mostly.
This war however is showing that our Navy is way too weak. Whether it be obsolete ships themselves or incompetence of our Admirals, something must be done about this.
After we recover Treviso, that's it.
(https://i.imgur.com/CYupstk.png)
Troops sent by Holy Roman Emperor are engaged at Karnten, and subsequently destroyed.
We fear no one! We're invicible!!
(https://i.imgur.com/mWWo9uu.png)
Castille calls for help - the alliance of France and Savoy have attacked them!
As we have troops right by Savoyard territory, we've decided to join in on the fighting.
(https://i.imgur.com/Uh1ggfM.png)
Ah, and we were going to ask them for that province at the negotiation table!
It's mostly to deprive them of sea access, thus control of their colonies.
As we do not have core on Gorz, we will sell it to either Aquileia or Slovenia, who do have a core.
(https://i.imgur.com/kNT1L9V.png)
We grab for ourselves Treviso and Liguria, a centre of trade!
Essex belongs to Great Britain, while Wenden is a Russian core - both end in hands of their rightful owners.
(https://i.imgur.com/BZS64mT.png)
Emperor Manuel decides that our colonists must not sit idle.
They will colonize the depths of African jungle.
(https://i.imgur.com/j9qbsQ6.png)
Restructuration of the Navy will be done in two points.
First, we destroy all oar-powered vessels - galleys and such.
Next, we will commission 36 replacements in big and light warships.
(https://i.imgur.com/bsGxvJ1.png)
Two years of diplomatic negotiations with Slovenia and they agree to become our vassals!
Now, all of the Southern Slavs are united under the leadership of Byzantine Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/5naZCm4.png)
That was the last of Manuel IV's accomplishments, however.
Past his prime when he has ascended, he gave Byzantium another long list of successes and victories.
Now his son, Ioannes XV, is the Emperor of Byzantium. His own son, little Theodoros, is the next in line, ensuring continuation of Kotromanic dynasty!
-
031: Downfall of Bohemia
(https://i.imgur.com/jE5bFvS.png)
Their spies have started to be quite successful as of late.
That bothers our Emperor so much that he hired an Inquisitor to get rid of them.
However, plans are also drawn to fight Bohemia again. Their disruptions must not go unpunished!
(https://i.imgur.com/EXlPvtz.png)
New artillery and our reinforced navy are nearly complete!
We attack in few months' time!
(https://i.imgur.com/6Na9Qp1.png)
Blow the horns of war!
All our vassals and dear allies join the war - while even the Hessian Emperor turns his back at Bohemia!
Only Bohemian vassals, who will be liberated, stand alongside the Czech dynast and his armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/DRFOzjJ.png)
First battle of the war is in Ruthenia. An incomplete Bohemian stack gets routed by one of our Themas.
Meanwhile, our other Themas, supplanted by our vassals' troops, bypass the heavily fortified (level 5 or even 6!) provinces like Carpathia or Szolnok.
The lands across from them have mostly level 2 or 3 fortifications, which means less time wasted on conquests.
(https://i.imgur.com/8UpGK5y.png)
Carelessness brought defeat to the Thema led by Emperor Ioannes XV himself!
Fortunately, he escaped unscathed. We will rebuild the Thema lost in the Balkan provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/kDobkCe.png)
The last two years saw both us and Bohemia avoid each other.
But they've signed a peace with Russia, and we can be sure they will come for us next.
A Quartermaster (reinforce speed) and Commandant (morale) are hired to help our Themas in the upcoming fights.
(https://i.imgur.com/IX5ZiGV.png)
Casualties of these big melee massacres are no longer counted in hundreds, but in thousands.
Truly we've reached a new level of battlefield ferocity here.
(https://i.imgur.com/sH41vC9.png)
Yep, it's the war of sieges and cold, angry glaring from across the borders.
We're certainly making inroads into Bohemia, and will soon begin attack on their heartlands.
(https://i.imgur.com/TU0GBXC.png)
Finally, we receive that boost to damage we've needed so badly!
This emboldens Emperor Ioannes XV to have some Themas run after and fight the Bohemian stacks!
(https://i.imgur.com/hfucJNQ.png)
Onwards, to Prague!
Meanwhile, our Imperial Navy is busy fetching other Themas from the outskirts of Byzantium.
One of our armies will be landed in Ostpreussen, to which access we were given by Burgundians (a polite bribe does wonders!)
(https://i.imgur.com/H7Ehvnb.png)
With Prague in our hands and bigger morale amongst our soldiers, Bohemians have become desperate.
They throw small stacks and rush to recover occupied lands with depleted armies, leading only to more Bohemian casualties.
Emperor Ioannes XV will not back out from the war until a total victory is reached.
(https://i.imgur.com/aroci2t.png)
At the city of Ratibor, the Byzantine Emperor and King of Bohemia meet at the field!
And in the closing days of fighting, we receive a notification that Viktorin IV has been killed!!
This is major blow to the Bohemians, an a cause for celebration to us.
(https://i.imgur.com/omV9ohX.png)
The last of Bohemian armies, led by the fearsome and and near invicible Miroslav Liberec, is annihilated at Kiev!
Shortly afterwards, we switch Scientific Revolution for Espionage, to boost our spies and their efficiency.
(https://i.imgur.com/saeVnYs.png)
St.Michael did his work, and he is to be praised.
Now it's time for St.Nicholas (and a level 5 Ambassador) to make us look the best once we're at the table with Bohemian regents.
(https://i.imgur.com/fXkWcV0.png)
In completely unrelated news, we're making inroads into Upper Nile!
The natives here are completely bonkers, but with national focus on Dar Ja'al, we can take the lands rather fast.
The provinces themselves produce either Grain or Slaves, and the more of the latter, the better.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q5Vmuof.png)
Lithuanians and Ukrainians rejoice as they're now living independently for first time in centuries.
The eastern provinces of Bohemians will soon seize the opportunity and rebel, in hopes of joining their Russian brethren.
Bohemia is broken, and will never, EVER, get back from this. And even if they do - we will be ready!!
-
032: Adventures in Italy
(https://i.imgur.com/bg0ZFeZ.png)
Didn't know that Castille is doing so badly it has gotten nationalist rebels.
Eh, Ragusa is of no real importance. It can stay.
(https://i.imgur.com/KLmReMd.png)
Somewhat late, we gain the last upgrades to our Western model military.
We had upgrades during the recent war with Bohemia, and we've rolled them up between battles, to ensure our disorganized Armies won't get pulverized.
(https://i.imgur.com/w2DTEUG.png)
Kingdom of Two Sicilies is but a name nowadays. They've just moved their Capital overseas, probably to South America where they still have some of their colonies intact.
Perfect opportunity for us to retake ancient Byzantine holdings!
(https://i.imgur.com/W1PP9Sd.png)
The old forts in Apulia are easily taken by storming them.
Naples however is much better protected. We will pass the time by chasing down Sicillian armies and stomping over Milan, their vassal (and only ally).
(https://i.imgur.com/icKPcRX.png)
In middle of our little war, Socialist thought emerges amongst the Byzantine upper classes.
Emperor Ioannes XV is personally insulted by this movement. Endorsement would make stabilization of Byzantium harder, and we cannot allow that.
Socialism, therefore, will be repressed!
(https://i.imgur.com/JfWqEt1.png)
The Emperor is dead, long live the Emperor!
Theodoros IV has the unfortunate distinction of not having a heir at the ready, but I'm sure this will be fixed.
(https://i.imgur.com/44eFfgj.png)
It took a year, but we have a heir to the Byzantine throne! His stats are exactly average.
As predicted earlier, the separated Bohemian provinces are now ridden with Russian patriots. Serves them right!
The war drags on - the citizens of Naples, despite being under siege and their ports blockaded, stubbornly refuse to surrender.
(https://i.imgur.com/fBWlQ89.png)
I've added this event all the way back when we were reconquering Syria and friends, but it triggered only now?
We're extremely unlucky, it seems.
(https://i.imgur.com/NMovPMb.png)
We take Cremona purely because we had just enough of war score to do so.
The game immediately tasks us with conquest of Sicily and Malta, the latter still owned by The Knights (Hospitallier, I believe).
Two more wars it is!
(https://i.imgur.com/JUgM7hL.png)
"We're being warned by whom?"
"Emperor of Japan, sir."
Leaves one to wonder just what is our reputation if someone from the other side of the world decides to warn us.
(https://i.imgur.com/KxgZXJ3.png)
On one hand, Sicily got The Knights involved, meaning we can annex them in single conflict.
On other hand, Hessian Emperor got himself and his vassals involved as well.
This might take a while.
(https://i.imgur.com/1KmWl08.png)
We might be underestimating the Hessians; they've rolled out nearly 100k troops into this war, including 50k Army currently besieging Liguria.
Then they won Battle of Tuscany, forcing us to retreat and converge two Themas at Romagna to deter their further attack.
We must wage our actions and words carefully, lest-
(https://i.imgur.com/phjlz2y.png)
Oh.
Back to scheduled conquering, everyone!
(https://i.imgur.com/K5yNu5R.png)
I dislike Stability hits quite much, but the other option would spawn rebels in Greece and Anatolia, and I don't wanna deal with that.
(https://i.imgur.com/U8eYoUH.png)
Truly, there's LOTS of rebel thought around Europe, if Danzig, of all the possible states, emerges!
Meanwhile, we slowly besiege Sicillian and Tuscan holdings.
(https://i.imgur.com/QHbmlop.png)
Malta and Sicily have been annexed, and Emperor Theodoros IV decided to grab some provinces from Tuscany.
Now, Italy Peninsula looks much, much better in terms of coloration, don't you agree?
-
033: Once More Unto Prague
(https://i.imgur.com/i6Q51uK.png)
There will be lots of conversions in Italy!
Fortunately, our influx of Missionaries is above two per year, we can manage this.
(https://i.imgur.com/ORl4aQO.png)
Bah! The healers failed, and our heir, Konstantinos, is no more!
(https://i.imgur.com/bZ4gab2.png)
BAH I SAY!
(https://i.imgur.com/C8CMekJ.png)
Emperor Theodoros IV decides to distract himself from death of his son by constructing Universities and expanding our Themas once more.
More artillery and more cannon fo- I mean infantry is always a good thing, especially during sieges.
(https://i.imgur.com/vGHLLQM.png)
Goddamn natives! They've burned Kordofan colony for 2nd time already.
(https://i.imgur.com/wTLTl30.png)
Phew, we've got a replacement. And Andronikos has quite good stats, too!
And in the background, you can see that we broke Austria a bit too much.
It's full of rebels!
(https://i.imgur.com/noCzKBg.png)
This way we have no need for St.Nicholas or Embassy building.
It will greatly help cut down our current Infamy as well.
Few days later, Andronikos is also hailed as Porphyrogennetos, giving us legitimacy and prestige. Yay!
(https://i.imgur.com/qSelv6h.png)
Poor Brazil.
(https://i.imgur.com/BQR7ymN.png)
Emperor Theodoros IV gets a bit tense with all those rebels and revolutions.
He decides that to bring peace to Byzantium, the people must be kept on a tighter leash than before.
A national program of repressions will do just that; we don't worry about our economy as we still earn lots of money per year.
(https://i.imgur.com/N3bnunn.png)
The Nubian tribe of Funj needs to be civilized, for even the Haasa bedouins are actually a kingdom.
Byzantium will civilize Funj well!
...well we would, if Haasan troops didn't get back to Suakin province scant few days before Thema Thessalonikes did. Oh well!
(https://i.imgur.com/QuKOUEU.png)
They're small, yes, and most importantly they stand between our provinces of Venezia and Treviso, and the lands of Slovenia, our vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZjcM1P8.png)
Really guys?
Because of a single one-province state? Come on!
I guess Tuscany likes to pick up a fight with us way too much. Another vassal to the herd, anyone?
(https://i.imgur.com/lKNdnOc.png)
The fools are thinking we would not answer the call of help of Lithuania??
Time to beat Bohemia once again!
After we vassalize Aquileia and go to peace with rest of Holy Roman Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/7b1sagf.png)
Battles rage in Bohemian Hungary and we will soon have to deal with shortages of supplies deep in Bohemian territory or in Russian wilderness.
This idea will make our armies, even when combined, impervious to such things.
(https://i.imgur.com/jc2GYte.png)
Of course I'm not going to decentralize

Our war with Bohemia drags on, per usual, and Lithuania had to give up some territories.
But Emperor Theodoros IV has a plan how to get them back to their old owners.
(https://i.imgur.com/YWgvflx.png)
The largest battle of the war occurs at Ersekujvar, and we had to retreat!
(https://i.imgur.com/HZrkeif.png)
A bold plan by Pelagios Akropolites sees our Themas chase the Bohemian armies all the way to Erz.
There, even bigger battle than Ersekujvar occurs, and we win!
(https://i.imgur.com/U37OxhW.png)
Their armies are broken apart, so we begin siege of their heartlands.
(https://i.imgur.com/EZ5mFV5.png)
Took way too long to subjugate Aquileia.
They've been converted and vassalized, while Nice also had to turn to Orthodox faith.
(https://i.imgur.com/e12BSsQ.png)
I bet that our Emperor died of boredom.
(https://i.imgur.com/osya1bF.png)
Andronikos ascends to the throne and his sister Helen is the next heir.
Emperor Andronikos VIII's first act will be to seek peace with Bohemia.
(https://i.imgur.com/KhCfmzE.png)
And peace is signed! Bohemia is torn in two thanks to Andronikos' skill at diplomacy.
Mayhaps this will curb their expansionist tendencies.
-
034: Farewell to Constantinople
(https://i.imgur.com/iP9a4Tp.png)
First time we've got Kordofan to host more than 400 colonists.
Celebration time!
(https://i.imgur.com/aTSa0uw.png)
WHAT FOOD SHORTAGES we have dozens of grain and fish producing provinces!!
And what the heck is that rebel army size, Iesos Xristos!
The other option demands we spend over 5000 ducats to buy the grain, which ain't happening.
(https://i.imgur.com/zVZxV5J.png)
Where are all those rebels coming from!?
Is this rebel pollen season or something?
(https://i.imgur.com/kNDIMcC.png)
Would you believe that Mr.Phouskarnaki here was only this much from calling a retreat?
We destroy the rebels, and then we destroy the natives of Kordofan, we've wasted too much time with that land.
(https://i.imgur.com/P7BqtWw.png)
I'VE SAID NO!
(https://i.imgur.com/vNbfHJJ.png)
Cowards, all of them!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZDbjaKs.png)
aaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH
Socialists did it! Helene, whom we just introduced to the court at age of 15, has no heir at the moment.
She has terrible stats though.
(https://i.imgur.com/dDP4FWW.png)
First the peasants, now the intelligentsia?
Fine then! We will censor ALL the things!
We have enough Fine Arts Academies built around Byzantium to counter that -4 cultural tradition per year.
(https://i.imgur.com/sZ3fsaP.png)
Despite all the little obstacles in the recent year, stability reigns supreme in Byzantium.
Also, Queen Helene now has a son!
(https://i.imgur.com/uUgaNE5.png)
Despite not being the greatest diplomat around, Queen Helene does persuade Silesia (and later Mazovia and Nitra) to become Byzantine vassals.
Byzantium is currently a powerful state with multiple client states, pious Orthodox people, and vast amount of resources and wealth!
(https://i.imgur.com/H63RLXi.png)
And may it last forever. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gh8U-gjWr4I)
-
We've been a German Minor, a colonial empire and restored the Pentarchy.
Time for something a bit different!
001: IN NOMINE DEI
(https://i.imgur.com/8a2X2ep.png)
We're the Order of Brothers of the German House of Saint Mary in Jerusalem! Or Prussia, but that's semantics
Invited by one of Polish dukes decades ago, we've been responsible for bringing the light of Christianity upon the pagans living in the dark.
Nowadays, however, the pagans are mostly Catholic, and we're kinda out of work at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/Dd4YDn5.png)
To kill the time (and kill some infidels), we can exploit the schismatics of the East.
Subjugation of Pskov will wait a bit; first we need to create a proper army.
(https://i.imgur.com/CGjtFtJ.png)
The Holy Roman Emperor himself is asking that we will become his allies!
Obviously, to protect our flank against the Polish and Lithuanians, we accept!
Meanwhile, treaties are signed with Pope Bonifacius IX. It's always good to be on the good side of the God, and his shepherds.
(https://i.imgur.com/b8MdD7Y.png)
Pskov used its diplomatic skills to get some friends by the way of Tver and Ryazan.
Therefore, we ally with their common enemy - the Muscovy!
(https://i.imgur.com/EEVwpFy.png)
Tver and Ryazan join the war to protect Principality of Pskov, and Muscovy was unwilling to join the war.
No matter, we can call up Holy Roman Emperor, if only to get some scary numbers showing.
(https://i.imgur.com/3IjQsMh.png)
Most Holy Mother in Heavens!
We're recruiting Sir de Bazan immediately.
(https://i.imgur.com/9klV3IS.png)
After the army of Knyaz John is destroyed, we return to besiege and capture his land.
He is forced to accept our overlordship as well as convert to Catholicism!
(https://i.imgur.com/KPnDHqa.png)
Right, the pagans of Samogitia know when to stir up trouble.
We leave some soldiers to besiege Tver territories, as we intend to demand money from them.
Probably will have to spend it on missionary work in Samogitia.
(https://i.imgur.com/XGdTCDO.png)
It will be good for our people to promote the Florentines.
And for our religious propaganda efforts, too!
(https://i.imgur.com/TjLWYzE.png)
The Bohemian Emperor is quite a hard worker, and has managed to centralize the Empire a bit just after we conclude the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/6I0srN5.png)
As we contemplate the majesty of God, our officials need to keep our administration efficient.
Some extra law-making is overdue anyways!
(https://i.imgur.com/m63iYb2.png)
Meanwhile, the south-east of our domains, everything exploded in many shades of green.
Lithuania also is no longer bound to Poland, which is suffering from rebels and legitimacy crises.
We've got to exploit this situation, but how...?
(https://i.imgur.com/C5fdma2.png)
!* (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P5qbcRAXVk)
-
002: AVE MARIA
(https://i.imgur.com/KG1Q2s3.png)
Alas, the old Konrad von Jungingen has passed away to the house of God!
The Kapitel has elected Konrad V to lead the Order, against the war with Poles.
(https://i.imgur.com/IzuOEhf.png)
...On the other hand though, maybe let's not do that.
(https://i.imgur.com/D8yVure.png)
In the meanwhile, smugglers and other unsavory folk are running our ports.
We need to deal with them!
(https://i.imgur.com/MkOYkRb.png)
Aha! The vile Lithuanians of Samogitia finally accepted both the supremacy of the God and our customs.
And yes, the Golden Horde is currently rampanging through all those little Rus states.
(https://i.imgur.com/EzJUBoE.png)
it seems not all is well within Bohemian territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/k774Qxz.png)
The God is trying the Order, but we shall prevail.
Meanwhile, Golden Horde continues to devour the Rus principalities province by province.
(https://i.imgur.com/qlg4zea.png)
Polotsk becomes our ally.
Konrad V is infuriated by the fact that anywhere we want to expand, someone or something protects our enemies.
(https://i.imgur.com/HIXg54y.png)
Good reason as any to collect some war taxes.
Maybe our fleet will see some use, too!
(https://i.imgur.com/w1RSVPM.png)
Our Army must become the bestest in the Catholic world.
This way, we do not have to fear the hordes!
(https://i.imgur.com/UMbP1Bc.png)
Out of all people in the war, Brittany sailed to the Baltic and tried to invade Gotland.
We've sunk their ships with ease.
(https://i.imgur.com/ow2jKwa.png)
They want to take Osel from us.
We will send them to our Lord, the Father!
(https://i.imgur.com/fToipRl.png)
Our navy wins at the Baltic, and our brothers win at Gotland.
(https://i.imgur.com/SYCtORX.png)
Danish King died during the war, and the Swedes declared independence.
They've swiftly accepted our peace treaty.
Meanwhile, Lubeck and Mecklenburg allowed our soldiers to pass through their territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/RlKaDXa.png)
The Battle of Holstein would go awry if not for Bohemian reinforcements!
Then, we chase the Danes to Schleswig, delivering another defeat unto them.
(https://i.imgur.com/urkWzXx.png)
Deus Vult!
The Danes have been punished, and Bohemian Emperor will sure like that we liberated Holstein, a Prince of the Empire.
Now let's check what is the Golden Horde up to-
(https://i.imgur.com/fzxhbzW.png)
*little_girl_scream.mp3*
-
003: TU GLORIA, DEI
(https://i.imgur.com/pUlfh2Y.png)
Why thank you, Hungary. It *might* help us somehow.
(https://i.imgur.com/WwIArPa.png)
Turns out, the Golden Horde nomads are made of vellum!
The army in Samogitia was routed to and destroyed at Kurland.
(https://i.imgur.com/ONCh85X.png)
Similarily, the siege in Pskov was lifted, and then Lithuanians showed up at Polotsk to help us deal with the horde.
The main army in Livland continues to pose a definite threat.
(https://i.imgur.com/IMtDpoF.png)
We had no choice but to strike them. And we won!
We've routed them to Estland, then back onto swamps of Livland, where the infidels were obliterated!
Golden Horde as a whole is experiencing a cascade of rebellions. Quite probably their Khan died during the war with us, but the exact moment eluded me.
(https://i.imgur.com/flcJCeG.png)
Men-at-Arms will extend our staying time on the battlefield!
Shortly afterwards, the Golden Horde offers to concede defeat. Konrad V, not being greedy, accepts the terms.
(https://i.imgur.com/qH3LrSc.png)
As we're recovering from the war with Golden Horde, positive events keep popping up.
Like this centralization tax, for example.
(https://i.imgur.com/ItoFyDB.png)
A new Hochmeister leads the Teutonic Order!
He isn't a great commander, but he is faithful servant of the God at least.
(https://i.imgur.com/0VaRBTI.png)
A new war, this time with Poland!
Brandenburg started it, Bohemia got involved, and they asked us to come help.
Hochmeister Konrad VI has a bold plan to take the city of Plock and add it to the Order's territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/GVgdeVJ.png)
Brandenburg got Poznan and we've got Plock, just as planned.
We pull out from this war and deal minor damage to Golden Horde's units.
(https://i.imgur.com/9opLkJA.png)
We cannot wait anymore!
Hochmeister Konrad buys services of two thousand mercenary cavalry, and off we go!
Two weeks later its evident we're getting an asskicking.
A new Master Recruiter is hired to expand our manpower a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/qhquu83.png)
What Bohemia did could be summarized as 'Unfortunate Series of Calls for Arms'.
We ditch the Emperor before it gets even worse, and concede defeat to the Golden Horde.
(https://i.imgur.com/L4RJxwT.png)
Fortunately, the leader of the war we were in, Hungary, is pretty chill.
They accept the white peace Konrad VI offered them.
(https://i.imgur.com/vHhHlAY.png)
Prince-Elector of Brandenburg, Friedrich Wilhelm I von Holstein - no doubt happy that we didnt join the war - offers us an alliance, and Konrad VI accepts graciously.
All brothers within the Order are sure this is the start of a profitable, long-lasting relationship!
-
004: SALVE REGINA
(https://i.imgur.com/3lUE71M.png)
Of course we're not fighting Bohemia right now.
But in few years, the treaties they have with our friends should expire. Then, we can strike at them!
(https://i.imgur.com/jWBFEk7.png)
The early expiration of treaties with Nomads is really painful thing this early.
But! Austria and Brandenburg decide to contribute to the war by donating us 8 ducats monthly.
We can raise a mercenary horde and mayhaps win against the Nomads with our own cavalry masses.
(https://i.imgur.com/jjgYixU.png)
Both our mercenary cavalry and troops from Pskov arrive in time to help us defeat the initial attack!
(https://i.imgur.com/agX5HCq.png)
A deja vu for our Brothers, but once again we chase the Mongols back and forth between Estland and Livland, before the Livland's swamps become the nomads' mass grave.
We dismiss the mercenaries afterwards. They're useful but, boy, are they costly.
(https://i.imgur.com/uUAx6Ac.png)
It's time to stop bothering ourselves with Mongols, however.
Hochmeister Konrad called for less combat-minded brothers to settle in Polotsk area and bring civilization to the Byelorussian peoples living there.
(https://i.imgur.com/KJNCH8q.png)
Polotsk province has defected to us, but the war is not over.
Smolensk is the Horde's vassal, and therefore provides connection to our lands.
Konrad VI, seeing that Austria and Brandenburg continue to support our cause with money, decides to not send envoys to the Khan just yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/805X0lq.png)
It seems that innovative approach of Konrad VI does not go well with all of our Brothers.
The revolt that does rise in Polotsk is easily squashed, thanks to the coincidental presence of Novgorodian troops that were en route to wage war against Ukraine. Talk about luck!
(https://i.imgur.com/O48E8bX.png)
We cancel military access treaty with Pomerania in last minute, but it still a stability hit.
(https://i.imgur.com/f0wMqdu.png)
Alright, even without our involvement, they've got this.
Turns out Austria became Holy Roman Emperor when we weren't looking, and can roll out a huge army if need arises.
(https://i.imgur.com/KT3GuUV.png)
Wunderbar!
Once again our little vassal, Pskov, helps out - they've taken Hinterpommern for us, and due to how war is going for Pomerania, they've agreed to hand it over.
Keeping it will be tricky, however, for its a sanctioned territory of Holy Roman Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cv1RQYK.png)
Brandenburg and Holy Roman Emperor go to war against Bohemia and France.
And we didn't get an invitation :C
(https://i.imgur.com/FwVK6gt.png)
Brandenburg breaks the alliance, but Austria and Novgorod sign one with us!
Unfortunately, Master Esteban, after nearly fifty years of working for Teutonic Order, passes away. He will be remembered!
(https://i.imgur.com/kUGdqI7.png)
And so, fifty years of our leadership over Teutonic Order have passed.
We've won some, we've lost some, we gained some provinces, and friends (though these come and go as they please).
What's next in store for the Hochmeister Konrad and his Brothers?
-
005: STABAT MATER
We have a most holiest of tasks to vassalize Riga, but they're part of Holy Roman Empire.
How do we go around this?
(https://i.imgur.com/vw2zJ17.png)
We go to war with Lithuania, their ally, on a pretext, and that draws Riga in.
With Austria on our side, the plan has been set in motion.
If we play our cards right, we make Riga our vassal AND take the core in Trakai from Lithuania!
(https://i.imgur.com/rzk8jE9.png)
We deal with main Lithuanian Army after we pulverize Rigan forces at Kurland.
(https://i.imgur.com/cOkVZ6j.png)
But with all this fighting, someone had to die on the battlefield.
It was the Austrian Emperor himself, and the Electors, swayed by Bohemian money, passed the throne to the Czech dynasts, who promptly warned us against warring.
(https://i.imgur.com/cynB37A.png)
Once again, Pskovian people prove themselves to be most loyal of all!
They've taken Riga for us, which let us vassalize them and complete the mission.
(https://i.imgur.com/PQEqSjK.png)
Hochmeister Konrad VI decides to not overstay our welcome in Lithuania, and concluded a peace treaty with Lithuania.
(https://i.imgur.com/BaMuXg4.png)
Novgorod turned their back at us during our war, but they didn't help their other allies, Lithuanians, either.
They deserve a second chance at alliance.
(https://i.imgur.com/pazhX0W.png)
We give our serfs some freedoms and it already brings benefits, aww ye!
(https://i.imgur.com/0OEfIE9.png)
Those juicy stats!... He will make a great commander, I bet.
(https://i.imgur.com/klsOUuo.png)
Hmmm... not only they have no ties with Holy Roman Empire, they also are of Orthodox faith.
Hochmeister Karl Alexander ordered a mobilization!
(https://i.imgur.com/dWNf6JD.png)
This one might be a tricky war, for the Poles managed to get some troops going.
Nonetheless, our battle plan is simple - we deal with Polotsk, vassalize them, and then take the war to Poland.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZmLObt2.png)
Knowing that speed is of essence, Karl Alexander takes a loan and hires spies to sabotage defenses of Minsk.
This allows us to enforce vassalization upon Polotsk, which still has its army intact.
Despite the fact that Sweden joined the war, they're suspciously quiet. Even their navy sticks to their ports.
(https://i.imgur.com/JX18Hjb.png)
Hi Lusatia!
I mean, we win the battle of Plock easily, while Riga distracts Poland and Ukraine.
Now, while Pskov the Besieger is chilling in Torun, we can march on to Warszawa!
(https://i.imgur.com/3H43tj9.png)
Poles are humilitated once again, and this time its Torun that joins our territorial domain.
(https://i.imgur.com/h3P2nTK.png)
Perfect opportunity to get Kalisz!
We join the war immediately. That causes France and its vassals, friends of Bohemians, to join the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/JYIEzBG.png)
Faced with war on two fronts, Hochmeister Karl Alexander decides to sell the island of Gotland to Sweden. It's a poor province with Swedish, not Prussian, population, too.
We must concentrate on the war with Bohemia and France now.
(https://i.imgur.com/sYd8yDk.png)
Just few days after the old Bohemian Emperor dies, his replacement signs a white peace with Austria.
We didn't gain anything from it, sadly
(https://i.imgur.com/riatU4m.png)
For a moment, I was wondering how this was possible.
Then I've realized that Polotsk, our vassal, is bordering Bryansk, the easternmost of Horde's territories.
It was inevitable, I guess.
-
006: DEUS VULT!
(https://i.imgur.com/N0Cbqbk.png)
It seems that Golden Horde has picked a fight with way too many people at once, ha!
(https://i.imgur.com/DBHnJ7B.png)
One by one, our detached Banner Army is capturing Horde's territories.
Their main armies are probably fighting Ottomans, the most powerful of Horde's neighbours at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/rAdvA4P.png)
Hochmeister Karl Alexander wastes no time to use his influence with the Pope to excommunicate Polish King!
Not only are their our enemies, King Stefan is also relative to King of Bohemia, Fridrich Falcky Podebrad. We need to keep both as weak as possible.
(https://i.imgur.com/QtQHSuM.png)
Not long afterwards, our relationship sours even more by an event.
We then proclaim that Baltic provinces are no longer part of the Holy Roman Empire. Estland will follow soon, albeit Riga is an autonomous territory in this regard.
(https://i.imgur.com/ihB5qXh.png)
Loan gets repaid; this will help our economy recover somewhat.
Meanwhile, our strategy of capturing Golden Horde's territories is slowly paying off.
(https://i.imgur.com/rxphChE.png)
Finally, a second idea. As shown by previous wars, fighting spirit is what we have - manpower, however, is always on short notice.
Hopefully this will help us alleviate that problem.
(https://i.imgur.com/r3Bm2A6.png)
I've moved our main Army here just in time to prevent a total disaster.
The beaten up nomadic troop we chase all the way to Cherhassk.
(https://i.imgur.com/5FDNZbm.png)
Hard times give rise to hard men!
Hochmeister Wolfgang decides to prolong the war with Golden Horde for a while longer.
(https://i.imgur.com/CxYfOrt.png)
A field battle between us and the new Golden Horde's Khan, as previous must've died in one of the fights.
We win it, but the beaten up army manages to escape as Hochmeister Wolfgang and rest of brothers get lost a bit in Bogutjar.
(https://i.imgur.com/M6pJLF4.png)
A revolt in Torun almost succeeds because Poland, in the last moment, blocks the passage of Hochmeister Wolfgang's army!
Shortly afterwards, we decide that nothing else to be gained from fighting the nomads, and force them to concede defeat.
(https://i.imgur.com/VKs1OUL.png)
We sell Polotsk to, well, Polotsk. It's Orthodox province inhabited by Byelorussian peoples.
Our vassal will make better use of it, for sure. 200 Ducats don't come easily for the Order, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/7mLw1P7.png)
Just as we enter the war to help Austria against Milan (a symbolic gesture), we gain 4 cores across the border!
(https://i.imgur.com/jb5RbH6.png)
Southern provinces of Lithuania are revolting and switching over to Ukraine.
We might as well capture annex them in entirety - of 3 remaining provinces, only Podlasie isn't our core.
(https://i.imgur.com/LViucSB.png)
Volhynia went to Ukraine and then we annexed Lithuania.
All according to the plans, just like Hochmeister Wolfgang desired, haha!
-
007: REGINA CAELI
(https://i.imgur.com/C0iTGZN.png)
A little bit of European news this time, it seems that Ottomans are overwhelmed by fighting Castille and Golden Horde at once.
Those patriotic Greeks might actually help restore Byzantium to its previous borders!
(https://i.imgur.com/xPzUSIE.png)
Meanwhile, we use the peace we have to reform our bureaucracy a bit.
Extra trade and production efficiency never hurts!
(https://i.imgur.com/MpHyW31.png)
Considering that Grodno is our current border with Ukraine and others, a +50% boost to defense strength is the best luck!
(https://i.imgur.com/CksWBSV.png)
We join the war just to get the war taxes going.
(https://i.imgur.com/31UmlCL.png)
Ha ha, suck it Bohemia!
We can't underestimate burgundy, though, even if they're on the opposite side of Holy Roman Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/llHyJuK.png)
Even with numerical advantage, the Poles can't win a fight against us.
(https://i.imgur.com/q3KFvsS.png)
Yaaaaaas!
We march off right away for Sieradz; unfortunately Brandenburg got their troops to Kalisz first.
(https://i.imgur.com/fOUZvlH.png)
We don't participate in actual fighting until we notice that Brandenburg and Venice, Austrian friends, are fighting Bohemia in Lusatian territories.
That's when we join up with them; the Bohemians are defeated twice before we destroy them at Neumark!
(https://i.imgur.com/xgjWwec.png)
In terms of territories, once again we gain nothing.
Diplomatically though, Bohemia is no longer in any relationship with Poland - and we have a core on Warszawa!
(https://i.imgur.com/dzJObOs.png)
Took us a year to prepare enough forces; all the recent conquests boosted our army limit and manpower.
We've hired a general, and re-affirmed our treaties. We must act quickly, for Hungary is a big country and might interfere.
(https://i.imgur.com/6OWWNH2.png)
Took us but half a year to accomplish our goals.
Hungary, in meanwhile, barely started fighting with the Austrians. I believe not a siege was completed before we annexed Poland.
The province of Krakow is not our core, and lies behind Kingdom of Sandomierz, buuut I think we can hold onto it for now.
(https://i.imgur.com/CHWmrgs.png)
Novgorod was beaten by Sweden and France in a war, abandoning multiple treaties, including Trade League treaty with us.
After we give Genoa rights for cloth trade, Hochmeister Wolfgang remembers that we have a core claim on Ingermanland.
(https://i.imgur.com/fgcAF9E.png)
Hochmeister Wolfgang scratches another war from the timetable.
Unlike Polotsk, we will ensure that the Estonian peoples of Ingermanland will be properly baptised as Catholics.
I wonder how Austria is doing-
(https://i.imgur.com/85EbVIf.png)
Mein Gott!
Good for them, and I think it will be better if we stay as friends of Austria for a while longer.
(https://i.imgur.com/FfLRMYt.png)
Few years later, the Emperorship goes back to our side of Europe.
Right into hands of Brandenburg, who still has a mission to conquer Hinterpommern.
Hochmeister Wolfgang will soon raise some more troops, just in case.
(https://i.imgur.com/IQZtouL.png)
THIS TIME we're getting the cores back! You just see!
(https://i.imgur.com/rmSaAhb.png)
Conquestblocked by Austria, again.
Who's surprised?
I'm not.
-
008: AVE MARIS STELLA
(https://i.imgur.com/RlUD9OC.png)
Ah, the old approach of giving away Freiestadte rights in return for political influence.
No doubt, Brandenburg will soon try to pass a reform within HRE, strengthening the position of Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/H77OeVK.png)
More of a diplomat than a warrior, we're sure that Hochmeister Heinrich V will do his best.
(https://i.imgur.com/4KvEc2j.png)
Bavaria, the tiny, shrunked Bavaria, had enough guts to almost singlehandedly win against Bohemia, and have them give independence to Kingdoms of Silesia and Sieradz.
Unfortunately we soon lose our claims to Kalisz, bleh!
Sieradz, however, is still a core. We're going to war, my brothers! To war!
(https://i.imgur.com/2QJ7V94.png)
Hochmeister Heinrich V has decided to call in favor from Austria and have them join the war, if only on paper.
That alone must've scared Bavaria away and abandon their newfound vassal ally.
(https://i.imgur.com/8nHe7ja.png)
The wind is blowing in strange directions, as heresies are popping left and right and Orthodox landlords keep regaining their territories against Golden Horde.
We adopt Unam Sanctam to show the Pope that we're the true Christians... and to help us wage war against the infidels.
(https://i.imgur.com/R1HapDw.png)
Rather than annexing Kalisz, Hochmeister Heinrich decides to make them a vassal.
This time we have less administrative hassle, plus no Polish rebels to deal with (and they pop up in Krakow, Podlasie and Torun with annoying frequency).
(https://i.imgur.com/sIqSEZ1.png)
We've been conceding defeat to preserve manpower and time for the past twenty(?) years or so.
No more - Hochmeister Heinrich has decided it is time to punish the nomadic heathens accordingly!
(https://i.imgur.com/vDJP2YR.png)
Battle of Kursk is one of the most successful ones in the war.
Not only we beat the Golden Horde thoroughly, their Khan dies shortly afterwards! Rebels and pretenders eagerly spring up across the steppes.
(https://i.imgur.com/K5MbI4Q.png)
Another big battle is at Bogutjar, where we annihilate one of their armies in totality.
Our vassals, as well as Castille and France, take this as a cue to march forth into the vast steppes and start besieging the territories en masse.
(https://i.imgur.com/FkCOGkW.png)
Yes, yes, sure thing, we can join the war.
It brings Pommerania and Holstein into the conflict, but that's nothing our fleet and the 3rd Army can't handle.
(https://i.imgur.com/I2GVnE4.png)
Look at those numbers.
The nomads are broken!
(https://i.imgur.com/WRYKiQn.png)
All this conquering and exploring of steppes, and we then receive new maps at the dawn of new century.
Turns out Golden Horde had much more land than we've previously thought.
(https://i.imgur.com/RlCERqw.png)
In short succession, Brandenburg revokes military access treaties with us, and then insults us to destabilize our relationship.
Our armies have been hastilly recalled west, and our envoys are riding east to conduct peace with Golden Horde.
A greater problem and even greater conflict might arise soon - Hochmeister Heinrich is pretty sure it's all about ownership of Hinterpommern.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fnbv6dz.png)
We force Golden Horde to cancel vassalships of Ryazan and Smolensk.
Meanwhile, we get access to Galloglaigh infantry, but it has terrible defensive stats. We will stick to Man-of-Arms infantry for now.
We're building up numerical strength, and just before Christmas we got 2nd insult from Brandenburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/RgJgX7f.png)
IT BEGINS.
-
009: GOTT MIT UNS!
(https://i.imgur.com/QFUmSeo.png)
This is situation at the start of the war - Brandenburg has vast armies, and many allies.
Burgundy however is severely weakened at the moment, and we've managed to get Austria, and thus France, involved as well.
We have no big chances winning with Brandenburg 1 on 1 on field, therefore we must strike 2 vs 1 and defeat Brandenburgian forces piece by piece.
In terms of diplomacy, we will try our best to persuade Burgundy to leave the war early, maybe even with help of a bribe.
(https://i.imgur.com/OoXqktx.png)
Our first fight! The combined enemy forces under Ernst August II Basedow, Duke of Saxe-Lauenburg, are routed.
After that we reorganize our troops into two armies instead of three, and retreat to Plock and Warmia.
Austrians in meanwhile get busy beating up Brandenburgian allies.
(https://i.imgur.com/4gh38nK.png)
While we're busy relieving the Siege of Torun, Hochmeister Heinrich V is approached by Burgundian envoys.
We accept the peace wholeheartedly - this means we, Austria and France and concentrate on Brandenburg and its allies alone!
We win the Battle of Torun shortly afterwards, and prepare to strike Emperor Wilhelm Friedrich I at Hinterpommern.
(https://i.imgur.com/2AYWyZO.png)
Beaten him up, chased him to Neumark.
From Neumark, we ride to Berlin, defeating him once more.
Then we chase him all the way to Ruppin, where he suffers the 3rd defeat in a row.
(https://i.imgur.com/4jQ4dcU.png)
Finally, at Altmark, the Emperor's personal army is destroyed, albeit he escapes with his life intact.
Austria wins several sieges against Brunswick and Hesse, but detached Brandenburgian forces beat up our Polish vassals.
(https://i.imgur.com/UREcESb.png)
HERESYYYYYY! Some Christian heretics, calling themselves 'Protestants' have taken over Saxony!
Unfortunately we're too busy; with help of spies and agents, we gain upper hand at the sieges of Ruppin and Brandenburg.
As soon as these two provinces are ours, we will move back east and undo the Emperor's victories against Duchy of Sieradz.
(https://i.imgur.com/xa45ItU.png)
HANS, PREPARE THE BURNING STAKES!
The two crucial sieges are won; the Emperor organizes a twenty thousand strong troop, parking it in Neumark.
We march against it, and it will serve as final victory against Brandenburg!
(https://i.imgur.com/RrBOjlZ.png)
Brandenburgian morale is several crippled if, after Battle of Neumark, their forces scatter after being chased to Poznan.
Yet, our foe raises another legion, placing it at Torun.
(https://i.imgur.com/P1HFoRA.png)
Sir Stefan is a fierce commander, but even he suffers an ignoble defeat at Torun, then Danzig.
Hochmeister Heinrich, not seeing another Brandenburgian army nearby, orders the split up of our forces into four to besiege remainder of provinces.
Austria, Pskov and Polotsk also scores victories against Brunswick and Hesse, and we force the latter out of the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/h93oCJb.png)
Hochmeister Heinrich V dies in a skirmish against peasants who rose in revolt at Memel.
But, Konrad VII is ready to lead the Order in final moments of the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/BpaLWVm.png)
We maximize our war score and force a harsh treaty upon Brandenburg.
Their local power diminishes as we gain a core and an ally in Mecklenburg, and Saxe-Lauenburg now is an independent Kingdom.
(https://i.imgur.com/nAHxeCu.png)
Speaking of Kingdoms - Hochmeister Konrad VII, seeing all the heresies and the fact that nobody seems to listen to God anymore, decides to make himself a King as well.
Our military traditions and prowess on battlefield will be a basis for Kingdom of Prussia, no longer a theocracy but still upholding most sacred of Catholic virtues.
Gott mit Uns!
-
010: Der Koniggratzer Marsch
(https://i.imgur.com/OKr0AmF.png)
The first acts of King Konrad are to get us more missionaries (as we will get innovative soon) and get some extra discipline thanks to militia.
(https://i.imgur.com/14gyqUj.png)
The Electoral Council is heavily divided, and for a reason - Brandenburg, unable to defend itself, cannot exert pressure on Electors to convert back to Catholicism.
Meissen, Saxony and Palatinate are all Protestant, and that gives Counts Palatine the most votes at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/UKgWE2T.png)
The Nodynasty is the best dynasty, obviously we come from Julius Caesar!
That reminds me we should get a heir to keep the dynastic lines stable and our legitimacy high.
(https://i.imgur.com/OeNIdR1.png)
All we had to do was wait a little bit!
Little Albrecht is almost splitting image of his father, trading a point of Administration for Diplomacy.
(https://i.imgur.com/LWslwOd.png)
We can now create some artillery units!
Four will be assembled, one each for each of our armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/hDz4Cwo.png)
Haha! Syndic of Verden has family jewels made of steel, forcing the Holy Roman Emperor to undo a reform.
We should become friends with that republican guy, he is a cool and ain't afraid of anything.
(https://i.imgur.com/NHZPp9t.png)
Bah, we should do something about those heretics!
(https://i.imgur.com/BYUoMXE.png)
Landsknechten, with their high morale, is the way to go.
We will adopt the Culverin artillery as soon as our mortars are completed.
(https://i.imgur.com/WaBT3G8.png)
Cautious about getting himself tangled in Imperial politics and dynasties, we do form a marital bond with the tiny Kingdom of Magdeburg.
We might even inherit it, too, as King Sigismund has no heir ready.
(https://i.imgur.com/fahMEd0.png)
Currently, prestige is harder to come by for us than legitimacy.
Sorry cousin, but that's how it is in Prussia!
(https://i.imgur.com/9zY5UoL.png)
A mission gives us a reason to push our claims for Lower Silesia.
We go to war with Bohemia for control of Breslau! Sweden gets involved, but they're a naval power, not a land force.
Austria is already in Sudetenland, so this shouldn't be a tough war.
(https://i.imgur.com/jEES3pX.png)
The main - and only - Bohemian army is routed from Breslau, and at Sieradz, we and our allies decimate the Bohemians!
This allows us to go and besiege their provinces all at once.
Swedish forces land at Ingermanland faster than anticipated, but we can deal with them in time.
(https://i.imgur.com/7nYi3hm.png)
Gaah, must they meddle in like that??
At least they've have very low stability and rather high war exhaustion, according to the war summary. We might push them for a white peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/cmS7xma.png)
In middle of fighting at Estland, the Swedes ask us for a white peace.
Obviously, we accept this generous offer.
(https://i.imgur.com/ASvRXy0.png)
Haha, just as the Swiss are at low stability, too!
That's what they get for meddling with our wars. Their friend and ally, Burgundy, has started to send out peace feelers, but we're not done with Bohemia yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/aCL3SJq.png)
King Konrad dies during siege of Sudetenland!
A pretender rises far in the north, but he is weak and his forces small. He will be crushed by soldiers loyal to Crown Prince Albrecht!
(https://i.imgur.com/fMmh2Zv.png)
Lusatia stuck out with us for a while longer, and that's why we give them a tiny repayment.
Bohemians are forced to agree to our harsh terms. The war is not over, we force Duke of Sandomierz to swear fealty to us instead.
(https://i.imgur.com/vkOM93v.png)
Finally!
I hate the stubborn ones that prolong wars for no reason.
*click*
-
011: König Albrecht und Rückeroberung von Neumark
(https://i.imgur.com/fPDzke4.png)
For God and country!
We become one of members of the Counter-Reformation movement.
(https://i.imgur.com/LC9S9Z8.png)
This uprising turned out to be quite scary, as the Mazovians have managed to severely deplete 3rd Army.
Fortunately, 2nd Army intervened, drove them from Warszawa and annihilated them at Plock.
(https://i.imgur.com/F3iYtnS.png)
Turns out that the chronic instability in Burgundy finally erupted into a civil war.
Who knows how it will end? Might possibly result in fragmentation of Burgundy into several small states.
(https://i.imgur.com/SIupQBr.png)
I wouldn't say that our currently situation requires miracles, but higher Stability is always nice to have.
In slightly over a year, Albrecht will be crowned King of Prussia.
(https://i.imgur.com/vK9Xpmx.png)
The old Brandenburgian Emperor is dead!
Our buddy Austria is crowned as the new Holy Roman Emperor. That's both good and bad thing.
(https://i.imgur.com/opd2vKx.png)
Long live King Albrecht! His cousin Friedrich Wilhelm is there to ascend to the throne next.
King Albrecht has already started some reforming, you see.
He will also oversee expansion of Prussian armies and construction of new levels of fortifications in the western half of our country.
(https://i.imgur.com/CkLjBhJ.png)
This is, of course, all a ruse. We have no intention of conquering Ukraine.
(https://i.imgur.com/AaAtbFK.png)
Neumark is still a Prussian core! With this little dirty plan, we've drawn Brandenburg into the war WITHOUT angering Austria, the Holy Roman Emperor.
This way, we can wage war against Brandenburg, take Neumark, and cripple them - mayhaps even vassalize them - and all will be looking legit to the Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/LS4VZjq.png)
The army of Paul Selasinky is obliterated by us after we chase them to Mecklenburg.
The army led by King of Brandenburg is similarily destroyed by Austrians at Potsdam.
(https://i.imgur.com/hqCaANU.png)
Brandenburg has been destroyed and will take decades to recover.
King Albrecht is not going to hold onto Vorpommern; its part of Holy Roman Empire after all.
It will be sold to Pomerania as soon as we can get them to pay a decent amount of cash.
(https://i.imgur.com/UbHrFnw.png)
Don't get me wrong - the previous offers they could afford meant giving away Vorpommern for free.
With cash we've gotten from the war, we will now be able to build lvl2 Forts in Poznan, Breslau and Ratibor.
Neumark already has one, you can thank Brandenburg for that!
(https://i.imgur.com/65RXdhx.png)
Our armies are powerful, but our officers and traditions are still lacking.
(https://i.imgur.com/qmPgLDn.png)
Nowadays, even the steppes feel cozy and secure.
(https://i.imgur.com/HzjZsZe.png)
See, you bloodthirsty nomads?
It wasn't that hard to beg!
-
012: Regentschaftsjahre
(https://i.imgur.com/rDHZsEc.png)
Finally, the zeal of Protestants in Livland has petered out.
A missionary is sent there at once. Protestants of Warszawa still hold out, but in few years we will also convert them.
(https://i.imgur.com/AMKwypz.png)
For the past few years, besides upgrading our military infrastructure and purging of heretics, we also gave money to Brandenburg a lot.
The culmination of this is our marriage with their ruling family, and completion of a mission given to us much earlier.
(https://i.imgur.com/DfD9IgW.png)
Took us a while to hoard enough money, but!
Friedrich Wilhelm has been properly introduced into the Prussian court.
(https://i.imgur.com/4aGHmbE.png)
Just in time, huh??
Friedrich Wilhelm has no heir at the ready, but he believes that military of the state is more important than the state itself.
(https://i.imgur.com/SCClthG.png)
And for that, he orders military 'exercise' to be conducted against Novgorod!
We might even convert them to Catholicism, but for now, fighting and siegeing is what Friedrich Wilhelm craves the most.
(https://i.imgur.com/58tTKw6.png)
A weak attempt by Novgorodian forces was made, but we repelled them easily.
(https://i.imgur.com/YoNeDKf.png)
Prestige and money is ours!
Tver will become Muscovite as soon as we settle on a good price for it.
(https://i.imgur.com/EhMvnuv.png)
A heir to the throne of Prussia has been born!
(https://i.imgur.com/lwlSjtu.png)
Even more heresies!?
We're too busy fighting Golden Horde to concentrate on this.
Plus, British Isles are kinda far, far away.
(https://i.imgur.com/z2nhQn0.png)
Friedrich Wilhelm died on the Steppes, and his son's succession is disputed.
But God is indeed with him, and the Banner Army will strike the rebels in Podlasie, and exterminate them like the rodents they are!
(https://i.imgur.com/7gRGELZ.png)
Thanks to our victory over Golden Horde, our economy will get some cash.
Plus, peoples of Ryazan are free again!
(https://i.imgur.com/jpLMB8s.png)
Firepower with firearms! Maurician Infantry favors offense, and we will be doing that a lot.
Shortly after we adopt the new infantry ranks, Muscovy buys Tver for 100 ducats, and an event gives us 220 ducats more. ALL THE MONEY!
(https://i.imgur.com/Fazcl4t.png)
This allows us to create a new centre of trade, separate from influences of Venezia.
Danzig is a big city on its own, and Ostpreussen, our capital, grows rapidly.
The trinity of important urban centers will be completed by Allenstein in Warmia, where traders from near and far will come to buy and sell all kinds of wares!
(https://i.imgur.com/y7iFgfr.png)
We move the slider towards Quality and this guy appears.
PRUSSIAN QUALITY BEST QUALITY!
Meanwhile, our trading in Warmia has started giving us so much money, we have positive monthly income if we keep our military maintenance low!
(https://i.imgur.com/IoqjjeA.png)
We form a personal union over Schleswig, after Gerhard III von Schauenburg's heir dies in hunting accident, followed by Gerhard himself.
Young Prince Adolf II will rule over Schleswig while August Wilhelm, heir to Prussian throne, is growing up. Glory to us!
-
013: Preußische Kokosnüsse und Dynastische Probleme
(https://i.imgur.com/18l1nwF.png)
Our influence at the Curia has dropped considerably as of late, and not just because of high Papal turnover.
First time ever we need to send some delegates to promote Prussian state amongst the cardinals.
(https://i.imgur.com/2pYWaek.png)
We have a new King of Prussia!
His cousin Friedrich excels in administration and nothing else.
(https://i.imgur.com/D8EVDX0.png)
He launches an inauguratory campaign against Novgorod, the greatest of Russian states.
Prestige, money and military traditions are our goals for this campaign!
(https://i.imgur.com/eMrGM5u.png)
Alright, the war with Lorraine went on for long enough.
King August Wilhelm has secured the passage of Prussian forces through Pomerania, Mecklenburg, Lauenburg, Hesse and Trier to besiege Lorraine's territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ok8teKx.png)
The rewards were rather mediocre, but we will try to sell Kholm to our vassal, Duchy of Polotsk, which has a claim on it.
(https://i.imgur.com/1XjWYbs.png)
Senor Diego here was free for recruitment, and it happens that his skill at navigation allows us to reach some unclaimed lands in Africa.
This means that we could, theoretically, attempt to push a Prussian claim onto the world markets and colonial taxes!
Especially that recently King August Wilhelm has tasted a coconut and became enamored with the taste of its flesh.
We will colonize the shores of Arguin!
(https://i.imgur.com/fTTHIug.png)
Lorraine was beaten and forced to become Austrian vassal. Nice.
Meanwhile, our colony in Arguin is growing strong. Another patch of unclaimed land was found to southeast, but we can't quite reach it yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/FcXW1c6.png)
Ah scheisse!
The recent batch of Prussian monarchs has been very short-lived one.
Maybe it's Hesse-Kassel bloodline that's weak?
(https://i.imgur.com/MYOz6tR.png)
Splendid - as the Iberian colonies in New World grow in size, Slaves will only gain in worth.
We will definitely be on lookout for more sources of cheap labor.
(https://i.imgur.com/TngK3T8.png)
It's definitely the bloodline.
The dreaded 'Heir falls ill' event has claimed the life of Friedrich despite best efforts of our healers.
The Prussian court is now debating whom to put on the throne. It can't remain vacant, after all.
(https://i.imgur.com/c9AyK95.png)
Some minor policing is in order; Judiciary Act lowers revolt risk and increaes yearly amount of diplomats by a tiny bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/qItbFWE.png)
Aha! Arguin is now a fully developed land, owned by Prussia.
While we debate on the successor to the extinct Prussian royal family, we build drydocks, counting houses and barracks in our territories, boosting our economy and manpower.
We've also sold Kholm and Chernigov for 120 ducats total.
(https://i.imgur.com/MIekL1A.png)
WHAT A COMEBACK!
Hopefully this one won't die suddenly in his late teens.
It's bad for diplomacy, you know?
(https://i.imgur.com/G7UUUiu.png)
This inauguration war is very, very silly for some reason.
(https://i.imgur.com/OVCwLlO.png)
Forget the silliness - King Albrecht II believes that we should do this more often.
For God, and coconuts!
-
014: Preußenlied
(https://i.imgur.com/qRLi1rG.png)
Rather quickly, we get a heir for the throne of Prussia.
His average claim might be slightly problematic.
(https://i.imgur.com/cDyiSz2.png)
THIS DYNASTY IS CURSED.
What other explanation there could be!?
(https://i.imgur.com/a4sa7Wg.png)
We take stability hits from events as of late.
Mostly because I'm unwilling to give up on technological progress!
(https://i.imgur.com/rhudzVD.png)
At least, thanks to our policies and ideas, our military is prospering.
(https://i.imgur.com/WVM35BK.png)
Austrians have been aggressively increasing the Imperial powers.
We decide that this is prime opportunity to break the alliance with them, and give them a scare.
(https://i.imgur.com/DSTEuCy.png)
These regencies take way too long.
(https://i.imgur.com/PcBaTZ8.png)
Fools! They've activated my trap ca- I mean, our warning ultimatum against warring others.
We will help Bohemians against the vile Austrians. We need the Holy Roman Empire to be weak and fragmentized, not united under Austrian hegemony.
(https://i.imgur.com/nDSIb8H.png)
Our sudden entrance into the war has caught the Austrians by suprise.
We destroy two of their Armies outright in Lusatian territories, after crippling them in battles like one pictured here.
(https://i.imgur.com/oXhJshy.png)
Is our military strength that high or are Austrian armies made of paper?
At Bohemia, then Ostmarch, we hunt down and annihilate K.u.K Armee of the Austrian emperor.
The way to conquest of Austrian hinterlands is now open!
(https://i.imgur.com/BEhl60e.png)
King Wilhelm Friedrich I laughs as the Austrian soldiers die by thousands from cold Prussian steel.
(https://i.imgur.com/XqW4xxD.png)
The collapse of Austrian power has led many Electors to search for a better candidate.
Still, the Council is very fragmented, and even us, whilst not part of the Empire, get a vote from Elector of Magdeburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/3uheDmI.png)
Austria is severely punished!
Our prestige and wealth only increase at their expense.
Electoral Council is so broke that the 4-province Hesse has currently the best shot at Emperorship.
(https://i.imgur.com/uCfx2AW.png)
Shortly afterwards, we can continue our journey down the Land army idea roster.
(https://i.imgur.com/zmAynee.png)
We go to war with Novgorod per usual.
Pomerania joins, meaning we will probably annex them. Or vassalize them.
(https://i.imgur.com/qnWplRy.png)
Pomerania has been vassalized, and we take Vologda, selling it to Nizhny Novgorod for 40 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/lyolT36.png)
The old feudal model is, however, obsolete, compared to the needs and ambitions of Prussia.
We therefore adopt a new model, where the military has greatest say about politics both internal and foreign.
Long live Prussia!
-
015: Blut und Eisen
(https://i.imgur.com/g8XlXrr.png)
The governmental switch has left our legitimacy rather weak.
Mr.Derfflinger will help us with that.
(https://i.imgur.com/JHYQm76.png)
FINE, we will find someone to harass. Some other day.
With warnings issued to Austria and Brandenburg, I'm sure we will get a call sooner or later.
(https://i.imgur.com/kM1E5GN.png)
The amount of vassals we have is unfortunately hampering our diplomacy.
Pskov is integrated into Prussia, only for the province to be sold to Polotsk - they have a core.
King Wilhelm Friedrich is considering assimilation of Sandomierz as well to create better connection with Krakow province.
(https://i.imgur.com/PArS9Gf.png)
We purge them, as we gain manpower relatively quickly.
The other option is -10% Discipline for ten years, and we simply cannot allow this in Prussia!
(https://i.imgur.com/L01doPG.png)
One King dies, another ascends to the throne. Long live August Wilhelm II!
His first order is to move troops to the western provinces. Truce with Austria is to expire in a year, and they sure have claim on all of Styria.
(https://i.imgur.com/QC6YX0x.png)
The war does not come, so we check on Warmia.
Apparently, peoples all the way from Norway to Black Sea trade in Allenstein, its value almost 500 ducats at this point.
(https://i.imgur.com/sJh43qi.png)
We find someone that might be just good enough of a target.
Obviously, Austria jumps into the war right away, taking their bag of vassals with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/sJM3800.png)
Our excellent generals will provide many, many painful lessons to the Austrian officers!
(https://i.imgur.com/iZEf9qR.png)
Austrian armies besieging Styrian provinces are annihilated one by one.
Our vassals in meanwhile poke around Brandenburg, which joined Austrian side of the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/hlZWnDK.png)
By end of August, naught but freshly recruited troops is all that remains of Austrian military.
This causes some of Austrian allies to wise up pretty quickly and sue for peace, which we of course accept.
(https://i.imgur.com/cUAMTf5.png)
The other option calls for a lot of money, and we're not exactly known for being rich.
Few days later, the old Austrian Emperor dies and his heir Ludwig I is elected.
The child wields little actual power, causing several of our enemies to sue for white peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/YxjUXt1.png)
Austrian vassals, Parma and Modena, tried to sneak some troops upon our coasts.
Tough luck, the Prussian (and Pommeranian) navy, split into two, is keeping a vigil on Helgoland Blight and Skaggerak Straits!
(https://i.imgur.com/rkalMLP.png)
We force the Austrians to give autonomy to many of their vassals, with only Modena remaining at their side.
Unfortunately a slew of negative events have greatly destabilized our country.
-
016: Der Große Kokosnusskrieg
(https://i.imgur.com/SuqlOCX.png)
A well-timed mission is sometimes a very nice thing.
(https://i.imgur.com/chQ74GJ.png)
Gah! This is VERY early for us. Unfortunately, it will be production that suffers.
By middle of the year, we fulfill the mission shown earlier and our Stability gets into positive number!
(https://i.imgur.com/RJQ7GRC.png)
Now THIS is very interesting!
Rio de Oro borders Arguin and produces Slaves as a commodity.
Hmm... can we wrestle the province on the negotiations table?
(https://i.imgur.com/b39bkR5.png)
You won't know unless you try!
King August Wilhelm is however reluctant to launch an invasion of the British Isles.
We might as well goad the English into landing on our coast, then crushing their forces with our superior skills!
(https://i.imgur.com/1lj3f1M.png)
Sweden decides to meddle in, dragging their vassal, Muscovy, into the war.
Unfortunately for the Swedes we have a land connection with them, through Finland.
(https://i.imgur.com/LcY0eWJ.png)
The Portuguese, as expected, landed in Schleswig, but one of our Armies was already waiting.
They were chased to Jylland.
(https://i.imgur.com/PeClVp1.png)
Now this is some serious escalation.
Bohemia in meanwhile decided that they have a shot at stealing Ratibor from us. Bad move!
(https://i.imgur.com/ENUPnbI.png)
Burgundy and others join Bohemia, which loses its army.
Still, we're facing a combined mass of 300k soldiers from all over Europe.
We take a loan for any possible expenses that might show up.
(https://i.imgur.com/0GL4Ae4.png)
The Swedes taste Prussian steel firsthand.
Mr.Selasisky drives them through Viborg and all the way into heartlands of Finland.
(https://i.imgur.com/8u6RyGk.png)
We adopt the title of Defender of Faith - for better morale and reduction of war exhaustion.
Battles rage in Sweden, Sandomierz, Bohemia and Styria.
(https://i.imgur.com/MjGcAAg.png)
Our enemies make a crucial mistake in letting Bohemia lead that one war.
After they lose their main Army, the Bohemian King quickly sends a peace envoy, despite the fact that Burgundy and their friends had 80k troops to deploy.
This will put some pressure off us. We can concentrate on our first, and main, conflict, with Castille-Sweden-England over possession of Rio de Oro.
(https://i.imgur.com/yLc6ljZ.png)
This is crazy; our smaller troops are prevailing over masses sent by Castille, Sweden and even Hungary.
There's so many minor battles and skirmishes that see annihilation of anywhere between 5 to 10 thousand enemy troops that I have hard time keeping up!
(https://i.imgur.com/IyKfwwZ.png)
Sweden is out of the war!
Next, we need to deal with England to grab Rio de Oro.
(https://i.imgur.com/ogz5P4a.png)
There must be quite a line to the Gates of St.Peter nowadays.
The battle in Vorpommern was really a fluke; Castillian soldiers tried to embark on their ships, but King of Mecklenburg sent his tiny fleet to intercept the Castillian armada.
In chaos that ensued, the Castillian land forces had nowhere to run and were thus annihilated by our forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cjk5gvO.png)
No wonder the English have been distracted from our lands - they're at war with Byzantine Empire.
Acknowledging our mutual and common enemy, we've entered military access treaties with the Byzantines.
(https://i.imgur.com/NbKMlDq.png)
Nowadays, even the Georgians and Nizhnyi Novgorodians are fetching their troops across the Steppes to fight us. And then they die horribly.
I should mention the bravery and combat prowess of Duchies of Sandomierz, Sieradz and Polotsk. They're sending troops to siege Hungarian provinces often and with great success.
However, despite nearly 50% war score, Castille, leader of the war, still refuses to hand over Rio de Oro, which requires at least 4% war score.
Their stubborness is crippling their stability as the people get mad over rejection of such simple demand.
(https://i.imgur.com/MtrnAdE.png)
Our military victories unfortunately do not go hand-in-hand with our economic situation.
Even despite cutting spending and maintenance, we still cannot afford to repay the debt, leading to its extension.
(https://i.imgur.com/RMvG2Vz.png)
With their Stability plummeting and their Hungarian possessions being taken over, King Enrique of Castille signs peace.
Besides Rio de Oro, we take a sizeable amount of money. We won't hold on it for long, though - there's a massive loan we have to repay, after all.
Still, we've won what some jokingly described as 'The Great Coconut War'. After all, coconuts was the first thing us Prussians ever wanted from Africa, right?
-
017: Das Magische Elfenbein
(https://i.imgur.com/IAOYZ1M.png)
We begin with sad news of the passing of our old King.
It's been few weeks since introduction of Friedrich Albrecht to the Prussian court, and now he's ruling our nation.
(https://i.imgur.com/WoaKYao.png)
One of his first orders is to ensure that Rio de Oro will be converted to Catholicism.
Anglican heresy must not be allowed in our borders, lest it spreads and pollutes the minds of loyal Prussians!
(https://i.imgur.com/P7qTxYT.png)
To keep our soldiers busy, warnings and guarantees were thrown around in recent years.
And one just sprung up, calling us to intervene against Switzerland and Wurttemberg. To war!
(https://i.imgur.com/55IsaWK.png)
The Swiss army is beaten up in Lombardy, then at Bern and Chur.
Our other army is besieging the Wurttembergian lands. The morale of our enemy is breaking down!
(https://i.imgur.com/pXT4lMc.png)
Some looting and savings and we can repay the loan.
Genoa keeps the Switzerland in the war, presumably to drive up the war score.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWUkGsQ.png)
And done! A nice training session, it was.
(https://i.imgur.com/9VFsu5R.png)
Now that the war is over, we can concentrate on obtaining more land in Africa for cultivation of coconuts.
This land is full of natives - if Slaves do become the local commodity, we can continue expanding our slave trade even more.
(https://i.imgur.com/RZQM1Ua.png)
Turns out that local savannah is plentiful in Elephants and other tusked animals.
Not ideal for our plans, but a trader gotta diversify his stock, you know?
(https://i.imgur.com/gS8dQ7p.png)
I just got a panel saying we've got Holy War casus belli against Navarra, and they, uh...
What.
It's all that accursed Occultism and belief in mystical properties of exotic goods, like ivory and other animal bones. Burn them on the stakes!
(https://i.imgur.com/dm7yDCM.png)
I'm proud to announce that this pop-up shows up much more often lately than ever before.
Truly, we're the champion of Catholicism!
(https://i.imgur.com/CniTel1.png)
Aha~!
A valid reason to go for war. And they're friends are no one else but the Austrians.
(https://i.imgur.com/KRpiTC0.png)
One heresy has been scratched from the chalkboard.
The one in Navarra still remains to be taken care of.
(https://i.imgur.com/kmlSBzg.png)
Venice has nothing but a fleet of galleys.
We join the war to get some coinage from war taxation. (the war ends by December, and Styria takes its core of Treviso.
(https://i.imgur.com/HIPv8iB.png)
Splendid, Damaraland is now a proper city.
As soon as we build a fort in it, we wage war.
(https://i.imgur.com/8Tlqufz.png)
Quite a bunch of people join the war on Ukraine's side.
They will be all given the taste of steel!
(https://i.imgur.com/HnIHVst.png)
This was a big dissappointment.
Onwards, to Navarra!
(https://i.imgur.com/KUAVy0g.png)
Turns out someone else got there first, bleh!
Truly it's not the best decade for us.
-
018: Ein Trio von Friedrichs
(https://i.imgur.com/STsUobp.png)
There comes a moment in Prussian King's life, when he simply wants to grow more coconuts.
Or acquire some more magical ivory, you know is 50/50 with those colonies.
(https://i.imgur.com/JZidhy7.png)
Fills about 1/7th of the tech bar.
With that in, we should get Govt.Tech 25 - and next idea slot - in about 4 years.
(https://i.imgur.com/8DciebP.png)
Gold is struck in our newest colony.
We've gotta fund our military with something after all!
(https://i.imgur.com/ElqUKvH.png)
Oh boy! A war! Count us right in!
This will allow us to curb Hessian expansion.
Maybe have them release some petty kingdoms?
(https://i.imgur.com/LMqeE9b.png)
Strangely enough, we have trouble in initial stages of the war.
Maybe its the size of stacks; ours are rather small compared to Hessian ones.
(https://i.imgur.com/bNCXnBM.png)
As our losses mount up, we decide to hire this gentleman.
This will keep our armies well-supplied and replenished after combat!
(https://i.imgur.com/h0Mal5j.png)
Reinforcing our troops gave us the edge we needed to destroy Hessian armies!
One at Thuringen, one at Brunswick and the final one here, at Koblenz.
Only minor forces of their vassals roam about, chased down by our own subjects.
(https://i.imgur.com/tEcmcOD.png)
Our military machine is well-oiled, but our administration could use a little boost.
That, and our wartime economy was never great.
(https://i.imgur.com/oJLWnFm.png)
Friedrich is 26 at the moment, and its good to know that he is not slacking off.
(https://i.imgur.com/qiFaXBn.png)
*soft gasp*
Castille! How could you stray from the path of Catholic faith!
We will fix you up in few months, don't you worry.
(https://i.imgur.com/6t7Ew3L.png)
This seals the fate of Duchy of Sieradz - back in the day, we've got a core on Sieradz itself.
Now, we can safely annex the Duchy in its entirety, retaining its infrastructure and with the Polish peoples accepting our more direct rule over their lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/l5XnT9L.png)
Friedrich Albrecht is dead! He has died during Siege of Verden, and his adult heir takes over.
Next in line is already adult Friedrich Wilhelm.
(https://i.imgur.com/dWtg2J3.png)
Holy heck that's a lot of vassals.
King Friedrich decides to finish the war, and set some peoples free.
(https://i.imgur.com/FOflv7s.png)
Counter-Reformation might end, but our religious zeal does not.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZxMzI9k.png)
Duchy of Sieradz is no more, and their infrastructure will take a few years before its up to Prussian standards.
(https://i.imgur.com/0abpIA3.png)
After accepting the Lutheran heresies, Castille lost all its vassals and friends.
This will be a quick war worthy of a summary, at best.
(https://i.imgur.com/gzFhRzX.png)
Oh wow, rebels!
Friedrich I, busy with Siege of Toledo, has sent General Leo von Ziethen to deal with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/lbonYe2.png)
Oh wow, the King is dead, long live the King!
Note to self: use Prussian Kings less in combat nowadays. At least until their heirs are at or near adulthood.
(https://i.imgur.com/GAWw65Y.png)
The royal family of Castille is forced to re-convert to the Catholic rites.
Due to error in spendings, we had to take a loan, but its nothing we can't repay in those few years.
(https://i.imgur.com/0e6v7Cr.png)
The noble uprising at Krakow is destroyed, and whoever survived it fled into the woods.
Prussia is safe again!
-
019: Teilung von Österreich
(https://i.imgur.com/Z6aUWqF.png)
Sure thing - the Hesse-Kassel dynasty needs to grow strong!
Maybe one day we will rule over Lippe just as we rule over Schleswig.
(https://i.imgur.com/B9tprTU.png)
Kingdom of Memmingen, a petty city-state, is suffering an Excommunication.
Perfect opportunity to stir up trouble in the Holy Roman Empire!
(https://i.imgur.com/9044WIO.png)
Our and Austrian armies collide on weekly basis. Battle summaries pop up left and right.
All of them adorned with the bright green 'VICTORY' plastered in the middle.
(https://i.imgur.com/CHHD6dI.png)
The greatest battle of the war, Battle of Treviso, is marred by the fact that our loan cannot be repaid.
After we annex Memmingen, we will demand money from the Austrians.
(https://i.imgur.com/8NoGYUx.png)
The final of Austrian Armies is destroyed at Wien, which we have captured few months prior.
(https://i.imgur.com/wt7EwhQ.png)
Seems that this one escaped our attention and was stirring up trouble in Duchy of Pomerania!
Not anymore - after being beaten at Stettin and Hinterpommern, its destroyed at the gates of Danzig.
(https://i.imgur.com/FKGm7zi.png)
The lovely state of Memmingen is annexed.
(https://i.imgur.com/TtLyA46.png)
Austrians are broke, and not just in terms of diplomacy.
They had no money to give us as a tribute, which was quite not the plan.
(https://i.imgur.com/wVNBNDh.png)
We absolutely need that cash.
Hopefully the Pope won't be that angry.
(https://i.imgur.com/N64vLla.png)
A new colony will be founded to commemorate the breaking of Austrian power.
Its capital will be named 'Friedrichstadt'.
(https://i.imgur.com/3AqmVk9.png)
And even then, we barely pay off the loan, mostly because to several months of heavy coinage minting.
(https://i.imgur.com/VeFVu1K.png)
Gah, a Regency! *bleurgh*
We're lucky this time, though, for Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm is 11 years old at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/q8barjd.png)
Yay! Even more KOKOSNUSSE for us!
(https://i.imgur.com/drHd7as.png)
Takes some vigorous sending of colonists to grow it that fast.
But it becomes a city, and the five thousand natives are baptized as Christians.
(https://i.imgur.com/R74r45H.png)
This regency wasn't half bad. Long live King Friedrich Wilhelm III!
May his rule be as successful and prosperous as that of his predecessors.
-
As much as I love this series, the gigantic number of massive images per page makes my wifi chug, hahahah
-
I've spoilered all the updates.
It might not help with loading, but the posts will take much less space this way :V
-
I really like how spoiler'd updates are easy to navigate.
Should've done that earlier!
020: Krieg ist Gut für die Wirtschaft!
(https://i.imgur.com/xJkkJw0.png)
We can't really just punch heathens, but we have plenty of targets.
Burgundy slighted us with trade embargo, so we shall slight them with a war!
(https://i.imgur.com/EzWUkKC.png)
Austria and Bohemia joined Burgundy's side, but it seems that Burgundy had its armies off the positions.
They're probably all the way in Burgundian colonies or holdings, in South America and Central Africa.
(https://i.imgur.com/XFtLsdm.png)
The irregular fighting against small Burgundian stacks didn't slow us at all.
We impose a magnificently harsh treaty on their treasury.
Wars for profit? More likely than you think!
In the meanwhile, Austria has been stomping around, demanding vassalage from our friends. We will undo that.
(https://i.imgur.com/yIU3fmW.png)
The greatest battle of the war happens at Salzburg.
Only barely, with arrival of the 2nd Army, we beat the Austrians.
We pursue them relentlessly through Linz, Niederbayern, and then to Augsburg...
(https://i.imgur.com/TBH2NRC.png)
Where they're scattered; the stack that turns back to Niederbayern is annihilated, while Emperor Georg I puts a fight at Munchen, then Salzburg.
That's where we completely annihilate Austrian army. Victory draws closer!
(https://i.imgur.com/qpz5TtR.png)
Ah, right, the rebels in African colonies are stirring trouble.
The 3rd Army was directed to Stettin where they will board our fleet and fix that particular problem.
(https://i.imgur.com/419Pps5.png)
Whilst 2nd Army was on move through Baden, they've happened upon remainder of Austrian force, led by Emperor Georg I.
He died during the battle, causing the Electors to choose Hessian King as his successor.
(https://i.imgur.com/KAJylWE.png)
Styria and Tirol both ended the war earlier, demanding recovation of claims by the Austrians.
We further curb their diplomatic power by removing their vassals from the equation.
(https://i.imgur.com/26dC105.png)
Now that we have a ton of money, King Friedrich Wilhelm II decides to sponsor some arts!
(https://i.imgur.com/Yxe1SMD.png)
A manufactory for naval supplies in Warmia, plus an University of Ostpreussen, are sponsored as well.
We might also create a textile manufactory somewhere in Polish lands as many of the cities there specialize in making of fabrics.
Few months later we start the construction of a Weapons manufactory at Breslau, and a Textile manufactory at Warszawa.
(https://i.imgur.com/IvS3X3b.png)
Of course, having that much money and an empty lot in Africa, we pursue our most noble goal of obtaining more sla- coconuts.
Our administration seems to agree, given how efficient they're as of late!
(https://i.imgur.com/0AOR4Zs.png)
We don't need no Absolutism if our country is as efficient as it is!
Thought that Monument would be nice to commemorate our infinite war victories.
We should save some cash and build one in Memel, perhaps?
(https://i.imgur.com/o2iVmdR.png)
Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm is fifteen! We decide to throw him a big party!
Maybe this way nobody will notice our costly failures with colonization of Natal.
Damn savages, give up those coconuts already!
-
021: Süddeutsche Siegesmusik
(https://i.imgur.com/SJJvZ7D.png)
Play us off, maestro! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0b8Ze4UfOI)
We sponsor some concerts, just for the kick of it.
(https://i.imgur.com/IGTA4P9.png)
Eh, he is young, he can do what he wants.
(https://i.imgur.com/qJAhzfB.png)
Oh huh, these provinces were Burgundian possesions once.
Rebels took over and the old Kingdom of Leon resurfaced.
God be with them! The Burgundians sure will come knock them out.
(https://i.imgur.com/ysi3Ge8.png)
♫We're going to waaar, we're going to waaar~♫
Hesse wants Nassau back, and Nassau called in Styria, who promptly called us in.
We're now leader of the war, meaning we can do with Hesse and the Emperor as we please, ha ha!
(https://i.imgur.com/UmmDONm.png)
Now that's a lot of Hessians.
Hungary joined the war, and minor states in HRE do as well.
I wonder how big Hungarian treasury is?
(https://i.imgur.com/AGfujxS.png)
Bohemia comes knocking down to take Kalisz from us.
That's unfortunate - for them. For us, it means money, prestige, maybe a vassal?
(https://i.imgur.com/VVcBvSr.png)
Hessians are easily dealt with, and their armies are decimated!
Hungary backs out a while later, so the mystery of 'how big Hungarian treasury is' will remain unsolved for now.
(https://i.imgur.com/i6BvmHX.png)
*siiiiigh*
We will have to call off the war with Hesse early.
I'm not interested in handling this many wars today!
(https://i.imgur.com/xGdoTQ0.png)
That will do, this time.
(https://i.imgur.com/GiqmM8D.png)
We take Prague by assault, losing about six thousand men during it.
Now... we can concentrate on Burgundy.
Burgundy is way too strong and way too remote to be kept in check by us regularly. It's time to divide their lands a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/qpss37z.png)
We begin our offensive by invading Burgundian vassal, Duchy of Luxembourg first.
This allows us to keep an eye on their movements.
(https://i.imgur.com/CgTuhw8.png)
With Luxembourg's provinces under our control, we move out into Burgundy proper.
The Burgundian king in meanwhile sends troops to Arguin (our African colony) and Hinterpommern (our HRE border).
I have to mention that our friends, Thuringia and Styria, have drawn Hesse and Austria into some big-ass conflict against each other.
(https://i.imgur.com/kvPX25M.png)
Not exactly what the casus belli is, but we ain't getting involved.
(https://i.imgur.com/L96Hdd7.png)
As the war goes on, we start upgrading our fortifications to level 3.
First batch is in border provinces - Krakow, Ratibor, Breslau and the exclave of Schwaben - and our capital province of Ostpreussen.
(https://i.imgur.com/b4ar5TP.png)
With the piddly Burgundian forces stationed in their lands destroyed, our generals split up their forces.
This way we can besiege 12 provinces at once, boosting our war score and having better chance of forcing demands on the Burgundians.
(https://i.imgur.com/gFN45zr.png)
After many years of blockading their ports, Sweden caves in to our demands.
Per our modus operandi, we won't be holding into Bryansk; Principality of Chernigov has a core on it, so we will try to peddle the province away.
(https://i.imgur.com/rNdG9Ba.png)
As if!
Prussia needs strong generals, not perfumed wig wearers!
(https://i.imgur.com/eK3lOys.png)
Our king, Friedrich Wilhelm III, passes away in his sleep.
But the dynastic continuation is assured - House of Hesse-Kassel remains strong!
(https://i.imgur.com/wit6e7R.png)
O-ho! We've got a free core~!
We have somewhat amicable relationship with Lusatia, and our monarchs are related, too.
So, unless Lusatians do something stupid, we won't go to war with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/1ZR0wNC.png)
Burgundians have to release Flanders as sovereign nation and pay us 1000 Ducats!
Then we bully Luxembourg for money, claim revocations and also money.
(https://i.imgur.com/FoEIPMd.png)
We HAD an option to annex Bohemia in its entirety, but that would upset quite a few people in and our of Holy Roman Empire.
Instead, we settle on money and claim revocation - their claims for Kalisz and Sieradz come all the way from the 1400s, when they owned these provinces.
Next day, we pawn Bryansk to Chernigov as planned, getting 60 ducats out of the deal.
(https://i.imgur.com/dnaZZNQ.png)
With all that money, we can finally sponsor that Glorious Monument in Memel.
A refinery for wine produced in Ratibor is also underway.
Money exists to be spent, after all!
-
Ah, the spoilers really help in reading while other images are loading. Long live Prussia!
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022: Ein Mutiger Plan
(https://i.imgur.com/Lba3wlq.png)
A new war gets us involved, but only so that we get some war taxes.
King Friedrich Wilhelm is personally tired of minor conflicts, so we will sit this one out.
(https://i.imgur.com/k9sU2jn.png)
Well, okay, a little bit involved.
But only because Bavarians joined in, and that's too close to our exclave of Memmingen.
(https://i.imgur.com/WmG2Vfn.png)
Oh, finally, some new coconut plantations!
Just hoping this time we can maintain the plantations without the angry natives razing them to the ground.
(https://i.imgur.com/2qyV4IT.png)
Gustavian Infantry is the way to go here.
(https://i.imgur.com/JqTnnof.png)
We have a new King on the throne, the previous one having died a little early.
(https://i.imgur.com/Bk8S3RS.png)
Gasp, can't be! Our coconut plantation has survived!
We can now manage the city like any other province.
(https://i.imgur.com/pjYzjay.png)
We go to war against Lusatia, to recover, well, Lusatia!
Austria and Novgorod and their friends join in to stop us.
(https://i.imgur.com/7hq4IO7.png)
It seems that Austrians have wised up and increased their army numbers.
We temporarily vacate Schwaben province, but we will come back soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/xbZFTSG.png)
Lusatia is forced to give both halves of their ancestral lands to us - one is our core, one is not.
Time to get rid of Austrian forces in Schwaben.
(https://i.imgur.com/AVKFA6O.png)
We manage to lift the siege at Memmingen, and in meanwhile invade Niederbayern, winning there against Emperor's army as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/GfRqUeF.png)
Bohemia has went to war against us! Once again, they and their friends Burgundians, meddle with us as the Emperor meddles in our (re)conquests.
"That's it!", said Friedrich Wilhelm V, who got really incensed by all this Imperial networking and treaties.
He has declared before the War Council of Prussia that Holy Roman Empire is the greatest obstacle in Prussian way, and must be removed.
(https://i.imgur.com/KHdGJuM.png)
For that, King Friedrich Wilhelm muses, we need to subjugate all seven Electors and then force the Emperor to accept our dictat.
Electors of Mainz, Brandenburg, Bohemia and Burgundy are at war with us, and so is the Austrian Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y9D5uF7.png)
We were at war with Sweden?
I don't remember that. *click*
(https://i.imgur.com/VCjbXZ8.png)
Byzantine Empire, out of nowhere, offers us alliance, so we agree to that.
Then, Emperor Konstantinos XIII agreed to join our war.
(https://i.imgur.com/bCYD9eB.png)
King Friedrich Wilhelm V got a bit too excited when he heard that we're near the capture of Vienna, and died of a stroke.
His heir is underage, and therefore the Regency Council will watch over the country for a while.
They decide to continue the plan of dismantlement of Holy Roman Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/5PLB2gO.png)
Lusatian imbeciles!!
They've won a war against Bohemia, and forced them to give away Electorate of Brandenburg.
The current Council is now 6 seats only, but the Austrian Emperor will surely invite someone to it.
(https://i.imgur.com/X5b6PK1.png)
Council of Regents had a hearty laugh when they've learned that Duchy of Friesland, vassal of our enemy, Burgundy, became the 7th Elector.
(https://i.imgur.com/84MUYLY.png)
The capitals of all the enemies in the current wars are ours.
Cologne, Holstein and Magdeburg are neutral in the conflict, but we will find a way.
-
023: Europa in Flammen
(https://i.imgur.com/SJZ6PaV.png)
After few years of relative quiet, Burgundian armies arrived in their homelands in force.
We almost lost our army if not for the King of Dauphine, who allowed our forces to retreat to his lands.
Our return to Burgundy was triumphiant, and we destroyed one army at Charolais.
(https://i.imgur.com/i97XEkz.png)
Another battle goes much more smoothly; we retake Bourgogne and then chase the Burgundian to Barrois, then to Lothringen, where they're annihilated.
We still await for King Friedrich to assume the throne, so that we can continue with his predecessors' plans.
(https://i.imgur.com/LrjN1oi.png)
Then our plans get complicated even further - Cologne was annexed by Alsace, and the seventh Electorship passed to Hannover.
Which is a vassal of Hesse. Hesse has many friends, which means that soon we will have a very unpleasant war on our hands.
(https://i.imgur.com/ItRMBOY.png)
On top of that, the occupied provinces in Austria and Bohemia are showing some revolt risk.
We hire a High Judge to temporarily remedy this.
(https://i.imgur.com/X3gj1q4.png)
King Friedrich II assumes the throne of Prussia.
His first edict is to go to war against Hesse!
(https://i.imgur.com/10RPf8f.png)
The lack of casus belli damages our stability and reputation, but the initial victories already tip the war in our favor.
(https://i.imgur.com/vSQaFeX.png)
Of all Hessian allies, its Lubeck that possesses the greatest audacity to land their forces on our coasts or deep in Bohemia.
(https://i.imgur.com/SITm5oL.png)
Trouble arises in Burgundy; nationalist and patriot rebels are running amok in Burgundy.
Ironically, it falls to us to bring peace and restore our hold on Burgundian lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/4mdHH7S.png)
Our war exhaustion is going up, and that is extremely disconcerting.
(https://i.imgur.com/yTSYIp0.png)
Finally! Our production technology allows us construction of a Grain Depot.
Lesser maintenance and higher army limits are crucial to the Prussian military might!
(https://i.imgur.com/lPEzSpb.png)
The amount of rebels we're getting in the Holy Roman Empire and elsewhere is ridiculous.
King Friedrich decided not to wait and declared war against Magdeburg immediately to gain control of the Elector.
(https://i.imgur.com/MU4Ia5c.png)
Ukraine, believing that we're weak, jumps over us and brings England into the war.
That's a mistake on their part, and we will help them realize it!
(https://i.imgur.com/CMoFQHr.png)
This would be disconcerting to some.
However our Army has destroyed Ukrainian forces already and is now siegeing their capital of Poltava.
(https://i.imgur.com/nMlkTUm.png)
Because King Friedrich II has more important matters to attend to, we agree on nominal tribute from Ukraine.
(https://i.imgur.com/OiZ1Lzy.png)
National Bank is not what's the most important thing on this picture.
It is the grant of Nationalism casus belli. We can war against our German relatives with ease now.
Obviously, we immediately go to war with Holstein, the last independent Elector of the Holy Roman Empire.
That drags in Thuringia and some others against us.
(https://i.imgur.com/aJse2Pg.png)
Just look at it!
War rages and cities burn, as most of the Holy Roman Empire is at war with Prussia.
Even our old friends, Styria and Flanders, have turned against us, to protect the Holy Roman Empire.
Nationalist and patriot rebels run circles around enemy armies, pillaging and burning as they go. But!
We will prevail - and we will succeed in our plans! For Prussia!!
-
024: Die Auflösung des Heiligen Römischen Reiches
(https://i.imgur.com/pRYaWuU.png)
Styria and Flanders are giving our armies hard times, and we even had to retreat from Holstein when the main Flander force arrived there.
(https://i.imgur.com/4MGQGtp.png)
Minor battles are won but a big one in Barrois was lost, and we had to retreat to Champagne.
Noentheless, the siege of Holstein was started anew, and this time we're ready for it.
(https://i.imgur.com/sTN8Huq.png)
As the war continues elsewhere, we must find some time for proper court etiquette to be conducted.
Friedrich Wilhelm has been introduced to the court, ensuring smooth transition of power when his father dies.
(https://i.imgur.com/V6yBpQT.png)
The final elector, Archbishop of Holstein, is subjugated.
The Electoral Council has been forced to petition the Holy Roman Emperor, Albrecht VI of Austria, to listen to our demands.
And thus, on 28th August 1689 AD, the Emperor has revoked all priviledges of the Imperial States and freed them from all of the obligations to the Imperial Throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/4xOnFtT.png)
No province and no state in the Europe can all itself Imperial.
The Holy Roman Empire is no more! GLORY TO PRUSSIA! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_6AQA4uzD0)
(https://i.imgur.com/cXVGIE2.png)
The diplomats of King Friedrich II then go around, forcing further demands on the previous Imperial states and feudal kings.
Vassalages are broken, treaties annuled and peoples freed from the yoke of their oppressors.
(https://i.imgur.com/O6rR5Hr.png)
Second batch of treaties.
(https://i.imgur.com/wS2wpQX.png)
And final batch of treaties.
We can now concentrate on rest and reconstruction, then development and commissioning of more armies.
Right now? We can bask in the glory that is Prussia.
-
025: Lausitz und Sandomierz
(https://i.imgur.com/CmCPtIj.png)
We recover rather quickly, and bring our army and ship numbers to the limits.
The game believes that we need much more big ships, though. We will deal with that soon, after we quell the uprising in Damaraland.
(https://i.imgur.com/cyKwDd6.png)
I mean, they fight Burgundians and accepted our marriage proposal and are mostly catholic.
Champagnians are good people.
(https://i.imgur.com/65Hxfkq.png)
We're also short on coconuts a little bit.
Delagoa Bay shall become Prussian land, and moreso with help from Herr Blankensee.
(https://i.imgur.com/rp6PN1L.png)
I mean, I get it, they want to be true Lombardians now that Milan was pushed off, well, Milan.
But they don't even have claims on Venetia... eh??
(https://i.imgur.com/AHy2I3g.png)
This good man appeared in Danzig, and with his help we could implement the Gold Standard, helping with inflation reduction!
(https://i.imgur.com/G8iia3L.png)
Nationalist sentiment calls for taking of Brandenburg from Lusatia, especially that it is busy in a war with some of our friends.
We might as well use this for military training to keep our army tradition up high!
(https://i.imgur.com/Elcjv5e.png)
Magic elf bone!
Not what we wanted, but it is a valuable commodity.
Lusatian war is going smoothly, and their surrender is imminent.
(https://i.imgur.com/qTgJ0nQ.png)
Even a trained Medicus is unable to get rid of the fever that ultimately kills Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm.
Fortunately, King Friedrich has a spare son, Prince Friedrich Albrecht.
(https://i.imgur.com/xkfnuiQ.png)
Treason, is what it is!
The 3rd Army had to disengage from Lusatian theather to deal with the rebels, finally annihilating them at Grodno.
(https://i.imgur.com/iW6SLpX.png)
Lusatia is nearly destroyed, and besides taking Berlin (and some tribute), we also give independence to Saxony.
(https://i.imgur.com/I2pw2qu.png)
Duke Konrad X Wisniowiecki, ruler of Sandomierz, has made a grave offense to God and the King of Prussia, and converted to Reformed faith!
With such an insult - and us having a core on Lublin - it has been decided that Duke Konrad will lose his status as vassal and ally of Prussia, and his land will be annexed.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ra3hBWK.png)
Duke Konrad, hearing that his doom is inevitable, has cast his lot with the Reformists truly, and called upon their defender, Normandy, to protect him.
Not only did King of Normandy comply to the request, they've called in their allies, the English!
(https://i.imgur.com/J5r8Kga.png)
What's done is done, and Duke Konrad Wisniowiecki was executed by shooting. Catholic priests and the 1st Army were sent to deal with Reformed heretics in Sandomierz.
Meanwhile, our fleet, even with reinforcements from Pomerania and Riga, is struggling against English navy in the Baltic.
The English might pull off a naval invasion, mayhaps with help of the Norman ships, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/TwGOpwP.png)
Turns out our worries were baseless - Normandy quickly lost its itnerest in the war and offered us white peace.
We've accepted the offer. Peace comes back to Prussia again!
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026: Das Großpreussen
(https://i.imgur.com/YEeudN8.png)
Our old vassal, Pomerania, liked us so much that they had no qualms about becoming part of Prussia proper.
This bumps our infamy a bit higher though.
(https://i.imgur.com/KyXhT80.png)
For this reason, we need to get Cabinet if we're to continue expanding through wars.
With Regimental Camps in almost all of our provinces, we have a lot of manpower.
Conscription is over, probably to the elation of many young men around Prussia.
(https://i.imgur.com/46wz7ur.png)
Ahh, wonderful!
Sandomierzian heretics accepted the true faith.
Less rebel sentiment for us.
(https://i.imgur.com/RylOkFK.png)
Indeed a tragedy, for our current monarch, Friedrich II, has occupied the throne for the past 25 years already.
Either we get a heir, or have to accept a new dynasty on the throne of Prussia!
(https://i.imgur.com/dfCuxQR.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/N6yiy6B.png)
Some minor noblewoman offers herself not out of love but to bear Prussia a heir and future monarch.
Every woman should be so devoted to the country like this lady.
The kid has decent stats, diplomacy will sure help in the long run.
(https://i.imgur.com/XYNZWKO.png)
Finally, our colony in Delagoa Bay is completed, and the natives, taught Prussian culture and converted to Catholicism, become our subjects.
(https://i.imgur.com/bb07lIE.png)
King Friedrich wants more land, and colonies aren't the way to do it.
The plan to create Greater Prussia is therefore created, calling for annexation of all Saxon and Prussian lands.
We start with Saxony, and will also war with Lusatia and Mecklenburg to achieve our goal.
(https://i.imgur.com/bWQBo5W.png)
Our declaration of war against Lusatia however fires up a chain of alliances.
That brings Mecklenburg, Saxe-Lauenburg and Magdeburg into the fray, which is very convenient indeed!
Thuringia will be forced to pay us some money.
(https://i.imgur.com/tQLb9ZJ.png)
Saxony is incorporated into Prussia.
Mecklenburg, Magdeburg and Saxe-Lauenburg will follow in the next years.
(https://i.imgur.com/4MD2jAe.png)
The expansion via war facilitates a change of our Council.
A diplomat is hired to lower our infamy quicker, and a High Judge to bring peace in the freshly acquired territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/K5uZE6o.png)
Mecklenburg gets a pass only because they have colonial possessions that I am not bothered to take.
(https://i.imgur.com/hrcmvKw.png)
Speaking of colonial possessions, King Friedrich II decides to pass the time by settling some more lands.
Coconuts are no longer an option, so we will try to get some coffee. This invigorating drink boosts garrison strength by 10%!
-
027: Nach Westen Ziehen
(https://i.imgur.com/jimzvME.png)
Our recent colonial expansion in the east allowed us to form an East India Company.
(https://i.imgur.com/co6Fo9h.png)
Lubeck started sending spies against us, while Hamburg keeps our tiny Duchy of Schlesvig away from us.
We decided to go to war against them both!
(https://i.imgur.com/YUVwCNz.png)
Then the elderly Friedrich II dies, leaving a very incompetent bunch of regents in charge of Prussia, and Friedrich Albrecht's upbringing.
They are so bad we get into Overextension mode, which will make things unpleasant for a long while.
(https://i.imgur.com/XeKbtGG.png)
While we're busy in our wars of annexation, our enemies are funding Polish and Lithuanian nationalists.
Unfortunately for them, the Dukes of Polotsk are more than happy to keep to the eastern side of Prussia and hunt the rebels down.
(https://i.imgur.com/UxjeX3a.png)
Our annexation campaign is finished, for now, as during regency we cannot declare war.
The colonies in East Indies unfortunately crumbled due to native attacks and enemy blockades.
(https://i.imgur.com/htpj1qi.png)
No colonies in East Indies, no East Indies Company, obviously.
(https://i.imgur.com/BM0nZuy.png)
Finally, we have a King on the throne of Prussia!
His cousin is nominated to become his heir.
(https://i.imgur.com/iLtntiE.png)
Friedrich Albrecht II continues his predecessor policy of forced inclusion of German states into Prussia.
Thuringia is next, with its 3 provinces and barely any friends, will be easy target.
(https://i.imgur.com/F3CXfCt.png)
And it is done! Thuringia is now part of Prussia.
(https://i.imgur.com/HGKhpgI.png)
A slight detour in our plans will have us invade Ulm.
This time, not for conquest - we need a strong, military vassal, and the restored Kingdom of Bohemia could serve as one such vassal.
Plus, it will help us curb Ulmian expansion.
(https://i.imgur.com/GJYeWfu.png)
And it has been done, with ease and speed worthy of Genghis Khan!
Now we wait until our infamy drops and Bohemia accepts our offer of vassalage.
(https://i.imgur.com/AzfY7wQ.png)
Our King decides that, to make sure he doesn't look uncultured too much, we should sponsor some artisans and artists.
Thus, we've selected Rococco movement as the one to receive our patronage. Prestige and cultural tradition will come our way, accompanied by opulent palaces and opera houses!
(https://i.imgur.com/60mve6B.png)
Oooh, a free core, might as well!
We will go to war against Sicily at once; it is suffering from war and rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/eyBjpaS.png)
Once England, their chief ally, flaked out, Sicily surrendered to our demands.
The Konigliche Armee soon arrived and stormed Naples, forcing them to concede defeat.
(https://i.imgur.com/qafsRql.png)
But the feverish rush for war and conquests have winded down, as Friedrich Albrecht II pursues scholarly and courtly topics instead.
Music and grand balls are of more importance to him nowadays... hopefully it won't get him anywhere bad.
-
028: "Es ist nicht genug!!"
(https://i.imgur.com/SLbWc9x.png)
We're suffering from Overextension anyway, so why not continue our conquest of Germania as is?
Alsace and their friends are next on our target list - as soon as we get rights of passage through Mainz that's it.
(https://i.imgur.com/39kT8sK.png)
Worms, a vital province for German unification - and a centre of trade to boot - was taken.
(https://i.imgur.com/druCsuj.png)
A similar war against Hesse has drawn in some unlikely antagonists of Prussia - namely Sweden.
While their army is numerous and strong, their navy isn't. We will easily blockade Stockholm and Danish straits, while our land forces occupy Hesse.
(https://i.imgur.com/4lgDfOJ.png)
Just as Sweden captures Ingermanland, we get news that Crown Prince Heinrich falls ill.
As you can see, the hired professional medicus did nothing! Curses, we need a new heir.
(https://i.imgur.com/nbMEKua.png)
The weak armies of the Scandinavians perished after our newest general, Helmut von Koch, rode all the way from Dresden to Ingermanland in two months.
That allowed us to blockade them more, and in meanwhile, Hesse forked over Brunswick and Hannover.
To add salt to the Swedish wound, we had them pass lands to our smol monarchy in Schleswig.
(https://i.imgur.com/yKbBCUD.png)
Two small wars to get Mecklenburg and some parts of reborn Aachen Republic.
(https://i.imgur.com/pCiggFJ.png)
Army maintenance reduction is always a good thing!
(https://i.imgur.com/7QHNKZ9.png)
Out of marriage of one of Friedrich Albrecht's sisters, little Friedrich of house Bathory, from Hungary, was borne.
It is current heir to the throne of Prussia. Bathory sounds like a badass name, so perhaps he can remain on Prussian throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/RIi0UcZ.png)
Another victory, another provinces added to Prussia!
(https://i.imgur.com/B4iE8nT.png)
Mecklenburg finally yields to our supremacy. Trarza produces grain and is of little use.
It seems to have been a Castillean province before Mecklenburg took it, so we will sell it some Iberians maybe? (ps: we do that few months later; Castille buys it for 400 ducats).
(https://i.imgur.com/WevG47o.png)
Bohemians finally accept our offer, and become a solid, militarily-strong, Prussian vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/wD5JI68.png)
'It is not enough. It is not ENOUGH!!' Yells Friedrich Albrecht II, feeling that he just isn't as good and powerful as his ancestors.
We shall disassemble Ulm and form continuity with our Rhinelander and Swabian provinces in a new war!
(https://i.imgur.com/U1G57Pk.png)
'THE PROVINCES!! They will be all ours! They will be all mine!'
(https://i.imgur.com/t9mahti.png)
The King demands more provinces, his soldiers march forth to conquer them.
For he must have them.
(https://i.imgur.com/47EYMN6.png)
Bavarian independence by Austrian influence caused us to question whether it would mean-
'TAKE THOSE TOO!' The Prussian King shouted, dismissing the fact that Austrians were his cousins and uncles.
(https://i.imgur.com/qvz6VeI.png)
When news came that a claim for possession of Neva was found, the Council of War didn't even ask for permission before waging war against Sweden.
'This will end badly...' Whispered the advisors between themselves as once again Prussia went to war.
But it didn't; Novgorodian forces were decimated, Swedes humilitated with independence of Finland, and Neva became Prussian territory.
(https://i.imgur.com/RtVkfME.png)
The warmongering, province-hungry King of Prussia, died of heart attack. It was a normal, age-related death, yes.
The regency council immediatelly devolved into an incompetent bunch of squabbling morons. Will it be enough to keep the newly conquered German provinces from seceding? Surely.
Will they be enough to keep Prussia as a whole, though? Who knows...
-
029: Die Benötigten Stücke
(https://i.imgur.com/hWX70de.png)
The first few years of Regency pass smoothly, us devoting time to construction and diplomacy.
Then Byzantium asks us to participate in a war in Middle East. We decide to send in our mighty fleet.
(https://i.imgur.com/RCV7JV5.png)
Such a lazy time is perfect for upgrading our troops a little.
(https://i.imgur.com/bIXe3Qx.png)
Time for revelry and laziness is over! King Friedrich III, despite a Hungarian, has Prussian blood in his veins.
His first order is preparation for conquest of Hesse. We lost the effects of Overextension few weeks later.
(https://i.imgur.com/3kfPMw7.png)
Quite a few people join against us, and Byzantium cowardly breaks alliance when we call for participation.
(https://i.imgur.com/tOSDVJC.png)
Hessian army is defeated at Hesse and then annihilated at Frankfurt, allowing us to spread our armies.
Friedrich III is entertaining the idea of annexing Aachen and Bremen as well. We will see how it does for our Infamy.
(https://i.imgur.com/wE1OYaP.png)
The fighting shows that our army could use a reform.
"Discipline will reign supreme." Says King Friedrich III Bathory.
In meanwhile, we annex Bremen and Verden.
(https://i.imgur.com/mzqtFaG.png)
Most improtantly, we annex Gelre, a trading centre in the Netherlands (we demolish it after the war, because shifts in trade caused its value to drop by about half).
This leaves us with little infamy left for conquest of Hesse...
(https://i.imgur.com/yegIxEm.png)
But there's a plan in Friedrich III's mind.
He cuts Hesse apart, allowing us to annex the crucial province of Hesse at a later date.
(https://i.imgur.com/9tL7Qoo.png)
Another cooldown period is in place, our diplomats working hard to bring our reputation back.
Meanwhile, King Friedrich III catches the whiff of changes in architectural styles, and is one of first to promote Neoclassicism in Europe.
(https://i.imgur.com/09QPgFp.png)
A small war to remind Ulm that blobbing is bad takes place in 1764.
We have them release Wurttemberg, shattering Ulm so hard it relegates itself to the province of Sundgau.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZBCq7u4.png)
Utrecht kept inciting rebellions in our lands.
Utrecht was punished.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xo5Grkk.png)
We can finally wage war against Hesse, and conquer their lands required for unification of Germany.
And no, that purple blob to the left isn't Byzantium. It's Hainaut, a Waloon Kingdom seemingly bent on carving itself a little empire. They're cool dudes, they can stay.
(https://i.imgur.com/gMTKBwF.png)
And there we go. Hesse is out of commission and their central province belongs to us (so does Aachen, by the way).
THe next fifty years, we could simply wait, but who would do that if there's plenty of wars to fight?
-
030: Der Neue König von Preußen
(https://i.imgur.com/ur4YenS.png)
All the recent spoils bloated our Treasury quite well.
Even with our armies exceeding support limits, we're in the green. Why not enlarge our military forces even more?
(https://i.imgur.com/0HCUqw2.png)
Austria, always grabby for lands, have insulted us by claiming Salzburg as part of their rightful territory.
That slight caused a war, and Wurttemberg and Holland sided with Austria - they will be all punished!
(https://i.imgur.com/8YI19vK.png)
In middle of the war, another heir to the throne of Prussia dies!
The Prussian Council is debating whether they should find a heir, or mayhaps just elect someone from their circles once Friedrich III Bathory dies of age.
(https://i.imgur.com/RJ0k6Cj.png)
We take Holland's cities and have them release Friesland.
Similarily, Wurttemberg has to release Baden, and Austria parts with (lower) Bavaria and Styria.
Now would be a time of peace, however there's one problem we need to solve.
(https://i.imgur.com/qawnM4M.png)
Kingdom of Hainaut, whom we considered buddies, have made rather drastic inroads into Germania, taking out Cologne in the process.
We will fix that issue by taking Colognian lands for ourselves, and hopefully teach Hainaut not to conquer Germanic provinces in the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/wqGC99J.png)
The Hainautians fight bravely!
It is not enough, unfortunately, for them to win.
(https://i.imgur.com/BRg4IZb.png)
Not long after that, King Friedrich III Bathory dies, and his place is taken by Prussian nobleman from House von Braunschweig-Luneburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/dJ4Ymva.png)
His first decision is to conduct peace treaty with Hainaut.
And commissioning of statue in honour of King Friedrich Wilhelm IV, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZO1FAoX.png)
It seems that reports were true - Prussia is far behind in technologies compared to other states, like Italian republics.
King Ferdinand I will see to it that Scientific Revolution shall be launched in Prussia!
(https://i.imgur.com/nNLRaFT.png)
See? Already the beacon of enlightenment has improved our armies!
(https://i.imgur.com/wTbTncG.png)
Takes few years to get a heir, but finally, Prussia seem to be on the road to bliss and stability again.
Long live Prussia!
-
031: Mein Gott, die Wirtschaft!
(https://i.imgur.com/YspvRel.png)
Buying services of a Grand Marshal sure have paid off, for he is considered a one-of-a-kind.
With projected yearly legitimacy of 18.80% per year, we will be most legitimate in few years.
Some might notice that we're positioning troops on Hungarian border and making up yet another army.
(https://i.imgur.com/PCWS6kz.png)
As a large country, starting a war with dyansty of Bathory would cause us to lose stability.
Our large size makes that rather hard to recover - but Pope becomes helpful for once! I'm sure the Hungarians know what's coming next.
(https://i.imgur.com/5MjtoDT.png)
The reason for war is simple - Hungarians once beaten up Austria for few provinces, but the populace is still Germanic.
We will recover these lands. Also, Moravia is a Bohemian core. We will feed it to our vassal - Polotsk has the numbers, Bohemians have the quality.
(https://i.imgur.com/B1zGgQm.png)
It was the very first battle of the war, and the Hungarians were annihilated. We didn't even have to chase them down.
Prussian quality and advanced weaponry make short work of any eastern-minded national army!
(https://i.imgur.com/MakxURE.png)
After Hungarian armies collapsed, Polotsk led the initiative to assault and capture several Hungarian cities.
After fall of Osijek, King Matyas finally became receptive to our treaty stipulations.
We have all the money in the world, so Moravia was simply handed over to Bohemia next day.
(https://i.imgur.com/iuLAPsg.png)
Out of curiosity, we check the omniscient Ledger, and behold our army numbers!
Some of our neighbours have less soldiers than our Konigliche Armee alone! Ahahahahahah!
(https://i.imgur.com/wBKL4ur.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/D52AUxq.png)
Our vassal, Duchy of Polotsk, has several claims in Ukraine so we decide to pursue them.
Somehow, the cossack tribes of Ukraine garnered sympathy of few big playe-hahah, whom am I kidding, they're just nuisances.
(https://i.imgur.com/WDextm7.png)
After the grand sinking of English Royal Navy, their friends turn tail and we were able to push Ukraine into cessation of Podolia and Chernigov.
We will hand them over to Polotsk as soon as we force Novgorod to ceded Smolensk - also a core of Polotsk.
Polotsk has been a loyal, strong vassal for centuries, it's about time we repay their loyalty with lands and subjects!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZsqCyod.png)
Finally, Novgorod relents, and Duchy of Polotsk shall receive three provinces in total!
You might notice our gold dropping rapidly - a series of unfortunate events have been steadily chomping down our Stability.
I've decided to fix that by brute force: throwing money at the Stability slider!
All will be right in Prussia in just few months.
(https://i.imgur.com/knhG8rL.png)
"...we are WHAT!?"
"We're losing money rapidly, your Majesty." The financial advisor shakes his head.
"The huge standing army Prussia has, along with high maintenance, is draining our Treasury rapidly."
"Cut maintenance on ships, then. Our fleet isn't needed except against naval threats."
(https://i.imgur.com/PGACdFU.png)
"It's been few months. How are we doing?"
"Err, slightly less worse, my lord... we do make positive income each year."
"Oh! That's good. How much?"
"6 ducats."
"...which of our neighbours is the strongest economically at the moment?"
The financial advisor flips the pages in his ledger. "Normandy?"
(https://i.imgur.com/4WVxlzK.png)
And so it was decided that Prussian Army will spend the summer holidays in Kingdom of Normandy.
(https://i.imgur.com/ijNYAVF.png)
"Arnor is ours, and so is Norman money! Not as much as I would like to, but it should be good. How's the numbers looking now?"
"Well..."
(https://i.imgur.com/FM3W5gl.png)
And there was much rejoicing.
-
032: Willkommen im 19. Jahrhundert!
(https://i.imgur.com/33qTSQa.png)
As if we do not have enough economical troubles at the moment, corruption sets in!
The other option greatly ups the inflation, and higher prices is the last thing we need.
(https://i.imgur.com/sifAM3w.png)
We hire a taxman who gets us an idea about privatizing the mining enterprises.
This increases productivity and taxation, whilst undermining our merchants a little bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/etnSZcD.png)
The Court at Ostpreussen was in shock when the news came that Kingdom of Schleswig revoked our ancient personal union.
A close examination of world news have unearthed an embarassing fact: whilst Prussian court was busy dealing with Reformed heretics in Brittany and construction of economic infrastructure in Germanic lands, a pretender rose to power and seized Schleswigian throne.
We will fix that in a minute!
(https://i.imgur.com/dZwU6Ug.png)
The 6th Army under command of Rupprecht Knobelsdorf sieged and captures Schleswig, then assaults the weakly-defended Jyttland and Fyn provinces.
Whilst taken aback by the Schleswigian willingness to just renounce our ancient friendship like that, nonetheless we simply restore the old treaty.
(https://i.imgur.com/fdfzWfv.png)
A little mission that asks us to convert Brabant back to Catholicism gets Holland involved.
It spans the half of North America and is riddled with peasant and revolutionary revolts, so we shouldn't have much trouble here.
(https://i.imgur.com/1kGY1ht.png)
We make peace with Holland as soon as the war is over.
Next, we get a mission to conquer Baden, receiving a free core as a reward. Let's go!
(https://i.imgur.com/fjMjuf6.png)
Conquest of Baden provokes a little alliance of Swiss states to go to war against us.
In addition to Baden, we will annex Bavaria and Wurrtemberg in their entirety.
(https://i.imgur.com/ybOCRBI.png)
See? The map looks prettier without all those colorful blotches in the south.
(https://i.imgur.com/nI1a5oG.png)
Austria sponsored some uprisings in central Germany.
We had them punished. The war even resulted in Ukraine forking over Ruthenia, which we will feed to our vassal, Duchy of Polotsk.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZsVx5IE.png)
Long ago our statesmen and philosophers were known across whole Europe for their mastery of arts.
In the past decades, in the recent wars, that reputation was weakened rather badly.
We therefore become Patron of Arts, so that the fineries of Prussian courts are known once more!
(https://i.imgur.com/KIGCmi4.png)
We then promote the Romantic musicians, and charter the Guild of St.Luke, headed by Dutch masters of painting and landscaping.
In total with the Patron of Arts, our Cultural Tradition gets +11% of yearly increase!
We're so progressive and cultured right now

(https://i.imgur.com/DFBkABD.png)
Turns out if you get too progressive in the 19th century, people start getting funny ideas.
AH, SCHEISSE!!+20% Stability cost is crippling for us, so endorsement is out of question.
Revolts can be easily put down even with that +6% to them, soKing Ferdinand I decides to oppose this new philosophical movement.
(https://i.imgur.com/KgWzoUx.png)
Not long afterwards, Ferdinand I dies, presumably from over-stressing himself about Socialist menace.
At least our new King, August Wilhelm III, has a heir almost as hypercompetent as himself. I wonder if it will last.
-
033: Die Unruhige Geburt der Deutschen Nation
(https://i.imgur.com/QOcBLlY.png)
With help of a newly recruited, 5-star statesman, Herr Gottfried von Merckatz, we can push for education reforms.
Herr Merckatz has also plans for a National Program that will introduce greater control over the population.
The Court at Prussia seems vary, but King August Wilhelm III is receptive.
(https://i.imgur.com/8beyw48.png)
Our coffers emptying, rebellions popping up, and our Stability taking hits like this...
(https://i.imgur.com/51rMejF.png)
King August Wilhelm III saw what progress and freethinking brings to Prussia.
It's time to stamp out these dangerous ways out of our glorious State!
(https://i.imgur.com/IoRwiiW.png)
A successful takeover of Priangan colony by some peasants incited Germans in Franken to rise against us!
We shall crush all the rebels, purge their families if need be!
(https://i.imgur.com/7SNnBwn.png)
Suddenly, August Wilhelm III dies, leaving his underage son in hands of a rather competent regency council.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ntxrw3b.png)
Our regional authorities are NOT weak!
This brings our Stability into the red, so we commission a 6-star artist, Otto von Derfflinger, to help us party the trouble away.
Remember: always say no to decentralization.
(https://i.imgur.com/YyN5wqv.png)
World News next: the United Provinces of Oceanian Australia have formed!
A grand mixture of christians, muslim and hindus formed a republic and threw their oppressive overlords away.
(https://i.imgur.com/u8NBUqm.png)
MORE REBELS EVERY DAY.
(https://i.imgur.com/dJ0Y2LM.png)
In his inaugrational speech, young Friedrich IV said that it is not that the times are dangerous, but rather our old government is the problem.
He has vowed to make our autocracy more 'silk-gloved' than before, to help diminish our warmongering reputation and to increase bureaucracy to keep up with maintenance of the lands we've acquired so far.
He told us to prepare for governmental change once our country is stable and peaceful enough.
(https://i.imgur.com/2s1FFVz.png)
The governmental change brings an end to the era of Prussian drill, discipline and spartan way of training.
A softer, more enlightened approach to the leadership over the State incites more magistrates to show up.
To regain our leaking prestige, Emil Billerbeck is hired by King Friedrich IV, to spearhed the intellectual progress of the nation.
(https://i.imgur.com/lFa5K0h.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/pPslxv5.png)
Old Hainaut has taken primacy over all Walloon and Flemish lands by proclaiming the creation of Kingdom of Belgium.
This has coincided with birth of Crown Prince Wilhelm Friedrich, heir and possibly future ruler of Prussian state.
"This cannot be mere coincidence", says Friedrich IV as he sets out to work an alliance with Belgium.
(https://i.imgur.com/mswtQlc.png)
With Imperialism on mind, we go to war against Hungary, to recover the old prestige and reputation of glorious warlords.
That brings in Sweden to the fray, and we consider snatching Copenhagen from them, handing it to Schleswig.
(https://i.imgur.com/UlafIHl.png)
We triumph over Hungary so well that we can reclaim the title of Defender of Catholic Faith.
And Belgium agrees to our alliance!
(https://i.imgur.com/0t787qd.png)
King Friedrich IV, ever the reformer, has decided that we must break with our traditions furthermore.
For decades we've been expanding, assimilating peoples into our fold. He argues that due to the multicultural mosaic that is our nation, we need to call ourselves not Prussia, but something else:
Germany!
-
034: Die Glorreiche Regierungszeit von König Friedrich IV
(https://i.imgur.com/xJQ9ROW.png)
We begin our efforts to truly unify Germanic people by warring up the little states.
(https://i.imgur.com/oofUSVC.png)
The grand gamble paid off - the system of guarantees and alliance brought in Friesland, Ulm, Tirol, Austria into the fray, all who have provinces that are our cores.
Holland and Belgium get involved too, but they're way outside our league to successfully intervene.
(https://i.imgur.com/D60zhdB.png)
The grand reform and reunification plans of Friedrich IV are met with approval of the nobles, who donate money!
In next few months, Munster, Westfalen, Sundgau, Breisgau and Steiermark all fall into our hands.
(https://i.imgur.com/l8wZ7y7.png)
Diplomatic mess occurs when we preemptively accept peace with outsiders. Tirol and Bamberg therefore end not being incorporated into our state - for now.
(https://i.imgur.com/WowRswK.png)
We pass the time with conquest of Slovenia, whom we liberated a while ago. They hold two cores, including the wealthy centre of trade at Krain.
Istria isn't our core, but Hungary wants it, so we will sell it to them (they buy it after the war for 100 ducats).
(https://i.imgur.com/6LLXjdn.png)
A buncha nobles, not satisfied with our policies of peasant freedom, rally at Krakow.
Herr Gottfried Answald flushes them out to Sandomierz - right into waiting hands of the Army of Polotsk. The ducal troops murder every one of the rebel scum!
(https://i.imgur.com/LQCBYcD.png)
King Friedrich decides that the old capital at Ostpreussen is too far from German provinces, not to mention it being coastal invites strikes from the sea.
Magdeburg in Altmark, a lovely and rich city in central Germany, is chosen as the next capital of Germany.
With some refurbishment and urban construction, Magdeburg will be as prosperous as Konigsberg, if not more!
(https://i.imgur.com/KbEkPug.png)
The animosity between us and Belgium is gone now, and alliance is formed!
Truly, King Friedrich IV has been blessed by God himself. Praise eternal upon him!
-
035: Große Landstriche
(https://i.imgur.com/TxTlcu4.png)
Aha! The final military unit upgrades are in!
(https://i.imgur.com/ui8y2Lu.png)
Belgium bit off a bit too much for its size, and calls for help.
Fret not, dear Jackie! Friedrich and his military powerhouse are on the way!
(https://i.imgur.com/XE3ozFr.png)
First, however, a free investment into Zeeland~
As we already are pretty high on Government, we go for Fine Arts Academy, as it also grants minor stability investment per month.
(https://i.imgur.com/gMJ16Ej.png)
Takes but few months of rampaging through Finland and southern Sweden, and after we capture Stockholm, Belgium manages to get a peace treaty out of them.
Castille, leader of the war, remains silent and rather ineffective at sending anything our way.
(https://i.imgur.com/7i0ogPx.png)
In the meanwhile, we can pursue the goal of unification. Austria possesses several of our cores, and we shall annex them in entirety.
Hungary is just a stepping stone on our way to victory!
(https://i.imgur.com/u9cofqI.png)
After annexation of Austria, we declare war on Wurzburg - suprisingly, the tiny Kingdom of Tirol gets involved, but they've made a terrible mistake.
With us fighting a war on Belgium's side, Belgium cannot side with Tirol, whom they previously guaranteed.
Shortly afterwards, we conclude annexation treaties to stop Belgium, who finished its war with Castille, from getting involved on the wrong side.
(https://i.imgur.com/b339vNp.png)
We've missed one! Trent, belonging to Milan, was captured after approximately 130 thousand German soldiers stormed the 6000 strong Trentino garrison.
(https://i.imgur.com/3fN7rB1.png)
A mission gives us a casus belli to convert Reformed heretics of Schwyz (in Bern), but we will do more than that.
We will grab the pieces of Swiss cantons and give them away to the true Switzerland, which is currently a rump state sitting in the corner of Wallis province.
'But King Friedrich, these are heretics!' Yeah, but I like Switzerland now, so we will remake them. Shush!
(https://i.imgur.com/3hcD1j7.png)
Improved Foraging is a must; we field enormous armies and we venture in mountains of Swiss and wintery lands of Sweden pretty often.
This way we won't bleed as many soldiers as we did before.
(https://i.imgur.com/aomvsy5.png)
Aaah, ain't she beaut? Her territories stretch from Brittany to the Ukrainian steppes!
Who doesn't love a big Germany with huge tracts of land?
-
036: Ewiger Kreislauf der Gewalt
(https://i.imgur.com/kYlF1TB.png)
We go to war with Novgorod - the reason for war is simple 'Imperialism', and a more thorough one is that Polotsk recently gained a core on their land.
Any reason to make our rivals smaller and our vassals larger is a good reason for war!
(https://i.imgur.com/wzN489Y.png)
Doesn't take long to cripple Novgorod.
Bryansk is given away to our loyal vassal, the Duke of Polotsk, for free.
(https://i.imgur.com/YlvV4uT.png)
The rebellious peasants demand freedoms! Although they are already pretty free, they still want more.
King Friedrich IV is not willing to entertain 30+ stacks of peasant forces in western Germany, so he accepts the demands.
Stupid rebellious peasants...
(https://i.imgur.com/ovVjcWt.png)
Oh, how nice! Wilhelm Friedrich finds time to astonish his peers with poetry and novelettes!
I mean, what is there for him to do, if his father's enlightened rule has brought peace and stability to Germany in the last two decades?
(https://i.imgur.com/pcgLy6f.png)
+25% Discipline is basically +25% more damage. There's no kill like overkill!
In the background, you see us fighting Crimea - the nomadic raiders still believe its early 15th century. Poor guys.
(https://i.imgur.com/YHmV7Ia.png)
People of Brittany have finally accepted our overlordship!
There should be no more revolts in that region, even during wartime.
(https://i.imgur.com/q61YYUB.png)
King Friedrich IV has decided that, instead of simply defeating the Crimean tatars, we might instead educate and civilize them.
After all, some scenic villages on the coast of the Black Sea might make a wonderful spa resorts in the future!
(https://i.imgur.com/wFS6woV.png)
TREACHERY!! DISHONOR!! MURDER!!
First time in history of Prussia and Germany, one of our rulers have been assassinated!
We do not know what is worse - that's its the benevolent, enlightened Friedrich IV that did it, or was it our amicable neighbours, the Urbinese.
(https://i.imgur.com/q16hSlJ.png)
At least Wilhelm Friedrich has a heir, a bit underage though, ready to replace him if anything happens.
As expected, Kingdom of Urbino is not remorseful at all, and took our accusation as an insult.
Now, it is time to avenge King Friedrich. Over 160k German troops are making their way to Trent and Tirol, for there will be war!
(https://i.imgur.com/RRW0dYq.png)
The Urbinese called for help from Naples and few minor Italian states.
That won't stop us from pulverizing their sorry Kingdom into dust!
(https://i.imgur.com/qedMNiN.png)
We were wondering why Siena, the Urbinese ally, didn't feel suicidal enough to join the war.
Turns out, they have their own problems.
Urbinese fleet has been contained and their strategic cities are under siege. Their main army lost the Battle of Ancona and is in full retreat.
(https://i.imgur.com/VDdOlhw.png)
The Second Battle of Ancona sees the Army of Naples, some 25k men, destroyed, while Army of Urbino is severely depleted.
It retreats to Firenze, where Herr Johann Leopold Hertel and the 1st Army defeat them once again.
Belgians, bloodthirsty for combat, besiege and assault their northern holdings.
(https://i.imgur.com/O47gvL9.png)
Urbino has surrendered to our demands and we impose a harsh treaty upon them.
They have to release their northern holdings as Kingdom of Ferrara, which will be made into German puppet, sooner or later.
(https://i.imgur.com/jkGkt4d.png)
While Crimea needs re-education, and enemies of Germany creep in the shadows, it is time to end this.
...And I should fix that ending text already.
Auf Wiedersehen, Deutschland!
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And another game bites the dust!
Where are you going next? I'd be interested in seeing the fight to westernize a bit.
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Well I've finished modding in Sikh faith, so we might as well try going India this time.
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That would be interesting. Throughout the time period of Europa Universalis to Heart of Iron, the countries in India are the real underdogs.
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That base tax, population, and pricey trade goods tho! India can get all the money~!
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001: The Kashmere Nightmare
(https://i.imgur.com/PnzJPVG.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/bcyZCKc.png)
We are the Indian Sultanate of Kashmir. Much like most of Indian states in the area (sans Rajputs), our Muslim elites are ruling over thousands of Hindu subjects.
We have a decent, military ruler with a decent heir quite close to the adulthood (Allah save him from ultimely death).
(https://i.imgur.com/bhFa7sl.png)
Oh, and we happen to start while being at war with the Great Conqueror of Persia, Khan Timur Timurid, and his hordes of murderous nomads.
"Oh boy, Haspen, how do you win this!?" Pfft, easy question, easy answer!
(https://i.imgur.com/BUlOSCm.png)
You get distracted by an offer of alliance from the mighty Sultanate of Delhi itself?
Sure thing. Sure!
(https://i.imgur.com/1ln1jVX.png)
How are we not dead yet.
I've seen some peace treaties with Georgia and Jalayrids involved, so... they sure are conquering in the west.
But where the heck is Timur??
(https://i.imgur.com/x03i8Zo.png)
Already dead, it turns out. With various snippets and black-red flags popping up around Timurid territories, it seems a pretender took over.
Does that mean we can take their provinces?
(https://i.imgur.com/dVMLZRT.png)
We can at least pass out some decisions.
When we get a Theologian, few more will be available, including a bunch that will boost our missionary numbers, which will be crucial if we want to go innovative (and thus, tech fast enough).
(https://i.imgur.com/fXD8ggw.png)
Overall, with Jizya plus these two, we get a penalty to stability, national revolt risk increase, in return for extra money, and +1 missionary per year. Cool with me.
Timurid murder hordes still not anywhere close to Kashmiri borders.
(https://i.imgur.com/EMVCRGU.png)
One province is in our hands!
(https://i.imgur.com/nrchP3N.png)
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!! We barely have 1% war score, and they're already coming!
Someone send them a treaty, quick!! Will they accept our defeat!? Do they want a tribute? I don't wanna think about economy if they-
(https://i.imgur.com/NlpTY8g.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/XE1Q4of.jpg)
Sure. Okay.
Let's go with that.
This means that our greatest and most life-threatening of problems went out of the window for at least few years. What do we do now?
(https://i.imgur.com/DxIzhmt.png)
We gather some money, apparently.
How can we expand, though? One way is Timurids, the other is our ally, Delhi.
(https://i.imgur.com/NPOARPr.png)
We make some marriage offers and get alliance offers in return.
Maybe we don't need to be friends with Delhi after all!
(https://i.imgur.com/Xzj9t7g.png)
Not sure what Bihar thought while declaring a crusade against Delhi, but we join in on the fun.
We can't really help, of course, but hey - free war tax is good tax!
(https://i.imgur.com/tUP6Kfr.png)
The war ends after just half a year, when Bihar asks for white peace.
Then we get 3 ducats from a very good harvest.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ni0W4DX.png)
While Delhi is plunged into horrific civil war with at least 3 pretenders to the throne involved, we celebrate.
The coming of age of Ali Shah, that's it.
I've also decided that because we cannot be a military power (yet), we might as well make inroads into Indian centres of trade, like Kutch, and Bihar.
(https://i.imgur.com/2FC4Ig5.png)
Man, I'm glad I've decided to not play as Delhi at the last minute.
Everyone is out there to murder Delhi! And nobody bothers with the tiny Kashmir. Phew! I think we're quite well off...
Wait, I'm forgetting something really-
(https://i.imgur.com/Z6i3FCc.png)
Aaaaaaahh shit.
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Pretty sure you're going to be at war with the Timurids or other nomads for most of the game. They're probably too busy fighting rebels, pretenders, and their other neighbors to be a real threat, and I don't think they can annex you.
EDIT: They can steal your land though.
I've been having fun as Steppe Nomads, but I still haven't figured them out completely. The whole "not knowing when we'll be at war" thing is quite confusing.
Any advice on playing as them? Currently playing as Golden Horde.
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I tried to get Kashmir anywhere, but its either Timurids who eat us up, or, if Timurids decide to be lenient, its Delhi who rushes our devastated state for easy landgrab, ending in our annexation.
I don't understand; when I try something outside and LP, it goes well, but when I try to LP it, everything goes to shite.
Hrrrmphh.
How about we try something else entirely? Mayhaps you would like to read the tale of...
001: Bonifacius IX and The Imperial Loophole
(https://i.imgur.com/e3525E0.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ye0EcTW.png)
This is the Papal States on 14th October, 1399. Papacy is a Theocracy: this means no marriages, diplo-vassalization, inheritances, but also gives us an infinite supply of rulers, chosen immediately at death of the last one. No legitimacy issues, either! And did I mention we get 100% Papal Influence from being Pope ourselves? Cardinal galore, woohoo!
Up north, we have the intricate, and potentially deadly, Holy Roman Empire network (with Milan being the largest threat at the moment), and the meddlesome Emperor ready to stomp in if we try to expand north.
Down south, we have Naples, with its ambitions for Provence, Epirus, and Sicily. They boast an army bigger than we can handle at the moment.
"Pope Bonifacius, how do we achieve greatness then?"
(https://i.imgur.com/4Nex8wG.png)
Pope Bonifacius tapped his forehead.
"The Emperor can't rush to defend against our invasion if we're part of the Empire."
Now, everytime we get a legitimate casus belli against northern Italian states, we can wage war with much less stress on our shoulders.
On other side, attackers wanting our lands will have to think twice before angering the Emperor.
First thing to do, is to connect Rome and Romagna together. Fortunately, there's exactly one non-HRE state that stands in our way.
(https://i.imgur.com/K48BfIF.png)
Urbino must DIE.
It starts without any pre-existing treaties and doesn't even have friends.
(https://i.imgur.com/sGzU4zo.png)
We get some extra cash! This event is tied to your annual income; later on the gift will be up in hundreds or thousands of ducats.
Meanwhile, Italy is set on fire as Venice and Naples and France go to war over Epirus, Ferrara and Provence.
(https://i.imgur.com/VWFHI6q.png)
And there we go! More manpower and more army limits for our next conquest.
What would that be, you ask?
(https://i.imgur.com/Oz9530O.png)
Besieged by Venice and Mantua already, the Naples coalition stands no chance against us!
(https://i.imgur.com/MyLwv1I.png)
Venice finishes up its fight against Napels, relinquishing its occupation of Ferrara and Mantua.
Just as we get a mission to reclaim the ducal territory.
We might actually end up not with just south of the Italy, but two bits of Lombardia too!
(https://i.imgur.com/UhHOM8v.png)
Florence meddles in by joining the war - our combined army is larger than theirs.
Still, delays at this time might be very dangerous.
(https://i.imgur.com/R0UcLmc.png)
We expand our bureaucracy whilst our armies are besieging all of Naples coalition members at once.
Venice and Sicily are grabbing bits of Naples though. We won't be achieving total dominance of the South this time.
Also pictured are the massive independence rebellions in Pisa and Siena. 80% of the time, Milan can't handle these
(https://i.imgur.com/C9i3y6Q.png)
However, grabbing northlands like mad will incur the wrath of the Emperor; that's why we want Florence as a vassal.
We might do the same with Modena; Ferrara, which will become our core upon completion of our mission, won't be so lucky.
(https://i.imgur.com/rpDdyGx.png)
Ruler of Ferrara dies just as we finish conquering up the two states, leading to separation of the two lands.
This means we can annex both separately.
(https://i.imgur.com/lWVWOnA.png)
Our infamy explodes however, and that requires slight changes to our policies.
Florentine philosophers will help, just like our newly hired diplomat, Signor Soterius Magno.
(https://i.imgur.com/l21QyBp.png)
Venetian and Sicillian parts of Naples are suffering revolts, and these, when beaten, flee to the parts we occupy ourselves.
We must deal with them, for Calabrian (or rather, Apulian-Calabrian) state can re-emerge with several provinces at once, and that would be bad.
(https://i.imgur.com/SNG3yrV.png)
Various nations rise up in hopes of independence but Pisa got the short stick.
I mean, wow, having to fight both Austria AND Bohemia at once? That's unlucky.
(https://i.imgur.com/5mnkIsK.png)
As we wait for our infamy to drop, our nation is still developing.
Our first idea will be Military Drill; mostly because once we gobble the little lands, we will be facing Milan, Austria and others in our close vicinity.
Numbers alone won't let us win against them!
(https://i.imgur.com/bxRnheW.png)
Dang, that IS fast.
Hopefully they won't be getting as much support as before for subsequent reforms.
(https://i.imgur.com/H2CkrOd.png)
In his bid to gain more political and administrative powers, Bonifacius IX angers quite a lot of people.
We revolt in Modena will be easily dealt with - the angry crowds in Rome might be a bit trickier.
(https://i.imgur.com/3YYZfqd.png)
Some emergency infantry making later, we dislodge the rebels from Roma, chasing them to Ancona and then Romagna.
They're thus annihilated and we're safe!
We immediately disband some troops and lower the maintenance so that we won't go bankrupt in next six months.
(https://i.imgur.com/uRwgiCH.png)
And so, our initial conquests are truly complete! We will grab Apulia and Calabria later.
Now is time to rest, recuperate, and-
(https://i.imgur.com/UulD8k7.png)
And prepare for Bonifacius IX's upcoming death, perhaps.
It's one of events I've modded to reflect the fact that Popes are elected when old and usually don't last long.
We will see how it goes, for now - the peoples of Papal States are sad! Very sad, I tell you!
(https://i.imgur.com/eHQn9Tu.png)
He will be leaving quite a legacy, though.
Can't complain about that!
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I can't believe you made the Holy Roman Empire both Holy and Roman ;v
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Shush, realpolitik is key to victory v;
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002: A Pair of Shrewd Innocents
(https://i.imgur.com/B6ZV89r.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/8JeNPNl.png)
Alas, what was feared would happen, happened.
Habemus Papam! Pius II is now the Pope and the Father of Catholic Church.
His lower diplomatic score is a detriment to our current Infamy, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/pRAOQou.png)
First time of many, we hope! The longer the Curia will be outside foreign control, the better for us.
Unfortunately, both the Crusade and Excommunication limits are in place, so we don't have much to do right now.
We could lift excommunication from Maria I d'Arago - unfortunately, she rules Sicily, and that means she will be our future target.
(https://i.imgur.com/Bzz5HgL.png)
Meanwhile, peoples of Southern Italy are rising up in numbers.
Just before us and Venice, two revolts were put down by Sicily in Calabria, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/GOpLNZS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/fJ6G3qK.png)
Playing as the Papal States, at least in my mod, means you need to get used to these.
Habemus Papam, once again! Innocentius VII is quite talented, and is perfect diplomat to help us cool off our infamy.
Hopefully he will last long enough for us to use his talents.
(https://i.imgur.com/4zUWEFa.png)
He already gets Austria and Aquileia onto our side.
Out of the two, the only option is opposing the Hapsburgs; they often get missions to expand into Lombardy, and that's bad for our current and future interests.
(https://i.imgur.com/xXhCUfO.png)
Unfortunately, the emissaries of Vaclav IV are working fast, too.
We decline, of course. Emperor might be our nominal suzerain, but we will not yield to him.
(https://i.imgur.com/HkxhkPB.png)
Aww yiss, Innocentius VII is the best Pope!
(https://i.imgur.com/YUUBhHm.png)
Being mercantilistic and aristocratic means we won't be doing any trading any time soon.
Might as well let them boost production in Ferrara and Romagna.
(https://i.imgur.com/YirCVOj.png)
Just to wreck Austrian ambitions for the throne of Holy Roman Empire, we excommunite Albrecht IV.
This way they will stop pestering us with allliance offers, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/rTzOE5B.png)
Two years of peace and stability pass and then Aquileia asks us to join a war against Tlemcen.
A quick check in ledger revealed that they've no armies left. Easy plunder!
Innocentius VII decides to lead the army personally.
(https://i.imgur.com/EkMocqx.png)
Poor Tlemcen!
Apparently everyone's jumped the opportunity.
Tlemcen is refusing our calls for money or land, so we will probably end the war on Aquileian terms only.
(https://i.imgur.com/x62qYE2.png)
What a waste! During voyage home with the last of our regiments, Innocentius VII dies suddenly.
Once again my friends, Habemus Papam! The new Pope, in honour of his predecessor, takes the name Innocentius VIII.
(https://i.imgur.com/jR9IQXa.png)
Innocentius VIII will take to the field early, as Venice is pouncing upon Aquileia in its hour of need.
Fear not, the Pope is coming with his soldiers!
(https://i.imgur.com/sWq3YQk.png)
Venice is obnoxious and refuses our treaties, meanwhile dragging in its ex-vassals and new friends in.
Meanwhile, the Pope sells some land to noble families of Roma and the States for a boost in coinage.
We need to start building armories, and soon.
(https://i.imgur.com/WavVAor.png)
With the Swiss forces parading around Milan, we decide to cut the war early.
Innocentius VIII manages to obtain Apulia and some cash from the disgraced Venetian Doge. Deus Vult!
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003: All-Successful Expansion Politics of Innocentius VIII
(https://i.imgur.com/c0v0s6k.png)
Pope Innocentius VIII decides to round up the conquest of Southern Italy.
Which means a war with Sicily, one that seems to not be in their favor.
(https://i.imgur.com/carE9xv.png)
Wait, that's...
(https://i.imgur.com/CSdGwWn.png)
Even more reasons to fight is that Maria I d'Arago is a thrice damned immortal witch!!
I mean, okay, 60 isn't that much, but still: "Burn her anyways!"
Unfortunately, this is not Crusader Kings 2.
(https://i.imgur.com/ePPmB6u.png)
Just in case the Sicillians try some amphibious sieges, we hire an engineer from the Low Countries.
That's 3rd time in a row that Flemish and Dutch provide us with such an opportunity.
They're good, Christian peoples, these Dutch!
(https://i.imgur.com/3ki5r2l.png)
Our truce with the Swiss isn't even finished yet and they already offer an alliance.
I will chalk it up to Innocentius VIII's natural charisma.
(https://i.imgur.com/QXmOvjR.png)
Verona just recently was made independent from Kingdom of Milan, and their only ally is Savoy.
Savoy is right next to Switzerland. The Pope decides to escalate the tensions to get a casus belli.
We might try vassalizing Verona, or at least grab some money from them (or the Savoyards).
(https://i.imgur.com/E3J6deC.png)
A crucial battle begins once we capture Calabria.
Time is of the essence; if we managed to ping-pong Sicillians while the straits are still contested, they will be cornered and annihilated!
(https://i.imgur.com/WvwW6Iw.png)
The battle was won, but Sicillian army decides to run for Apulia.
Meanwhile, our diplomat, Signor Vigilius Iseo, has shown his mastery of diplomacy to all abroad!
Just what we need to grab land from Sicily.
(https://i.imgur.com/AnBEsPx.png)
Sicily's army is routed several times before we vanquish them under the gates of Rome itself.
Queen Maria accepts our modest demands for Apulia and some cash.
Our troops are immediately moved northwards, to the border with the petty Kingdom of Verona.
(https://i.imgur.com/1Yf5K25.png)
Ha, what is guarantee if Aquileia is our ally?
Onwards, to Verona!
(https://i.imgur.com/zpWvqPw.png)
Those accursed traitors! Aquileia joined the side of Savoy and Verona!
No matter, the Swiss are with us. We will win the war swiftly and decisively.
(https://i.imgur.com/NKei2pg.png)
That is some escalation, and I hate escalation of alliances in this game.
Still, the Army of Verona is already destroyed, and Swiss are besieging Cuneo.
(https://i.imgur.com/NqhFD2h.png)
Verona is now our vassal! Our primary goal has been thus accomplished.
Now we move to help the Swiss and bully Savoy for money!
(https://i.imgur.com/DvDO6X5.png)
It turns out we had just enough war score to force the Savoyards to become our vassals!
Soon enough, all of Italy will be ruled under one - the Pope in Rome!
(https://i.imgur.com/eW65hm4.png)
We acquire new Longbow troops, just in time too.
The Calabrian rebels are growing in numbers, and soon they might match the size of our army.
(https://i.imgur.com/h52Y5Gu.png)
It seems that we have hit some bad luck with the provinces, and new revolts pop out.
Worry not, Pope Innocentius is on his way to deal with the rebels!
(https://i.imgur.com/M2s6gm2.png)
The next two years we spend working up our relationship with Pisa (we have a mission to do so).
This culminates in Innocentius' alliance with this noble republic!
(https://i.imgur.com/wZJY84P.png)
Alas! That was Innocentius VIII's last major deed.
Would you believe that he ruled as Patriarch of Rome for *only* 10 years?
(https://i.imgur.com/cQQs0yF.png)
His successor takes the name Gregorius XII. Not much of an administrator, but boy.
I love that military score, he he he.
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10 ducats he dies first pic next update.
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I like how you mentioned that Innocentius VIII only served for 10 years. Playing Patricians and Seniority succession in Crusader Kings 2, waiting for that 10 year mark to hit, 10 years is quite the milestone. If only those old farts could live that long...
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004: Unification of Southern Italy
(https://i.imgur.com/MudovhY.png)
Oh what the heck, we have an Anti-Pope on our hands!
Unfortunately for this Liberius guy, he has chosen a manpower-poor province. His supporters have 6000 troops total.
(https://i.imgur.com/oPfQvdf.png)
Quite dissappointing; we destroyed the rebels in just one battle.
The movement dies with the pretender, though, so Gregorius XII can return to administrative duties.
(https://i.imgur.com/9whAazL.png)
Just caught in the news feed that Maria d'Arago died recently.
The witch lived for nearly 70 years!
(https://i.imgur.com/DcRcTaB.png)
Only the finest of soldiers in the armies of God!
(https://i.imgur.com/Cy4ftHh.png)
Years pass quickly when there's peace in the land.
Our old Master of Mint, Louis de Rochebaron of Burgundy, has died.
We will seek a replacement for him as soon as we can.
(https://i.imgur.com/Rfb1Rwr.png)
God wills it that we conquer Messina!
We need more ships for that, though. Sicillians might have few troops, but many galleys.
(https://i.imgur.com/xY3dM7H.png)
As we slowly build up our naval forces, Renaissance penetrates the walls of Vatican.
Our infamy is almost zero, so we replace our diplomat, Signor Iseo, with this philosopher guy.
(https://i.imgur.com/bLGeX2k.png)
Just as we assemble the fleet, Pope Gregorius XII passes away in his sleep.
Perhaps to both commemorate and continue his predecessor's plans, the new Pope changes his name to Gregorius XII. Habemus Papam!
(https://i.imgur.com/W3XcVqm.png)
A perfect opportunity to strike shows up when a traveling Pisan fleet reports that Sicillian troops and navy are in Navarra, quelling a local uprising.
This allows us to waltz straight into Sicily, and start the siege!
(https://i.imgur.com/jD0mcSR.png)
The naval action off the coast of Malta is a victory for the Papal States! Just few days earlier, we capture La Valetta, the capital of the island.
Pope Gregorius XIII has decreed that instead of conquering just Messina, we will unite whole Southern Italy under the Papal banner.
(https://i.imgur.com/lwc1ZCw.png)
Turns out that Sicillians have many more possessions than we've thought.
Just recently they've acquired Treviso, north of Venetia, and they directly control Athens in addition to their old fief in Navarra.
This will require much more effort and money to deal with...
(https://i.imgur.com/sHqo3Eh.png)
Unfortuantely, Sicillian weather does not lend itself to Pope Gregorius' health!
He has fallen sick, and was moved from the frontlines back to Vatican to recuperate.
(https://i.imgur.com/bawsyg1.png)
If Sardinian troops wouldn't have landed in Roma, we wouldn't fight and annex them.
See, it's their fault entirely.
(https://i.imgur.com/cRGQLWJ.png)
Byzantine Empire is on the rise, and our money is used to support some revolts in Greece and Navarra so that they abandon their Sicillian masters.
In meanwhile, the Duchy of Verona conquers Treviso for us, having battled the local garrison for the past three years.
(https://i.imgur.com/bKqWk6E.png)
Unfortunately, the sickness won, and Gregorius XIII has perished.
Habemus Papam! The new Pope is Leo X, who has decided to continue the policy of total conquest of Southern Italy.
He has also decreed that after the war, we will dedicate ourselves to cultural and economical expansion of our vast territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/0gvGiq3.png)
Leo X even reflects that in national policies; he uses personal funds to sponsor artists and sculptors.
(https://i.imgur.com/LdEz85j.png)
The Pope also sponsors some architectural development in the Papal States.
That doesn't exactly lie well with several prominent families and peoples of the States, but the word of the Pope is absolute here.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ju7bOoA.png)
It is also under Leo X's tenure that formerly conquered territories leave behind their nationalistic spirits.
First is Ancona, then Modena in Lombardy, then two provinces of Naples...
(https://i.imgur.com/8612xCA.png)
Pope Leo X was patient, and it may have taken several long years, before rebels tore away distant fiefs of Sicily.
He forces the terms of surrender upon Manfred of Sicily: annexation of Palermo, Messina, Malta and Treviso.
Finally, the whole of Southern Italy is united under banner of the Papal States!
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005: From Leo X to Pius III, or: Series of Very Unfortunate Popes
(https://i.imgur.com/Enhvn7V.png)
Of course, such violent conquests and land-grabs do not go well with populace.
For example, people of Sardinia has staged a revolt - second since their conquest so far.
The forces of Papal States are vigilant and ready, however, to deal with them any time.
(https://i.imgur.com/IZBjviF.png)
A mission is given to us by the God to vassalize Mantua!
Pisa will most probably flake away. If they do, Armata di Roma is ready to capture their provinces and vassalize them too.
(https://i.imgur.com/YcAXp1u.png)
"They've chosen... wisely."
Venice is reduced to their island, Genoa has to contend with our Savoyard vassal, and Verona is already sending its troops to Mantua.
I don't see how this war could go awry.
(https://i.imgur.com/fQFSf3R.png)
Ducats and prestige and a new vassal is grabbed easily. And yes, Lithuania joined the war, but I don't see how a coast-less country can attack us.
Leo X entertains the possibility of conquering Venezia and Genoa, too, to take their centres of trade for our own benefit.
Hopefully, the God approves of our shrewdness!
(https://i.imgur.com/vu5dsNb.png)
We have angered Him!
The papal delegation meets with the Lithuanian one and a white peace is signed within a month.
Then, we start praying.
(https://i.imgur.com/SzsupUt.png)
Pisa calls us into a war against Milan, who, in an attempt to restore its territories, attacks Cremona.
We will not be fighting personally, as Roman troops are escorting Pope Leo X to Rome with haste in hopes of obtaining God's mercy.
(https://i.imgur.com/NGlZgcG.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/oaZmBAQ.png)
Leo X makes it as far as Siena before dying suddenly and in great pains.
Habemus Papam! Pope Martinus V is a diplomat, but not a warrior.
His choice at the conclave is definitely a sign from the God that we stop warmongering, at least for a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/O49TIy9.png)
After a joint siege by Savoy and Mantua captures Lombardy, Martinus V concludes a peace treaty with Milan.
They're forced to forever give up their claims for their old territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/bNAoX8g.png)
During the reign of Pope Martinus V, gold starts flowing in rather than out our treasury each month.
We decide to use the funds to build some docks and constables, increasing tax and production outputs greatly. Next will be armories and marketplaces!
The last thing is churches, but churches can wait.
(https://i.imgur.com/V0sTbOl.png)
I'm not sure why, but getting Cultural Assimilation event as Papal States is freakishly rare.
Even more satisfying to see it!
(https://i.imgur.com/NG4BenZ.png)
ALRIGHT FINE I WILL BUILD SOME CHURCHES.
(https://i.imgur.com/JcAWqoM.png)
Habemus Papam once more!
Alexander V's skills will be useful at getting more money, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/86uRwCv.png)
Aha! Our government tech is at level 10.
Immediately after chosing this decision, our monthly income dramatically increases by... 0.7 ducats?
Well, money is money, right?
(https://i.imgur.com/rh5oiKT.png)
Finally! No more drain on our Prestige, and no more extra infamy gain.
Modena is our core, and next year, Abruzzi and Naples will become cores as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/dUDdgHz.png)
So I'm minding my own business, building stuff in the States and then this happens...
Well... ok...
Go away Yugoslavia, you're way too early!
(https://i.imgur.com/s1wL9kb.png)
INFINITE ADVANCEMENT!
We will be the most technologically country in the world in no time!
(https://i.imgur.com/CHo1uso.png)
Our Cardinals and their ilk are getting upset over our innovative policies.
Pope Alexander V is wise and decides to not pay attention to them.
(https://i.imgur.com/Kf1eZpm.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/3LpYlNP.png)
Habemus Papam! Be it old age or God's punishment for Papal innovativeness, Alexander V passes away.
Pius III ain't that bad, though. His high Military skill prompts that we do some warmongering, but let's leave that for the next upda-
(https://i.imgur.com/7PuM5f2.png)
REALLY!?
-
006: Pius III and the Sultanate of England
(https://i.imgur.com/oDaN8Hm.png)
As always, this is only a temporary alliance, for we know the only permament alliances are the ones with your vassals.
This is a strategic one; Austria has recently became too powerful and are continuing their hold on the Imperial Throne; something that's too dangerous to let be.
(https://i.imgur.com/T8jS7Gx.png)
Doesn't take long for them to drag us into a war.
We join to uphold the treaty, and then start a war of our own:
(https://i.imgur.com/5N17Yng.png)
The Doge of Venice has been excommunicated by Aquileia, and that gives us a valid pretext for war.
Venice will be ours - whilst not a core, the control of its centre of trade will be invaluable.
And yes, Castille joined the war against us and Bavaria, but I'm sure it can be easily fixed.
(https://i.imgur.com/hiNUWX0.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/retSheK.png)
Funnily, we never had a Theologian at our court. Signor Toscani will do nicely.
And even better, he allows us to take this important religious edict.
(https://i.imgur.com/OvnqXZm.png)
The sinful Doge has been drowned in the Adriatic and the City of Canals is ours!
Our merchants flock to Venetian markets to dominate it.
Meanwhile, Castille, fearful of confrontation in Italy, has decided to besiege our islands instead.
(https://i.imgur.com/xxkdzXC.png)
Inflation is bad, yes, but this event fills almost half of our tech bar in one go, shaving away several years of wait till next Government tech level.
(https://i.imgur.com/IFRZlp6.png)
Castille finally lands troops at Italian coasts.
Because we have no general available, Pius III, despite his ill health, leads the troops to bash the Castillian soldiers into a bloody pulp.
(https://i.imgur.com/PAeJTn6.png)
The innovative and progressive policies of Pius III's predecessors left our current Pope with no Missionaries to use.
Currently, we have nothing for them to do, but we must slow down the loss and get into positives.
After all, there's no heathens or heretics in the-
(https://i.imgur.com/unCSy2t.png)
EXCUSE ME BUT WHAT THE BLOODY HELL?
I vaguely remember that they were at war with the Ottomans few years ago, but WHAT?? HOW???
(https://i.imgur.com/pN5yEOr.png)
Castille landed a big troop at Sicily, hoping that their numbers will protect them.
Pope Pius III has decided them, after mere two battles, that they are totally wrong.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZZAbKc3.png)
And speaking of Pius III; look, the 'Bedridden Pope' (a red icon once present in the row of greens) modifier is gone. He is cured!
(https://i.imgur.com/Vi2OMHx.png)
Now he can turn his attention to the greatest insult upon the grace of God at the moment.
It seems that the conversion originated in London. Therefore, there can be no other conclusion but that the Ottomans kicked English ass so hard, they've forced a conversion.
Pius III is considering the obvious: a Crusade. An English Crusade, now that will be a first!
(https://i.imgur.com/BnFLi1h.png)
Signor Toscani already proves his theological brilliance.
Out of the two options, we go for free stability boost.
(https://i.imgur.com/FcUA2wE.png)
Finally, Castille decides that it is tired of war against us, and offers white peace.
Our vassals promptly receive the same offer within next two weeks or so.
Somehow, Bavarians manage to force Castille to grant independence to Kingdom of Galicia, in the remote northwestern corner of Iberia.
(https://i.imgur.com/FgFtWq0.png)
Ayyy, Master of Mint also gets his special one-time event! We take Prestige option this time.
(https://i.imgur.com/nRFVzYB.png)
Man, the events always come in the wrong order, don't they?
We heed Signor Gorizia's idea, -3 inflation does not come lightly.
It's harder to fix than stability or prestige, that's for sure.
(https://i.imgur.com/FG6qlTO.png)
While Pius III deals with fallout from his recent centralization efforts, the States are hard at work, building new cogs and galleys, and even few Carracks.
(https://i.imgur.com/hhBABN7.png)
After chasing Venetian nationalists to their home city, the battle here sees Pius III killed in action!
Habemus Papam! The new Pope, Clemens VII, has little to offer in skills of diplomacy and military. Yet even then, he swore that the English Heresy will NOT be allowed to last.
All we need to do is to persuade King of Scotland to agree to harbor our troops and ships. And he is being exceptionally stubborn at the moment. Bleh!
-
007: The English Crusade and All Other Terrible Events
(https://i.imgur.com/Dv1n2qB.png)
In a perfect moment, some patricians give us money in return for our patronage.
Of course we accept, the moeny will be used to create a unit of militia to keep eye on rebellious provinces.
The rest? The rest is sailing north - Duke of Wales has agreed to host our troops!
(https://i.imgur.com/pBnJmiV.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/HFfIHnJ.png)
The whole crusade goes awfully awry from day 1 because of involvement of the Mamluks and Ottomans.
Meanwhile France and Sweden together band against the English Sultan in the same as we do.
(https://i.imgur.com/XD2MT8H.png)
While General Soterius Corleone is fighting hard on English soil, and Ottomans are landing at our islands, we get this.
It's a modded event of mine; we decide to sponsor Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana, and leftover 10 ducats might require us to take a loan.
(https://i.imgur.com/RNsxElE.png)
While heathen English troops are wasting their time in Gwynnedd, General Corleone has taken his troop on a chevauchee across England.
In total, we gain about 80 ducats from the pillaging alone. Then, satisfied with the spoils, General Corleone takes his forces to London!
(https://i.imgur.com/6SQUQuQ.png)
Papal age- I mean, emissaries, graciously bring funds to the Christian peoples of England.
Already there is a revolt in Lancastershire and Cumbria, and we hope the good Christians wipe the Sultan off the face of the British Isles!
(https://i.imgur.com/d4xE7ft.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/aX0cd2R.png)
Terrible news from Rome! Pope Clemens VII dies of old age.
Habemus Papam! Pius IV decides to continue the fight against English heathens.
(https://i.imgur.com/Tqjy9I8.png)
A major battle occurs in Gwynnedd, where we fight the Royal Army.
They're defeated and chased to Marches, then Glouchestershire, where they're completely annihilated.
(https://i.imgur.com/qDeWVNZ.png)
Be it plunder or political gains, most of Western Europe is now fighting the English!
Never since the First Crusade there was such unity against common foe. Pope Pius IV lauded the noble men and sons who took up arms against the English heathens.
(https://i.imgur.com/EBX9fx5.png)
Pius IV decides that while progress and innovation are good, they cannot undermine our Catholic policies.
Thus, when a philosopher was condemned as heretic, Pius IV agreed with the ruling.
(https://i.imgur.com/TQktcZM.png)
The vile Ottomans lay siege to Rome!
We send General Corleone and our main army there after the militia left behind is annihilated at Battle of Venice.
(https://i.imgur.com/oaey6VS.png)
Ottomans are routed from under the gates of Rome, but General Corleone pays the heaviest price for his bravery!
His replacement, General Anastasius Pramaggiore, swears to destroy the infidel or die trying!
(https://i.imgur.com/E7yZstU.png)
The battle of Treviso goes in our favor, especially after appearance of our Ducal reinforcements.
Then we chase the Ottoman to Venezia, where their troops are drowned in the Adriatic!
(https://i.imgur.com/fRcY48E.png)
Ottoman Empire is being terrible annoying. They even let Sicillian nationalists to take over in Sicily.
Meanwhile our fleet is battling theirs in control of the important straits.
There will be no inch of land given to the vile Turk!
(https://i.imgur.com/NhpP8Hx.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/MOtjv6m.png)
The stressful management of the English Crusade has depleted the health of Pius IV, sending him early to House of our Lord.
Habemus Papam! Benedictus XIII is the exact opposite of a Pope we would want now.
However, he seems to be blessed with favor of our God; shortly after his ascension, we beat Ottomans in Veneto region, retake Verona, and then defeat their fleet at Straits of Otranto.
(https://i.imgur.com/rWHBcfm.png)
This is what happens when the Pope knows nothing about wielding political power!
We swallow the bitter pill of foreign dominance in the Curia, as the other option would cause a -2 Stability hit, which we cannot afford to have right now.
(https://i.imgur.com/spV4CCF.png)
Turns out the Imperial Army, led by Sultan Ibrahim I Osmanli himself, is besieging Calabria!
Fortunately, the sneakily positioned Florentine troops join the battle, allowing us to beat the Turk and then destroy them at Naples.
Sultan Ibrahim has enough luck to escape our wrath.
(https://i.imgur.com/SVChxLz.png)
With our fleet ruling over Aegean Sea, Sultan Ibrahim finally relents and sends us an offer of white peace.
Benedictus XIII wholeheartedly agrees. Now we can return to the fighting against the English.
(https://i.imgur.com/dxCRU1D.png)
The States have become riddled with problems as of late. Anastasius Pramaggione dies in Wales, and Innocentius Argenta takes control of the Army.
The Pope had to deliberaterily wait until January to toss money at Maltese rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/f3VBoC0.png)
Despite the ravages of war, peoples of Roma prosper, somehow.
The powers-that-be in England are losing grip at the situation, and hteir soldiers and mercenaries fail every battle.
Everyone is ecstatic about our continued victories in England... that is good, for independence of Sardinia, massive revolts in Venezia and other cities pass relatively unnoticed.
(https://i.imgur.com/2Ia5ixZ.png)
Just few days after rewarding the Scottish emissary for their entrance, and victory, in English Crusade, Pope Benedictus XIII falls deadly ill.
Hopefully, he will be just like Pius III, and overcome the sickness, returning to the office in full health.
(https://i.imgur.com/wFtaXgZ.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/KgouxNg.png)
Unfortunately, he didn't. Habemus Papam again, brothers and sisters!
And what a Pope he is. Either the God is displeased with our policies, the war, or mayhaps he wishes to teach us a lesson.
What lesson that would be, I have no idea.
(https://i.imgur.com/jH625cq.png)
Pope Gregorius XIV might himself be of little grace, but at least he gets nice advisors.
And yes, I do realize that Karel Debruyne is approximately 100 years old by now. We don't speak about Signor Debruyne around here.
Better not think too deeply about his longevity.
(https://i.imgur.com/2thBSQc.png)
Woo! The pains this Crusade brought upon us have paid off for once.
We can finally adopt the title of Defender of Faith, gaining morale and war exhaustion bonuses.
Plus, we have usurped that title from Austria, and that's always nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/pKczwma.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/VVV8EiM.png)
No one is sure if the peace treaty was a good or bad idea on Pope Gregorius XIV's side. But the English Crusade is over.
It gave independence and autonomy to those still Christian in England. The rest, rumors say, is left to rebels. The Mamluks were punished for their role of bringing Ottomans in, hopefully it will make them suffer.
Pope Gregorius XIV claims that the English Crusade was a victory - but it will be the historians reading stories and reports from the war who shall judge us all.
-
Rip Don Corleone. You know the worst pope will be the longest lived one, at least if someone within crusading distance doesn't decide to get cocky ;v
-
008: Peaceful yet Painful Pontificate of Pope Gregorius XIV
(https://i.imgur.com/qG93fUo.png)
Turns out there was 'Pope is Sick' event which I missed half a year ago.
For once I'm not gonna complain.
(https://i.imgur.com/hnjjdBk.png)
As the times are rather peaceful and prosperous, Pope Gregorius XIV has decided to spend the accumulated money.
Most of the cash goes for creation of new regiments, as well as to build constables and church in the few provinces that do not have these buildings yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZsoqEi1.png)
Joyous news arrive from war-torn England!
Its people, angry at their Sultan, has seized the lands in the name of God, with some passing into the hands of Archbishopric of Cornwall.
Who knows, maybe the revolt in London forces the Sultan to turn back into feudal Kingship?
(https://i.imgur.com/THLwAQ3.png)
The sickly Gregorius has his rule contested by an Anti-Pope!
Anastasius V, as he calls himself, rallies his supporters in Treviso.
(https://i.imgur.com/K0S7LoZ.png)
We can't afford to have a Master of Mint at the moment, I need my advisors for other things.
So, to prevent inflation going out of hand, we preemptively slash it in return for stability and prestige drop.
(https://i.imgur.com/4aghbIG.png)
Rip Poland, you were a blob for just 20 years.
And less independence spam next time, please!
(https://i.imgur.com/wu1YBu1.png)
Funny, I was actually considering absorbing our one-province vassals (Verona, Firenze, Mantua).
Turns out, the God agrees with us this time!
Unfortunately, Mantua refuses the initial offer, so we will have to butter them up with money. Or perhaps hire an Ambassador.
(https://i.imgur.com/eVJEnhE.png)
While the loan's repayment draws near, our Banker shows off his skills.
Our stability has harder time getting back to maximum value, so we take this option over free prestige one.
Also, Pope Gregorius XIV overcame his illness. Truly, God loves his apostle on Earth.
(https://i.imgur.com/UpYI9XC.png)
Despite his lackluster skills, Pope Gregorius XIV is working steadily to reform the Church.
Act of Uniformity gives extra missionaries and lowers both initial and maintenance costs of them working in the provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yqt1W9K.png)
Barely, just barely, we scrounge enough ducats to pay off the loan!
Signor Simplicius is out, and we will be getting a Master of the Mint as soon as possible.
(https://i.imgur.com/iDJKpDG.png)
It seems that Pope Gregorius XIV's illness is a chronic one.
He has became bedridden once more, and this time, it might be his last. Before him, only Pius III was lucky enough to survive this - once.
(https://i.imgur.com/jXy7Wxy.png)
Praised be the God in Heavens! The rebels did it, they've converted London to Catholicism!
While their ruler is still a Muslim, such a victory means their rebels are tirelessly capturing territories.
Soon enough, they might force a conversion upon the Sultan himself, and perhaps we won't have to launch a second English Crusade.
(https://i.imgur.com/omZRvyy.png)
Awww, dangit! I've just noticed that I've missed the death of Karel Debruyne of Brabant, our fortification expert.
I believe the last time I've checked, his years of service were around 77? Or was it 78?
Rest in peace, immortal Brabantian, your dedication to the Papal States will be never forgotten!
In his place, we recruit Lando Rovereto, a 4-rank Ambassador born in Papal States.
(https://i.imgur.com/J8f2Jbs.png)
It pays off almost immediately, as the Kingdom of Netherlands, on rise to becoming a regional power, offers an alliance.
As our only allies at the moment are our small vassals, we accept.
(https://i.imgur.com/tOSArpH.png)
Aww, and he was only 2 months away from getting cured! I almost feel sad for poor Gregorius.
(https://i.imgur.com/DmDOLx6.png)
Habemus Papam! Innocentius IX is a diplomat, and quite a good one at that.
How about we demand annexation from Mantua now? With Innocentius IX in power, we could also-
(https://i.imgur.com/TVcdn8a.png)
OH NO, REFORMATION HAS BEGUN!
...Wait, Sisinnius Pontebba, I remember that one! He spawned in Papal States a while ago, and Verden hired him lat year!
TREACHERY!! BETRAYAL!!
-
009: Innocentius' Chapel
(https://i.imgur.com/XIxU3Ks.png)
Thanks to negotiations being spear-headed by Pope Innocentius IX, Mantua gives up its autonomy.
About time. We need to rebuild the stuff in here, but at least we will be getting full tax right away.
(https://i.imgur.com/gZiBadI.png)
Apparently, the God wishes us to consolidate our territories, instead of expanding.
Fine by me, free cores are best cores!
(https://i.imgur.com/59Ej2pL.png)
Pope Innocentius IX likes art and aesthetics, so its about time we change Sistine Chapel into marvel of art.
This is a bit costly, but we currently can just afford it, so why not.
(https://i.imgur.com/CpC8NSK.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/kf5lk3E.png)
Unfortunately, he won't be around to witness it.
Habemus Papam! His successor also takes the name Innocentius, perhaps to signify continuation of his politics.
(https://i.imgur.com/3PGXtRm.png)
Contributions? What contributions.
I don't remember any contributions. *click*
(https://i.imgur.com/3fVqs7V.png)
Hmmm... Firenze has cores on two of Pisan lands, and we can excommunicate them.
Pope Innocentius X believes that, for the best interests of the Papal States, it is time to conquer Pisa!
(https://i.imgur.com/J4H5oua.png)
MEANWHILE, yet another heretic movement splits the good Catholic peoples.
This time it starts in distant Lithuania.
(https://i.imgur.com/XN4v3SY.png)
Heck, even better - Nice is a core of our other vassal, Duchy of Savoy.
We can enlarge them as well after we completely annex Kingdom of Pisa!
(https://i.imgur.com/REmOWL0.png)
The war goes smoothly and nobody bar Parma and Cremona intervenes.
Our troops now gain access to gunpower. We will commission an artillery regiment for both our troops after the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/ES41gXU.png)
Cremona turns out to be quite wealthy state!
Their wealth ends in our coffers. Parma gave up much earlier, begging for white peace few days after our fleet blockaded their ports.
(https://i.imgur.com/Eh6p6Ah.png)
We actually tech up fast enough to get upgrades for our non-existent artillery.
Landknechts and culverins it is, then!
(https://i.imgur.com/mXM5F17.png)
Not long afterwards, we gobble up Pisa, and distribute their lands to our vassals.
Nice is bought by Savoy for 80 ducats, while Firenze buys Pisa for 20.
By March, Firenze gets Siena, and we get another 40 ducats for it. Not bad!
(https://i.imgur.com/OZBSMjj.png)
Woohoo! The Sistine Chapel has been completed!
We get prestige, cultural tradition, and Signor Michelangelo himself, a 6-star Artist.
He takes place of our Ambassador at the Papal court.
(https://i.imgur.com/NDQ5qNN.png)
Everyone wants to live in Rome!
I'm sure that deprecating economy of Southern Italy won't have any negative repercussions in the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/rpf0pF7.png)
To lay down some groundwork for weeding out of the new, strong heresies amongst peoples of Europe, Innocentius X works together with the Bavarian Emperor.
The Council of Regensburg allows boosting of missionaries amongst Catholic states.
(https://i.imgur.com/xf4E1V8.png)
Another step is to ally with some great military power - like France.
They actually are one move ahead of us, and have sent an alliance offer to us first. We gladly accept!
(https://i.imgur.com/0EjO8vr.png)
First the Reformation, then Calvinists, and now a free Iceland.
Just what craziness has wracked this poor Catholic world of ours?
(https://i.imgur.com/xP77PNk.png)
Netherlands is all for reclaiming its cores, and we join the war.
The fact that our enemies are landlocked means all we can do is gather some war taxes.
(https://i.imgur.com/hv09mp4.png)
Truly, with the way Catholicism is going, there can be no peace in our time.
As soon as we get our military going, we can begin the cleansing of heresies.
(https://i.imgur.com/hjd6mng.png)
It wasn't a long war, and Netherlands took what was theirs.
(https://i.imgur.com/4weTvGy.png)
Even the Dukes of Florence have decided to do some reforming.
They recreated the old Duchy of Tuscany!
(https://i.imgur.com/RHnWPhz.png)
And we, in meanwhile, finish up the old task, and incorporate Verona into our territories.
It is all but a preparation. A calm before the storm, one that we shall start.
For it is time...
(https://i.imgur.com/6UjxXJE.png)
...TO BEGIN THE PURGE!
-
0010: A Rather Innocent Naming Pattern
(https://i.imgur.com/u6uX0XX.png)
The war with Switzerland goes without a hitch, and even their mountainous fortresses are no match to our diligence.
Meanwhile, as we attempt to centralize our power, rebellions pop out. We send our forces to quell them.
(https://i.imgur.com/xi9nMmH.png)
Oh, nice, free inflation reduction!
Even with our Master of the Mint, inflation is growing slowly, so this kind of events is always welcome.
(https://i.imgur.com/IKdmY6B.png)
*dramatic_glass_shattering.wav*
Six hundred years and they do this? Inconceivable!
(https://i.imgur.com/rEFfc4g.png)
It took exactly 100% Warscore to make them convert AND let Milan go as a free country.
(https://i.imgur.com/91fR74f.png)
I've missed the pop up about our Land Tech gaining a new level, which unlocks new level of forts.
We immediately improve defenses in Roma, as well on Sardinia and Malta - islands are pain to both defend and conquer.
(https://i.imgur.com/mNnIj5o.png)
I have to give to the Calvinists - while Protestants showed up earlier, its Reformed faith that is getting big ones converted.
The Papal troops are already being sent to Austrian-Hungarian border as we speak.
(https://i.imgur.com/CjM3qrO.png)
Of course he, of course he is!
Meanwhile, Hungarians put up no fight, their armies lounging far from the sieges we conduct in their territory.
That makes me a little sad. How can there be crusading without fighting?
(https://i.imgur.com/IgLSXLF.png)
Ah, they were simply gathering troops before the attack.
But even with King Lajos on the field, the Hungarians lost the battle and fled to Ersekujvar.
Which is were our main army went after we won Siege of Pecs just a day after the battle with King Lajos.
(https://i.imgur.com/RbohsyP.png)
From Ersekujvar to Parthium, where the main Hungarian army is defeated.
Only their small reinforcement troops remain, but we spread out to conquer more of their lands faster.
(https://i.imgur.com/b1eafpb.png)
Tragedy strikes when Innocentius X dies during the closing stages of the Siege of Pressburg.
Habemus Papam! The new pope is everything but a diplomat.
Fortunately, we're not conquering new lands, just cleansing the heretics.
(https://i.imgur.com/bFuSW0j.png)
Netherlands call for help in dealing with heretic Burgundy, who just converted to Protestantism.
Obliged to support Catholicism, we join the war.
(https://i.imgur.com/6ypSz3G.png)
Curse you Netherlands! These weren't opposing you when I joined the war!
I bet they did it on purpose to weaken Pope's temporal powers.
(https://i.imgur.com/bliJVNR.png)
Year into the war, we're experiencing some Frankish-themed difficulties.
Burgundy and Netherlands have already signed white peace, so there's hoping the Dutch make a deal with France too.
The sooner, the better for us.
(https://i.imgur.com/qFRL5Nm.png)
Duchy of Savoy is in trouble, and we tried to help.
However, the French were too numerous, and after the death of General Anastasius Pramaggiore, we had to retreat to Switzerland.
(https://i.imgur.com/TYMtG0a.png)
The recent losses on the field has spurned Pope Innocentius XI to consider a military reform.
Our navy is more of a 'fetch soldiers to island' navy, so we reform only the Army.
It gives us a whole level of Land technology for free!
(https://i.imgur.com/Qv2b18S.png)
Truly there must be some divine connection between these two! We hire Signor Panaro right away.
Netherlands have finished beating up German minors and sent about 25000 troops to help us recapture Savoyard territories.
We might even forgive Netherlands for dragging us into this. Emphasis on 'might'.
(https://i.imgur.com/hlqzw8e.png)
Finally, the war ends.
Despite the whole situation, Pope Innocentius XI decides to keep the alliance with the Dutch intact.
(https://i.imgur.com/h5mRKaa.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/HX1BAp4.png)
Is this a pattern I see, huh?
Habemus Papam! This one however leaves much to be desired.
(https://i.imgur.com/AayFjHo.png)
He manages to rather quickly find evidence of spies within the College of Cardinals.
We choose this option and manage to avoid the Stability loss. Luck might be Innocentius XII's forte!
(https://i.imgur.com/uh2V5YQ.png)
Or maybe not.
(https://i.imgur.com/uqnne5e.png)
The sick and rather inept Pope Innocentius XII decides that it is a good idea to put serfs back into their place, causing serfdom-free subjcets slider to go two notches towards the former.
It was, by no mean, the doing of a work-tired divine providence in the form of a big arrow-shaped hand pushing the wrong button by accident.
(https://i.imgur.com/DsVJEZK.png)
At least France is suffering greatly at the moment.
HA!
(https://i.imgur.com/BNwIMUw.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qve865b.png)
The strange sickness finally sends Innocentius XII upstairs.
Habemus Papam! The new Pope decides to forego the naming pattern of his predecessors.
His maximum Military score means only one thing - we ain't done crusading!
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011: Clementine Glories
(https://i.imgur.com/cgkYiBh.png)
With the Papal States recovering from manpower drain, Pope Clemens VIII dedicates his time to internal matters.
Things are being built, and money is spent on frivolous things, like a ball for the noblemen of the States.
(https://i.imgur.com/MHsR4Sw.png)
The little island of Malta produces this superb statesman.
Now that our manpower is recovered, we don't need a Recruit Master.
Signor Benedictus Schio takes his place at our court!
(https://i.imgur.com/Pu6vKN7.png)
It seems that the heresies are penetrating the protective fortifications of the States!
Pope Clemens VIII has decided to crack down on the heretics, as well as prepare attack on Switzerland.
Would you believe that Swiss re-reconverted back to Protestantism?
(https://i.imgur.com/Njor4p2.png)
There was a worry at Clemens' court that Burgundy might protect their fellow Protestants.
They didn't, and our way to re-re-reconvert Switzerland to Catholicism is open!
(https://i.imgur.com/jSs2i2U.png)
There's only one notable battle of the war - Battle of Piedmont.
Together with Savoyards, we rout the Swiss, who are then destroyed at Wallis.
(https://i.imgur.com/dJqbSva.png)
It's during the war that handguns become available to our armies.
Maurician Infantry, while one pip lower than Tercios, have that offensive advantage that we prefer.
(https://i.imgur.com/vP0OyDT.png)
We have them abandon their friends besides converting back to Catholicism.
(https://i.imgur.com/eFxwwuo.png)
Our newest mission is to build an university in Roma.
It is Clemens VIII's desire to build one, too; it will allow us to pass some civic edicts.
We will need to be frugal with spending before we can afford it, though - the amount of universities in Northern Italy that we have is bumping the cost of a new one to more than 1300 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/yHDLgAX.png)
An opportunity arises for us to gather said funds.
We join the war, and raise taxes for its duration.
(https://i.imgur.com/Uym4nI6.png)
It seems that our taxes will be cut short.
There goes one opportunity. Clemens VIII contemplates other possibilities - maybe a loan?
That's when we have already a sizeable chunk of required funds, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/7oACi3A.png)
Thank God for the patricians!
The Pope eagerly accepts the offer, and so we're 1/3rd at required funds already.
A new year taxation brings up to almost half of needed cash. We're getting there!
(https://i.imgur.com/FNSlvNO.png)
The Netherlands help out by going to war once again!
'Taxes for the just war against heathen, taxes for the just war!' Cry out Papal tax collectors as they move through Italy, from Venice to Palermo.
(https://i.imgur.com/oGZRrKM.png)
NOT EVEN THREE YEARS YOU MOUNTAINOUS FU-oh well, we can always re-re-re-re-reconvert them.
(https://i.imgur.com/OyQAOiX.png)
And there goes the loan we need.
The construction of University of Roma begins few days later.
(https://i.imgur.com/3mzm0Td.png)
Uh oh, the Bohemians weren't in control of the Imperial throne for over 120 years.
Must've been Bavarians slipping in their reputation or something. Still, the King of Bohemia is merely 11 years old...
(https://i.imgur.com/1ZB7Yx7.png)
Smallpox must've gotten Zikmund I, and the throne passes to Lodewijk I!
This means that our ally is the Holy Roman Emperor himself! Nothing but prosperity and glory can come out of this relationship.
(https://i.imgur.com/Cp2oTRV.png)
To stem the recent expansion of Austria, we excommunicate their ruler and go to war with them.
Both sides have lots of troop to send into this conflict, but of course God is on our side.
(https://i.imgur.com/2IeEFGe.png)
It seems that our warmongering is not accepted by the populace of Rome itself.
The peasant rebellion nearly captures the city gates before our main army arrives and destroys them completely.
(https://i.imgur.com/8bTgoXz.png)
University of Roma has opened its doors, just as we enter final stages of war against Austria.
Fun fact: Bavaria went to war against us on behalf of Austria... then declared war against Austria too.
(https://i.imgur.com/tMU1twX.png)
The war goes about for several years, and we mostly do sieges.
There were few skirmishes of our forces with Austrians, but it was mostly Netherlands who did heavily fighting.
The war ends, and we seize Brescia - Aquileia, released from vassalization by Bavaria, becomes our newest vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/uwTMVSH.png)
We hope that Netherlands did not bite more than they can chew.
(https://i.imgur.com/hcMQ6FF.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/0AiSUsS.png)
Habemus Papam! If THAT's not a good omen, then I do not know what is!
(https://i.imgur.com/AjbhE2u.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/7VEiuE6.png)
Being a much better administrator than his predecessor, Clemens IX reforms our administration right away.
Not one but two edicts are passed through the Papal Council. Prestige and progress shall be ours!
(https://i.imgur.com/mBQFt3g.png)
As expected, Castille directs troops to our lands and our vassals.
They're a bit backwards in technology though, and their numbers are triumphed by our firearms.
And logistical prowess of Clemens IX, for he has 5 points of Movement and therefore can outpace most Castillian troops.
(https://i.imgur.com/ia5Gn8s.png)
We retook our islands and then Castille got in a war with France, distracting them quite well.
Such presumptuous demands is all they do lately.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qs1NZ6e.png)
Our genius Pope falls sick not that much later.
Meanwhile, we simply concentrate on building up our infrastructure.
(https://i.imgur.com/XlNDLH4.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Lj3DGv6.png)
There's totally mafia or powerful noble family (families?) involved in the Conclaves. Never before I had successive Popes take the same name for more than two times in a row. Clementines had three - the Innocents had four.
Habemus Papam! Clemens X isn't as good as Clemens IX, but we're still in high-number skills.
The rule of two of his predecessors took 20 years and 30 images already, so let's make a break here.
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Of course such a good statted pope couldn't last long. Good thing new Clementine also has top military.
...Also, Inca?
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Yes, the Incas and others are already under fire from the colonizers.
It is mid-1500s after all ;v
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012: Clemens, Clemens, a Pius, and a Clemens again!
(https://i.imgur.com/UEGVjv2.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/OkCH0rl.png)
We're seriously lacking in siege and defense department.
Engineering Corps will help us get better at both!
Meanwhile, to bump up our cultural tradition and prestige, we commission some comedic writers for plays and performances.
(https://i.imgur.com/2DbmBMb.png)
Kingdom of Castille is extraordinarily stubborn.
We've been winning small skirmishes here and there, yet they still fight on.
Netherlands is doing nothing, by the way, except poke around Castillian colonies in the New World.
(https://i.imgur.com/NvFPYcI.png)
Pope Clemens X has had enough of this; taking Armata di Roma through France, Avignon and Aragon, he strikes the lands of Castille.
"We must cleanse the sin of pride from Castille," he says, "For they believe to be above us!"
(https://i.imgur.com/bx1NPNm.png)
Lienz is outside Italy, but hey, free core is free core!
Truce with Austria ends in just two years, so we can crusade them AND retake our core at Lienz in one go.
(https://i.imgur.com/M1xrUbG.png)
After the capture of Barcelona, the Pope takes his mighty holy warriors on a raid through Castille.
It should boost our Treasury and damage their economy. We will wind up at Barcelona to lift the obvious recapture siege, then we're off to Aragon.
(https://i.imgur.com/OXqIs4f.png)
It does the trick - after ruining their lands and spurring revolts, Castille accepts white peace with The Netherlands.
You might notice a change in coloration. Do not adjust your screens, its just Castille formed Spain right after conclusion of the peace treaty.
They now have cores on all lands, from Granada to Galicia, from Leon to the Pyrhenees Mountains.
(https://i.imgur.com/UfRnzPM.png)
Great! Just as we're preparing troops for the war with Austria.
(https://i.imgur.com/wQpo1ah.png)
Out of all possible peoples of Europe, Denmark joins the war on Austria's side.
Unfortunately for Denmark, the fleet of Netherlands is larger than theirs.
(https://i.imgur.com/gsm2BJn.png)
While leading troops into Austria, Pope Clemens X dies overnight.
Habemus Papam! Once again we have a Clemens on the throne. Mafia connections suspected even more.
(https://i.imgur.com/pg8a8Gc.png)
Unfortunate indeed... maybe its a sign we shouldn't fight Austrian Reformists?
Nah.
(https://i.imgur.com/9CnJlhZ.png)
In middle of the war, Sweden extends an offer of alliance.
We accept - now we have someone to distract Denmark with, for Netherlands is suspiciously useless.
(https://i.imgur.com/mtE7fWs.png)
The most important battle of the war, the Battle of Lienz, almost goes sideways for us!
Timely arrival of our second troop via Treviso saves the day.
We pursue the Austrians all the way to Linz, where they are annihilated!
(https://i.imgur.com/XJ3r8yl.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/gsLJ5pe.png)
Unsurprisingly, Clemens XI is bested by the sickness and dies.
Habemus Papam! Pope Pius V, a diplomat and administrator, is calling for new measures and reforms to be implemented.
The Clementine Papacy is over, having had 4 consecutive Popes in it. That's on par with Innocentiuses few decades ago.
(https://i.imgur.com/KuiBR73.png)
For example, that we need better cannons.
Culverins are replaced right away with these new, defense-oriented ones.
(https://i.imgur.com/tbGic9p.png)
We impose harsh terms upon the Austrians.
Not only they have to give up Lienz, they also have to convert back to Catholicism.
Some annulled treaties and core revokations should slow down their imperialistic expansions, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/uuvhf0N.png)
We let Sweden do some conquering before we conclude a peace with Denmark.
Netherlands gets nothing, while we get money and the Swedes get some of their ancestral lands back.
(https://i.imgur.com/QCrLVNj.png)
We have quite an income when not at war, and we're also way under army limit.
Pope Pius V declares creation of the 2nd Army; a unit similar in size to the 1st Army.
It will have support and siege roles when Armata di Roma is doing the heavy fighting.
(https://i.imgur.com/fTz0q1d.png)
"It is the work of the heretics that Europe is fragmented and in turmoil." says Pope Pius V.
Therefore we set England as Crusade target, to entice European powers to take it, while we ourselves will take care of Switzerland.
Again.
(https://i.imgur.com/hhck77E.png)
Funnily enough, another improtant heretic, Kingdom of Burgundy, joins the war. Bar is also heretic country.
Pope Pius V authorized us to conver them as well!
(https://i.imgur.com/PyCOiU5.png)
Pius V had mighty ambitions for mending the broken Europe, but he had not enough time on Earth to do so.
Habemus Pap-
(https://i.imgur.com/XxHW5p0.png)
ITS THE CLEMENTINES AGAIN!
This one however is very average in his stats.
Maybe he won't last long.
(https://i.imgur.com/PeTOHW0.png)
He is around long enough to conclude treaties with the enemies in this war, at least.
Burgundy, Bar and Switzerland are converted back to Catholicism.
Istria, however, an Italian port in Western Balkans, is annexed, to be converted and made a core.
Prestige, loot and grace of God are our gains in this war! Deus Vult!!
(https://i.imgur.com/jjFvo91.png)
For the finish of this update, some World News: Hindustan, the rarest of all countries, has managed to form.
Not only that, it is not Hindu, not Buddhist - but Sikh, a faith that has troubled birth and even less success abroad. The rarest of possibilities are happening all over in this playthrough...
I wish we were there to witness all this, alas, we have more important business in Europe than sightseeing. Onwards!
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013: Conquest of Jerusalem and Ancient Cloning Conspiracy?
(https://i.imgur.com/dFP4HmU.png)
Us? Warmongers?
Someone's head is gonna fly off!
Mostly because we already have enough Infamy to burn through.
(https://i.imgur.com/EFAp5Vr.png)
Well alright, there IS some warmongering going about Clemens XII's head.
That is conquest of Jerusalem!
For that, we need a bigger navy, one with enough transports to ferry our troops and enough carracks and caravels to deal with numerous Mamelukian galleys.
(https://i.imgur.com/vi2Pi7I.png)
We gain an opportunity to earn some money by raising war taxes.
Unless Netherlands ends the war quickly, that's it.
(https://i.imgur.com/w3PhgFr.png)
Our fleet is building up rather slowly, but we're concentrating on big ships.
It has been also decided to bump up the numbers in our troops, by adding some infantry.
(https://i.imgur.com/ApqCO5L.png)
This is as best as it can get.
Our troops are ready to be fetched into Near East.
We will take Jersualem!!
(https://i.imgur.com/PrXRqEw.png)
The French-oriented Kingdom of Cyprus has agreed to host our troops.
That gives us a benefit of being able to scout and divide our navy accordingly.
(https://i.imgur.com/mJ38aUH.png)
We could've not picked a better moment!
The Mamluks are in a war with the French, and their navy has already blockaded their ports.
Suprisingly, rather than fighting the French troops, the Mamluks keep their soldiers in Jerusalem...
(https://i.imgur.com/rUbWqf2.png)
We win the battle! Signor Pordenone will chase them to Gaza region, then we being the siege of Jerusalem!
(https://i.imgur.com/DNLvfyj.png)
Jerusalem has been taken by the soldiers of God!
We shall now start taking their provinces to enforce ceding of Jerusalem into our hands.
(https://i.imgur.com/BX5vng1.png)
Unfortunately, our warmongering and rightousness does not go well with our economy.
You do not want to know how much money our Army and Navy burn through at maximum maintenance.
(https://i.imgur.com/tnJ8CYE.png)
Praised be the God in Heavens! Jerusalem is in Christian hands once again!
Everyone in Rome celebrates the return of the most holiest of places into our fold.
Our economical advisors also celebrate cutting our maintenance costs back into pre-war values.
(https://i.imgur.com/QRh0geU.png)
Our ally, Sweden, calls us into the war against Danish reformists.
Well, we will participate only in spirit.
(https://i.imgur.com/mQ7A2PJ.png)
It seems our people believe in our warmongering!
(https://i.imgur.com/FgqAVXY.png)
All the calamities at once!
Munster is a bishopric and we don't need to be at good terms with them.
Now, time to deal with death of Pope Clemens XII.
(https://i.imgur.com/kPrOiDC.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/jRAT005.jpg)
By God, it's not mafia that's involved...
It's a Shadowy Cloning Organization from Vaticantm!! They're intent on taking the world through the Papal States!
(https://i.imgur.com/jh0UGWM.png)
I mean look at it! LOOK AT IT!! WHAT DOES IT MEAN!?
Was Pius V an outsider that got the Papal Tiara by chance and then was silenced for finding out the truth!?
Maybe the conversion of England to Islam was the first step in their plan??
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The Clementine Conspiracy 8V
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014: Disgrace of the Netherlands, and End of the Second Clementine Papacy
(https://i.imgur.com/QWDG8IU.png)
It seems that Clemens XIII believes that the reforms of the popes of the 15th century are wrong.
Many books have been banned, landing on the index of banned books!
(https://i.imgur.com/LmC7djE.png)
Portugal, one of our far-laying friendly Catholic friends, asks for military access.
Why not? Another treaty that will bring us a tiny bit closer.
(https://i.imgur.com/sbFz0iS.png)
Not very long afterwards, Portugal calls us into war against Omani jihad.
We have joined the war to provide spiritual support to the Portuguese.
(https://i.imgur.com/qyDkTyn.png)
Oh carp, I only now realized that the loan is overdue next year's December!
We will have to keep from building up infrastructure.
(https://i.imgur.com/wT6DEr5.png)
Alexander d'Albaret is an evil-sounding French King of Bohemia.
Pope Clemens XIII excommunicates him to weaken the Bohemians - they're expanding rapidly in Central Europe, at expense of the Empire, Austria and Hungary.
(https://i.imgur.com/GBSxXxp.png)
See this little brown guy? He is a missionary!
About time we convert Jerusalem and its neighbourhood to Catholic faith!
Yes, they're a bit costly, but we should have just enough money to pay off the loan.
(https://i.imgur.com/W2IYKh4.png)
Ugh, another colonial war against the Spanish?
Fine, we can get some war taxes going anyway.
Its not like the Spanish have strength to attack us.
(https://i.imgur.com/l7pNW7f.png)
Also, our Stability has become somewhat of a bother lately.
It seems we should slow down our tech investments an dedicate money into making people happy.
(https://i.imgur.com/FUEpx9V.png)
At least we do not have a loan on our backs anymore!
(https://i.imgur.com/8FUbMOB.png)
Well, apparently a Papal emissary was responsible for shooting of the Duke of Wurzburg!
Of course, Pope Clemens XIII and the Curia deny any involvement.
It's the heretics whom they should blame, not us!
(https://i.imgur.com/SIOMMJv.png)
So, a kid and his regents are now ruling the Holy Roman Empire?
Unless he grows up fast, I think the crown is soon gonna abandon the Netherlands and pass to someone else.
(https://i.imgur.com/oTTAF2D.png)
*unidentified angry growl noises*
The other option would give as a relations malus with Cyprus, but also a -2 to Stability.
Considering our recent conquests and working missionaries, that would inflame the overseas provinces with revolt risk.
-10 Prestige it is.
(https://i.imgur.com/94w6QQq.png)
At least the Curia is firmly in our hands for the last 15 years or so! Our influence is 100% because, well, we are the Pope.
The cardinal chance (how high are your chances to get a Cardinal when another dies) are based off that, and amount of Catholic provinces you have.
As Papal States, you can easily manipulate others' chances by insulting or even excommunicating them.
(https://i.imgur.com/BlGQAgS.png)
Musket cavalry get!
(https://i.imgur.com/pa6FkOR.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/AKGMaTX.png)
The inept and terrible Clemens XIII has passed away.
Habemus Papam! The Clementine Papacy is once again over (hopefully, for good)!
Pius VI is a great commander and administrator. Pity his diplomatic skills are not on the same level.
(https://i.imgur.com/YF4TyFD.png)
His policies are already a great success!
(https://i.imgur.com/DV59w8O.png)
What the heck Sweden! We're supposed to be allies! Why would you-
(https://i.imgur.com/dOYnVME.png)
Oh, okay.
That's fine by me.
And they send an alliance offer right away. *click*
(https://i.imgur.com/HFzwkSe.png)
The Netherlands lost the war pretty bad, and that's without us getting involved.
With the decline of Dutch authority, Pope Pius VI has done what is the best - annul the alliance with the Kingdom of Netherlands.
At least when we get a chance to do so, because-
(https://i.imgur.com/ddHgi79.png)
We get involved in a war against the heathen on Sweden's behalf!
(https://i.imgur.com/lgMWh5Q.png)
Despite our naval focus, we've lost so badly at the Battle of Gulf of Almeria that Pope Pius VI believes a reorganization of the Navy is overdue.
Its best we get rid of the slow galleys and old ships, and replace them with up-to-date Caravels and Barques.
(https://i.imgur.com/tUoxeLk.png)
"No," says Pius VI, "We've strayed too far from our God, and that was the reason behind instability of past decade."
We will move towards Narrowminded. Less eccentricity, more peaceful peoples.
(https://i.imgur.com/IFOceFh.png)
Two years later, when the reorganization of the Navy is in full swing, Pope Pius VI gets sick.
Will he be able to overcome the illness? If not, who shall replace him?
Will there be resurgence of Innocent or Clementine Papacies, putting control in hands of ancient conspiracy once more??
And what of England? Will it forever remain a heathen Muslim Sultanate, or perhaps someone will convert them back to Catholicism!?
Find out in the next update!
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Return of Pius and the England Sultanate!
How is it still a sultanate V:
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I'm not sure, this is first time such a big country got converted out of its whole religion group (from Christian to Muslim). Which means I also don't know how to fix this.
I call Ottoman witchcraft in the 1460s.
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015: Liberation of Cornwall
(https://i.imgur.com/H2o2pkk.png)
Let's begin this update with these wonderful news:
The Irish have failed us!
(https://i.imgur.com/WWNIhQb.png)
However, the English have a flaw in their war plans: they send their fleet in small pieces to blockade us.
This allows the Papal Navy, under leadership of Signor Casanova, to hunt the blockading squadrons down and escape before the Royal Navy arrives.
So far, we've sunk about 30 Ottoman and English ships, mostly light warships and transports.
(https://i.imgur.com/awu4H6R.png)
Just as Tunisian Sheikdom joins forces with the English, and our Navy sorties out to destroy English ships, Pius VI dies!
Habemus Pap-
(https://i.imgur.com/mhBzyC6.png)
...
But why.
(https://i.imgur.com/eIRa8tP.png)
Our decision to upgrade the fleet and reform its roster has paid off!
The English were stopped from landing forces at Nice, and the invicible Royal Navy had to scurry back to their home islands.
(https://i.imgur.com/3QgpYgj.png)
They've been hiding their main fleet in Tunisia, actually.
Our Navy is now blockading Tunisian ports and keeping the English ships bottled up.
(https://i.imgur.com/hqGpfk2.png)
In the recent months, a number of random events like this one has damaged our stability.
We side with the clergy, as going towards Narrowminded lowers stability costs a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/PcqZQQl.png)
Our naval strategy of raiding Tunisian waters in search for English ships to sink has served us well.
After two years, the Royal Navy of the English Sultan has been greatly reduced in terms of warships.
Pope Clemens XIV, to turn people away from claims that he is a Clementine mystic, has decreed that like the soldiers of Pius III, we shall strike the heart of the heathen:
(https://i.imgur.com/q00QXOO.png)
The British Isles themselves!
We shall take Cornwall and liberate the Welsh catholics.
Mayhaps, if Sweden does not end the war prematurely, we can carve away a part of English lands and convert the heathen to Catholicism?
(https://i.imgur.com/p5dFN5c.png)
They try to distract us by landing in Italy.
But we deal with their invasion swiftly.
(https://i.imgur.com/7222Xt5.png)
The Swedes align their interests with ours and have Cornwall released as independent state.
We will camp our troops in Cornish Wales to deal with Muslim fanatics and have an easy springboard for the next English Crusade.
(https://i.imgur.com/Tcki60c.png)
Assassination in the Vatican!
Pope Clemens XIV has been killed by a lunatic living in Rome.
This has been seen by Clementine faction as an attack against them, and by some as sign of incoming turmoil.
(https://i.imgur.com/ysUkq6Y.png)
Habemus Papam! It's been over 800 years since the last time a Pope called themselves after the Apostle Paul.
We welcome this newcomer to the politics with relief. Mayhaps the violent death of Clemens XIV is a sign of God?
(https://i.imgur.com/gPGJguw.png)
It seems however that his attempt at giving people more freedoms results in people going away.
Mayhaps we should be more iron-fisted towards our populace.
(https://i.imgur.com/lwEeTVn.png)
We also go through with what we have decided to do earlier: break the alliance with the Netherlands.
An excommunication goes shortly afterwards, just to drive the point home.
(https://i.imgur.com/5STOVXp.png)
The Istrian protestants keep revolting, but our army keeps them dead.
Unfortunately in the left side you can see Swedish call for arms.
I miss the deadline and we take -25 Prestige hit, oops! I just hope the Swedes aren't very angry with us.
(https://i.imgur.com/4oKwdqC.png)
Working hard at his desk, Pope Paulus II is stamping out corruption, smuggling and criminal elements.
Down with pirates and privateers!
(https://i.imgur.com/xD0IeM0.png)
Of course, we go for prestige and money.
Rebels? We can deal with rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/6wgmTVb.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/124bynH.png)
Habemus Papam! The Clementine Faction is back in power!
I wish I could be mad, but those stats? I can't be mad at these sweet numbers.
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It's the Clementine motto: if at first you don't succeed, try try try try try try try try try try try try try try try again! :P
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016: Dealing with the British Sultanate, Step One
(https://i.imgur.com/KxcO1jd.png)
It seems that our traders are trouble keeping up with competition in our own Venetian market!
Fortunately there's a way to stop Polotsk and Trebizond from interfering: Embargo them!
Now we just need to push their merchants out, and they can't get them back in.
(https://i.imgur.com/gtnQqXd.png)
Finally, Istria is Catholic once again!
The Protestants there were more stubborn than all Muslims in and near Jerusalem combined.
(https://i.imgur.com/WPWjztj.png)
The other option means decentralization, and by now you should know what to stay to decentralization!
(https://i.imgur.com/7gHsWAa.png)
The heathen Sultanate of England has become Sultanate of Great Britain!
Pope Clemens XV has a plan: we will take few provinces, convert them, and release them as an English, Catholic, vassal.
Then we shall feed them provinces to slowly recreate Catholic Kingdoms of the British Isles.
(https://i.imgur.com/OlrQ0Fm.png)
Remember Signor Evaristus Panaro, the artist who showed up right after Michelangelo died?
He has died after extraordinary career of over 70 years a few weeks ago.
We look for a new one and this replacement comes up right away. Welcome aboard, Signor Pontebba!
(https://i.imgur.com/KGlWj8d.png)
I missed the informative pop-up, but our Naval tech went up to level 22.
We can now build Galleons, which are more powerful than Caravels.
Pope Clemens XV orders several to be built for the upcoming attack against the British.
(https://i.imgur.com/y5uTgQb.png)
Nice! A level 5 Naval Reformer! They boost Naval Tech investments.
Our conquests in Judea and Istria are almost cored, so we do not need a judge.
Signor Mestre up there will be replaced by our naval minister in the coming months.
(https://i.imgur.com/xD2jxEj.png)
We also decide to turn the people of Jerusalem into true Catholic peoples.
They shall speak Italian and walk like Italians, our magistrates and settlers will ensure of that.
(https://i.imgur.com/iHl9AY3.png)
Unfortunately our war preparations have over-extended our budget.
A loan was taken, a big one and which will be paid during the war.
At least, I hope I can pay it off.
(https://i.imgur.com/LY6dMI0.png)
Our armies are ready, Clemens XV is in Cornwall, and our fleet is in position.
Let's begin!
(https://i.imgur.com/M5PyIF1.png)
Siege and conquest of the Marches is uncontested by the British.
(https://i.imgur.com/gm9YkaE.png)
The half of fleet we send to blockade Ottoman ports sinks many of their and Tunisian transports, galleys and light ships around Greece and Asia Minor.
(https://i.imgur.com/HslZvLM.png)
I have to say, Malta produces quite a lot of great people.
This one stays home - considering how often the island gets besieged, the more defense it has, the better.
(https://i.imgur.com/lFJJScK.png)
The British forts are outdated; they can be easily assaulted and captured, and the sieges do not last long either.
Especially when we employ our spies to bribe defenders every so often.
(https://i.imgur.com/KUQpSb2.png)
The biggest threat at our backs, the Ottomans, have offered white peace after our combined Papal-French navy blockaded their ports for the past few months.
Of course we accept - now we can truly concentrate on beating up the British!
(https://i.imgur.com/BUahcHp.png)
We're besieging Oxfordshire, just one province away from London.
Sultan Charles II and his Royal Army however stay at the capital.
(https://i.imgur.com/GtSCmZp.png)
After two battles at Dodger's Bank, which see just four British ships sunk, our Navy gains complete control over British seas.
This war cannot go wrong except by the way of random events.
(https://i.imgur.com/30hhtQl.png)
We give some priviledges and favor Aristocracy over Plutocracy.
The People's Front of Judea rises to challenge us!!!
Memery aside, they're killed by the troops stationed at Jerusalem after just 3 days of fighting.
(https://i.imgur.com/0vOgvNu.png)
The inactivity of British Sultan has allowed us free reign in outlying provinces.
With help of France, who captured some lands in Scotland, we can impose a treaty upon the British.
These three provinces will be converted to Christianity, and then released as Duchy of England, subservient to Pope, and later on fed British provinces.
It might take decades, if not centuries, but our plan WILL come to fruition one day!
-
Maybe it was the Judean's People Front.
-
017: Duchy of England and The Innocenzo Scandal
(https://i.imgur.com/pQPfxXZ.png)
See!? Not even a year, and the good peoples of Kent return to worship of our God like lost sheep return to the flock of their shepherd.
We can only hope that this is an example, not an exception, of how easy the English people wish to be converted.
(https://i.imgur.com/0ZggU7i.png)
Conversions aside, the loan is drawing near to repayment, and we're low on funds.
Pope Clemens XV orders mints to do 300% of their usual quota, with disregard to inflation. We must meet the required funds by next August!
(https://i.imgur.com/QUb6Clp.png)
Somewhat unorthodoxically, Clemens XV passes away in his sleep one night.
Habemus Papam! Pope Martinus V is a diplomat, and that's about it.
We hope he can manage the States to avoid taking a new loan.
(https://i.imgur.com/62ZXpT7.png)
We pay off the scary loan. We go down with the minting immediately.
However, even if we're trying to cushion our expenses, we either lose money per month, or allow the inflation to rise...
Simply put, we need more money.
(https://i.imgur.com/03ibjJN.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/UjNhuBV.png)
Habemus Papam! The short reign of Martinus Vi was rather uneventful, I have to admit.
His successor, Pope Benedictus XIV, is his opposite; mediocre diplomat, good administrator.
(https://i.imgur.com/wktnPcB.png)
His first order of business is to annex Bishopric of Aquileia.
A one-province minor that was occupying an alliance slot. It's better that we manage Friuli directly.
(https://i.imgur.com/HyFMVhe.png)
We might have quite a few provinces, but our armies will never be huge.
Therefore, we must maximize our potential to quickly capture enemy provinces.
Espionage idea will get us greater and more frequent chances to bribe the defenders.
(https://i.imgur.com/uPhNAbZ.png)
We don't trade abroad - mercantilism it is!
(https://i.imgur.com/KFUmJ15.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/DkFXSCn.png)
And so comes to pass that the Innocenzo Scandal begins! This is a Disaster type of event series for Papal States I modded in.
The other option would be to kill the Pope with -20 Prestige and -3 Stability hit, but that would also end the event chain.
I wouldn't be myself if I didn't showcase the event chain to you guys, especially with such lovely modifier description, don't you agree?
(https://i.imgur.com/6Q9UPAq.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/uaKtkJA.png)
As you can imagine, it is meant to sap your stability and prestige over the course of several years.
Or, if the RNG is particularily angry with you, within few months' time.
(https://i.imgur.com/I1ozlVh.png)
The French gave up on us a while ago, and Swedes once again offer us friendship.
We agree - just hoping they won't drag us into too many wars.
(https://i.imgur.com/lfrttUX.png)
Fortunately, we can usurp the title of Defender of Faith from Netherlands.
This will help us negate the prestige drain occuring thanks to Del Monte's scandal.
(https://i.imgur.com/rF5L2Fm.png)
Speaking of Cardinal Del Monte, even Benedictus XIV is fed up with his shenanigans.
So we send them to our neighbour - the Netherlands. "But Haspen, Netherlands is up north!"
Well, they also directly control the province of Parma, having inherited the tiny state in the last century or so.
(https://i.imgur.com/adop8rX.png)
Gloucestershire, and then immediately afterwards, Wessex, convert to Catholicism.
This means we can do this:
(https://i.imgur.com/TCBXA1h.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/oCh28uc.png)
The Duchy of England has been created! Catholic and English, it will serve as a springboard for our future operations against Sultanate of Britain.
(https://i.imgur.com/8mwD6KH.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/JknS6TH.png)
Just as we prepare for war against Salzburg (we have a mission to vassalize them), Benedictus XIV dies suddenly.
Habemus Papam! Pope Paulus III, despite his only mediocre Military skill, turns out to be quite capable commander.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZaUvr62.png)
Sweden goes to war with Denmark, then ditches us just as Salzburg calls up its friend, the Bohemia, against us.
Despite this diplomatic setback, we shall emerge victorious.
(https://i.imgur.com/vFiEQ6q.png)
They have a LOT of troops, but that shall be their undoing.
See, they have to fork them through Salzburg and Niederbayern, which have low supply limit (especially the mountainous Salzburg).
And we have spies who can cut that supply limit even more, causing desertions and starvations to deplete Bohemia's alliance troops.
(https://i.imgur.com/NA0aEBt.png)
Papal spies even manage to inflitrate Prague itself, giving us knowledge of enemy provinces and troop movements.
Blessed be the late Benedictus XIV for choosing Espionage!
(https://i.imgur.com/wjzPvW8.png)
Aaaahahahahahaha!
*click*
Salzburg will be ours in next few months!
(https://i.imgur.com/131gPUQ.png)
Even better, we can now reach Sandomierz, Brandenburg and Saxony via Bohemian lands.
Some sieges and we can force them to convert back to Christianity! Down with the heretics!!
(https://i.imgur.com/2shyR9H.png)
Bam!
(https://i.imgur.com/KMmmR5h.png)
Oh man, France got its ass kicked by Netherlands.
A sign that we should not enter military alliance with the French for a while.
(https://i.imgur.com/26GGYIu.png)
Bam, and bam again!
(https://i.imgur.com/99eT9Jm.png)
And then we get Salzburg made a vassal, just as intended in the beginning.
In the whole war we gain 70+ Prestige. All it took was some sieges and spies to regain all the prestige lost by Cardinal Del Monte's antics.
(https://i.imgur.com/hlZao67.png)
...Speak of the devil. The option we take should've read 'Someone in the Curia must've framed him!'.
The option on top, the correctly labeled one, damages Prestige and raises Infamy, and we want neither, considering we just regained our Prestige, and our net infamy gain is *only* -0.14 per year, thanks to Paulus III being antithesis of a good diplomat.
Hopefully, it won't take long before Cardinal Del Monte stops being a nuisance. We just gotta wait!
-
018: Making British Isles Catholic Again
(https://i.imgur.com/vahpffn.png)
How did this happen, I have no idea.
But the tiny noble republic of Zurich is commanding the great Kingdom of Austria?
Then again, we have British Sultanate in this one.
(https://i.imgur.com/xX6rNJ8.png)
Stability is soon going up, and government tech is ahead of schedule.
We settle on cold, hard cash.
(https://i.imgur.com/8601LzF.png)
Punctuality, dear Watson, is how you defeat the British!
The very day the truce ends, we again invade the lands of heathen Brits.
(https://i.imgur.com/n1sbShj.png)
The battle of Wessex ends in our victory, and pursuit of British forces to London, where they are destroyed.
We gain free reign over their lands now, it is time for sieges (backed up by spies)!
(https://i.imgur.com/xeNb22F.png)
You try to give peoples more freedom and suddenly everyone claims chaos and anarchy rules your country. Bleh!
London has been already captured by our forces; we're now mass-besieging British lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/RYMVfSV.png)
The other option would be to suffer -2 Stability and anger Sweden, a country I can't be mad at.
Meanwhile, it seems that Catholic rebels of Ulster simply turned the province into our hands!
Not sure what I'm supposed to do it, but okay.
(https://i.imgur.com/i5gkWMZ.png)
It seems that the best doctors of Italy are in the city of Naples!
(https://i.imgur.com/y6jhRpw.png)
But even our wise Neapolitean doctors are stumped about the illness that has put Pope Paulus III into bed.
We can only pray for his swift recovery.
(https://i.imgur.com/uysm2WF.png)
He concludes peace with the British, however.
Cumbria was captured by a daring raid of our English vassal themselves.
Marches and Oxfordshire will be turned over to them after conversion of their peoples to Catholicism, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/qVuGkoq.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/UHMXmck.png)
When news reached Rome that an expeditionary force from Sultanate of Brunei itself landed in Naples, Pope Paulus III suffered a lethal stroke.
Habemus Papam! Unfortunately, the sudden death of Paulus III has forced the Conclave to elect the candidate who was the closest to Rome at the time.
Hopefully, his reign will be better than his skills, ugh.
(https://i.imgur.com/B6tZk4u.png)
I have to give it to Duke Edward, he is a smart man; he has started sponsoring patriotic rebellions in the Sultanate.
Soon enough, both Oxfordshire and Essex will switch allegiance to our English vassal!
(https://i.imgur.com/u9mH976.png)
Ah, the National Decline event for the non-colonizers.
Our Government tech is the most advanced one, so getting a malus there won't hurt much.
(https://i.imgur.com/tQXUbMA.png)
Oh, finally! *click*
(https://i.imgur.com/2Y6mRAh.png)
The most significant of Urbanus VII's deeds was finally banishing Cardinal Innocenzo del Monte away to a monastery.
The disaster is over, and we can return to scheduled programming!
(https://i.imgur.com/5trh9oV.png)
He also strikes a deal with King of Leinster to take Ireland from the hands of heathen.
After all, better a heretic than a heathen, even if both are abominable.
We shall do our best to see Leinster possessing whole of the Ireland.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZafldDk.png)
I don't remember ever getting this event.
We go full into Naval technology, the other option would give smaller tech investment but also naval tradition (to make better Admirals, if needed).
(https://i.imgur.com/YJnjtWc.png)
Leinster wins the war thanks to our Navy and our spies.
We give away Ulster to them right away, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/PLWwSYd.png)
The rebels we spawned with help of our spies gave an unexpected result: they converted the King of Leinster!
Not only Ireland will be free of heathens, it will be free of heretics also! Praised be our Lord in Heavens!
(https://i.imgur.com/1ouD8yo.png)
With our military maintenances at zero, we get quite a lot of cash.
"It is time to sponsor the arts," says venerable Urbanus VII, "And to create a centre where young artists might be educated in the arts."
Because a mission specifically asks us to create a Fine Arts Academy in Treviso, we do so.
(https://i.imgur.com/ta3UkSY.png)
Under the papacy of Urbanus VII, even the slider-change events seem to favor us.
How long will this peace and prosperity continue on, one might ask?
We shall find out sooner or later.
-
019: Excessive Spending = Loans!
(https://i.imgur.com/uWEsGBw.png)
We begin this update by declaring war against Great Britain!
We will delegate fighting in the south to England, so that they can personally take London and neighbouring provinces.
Ourselves, we shall go for Scottish lands, and perhaps try to create Duchy of Scotland - a Catholic one, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/hhxgF8r.png)
Signor Montfalcone had to pop up during the most important battle, heh.
In the corner you can see some Lancastrian Sunni Zealots joining forces with British Sultan.
(https://i.imgur.com/VSyppn5.png)
Just few days after Sultan Richard V Beresford is soundly defeated at Lincoln, Urbanus VII dies.
Probably of gout or something like that.
(https://i.imgur.com/tbJz1Dw.png)
Habemus Papam! Pope Alexander VI is exactly average, favoring military over diplomacy.
(https://i.imgur.com/vUygdH1.png)
Free tech boosts all across the board!
Meanwhile, we go with sieges. Sieges of everything in the British Isles, including even Orkney and Western Isles.
The British Royal Navy, which was once a menace, is hiding from our own lately. Cowards!
(https://i.imgur.com/6aN4Fhj.png)
And now, a free Artist thanks to finishing up Fine Arts Academy in Treviso.
We're completing our sieges in the Isles.
(https://i.imgur.com/V6Rnzlp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/TErIgIk.png)
Aw, Alexander VI wasn't even that bad!
Habemus Papam, again with the Innocents!
At least this one is ultra-skilled. He can stay for a while.
(https://i.imgur.com/iJxVxE7.png)
I guess Alexander VI was a tiny bit bad with spending on spies and such.
This loan will hurt to repay, but then again, we have a very strong economy right now.
(https://i.imgur.com/QBrkK7R.png)
Almost all of these holdings are given away to Duchy of England, to ensure that they will continue their missionary work.
We also gain a foothold in Scotland, as planned, and will use it to restore Catholic Scotland to the maps of Europe.
(https://i.imgur.com/eHC7JBG.png)
Pfft, fuck off Netherlands.
Italy belongs to the Pope!
(https://i.imgur.com/mhbKOKh.png)
Ayshire gets converted rather quickly, and thus we can create Duchy of Scotland!
I think it will be just one more war before we can dismantle Sultanate of Britain completely.
The Pope is considering whether we will give autonomy to England and Scotland or not... such big, strong vassals they make.
(https://i.imgur.com/1MCQtIK.png)
We do sponsor some patriot rebellions in the British parts of Scotland.
If these succeed, they might as well save us a whole war before Britain is Catholic again!
(https://i.imgur.com/aj3qzYd.png)
While Papal agents work hard at maintaining the rebels in Scotland, Pope Innocentius XIII invests more money into arts.
"Without investments," he says, "there shall be no prosperity."
The Dutch artisans and scholars of Guild of Saint Luke will boost our cultural tradition and provide new magistrates, but some in the Curia are worried about impending loan payment.
(https://i.imgur.com/ILWAnXB.png)
There has been an accident involving a sleepy Providence and a rather expensive espionage action.
Our monthly Loan Payments are now over 12 ducats per month. We need a Banker to reduce that, ASAP!
(https://i.imgur.com/gr8fToj.png)
Signor Pordenone was the best we could get in such a short amount of time.
His presence at the Papal court reduces Loan Payments to under 8 ducats.
This will have to do, along with frugal spending and low military maintenance.
(https://i.imgur.com/sKIVu4z.png)
Hahahah, the Sultanate of Britain collapsed into a hole it cannot crawl out of.
All but Western Isles reverted to Duchy of Scotland, while Norwegian peoples of Orkney swore fealty to Norwegian liege.
(https://i.imgur.com/QVEWDUM.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/6wWiSXf.png)
Habemus Papam! Innocentius XIII died suddenly, and now Pope Clemens XVI reigns in Rome.
He is superior in everything than his predecessor, so I won't be complaining.
(https://i.imgur.com/PQ7qQ8d.png)
At least under Clemens XVI's papacy, we pay off one loan.
The other will be trickier, but I'm sure we can manage.
(https://i.imgur.com/lbtRoZX.png)
And second loan is paid off, phew!
(https://i.imgur.com/eVBhTRO.png)
The Christian influence is spreading across the globe, as European monarchs create offshore colonies.
We need some organization that will help maintain good ties with these distant, Catholic, exclavbes.
Sacred Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith will ensure a steady supply of missionaries and diplomats.
(https://i.imgur.com/WwLhPQP.png)
And in just one year, we finish what we've started - Reconquista of British Isles!
-
020: Europe Catholic Once More
(https://i.imgur.com/OzIhhRS.png)
Baroque music is good enough for us to begin our final offensive.
(https://i.imgur.com/2nbYMCZ.png)
Our two-pronged attack against the Great Britain will take their new capital.
Apparently, thinking they can escape the God's punishment, they moved it to Northumberland.
(https://i.imgur.com/dzTTX68.png)
The war was short and fast, though.
Cumbria goes to Scotland, London to England, and Western Isles to us.
Of course we will pass them to Scots.
(https://i.imgur.com/84gsxE4.png)
Indeed, the Counter-Reformation movement was a great success.
Except some Scandinavian heretics, and an odd province here and there, Protestantism and Reformist heresies were purged.
With our Reconquista of British Isles coming to a close, we can proudly announce:
Europe is Catholic again!
(https://i.imgur.com/6cQHbA8.png)
Clemens XVI dies during a trip to supervise troops in Near East, in Jerusalem.
Habemus Papam! His successor is one of his subordinates, who takes upon the name Clemens XVII!
(https://i.imgur.com/ECoKzUu.png)
First claiming the trade research is heretical, and now this?
I think someone is undermining our influence amongst the Papal plutocrats, hmph.
(https://i.imgur.com/d0JfoSs.png)
We decide to hire a Treasurer to boost our trade tech investments.
(https://i.imgur.com/m7frY9x.png)
Hmm, Catalunya showed up instead of Aragon.
Mayhaps they didn't like Aragonese coat of arms?
(https://i.imgur.com/fQFiSAe.png)
Some aggressive diplomacy was employed to curb foreign influence in the Curia.
Even if a Cardinal is appointed from outside the Papal States, it has great chance to be from England or Tuscany - two of our vassals.
(https://i.imgur.com/K7UWEMo.png)
Again with the Cardinals!
Our stability is taking hits more often than it goes up, though...
(https://i.imgur.com/YqzstrI.png)
Level 3 forts!
Time to upgrade our border defenses.
We should also get more artillery; foreign nations will also get these forts soon enough, and we shouldn't spend years besieging their lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/JfO0FSg.png)
Pope Clemens XVII decides to annoint Mary of Scotland and Charles James of England as Queen and King, respectively. The late Pius III is smiling from heavens, though - both England and Scotland are Catholic now!
This release of vassals is cushioned by our Treasurer, whose skills will be known abroad.
The farcical construct of Sultanate of Great Britian is going to fall into hands of Mary and Charles James soon enough.
(https://i.imgur.com/dZNxIW2.png)
WHAT'S WRONG WITH OUR MERCHANTS!?
(https://i.imgur.com/ziFGl0P.png)
Not long afterwards, Clemens XVII is bedridden with something more than a flu.
We hope he can recover from it.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qw6J7rS.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/3a8rppP.png)
Clemens XVII dies from his illness.
Habemus Papam and somehow it is no surprise who is the next Pope.
Our navy is busy blockading Ottomans; England and others are fighting them for one reason or another.
(https://i.imgur.com/GF5E8ea.png)
It is actually the first time that Papal astronomers have seen an evil comet!
It is surely an omen, but of what kind, we can't be sure.
(https://i.imgur.com/1huB34j.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ztuUBf1.png)
Clemens XVIII dies suddenly and it's barely a year into his pontificate!
Habemus Papam! This time it is Innocentines who receive the Papal tiara!
Who knows what will come of this.
(https://i.imgur.com/cp5k5nc.png)
God himself is angry with the Clementine and Innocentine factions!
Another of theirs have been struck down with illness, keeping him contained within his bed.
(https://i.imgur.com/hsk9Vhy.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/IlpnJ1W.png)
Years go by, with us busily blockading Ottomans and slicing up their navy - and then Innocentius XIV dies.
Habemus Papam! Paulus IV is a military man, but his main job will be designing a peace offer for the Ottomans.
After months of negotiations, we settle on 150 ducats of tribute.
(https://i.imgur.com/RnZc48z.png)
Let's end it with a bit of World News! Byzantium, the old, decrepit Greco-Roman Empire, has fallen to Austria sometime between rise of Catalunya and our peace with Ottomans.
Using that situation, the Despots of Morea decided that it is up to them to rally the Orthodox Greek peoples under one banner.
And so, the modern state of Greece has been created out of Janina, Athens, Achaea, Morea, Naxos and Rhodos. Mayhaps they will be harbringers of prosperity in the Balkans!
-
Catalunya independent from Portugal? Shit rectangle evolved into shit square V:
-
021: Clemens XIX, Architect of Prosperity
(https://i.imgur.com/LJGFIV2.png)
When you do well, things go well.
So well that nobles of the Papal States give us money!
(https://i.imgur.com/pWY9gUI.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/40f1hSn.png)
Unfortunately, Pope Paulus IV dies suddenly overnight.
Habemus Papam! Few more, and the name 'Clemens' will have more numbers than venerable 'Ioannus'.
(https://i.imgur.com/5dHeX80.png)
Rather shockingly, and also overnight, Pope Clemens XIX becomes sick and bedridden.
(https://i.imgur.com/oIe9mZG.png)
Just look at the table of previous rulers!
Except Urbanus VIII, who was the Pope for 12 years, we had many short-reigning popes as of late.
(https://i.imgur.com/51vIY2N.png)
Scotland, wishing to wipe out the British Sultanate, calls us to a war.
Turns out it will be easier than imagined; only Tunisia and Hausa are fighting on the vile Sultan's side.
(https://i.imgur.com/ShrFC8p.png)
With Government tech 30, we gain a casus belli against all of Italian states.
We also decide to get an idea that cuts down maintenance on ships.
We need to keep a big navy, and one that can fight at full strength without killing our economy in the same time.
(https://i.imgur.com/XH7KqDQ.png)
Thanks to having gold mines in Lienz, we can push to implement a Gold Standard.
It cuts down inflation a bit, meaning we can mint more - and therefore, have more money!
All this gets us to 6.3 ducats per month!
(https://i.imgur.com/RE5ZApE.png)
Our naval reformer, Anterus Montfalcone, who worked for us for over 55 years, has died. We always get those long-lived ones, huh.
Pope Clemens XIX decides to hire a Theologian in his place.
(https://i.imgur.com/wa285k0.png)
Genoese rebels tear away Liguria and Parma from Greece and Netherlands respectively.
That is good for us; we can quickly move in to seize these provinces.
Liguria, with its centre of trade, is of utmost importance.
(https://i.imgur.com/kpOKwc7.png)
Liguria and Parma are ours!
Immediately our merchants flood Genoese markets to gain a monopoly there.
Soon enough, the Pope overcomes his terrible illness. All in Rome praise God for sparing our Pope from an untimely death.
(https://i.imgur.com/VTd9GZg.png)
Bah, those treacherous Cardinals!
Normandy is no-one and we can easily get back to Stability +3 in a year or two.
(https://i.imgur.com/FtVoIdo.png)
The old age of crusading, excommunications and holy wrath are over.
Well, we can still bash the heretics - if there were any important heretics to bash.
(https://i.imgur.com/758GB7c.png)
With this generous gift, we can finally afford building a Glorious Monument, giving us +1.0 cultural tradition per year!
It shall be created, of course, in Roma itself.
(https://i.imgur.com/oAFMwA5.png)
Of course, the art must not be viewed as sacriligious!
We sell the statue to those who love the cold marble.
(https://i.imgur.com/CYNam9N.png)
The Papal emissary laughed in face of the Imperial envoy, who demanded Liguria back.
We have not handed away Friuli (or was it Istria?) to the Dutch, and we won't give away Genoa to the Bohemians either!
(https://i.imgur.com/051MhSJ.png)
The Papal States are in midst of great reorganization and economic reform.
Just now Pope Clemens XIX has called for creation of a tax assessor.
Roma is heart of the States, but our economy thrives mostly thanks to Venezia - the Assessor will be built there.
(https://i.imgur.com/aCNEiOU.png)
These nobles, they do not understand!
It was by Clemens XIX's skill that we've gotten so far in past few years!
(https://i.imgur.com/5f3E7Wl.png)
Pope Clemens XIX's foray into construction projects continues, thanks to all these newfound funds!
We're creating a March in Lienz; it's mountainous terrain is natural defense against invasions from the north, making this an obvious choice.
(https://i.imgur.com/ydckjMR.png)
Shady people visit the Papal court at Roma, but we have no use for them.
We get 2 Spies each year, so all we need is time to replenish our ranks (who are busily working against Austrians in the Balkans).
(https://i.imgur.com/69yNywl.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/HAXYLAc.png)
Church bells announce the news, as the peoples of Rome and the Papal States grieve and wail out loud - a Brandenburgian visitor assassinates Pope Clemens XIX during the Sunday mass!
Habemus Papam! Pope Gregorius XV is a master of war, well suited for the future plans of the Papal States.
Brandenburg is a vassal of Bohemia, the Holy Roman Emperor himself. But Pope Gregorius XV swore that no man shall stop the holy vengeance we're about to unleash against Bohemia and its lackeys.
To arms, my holy brothers! To arms!!
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022: Divine Punishment
(https://i.imgur.com/513HIET.png)
Our spies have successfully infiltrated Prague!
Bohemian fleet is in Danzig, and their troops are about 20 to 25 thousand each.
We shall gather at Salzburg and Augsburg, the former our vassal, the latter's access granted us graciously by Bavaria.
(https://i.imgur.com/MadxIg7.png)
A new cavalry troop composition is developed by Papal officers.
We incorporate Gallop Cavalry right away.
(https://i.imgur.com/QQ8IRTZ.png)
We send declaration of war against Brandenburg, and of course Bohemia protects its vassal.
Our Armies are lacking nearly 60k cavalry compared to Bohemia and its allies...
(https://i.imgur.com/fOv9guZ.png)
Unsurprisingly, the Bohemians beat our hides quite handsomely in first two battles!
We retreat to Salzburg, which mountainous landscape should help us defend against Emperor's hordes.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZG1o41w.png)
The battle of Salzburg is won!
Right afterwards, our spies incite desertions in Niederbayern and Sudety provinces, to drain Bohemian regiments a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/L1uDbb0.png)
Commandant Xystus Bassano and Quartermaster Zosimus Sugaina will replace our Treasurer and Theologian.
Extra damage and faster replenishment of our troops might be crucial for our war effort.
(https://i.imgur.com/9tprWA1.png)
Thanks to timely arrival of Duke of Tuscany's forces, we repel Bohemians once more at Salzburg.
The army camps in Veneto region are busily training new troops. Massed Bohemian cavalry is devastating against our ranks, and we should reply in kind.
(https://i.imgur.com/LR9R8gy.png)
The Emperor seems to realize that our stronghold at Salzburg is nigh-unconquerable as it stands now, and throwing troops at it results in mass casaulties. He asks for peace.
Pope Gregorius XV has ordered the Bohemian envoy, along with his assistants, to be thrown out of a window of the guesthouse they were staying at.
(https://i.imgur.com/5S9k7ce.png)
Ragusa, the Bohemian ally in Adriatic, capitulates to our demands.
In the same time, we use the occassion of Bohemians retreating to Prague, and expand our Armies by the Veneto regiments.
(https://i.imgur.com/gfmFMDr.png)
The changed composition of Papal Court, and new regiments bolstering our ranks, has persuaded Pope Gregorius XV to launched a new offensive.
We will strike at Niederbayern once more, this time with our troops better coordinated too.
(https://i.imgur.com/ncSvMrO.png)
Just before this battle, another gift to the state gets us 740 ducats! Venetian Tax Assessor is now under construction.
The battle itself ends in about 15k Bohemian casualties, and our return to Niederbayern.
Bohemian Emperor has tons of manpower to replenish his troops with, so this war is destined to be a meat grinder rather than quick conquest.
(https://i.imgur.com/SJ6NiX6.png)
The assault of over 70k Papal and allied troops against breach in Niederbayern earns us this border fortress.
(https://i.imgur.com/G03lFuy.png)
We capture Sudety province after a lengthy siege. Our vassals move into Ansbach, a Bohemian vassal.
As for us, well... what now? I have no idea. Prague and its neighbouring lands are swarming with Bohemian soldiers.
(https://i.imgur.com/uOQggcF.png)
England successfully demands Gwynnedd from Bohemia, and our diplomats make a claim to Trentino.
Perhaps Bohemia is not as strong as we're led to believe.
(https://i.imgur.com/Uvi1ZNc.png)
Damn those French! Just after we win the bloody battle of Prague, they let Bohemians through Gorz (they had treaty with Austria for decades, btw).
This allowed the Emperor to march troops through Balkans into Treviso.
(https://i.imgur.com/96waOwi.png)
We bump the Bohemians to Tirol, and in its mountainous valley their Army is annihilated! Emperor Ruprecht escapes safely, though.
Our other troop is running for Liguria - the Genoese rebels sprung up there, trying to take land during our absence in Italy.
(https://i.imgur.com/gCiEYpo.png)
Sudety being nearly recaptured forced Pope Gregorius XV's hand, and he attacked Sandomierz-Brandenburg Army alone.
He only barely won, and after victory, pursued the enemy to Niederbayern. There, along with our other troop, annihilated the forces of these two Bohemian vassals!
(https://i.imgur.com/Cfgui3c.png)
This is the war's situation at the moment:
Our combined troops are besieging Prague itself, along with northernly Lusatian region.
Meanwhile, Bohemians and their vassals are running around, putting down rebellions.
(https://i.imgur.com/mU5dKdH.png)
In a stroke of terrible luck, we fail to support our vassals at Prague.
Bohemians pushed them out, but then we pushed Bohemians to Moravia.
The battle was won, and the pursuit cancelled to siege Prague once more.
(https://i.imgur.com/OaVQbSW.png)
Someone incited Parman rebels!
Our smaller troop will have to march all the way from Bohemia to deal with this uprising.
(https://i.imgur.com/R8AKkVX.png)
The damn rebels succeeded in taking Parma, and then went for Liguria.
We eradicated them from the face of the Earth, and then assaulted Parma.
(https://i.imgur.com/avrU6kC.png)
We get a new General; Signor Garda replaces Clemens Flangini.
With 4 Maneuver points, he can chase down Bohemian vassals and Ligurian rebels with ease!
Our vassals are wreaking havoc in Brandenburg and Rugen, taking their provinces for us.
(https://i.imgur.com/wRAgq2Y.png)
Prague itself falls into our hands!! This brings our warscore in this war to 66% already.
We should squeeze some more; perhaps taking Silesian provinces (Breslau, Ratibor) will get us even higher?
(https://i.imgur.com/6dtHCcD.png)
In a desperate bid to win the war, Bohemian Emperor takes all his troops previously engaged in Ukraine (slightly over 30 thousand), and strikes at our siege in Moravia.
But evidently Bohemian morale is broken; they die by thousands and we simply annihilate their army, without even chasing them around. Emperor's defeat is immiment.
(https://i.imgur.com/DNTOHZz.png)
Bohemian Emperor is forced to accept our humilitating terms. Silesia rises from ashes, and Bohemian Elector-vassals are freed from their bound.
Furthermore, we drain Bohemian treasury and have them give up claims to distant lands.
The late Pope Clemens XIX has been avenged! May he rest in peace!
-
Now excommunicate him for good measure :V
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Can't anymore, is past 1650 :c
Well, his old excommunication is still holding, so that works I guess V;
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023: Pacis Pii
(https://i.imgur.com/ZBT4naK.png)
"Your Holiness, the two holy orders have done their work discussing the divine Grace."
"They're late!" "A holy brother is never late, your Holiness."
"And the text is too long!" "We will make it smaller next time."
"Alright..." With everything we wanted from Narrowmindness already taken, we side with Jesuits.
Siding with Dominicans would push +2 toward Narrowminded, while negotiating a comprise gives +5 Prestige.
(https://i.imgur.com/TFjn4RY.png)
On his way home, Pope Gregorius XV takes his troops on a detour to Trentino.
We've got a core on it, remember?
(https://i.imgur.com/FagMFr2.png)
That unfortunately trips several alliances, including one with England, against us, but oh well.
The Pope is sure we can manage this war. We've just squashed Bohemia, after all!
(https://i.imgur.com/SsSHZTv.png)
Once we take Trentino, we demand it and some cash from wealthy Tirollian lords.
As expected, they were hoarding money while peoples of Trentino suffered from backwardness and poverty; all they've built there was a Constable.
We shall make fixing their situation our priority.
(https://i.imgur.com/57x7ivX.png)
Austria, not as stubborn as Bohemian Emperor, offers us white peace the moment we beat their forces at Lienz and Karnten.
Pope Gregorius XV commends Austrians' wise move, and accepts the offer.
(https://i.imgur.com/VYLU6Gp.png)
Apparently people of Trentino preferred to be poor but outside Italian rule.
Those peasants, always unhappy with something, bah!
(https://i.imgur.com/PCpn4sg.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/nCK3YNX.png)
His job done, however, Pope Gregorius XV goes to the home of the Father.
Habemus Papam! He's a Clementine, and he is terrible.
I want Greg back!
(https://i.imgur.com/8E9BOO2.png)
We get notified of the death of our venerable Commandant.
As we're no longer in war, we decide to go for civilian courtiers. First, a Statesman!
(https://i.imgur.com/MfZQicc.png)
Pope Clemens XX does not forget the need to update our trops, though.
Gustavian Infantry, an offensive unit, is now backbone of Papal armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/Sby07g5.png)
The other courtier, our Quartermaster, will be replaced with a Treasurer.
We're grossly behind in Trade technologies at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/FjMKSGc.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/BfmovTl.png)
After few years, Clemens XX passes away.
Habemus Papam! Pius VIII isn't a genius by any margin, but he's still much better than the ol' Clemens.
(https://i.imgur.com/iZoQbZf.png)
Europe News time:
This is 6th Personal Union I've seen happen since death of Gregorius XV.
First it was Epirus and England, then there was Scotland and Morocco (Morocco being Christian nowadays), and few others, including some Russian minor states.
Now Netherlands and Guyenne. Those heirs and monarchs are dropping dead left and right, it seems.
(https://i.imgur.com/WxcQyxA.png)
Finally we get around to start building a Cathedral in Roma.
Speaking of Cathedrals, we should build one in Jerusalem too, for obvious, religious reasons.
(https://i.imgur.com/6EzyD81.png)
Either the event's late, or we didn't have any 4-star (or better) Statesmen before?
That said - free prestige, yay!
(https://i.imgur.com/YEICCAX.png)
Genoese are still restless.
Other than that, all is well in Papal States, and there's nothing much to write about.
(https://i.imgur.com/pRmV2tf.png)
Cathedral underway in Judea.
The last three years were so peaceful we didn't even get any rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/el3Ym5A.png)
We ain't exactly a military giant, and thus don't need multiple generals at once.
War College can wait with its construction, perhaps infinitely even?
(https://i.imgur.com/yVbORmO.png)
There's nothing of real interest to us.
We might as well become extra religious by enforcing Sunday Mass' attendances.
(https://i.imgur.com/odOsmQD.png)
Admiralty, however, we shall gladly build.
Our navy must have the best Admirals available for us, else our Mediterranean and Near East possessions will be in danger.
As there's not much else to write about, let's have a break. As a bonus, have a list of our previous Popes. There's been a lot:
(https://i.imgur.com/g1D1ljm.png)
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024: A Bohemian Deja Vu
(https://i.imgur.com/uuwzaiz.png)
Netherlands is getting at it again with Personal Unions.
"It is unbecoming of a monarch to rule such a vast territory. Lest they consider themselves more important than God himself!" Pope Pius VII was heard saying.
Pope Pius VII has convened a meeting to discuss the Dutch marital excesses...
(https://i.imgur.com/nnRsypY.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Lfls7dR.png)
Another Imperial assassin infiltrated Vatican!!
Habemus Papam! Pope Benedictus XV condemned Bohemian deed and proclaimed a retribution against the Holy Roman Emperor.
The Papal soldiers are moving to the border - to Salzburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/2D94zU6.png)
As soon as the new year comes, the Papal State declares war against Ruprecht of Bohemia.
It seems however that the old numerical power of Bohemia has dwindled, and only cavalry has big numbers.
(https://i.imgur.com/FpXiN3S.png)
A renowned painter comes to the Papal court, bringing prestige and stability to the States.
Our soldiers are fighting hard against armies of Bohemia at Salzburg and Niederbayern. The casualties are numbered in thousands per each day of fighting.
(https://i.imgur.com/7BAVlGE.png)
Fighting at Niederbayern and Salzburg ended in our hastily retreats and regrouping.
Our numbers were depleted by half just in those two battles. We commission the services of a quartermaster from Jerusalem.
(https://i.imgur.com/Xf6EUd8.png)
One of Papal Armatas was destroyed upon the mountains of Lienz! Immediately Papal courtiers went into panic, behaving as if it's end of the world.
The Pope calmly asked for some diplomats to go around while Armata di Roma will be rebuild in southern Italy.
For that, Pope Benedictus XV asked Tuscan bankers for a loan of 828 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/4v8GMhv.png)
Bohemians who tried to sneak into Treviso and Venezia through Gorz were destroyed in two battles.
Salzburg has fallen into hands of the enemy, but we will win this war.
(https://i.imgur.com/1EWFuvg.png)
Once we recoiled from the Bohemian onslaught and began pushing into their lands, Austria found an opportunity to strike.
They're already making progress in Moravia and elsewhere, and revoked Emperor's access through their lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/K5lFwdC.png)
Pope Benedictus XV dies in battle against Brandenburgian scum.
Habemus Papam! Clemens XXI is a military genius, just the man we need to lead the Papal States right now.
(https://i.imgur.com/8cFeUwo.png)
The situation in the Papal States has turned a bit sour. A peasant uprising went unchecked and managed to snag Ancona before we got our forces there.
Fortunately, Duchy of Tuscany is already helping with taking back Ancona from rebel hands.
(https://i.imgur.com/L5hIkvF.png)
Austria has forced Bohemia to release its outlying territories, and weaken their influence abroad.
It's about time we deal a blow of our own against the insolent Bohemians.
(https://i.imgur.com/2PWiOOc.png)
After one more year of sieges, coupled with Bohemian ineptitude at dealing with our overwhelming force, they agree to our terms.
Pope Clemens XXI made sure that their vassals and territories will be divided.
(https://i.imgur.com/uYTninq.png)
"It is our Armatas that are unprepared for such violent and quick aggression from others the reason of our early defeats." With these words, Pope Clemens XXI has ordered that our infrastructure be upgraded.
In Roma, the War College once considered will be finally constructed to provide us with ability to procure skilled generals.
(https://i.imgur.com/4OO2Psr.png)
He has also noted that we've ability to construct Shipyards, yet we have none. We place great importance on our navy, yet neglect it.
A most divine mission was given for us to construct one as well. We will do make one at Napoli, since old times the headquarters of our Navy and the Admiralty building.
(https://i.imgur.com/30PU6cf.png)
We can also strengthen our missionary efforts by teaching children the word of God after Sunday Mass at local, church-adjacent, schools.
(https://i.imgur.com/8XfeeY4.png)
The final step in modernisation of our military infrastructure will be construction of Grain Depot in heart of the Papal States, in Mantua.
This will cut maintenance costs and raise our army limits, relieving our economy a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/1soXI3D.png)
Long live Rear Admiral Marcellinus Flangini! He shall tutor the future admirals of the Papal States.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZxIx0XO.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/JarcWEl.png)
Just as we decide to finish the modernisation, a new layer of fortifications can be now constructed.
We shall upgrade our Forts, and thanks to our newest Sheriff, we can pass Mining Act; We don't trade abroad at all, and thus can and should concentrate our economy on production and acquisiting of resources.
And yes, we will build the University of Judea.
One day.
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025: Papal Alexandria and the Bishopric of Yugoslavia
(https://i.imgur.com/VP9dtww.png)
Funnily, I was just considering going to war to weaken Austria, which has been, since previous century, blobbing all over Balkans.
With a free core, and thus a Reconquest casus belli, we can easily go to war with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/USUBz6H.png)
Not wasting much time, we go to war against them as soon as they are distracted by Istria and Croatia.
Our war plan is simple - capture Krain, capture Wien, get some concessions, and leave.
(https://i.imgur.com/7xEgdNs.png)
The thrice-damned Genoese rise up in Liguria once more, causing us to detour our troops.
That leads to our defeat at Wien, subsequent retreat to Lienz and loss of 4 out of 5 Austrian provinces we captured in past three months!
(https://i.imgur.com/n0o15jl.png)
In an uncharacteristic fit of anger, Pope Clemens XXI excommunicates the Genoese and Parmian peoples.
Then, his soldiers unleash hell upon the soil of the unruly subjects. All shall burn for their seditious thoughts! (Not really; the scorching in Genoa alone kills only 10-12 thousand people. Even less are killed in Parma.)
We also hire a High Judge named Stephanus Grado, just to be sure there won't be more rebellions.
(https://i.imgur.com/c6dHfbe.png)
Shortly after the business with Genoese, the Mamluk Sultanate declares war, hoping to take Beirut.
A newly commisioned general, Gregorius Corleone, takes the Armata stationed in Jerusalem on a trip to Cairo.
(https://i.imgur.com/KiaIrVS.png)
Austrians consolidate their forces into a moloch of nearly 60 regiments.
We march our forces into a great battle against them!
(https://i.imgur.com/6sXjvMQ.png)
The battle of Linz is a bloody one in which daily casualties exceed 2500 thousand at worst.
The Austrian Army is defeated, and flies to Ostmarch. We pursue them at once.
(https://i.imgur.com/0ajNuvM.png)
The subsequent battle of Ostmarch goes much smoother than Linz; Austrians are exhaused and their losses greatly outnumber ours.
In the 3rd day of fighting, Signor Corleone wins for us the Mamlukian province of Alexandria.
Shrewd Clemens XXI has decided that Mamluks will be punished not only with revocation of cores, but also with ceding of Alexandria as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/32XN9vI.png)
Yes, yes, Prussia, go away.
General Silvester Mollini discovers an errant Austrian troop, previously unseen, gathering up troops in the Balkans.
Dispatched there, he catches them at Macedonia, defeating them there and then destroying them completely in Albania.
(https://i.imgur.com/NLDuT14.png)
With Austrian forces obliterated and our vassals capturing Balkan provinces, Clemens XXI unleashes new hell upon the enemy:
Rebels! Wallachian, Bulgarian, Greek, Orthodox zealots, you name it.
(https://i.imgur.com/wn4Cl7u.png)
It's useless - in middle of enemy territory and with bad base tax.
Denied!
(https://i.imgur.com/060nvS7.png)
Siege of Vienna was the longest in the entire war.
Finally though, we capture it - driving up our war score. Pope Clemens XXI however is refusing efforts of peace.
First, we will let the rebels run their errands for us in the Balkans.
(https://i.imgur.com/vw7bDCC.png)
Less than two weeks later, the Mamluks finally cave in and accept our demands.
The trade center of Alexandria is ours! Immediately we send our missionaries and merchants there.
Signor Corleone will be posted in the new Papal territories along with his troop to provide security and hunt down inevitable rebels.
Speaking of rebels - not a single Genoese uprising happened since we torched the provinces of Liguria and Parma. Funny how it works.
(https://i.imgur.com/ICbvdeK.png)
Pope Clemens XXI decides that, after decades of stagnation, some liberal laws should be applied in regards to our people's rights.
That causes a drop in inflation, a much needed one, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/xDzgCFR.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/8lGvCmk.png)
Habemus Papam! Leo XI replaces the late Pope Clemens XXI, who died suddenly overnight.
Pope Leo is excellent choice for our future negotiations with Austria.
He will also help quickly reduce our infamy that rose after our conquests in Northern Africa.
(https://i.imgur.com/uwJo0J7.png)
He also sponsors a third Cathedral in the Papal States.
It will be in Friuli, former seat of the Patriarchate of Aquileia.
(https://i.imgur.com/Zsc8j3x.png)
Yesss, the break-up of Austria has begun! Wallachia is first to declare independence.
Other rebel groups are, unfortunately, rather slow in their progress, but Pope Leo XI has hope they can win their freedoms.
(https://i.imgur.com/iJfaZl6.png)
Just one day after our Marshal reports death of Signor Corleone, Pope Leo XI falls ill!
We pray for his fast recovery. His pontificate has barely begun, and he has such potential!
(https://i.imgur.com/ddDghCJ.png)
With this event, Roma has base tax of 18.
For comparison, some of the wealthiest provinces at start of the game have 12.
(https://i.imgur.com/BkmR31g.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/0Ir1JVw.png)
Despite sick and bedridden, Pope Leo XI personally concludes the peace negotiations with Austrians.
Their greatest territorial loss is release of Bishopric of Yugoslavia, or, you could say, a Papal State for Southern Slavs.
Of course, we also grab our core in Krain and force Austrians to give up on territories taken by rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/vvpLdgy.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/C5Evfek.png)
Two months later, Leo XI is defeated by the strange illness that wormed through his old body.
Habemus Papam! Alexander VIII, somehow, manages to be an improvement of Leo XI.
May his reign be prosperous and glorious. Amen!
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026: 20 Years of Balkan Struggles
(https://i.imgur.com/DxEADvZ.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/NRErTCT.png)
Pope Alexander VII has issued a proclamation, in which he declares the Papal States independent from the Prussian Emperor.
The protection of Emperors served us well in the past, but, considering how soundly we've beaten Bohemia and Austria, we no longer need the Empire.
Tuscany, Salzburg and Savoy remain as parts of the HRE, but they also remain our vassals.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y4mGxlD.png)
Unfortunately, the Imperial Integrity bonus is removed from us as well.
Can't have everything.
(https://i.imgur.com/bIAzal7.png)
The reign of Pope Alexander VII is peaceful and prosperous, with many positive events landing upon us.
Except this one, which gave us 400 ducats for free, said events were minor - a point of stability here, few points of prestige there.
(https://i.imgur.com/rJUvHiW.png)
The Sultanate of Iraq is big, but otherwise weak; we have nothing to fear.
And yes, up there is Austria, torn apart by rebels and Balkan minor states trying to regain cores. Rip Austria.
(https://i.imgur.com/k1DmvC2.png)
The greatest problem is with the markets of Alexandria; despite our direct control, and stomping down on Mecklenburgian monopoly, our merchants can't quite rule them.
We don't have any particularily strong trading decisions available. All we can do is spend money to send more merchants in.
(https://i.imgur.com/U40eNQG.png)
Greece, with whom we've made an alliance, asks us to help fight Morean nation, which just rose from their lands and lands of the Austrians.
We gladly accept the call, and become leader in the war, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/KBDNzPO.png)
Alexandrian peoples are worshipping our God, as they should be!
(https://i.imgur.com/402F4zO.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZC0I2HP.png)
Habemus Papam! Pope Paulus V trades Diplomacy for Administration.
(https://i.imgur.com/qF39xVh.png)
Rear Admiral Marcellinus Flangini has died!
We hire a Theologian in his place, because how can there be Papal States without Theologians?
(https://i.imgur.com/k6X0cuI.png)
Meanwhile, people in Europe are beating each other so hard that nation-states, not seen for hundreds of years, re-emerge on the map.
Rip Spain, you're getting balkanized!
(https://i.imgur.com/xFArfBZ.png)
Pope Paulus V proves to be a progressive Pope!
We go for ducats and prestige, of course - our Innovativeness is maxed out already.
(https://i.imgur.com/UhQho2k.png)
FINALLY.
Took the Emperor way too long!
With that, there should be no more rebels in Parma, unless we break something really bad.
(https://i.imgur.com/YDgJley.png)
Yugoslavia wants to get its core from Ragusa, so obviously we help them.
This draws Wallachia and Croatia into the war, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/e2g6FLO.png)
Somehow, a rebellion goes out in Judea.
We send our troops there immediately to kill the pesky Arabs.
(https://i.imgur.com/32MjyCV.png)
A-ha, wonderful, we can build Stock Exchanges in Liguria and Venezia now!
These two provinces will churn out ducats like crazy once these are completed.
(https://i.imgur.com/d6EEUaC.png)
All we do nowadays is sit at Ragusa, surrounding its walls.
The Ragusans do not budge for even an inch.
(https://i.imgur.com/1VeEYpl.png)
Only this place here is more boring and more stagnant than Ragusan battlefield.
Did you know? Iceland hasn't been at war for almost two centuries now.
How do they do that? Sitting in distant north of Europe, unbothered by anyone, everyone...
(https://i.imgur.com/leAzUi6.png)
Paulus V decided one day that, if nothing is coming to him, he should make stuff happen.
So he issued an edict that bans handing of officers to family members.
(https://i.imgur.com/C7fkPLT.png)
I wouldn't be surprised if it turned out that he died of boredom.
(https://i.imgur.com/iEe0SLh.png)
Habemus Papam! This marks a special occassion in the history of Papacy!
The name Clemens has been now taken more times than Ioannes, of whom there were 21 Popes in ancient and medieval times.
(https://i.imgur.com/6jDKBnk.png)
Modena becomes our national focus of the day, and we get money out of that!
(https://i.imgur.com/CM83K5E.png)
Walls of Ragusa finally crack open like a struck piñata.
Yugoslavia immediately annexes the tiny state.
The leader of the war, Wallachia, soon has to agree to Yugoslavian demand for Budjak, at the coast of the Black Sea.
(https://i.imgur.com/VLpxtA2.png)
Our recently chosen Pope, Clemens XXII, falls ill.
Might be one of those extra short pontificates, I believe.
(https://i.imgur.com/31KSMyV.png)
Meanwhile, Greece got its shit together, and reclaimed some more land.
Now they need Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and some provinces up north, held by the Ottomans...
(https://i.imgur.com/bAFetSY.png)
New Year comes, and we get just enough money to fund University of Judea!
See, I've told you that we will build it one day!
(https://i.imgur.com/2pqFz0v.png)
Greece and Yugoslavia, along with Byzantium which re-appeared in Thrace, have declared war against the Ottomans.
No doubt to gain some lands. We decide to join the war, but only to blockade Ottoman ports and let the Balkan armies do their thing.
(https://i.imgur.com/I5BwD2E.png)
Shortly after Clemens XXII overcomes his illness, this happens... I really should bug-check those events more often.
We side with the Dominicans (the option that is missing its text string). Other lowers our stability and it's only bonus is better relations with Xin Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/g8cZhsd.png)
Larissa and Kozani fall into our hands, and we've sold these to Greece.
Look at them Greeks, going big and strong!
I think this is a time for break - we've been at it for 20 in-game years, after all.
-
027: Opulence and Conquests
(https://i.imgur.com/FPfkeMT.png)
There's some people at the Papal court that believe in our army's invicibility on the field.
Pope Clemens XXII isn't one of them, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/i8wP90Q.png)
The Pope falls sick for the second time!
People pray that he wins against the illness once more.
(https://i.imgur.com/RwSkWDh.png)
Our current mission is to conquer Hawran, a province east from Judea.
But not only that; we shall take Gaza and Diamentia as well, mending our African territories into one continuous strip of land.
(https://i.imgur.com/69TSjLq.png)
For that, we need more troops in Africa. First time ever, a second Armata is transported there.
(https://i.imgur.com/QqjDn7p.png)
We also re-charter the Guild of St.Luke. It served us well in the past.
The war against Iraq goes more than smoothly; Diamentina is already ours, and two Iraqi armies were annihilated.
(https://i.imgur.com/jQsh9gC.png)
Wew! Iceland has gone far since the Kalmar Union.
(https://i.imgur.com/meUCxHN.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/FfSzlkE.png)
Habemus Papam! We have an Innocentius on a throne!
A warrior and a diplomat? Nice!
(https://i.imgur.com/ITsanY8.png)
The Regimental System will help our economy.
That's becasue Pope Innocentius XV has his own plans on how to spend Papal wealth.
(https://i.imgur.com/fWxB3qE.png)
For that, he hires Master of Mint, and pushes Treasury slider rightways.
We're minting 55 ducats monthly now.
(https://i.imgur.com/a5nViHS.png)
Pope Innocentius XV realizes that most of Iraqi cities are under our control now.
He settles a peace treaty, taking Hawran, Gaza and Diamentia, as planned by his predecessor.
Immediately, maintenance on ships and armies is cut by almost half.
(https://i.imgur.com/BRrAqYM.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Jw15T0o.png)
The glory of God will be in the splendor of his places of worship!
Not only does Pope Innocentius XV invite Rococco-style artisans in, he also decrees that we get some gilded icons too.
Churches and palaces of the bishops will now shine like the light of God himself!
(https://i.imgur.com/Vvy3sDc.png)
During his reign we receive new infantry options.
Knowing how powerful we are, and how many allies we have, we can easily go full attack mode.
Caroline Infantry, go go go!
(https://i.imgur.com/zzdtmaw.png)
Once you present Innocentius XV with money, he takes it.
Especially if its free money.
(https://i.imgur.com/48CCM1L.png)
Our third and last centre of trade, Alexandria, will have its own Stock Exchange as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/qp81zwT.png)
Even more free stuff that we can get!
(https://i.imgur.com/jt8XcLI.png)
We join the Yugoslavian 'war' against Austria, allowing us to gather war taxes.
Pope Innocentius XV immediately begins second part of his plan: manufactories everywhere!
Textiles, refineries, weapon and naval equipment, you name it. Universities in few places, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/ivmsFhC.png)
To paraphrase a German baroque actress, Winnifred Operiah: "You get the money, and you get the money, everyone gets the money!"
(https://i.imgur.com/8dBvCi1.png)
First weapons manufactory will be in Trentino!
(https://i.imgur.com/pBtrMn9.png)
"They've elected whom?"
"King Karl I of Switzerland, your Holiness."
"Since when Switzerland is a Kingdom?" The papal nuncio could only shrug in response.
(https://i.imgur.com/90YuL6w.png)
That doesn't stop us from declaring war to reconquer Chur.
We should also get around to taking Aleppo, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/0Pcbxz5.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RRToDEt.png)
His plans only partially realized, Innocentius XV departs this world.
Habemus Papam! Pius VIII is... meh.
Hopefully he won't break anything.
(https://i.imgur.com/CE7iNb7.png)
The people of Judea are God-loving, Italian-educated people from now on!
And to think it happened during pontificate of rather mediocre Pope, heh.
(https://i.imgur.com/b9tnxmd.png)
Some spy work and siegeing later, the Swiss Emperor agrees to our demands.
Besides Chur, we pass Wallis to our vassal, Savoy. Apparently they had a core on that land.
(https://i.imgur.com/u41oWKk.png)
So we have a core on Aleppo AND a mission for Damascus now?
Could there be a better set of targets??
(https://i.imgur.com/6XNHd3k.png)
*shakes fist at Liguria* Goddamn Genoese, get off my lawn!
Fortunately, Armata di Roma destroys the rebels in less than a month.
(https://i.imgur.com/iXATeo6.png)
Once we capture Kaffa, capital of Trebizond, they neatly hand over Aleppo to us.
In few months, Sharizor, capital of Iraq, should fall. Then we grab Damascus!
(https://i.imgur.com/LDD3HLj.png)
And there we go, Damascus is ours!
For an average Pope, Pius VIII sure has a nice log of military victories.
(https://i.imgur.com/QT5DO8J.png)
If only he knew how to keep his Cardinals loyal. *sigh*
Maybe in the next update of this Let's Play, he will also have victories in diplomacy.
-
Is this amount of monies standard or are you just milking the game :V
-
At this late in game? Yeah, it tends to go up, especially if you own several centres of trade.
The fact that we're up-to-date with all provincial infrastructure also helps.
-
028: A Witty Title About a Dutch War
(https://i.imgur.com/t6SoeDK.png)
Not only the Swiss have taken the Imperial throne, they've passed the 1st Reform as well.
They might get dangerous in the future, we better watch them closely.
(https://i.imgur.com/oPepuhZ.png)
Just last year we've had 3 generals, now we have none.
I bet its plague or something.
(https://i.imgur.com/6MXN9ge.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/fxoAtGC.png)
Our revolt risk is on the rise - we need a High Judge!
Signor Loredano should do nicely.
(https://i.imgur.com/1Ws7AOV.png)
Out of nowhere, when we're lacking generals and troubled by Muslim revolts, we're drawn into a war against the Netherlands.
A quick look into the books shows the reason: the Netherlands, out of imperialistic greed, attacked Savoyard colonies.
Savoy is our vassal, so automatically we were drawn into the conflict as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/wGt9E0e.png)
The first major engagement of the war is the naval action of the Malta Channel.
We win it, sinking several Dutch ships, and even manage to capture a Galleon.
(https://i.imgur.com/O2zvyn3.png)
Our land forces, parked in Liege, discover that the Dutch Armies are there, and there's quite a lot of them.
We probably shall postpone any sieges for the time being.
(https://i.imgur.com/qupjW1i.png)
As we fight in Cologne, which we unpleasantly discover is Dutch vassal, Genoese rise up in rebellion again.
The battle in Cologne is lost, and we retreat safely. Ligurian rebels are smashed by Savoy's troop that was in the area.
(https://i.imgur.com/EIhndG2.png)
How do the Dutch manage to avoid the Papal Fleet is beyond our understanding.
They've landed in force in Pisa, but we win this battle and chase the Dutch out, fully annihilating them at Siena.
(https://i.imgur.com/aD6T8QK.png)
The Swiss pass second Reform through the Reichstag.
How the heck do they keep doing it??
(https://i.imgur.com/aD6T8QK.png)
Using a distraction in Hainaut, Armata di Roma manages to get clear way through Dutch home provinces.
We slash and burn and pillage, also scoring four victories against Dutch reinforcements, about 12k men in total.
(https://i.imgur.com/goGXTy0.png)
Our strategy of racing forth from Liege into the Netherlands to strike them unawares has finally bore fruit!
A large troop of Dutch men were defeated at Breda, then destroyed at Brabant.
(https://i.imgur.com/AVpfsxo.png)
It was inevitable.
The amount of taxpayers in the Near East is so large that the Arabic peoples are now freely accepted on the Papal court.
Fear not, they're all Christians, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/9WhtFdH.png)
Our sorties brought the sweetest fruit.
Distracted long enough, the Dutch failed to protect their own capital, Amsterdam!
We might be able to press them in the negotiations later - for now, they adamantly refuse to listen.
(https://i.imgur.com/UKnDBWG.png)
This happens when you do not upgrade your fortifications in this game!
As it turned out, the Dutch, whilst having Holland properly built up, neglected their forts just south of there.
In less than a year, we assault and successfully siege several of Dutch home provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/hZtWdNf.png)
We decide that European and Imperial politics aren't of much interest to us.
Instead, we drain the Dutch Royal Treasury out of every ducat we can.
We shall sponsor some manufactories with this money!
(https://i.imgur.com/BNiela5.png)
A most holy mission gives us a Casus Belli for province of Hammah.
It takes half a year to 'persuade' Sultanate of Iraq to surrender it.
(https://i.imgur.com/4Dg11VG.png)
Our Pope gets sick!
You may now place bets on whether he survives or not.
Your options are:
He will survive through it, he will die mid-way through, he will kepp going for few months at best, he won't last a month.
(https://i.imgur.com/Rh9xhuc.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/LYAaQSy.png)
If you've bet on 'he won't last a month', you're probably mad rich now.
Habemus Papam! Here comes a Papal name that has no been seen in the States for 1400 years.
Nobody knows what his pontificate shall bring, but it surely will be an interesting one.
-
029: Julian Reforms
(https://i.imgur.com/YNrPI33.png)
Didja notice before that The Knights Hospitalier is actually a Sunni Sultanate right now?
Well, now you know.
(https://i.imgur.com/9FtpMbw.png)
Oh dear, it is Age of Colonial Revolutions!
And the first one to show up is Venezuela, with quite a lot of land, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/sMVRQDi.png)
Hammah has been converted and now we should get an army bigger than Bohemia.
Not sure if it is possible at the moment, but we might as well build up our forces to the army limit.
Pope Iulius II has decided to bump up the number of our cavalry.
(https://i.imgur.com/hb6SuiQ.png)
Turns out all we needed was 2000 soldiers. Heh!
(https://i.imgur.com/TDEb9kH.png)
Pfft, festivities!
What we want is tax, for tax makes money!
(https://i.imgur.com/T2ytV2B.png)
Less than two thousand citizens, no fort, and no army.
Australians didn't think this through I'm afraid.
Pope Iulius II has sent them some money to ease their suffering.
(https://i.imgur.com/kOlfdJA.png)
I think this is first time since we took Patron of Arts national idea that we've gotten this event.
Free prestige, yey!
(https://i.imgur.com/hsPOAwW.png)
We're nearly fully Aristocratic now, giving us extra diplomats to go around.
In the same time we gain access to new infantry units - we go with offensive Blue Coats.
(https://i.imgur.com/parJLiQ.png)
Generation of Rococco artists is gone, and people are fancying a new, simpler style.
Some of these 'Neoclassical' artists are sponsored by Pope Iulius II too.
He has plans for going even simpler with our art, but more on that later - we're not ready.
(https://i.imgur.com/lxKKsSY.png)
Economic reform of Iulius II continue.
We go for what is called 'Smithian Economics' for that juicy +20% Production boost.
(https://i.imgur.com/DZwzORL.png)
Finally, we get a Sheriff, and with that, we can enact this decision!
"The icons are akin to a golden bull!" Says Iulius II before he gets rid of them. This drops our Stability by 3 points, but we currently regain 1 point of Stability every half a year.
Iconoclasm gives us a nice missionary modifier, and a great chunk of money. The minus -3.0 Cultural tradition yearly we can easily offset.
(https://i.imgur.com/YTHPnur.png)
Poor Brittany in the meanwhile is bleeding colonies fast.
Next might be La Plata, just south of Chile.
(https://i.imgur.com/0vI1lcb.png)
Dang Cardinals, get off my Curia!
(https://i.imgur.com/d2wE9rG.png)
What's with all those bad events suddenly?
We will get rid of that infamy in about 4.5 years.
(https://i.imgur.com/WyOu8OU.png)
The best Spymaster there is, Theodorus Ferme!
(https://i.imgur.com/aZ6xP6d.png)
The Philippines broke off from their imperial owners.
Prussia is bleeding land jut as fast as Brittany is. Probably because of the countless wars the two are getting into.
(https://i.imgur.com/1hBKXvi.png)
And there goes Iulius II, who died peacefully of old age.
Habemus Papam! Gregorius XVI is better in all regards.
Hopefully, his pontificate will be even more prosperous than Iulius II's!
-
030: The Mosquito Project
(https://i.imgur.com/mNf9kLG.png)
"What colonial governor?"
"In Gaza, your Holiness."
Expecting some colonial weirdness, it turns out the game spawned some Arabic patriots for Mamluks. Our Armata in Near East dealt with them easily.
(https://i.imgur.com/bQlxCYw.png)
Right after starting construction of a Refinery, we get about half of the money back.
Hooray for the plutocrats!
(https://i.imgur.com/gOsSwG0.png)
Our mission is to end the Western Schism.
The game forgot that Avignon is now a Republican Dictatorship allied to the Kingdom of Foix, but what you can do?
(https://i.imgur.com/DEfxctO.png)
A surprisingly large number of French and Imperial states have joined the war on Avignon's side.
Much greater surprise was the combined Liege-Foix-Poitiers fleet that we've barely defeated at Bay of Biscay. Their ships are sunk or scattered, so we can fear no amphibious invasions.
(https://i.imgur.com/HsqUvxc.png)
Pope Gregorius XIV is not willing to wait for the thick walls of Avignon to fall.
He instead bribes the locals to open the gates and sabotage the garrison's supplies.
(https://i.imgur.com/6SAZqus.png)
Two months later, we get Avignon. It promptly becomes a core territory of the Papal States.
And two months after that, on 30th September, Liege sues for white peace, and we agree to it.
(https://i.imgur.com/9okVvm4.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RdswrNW.png)
A year after conquest of Avignon, Gregorius XVI dies suddenly!
Habemus Papam! Pope Alexander VIII is truly blessed.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y88vCY6.png)
*headscratch*
I get the idea that Africa is a different continent than Europe, where Rome is located, but really...
(https://i.imgur.com/RG4LISB.png)
Never noticed this, but Royal Mortar is the first artillery unit to get really beefy stats for battlefield combat.
Now they're almost as good as our current infantry!
(https://i.imgur.com/KNtS1xF.png)
Chur is a Swiss-populated backwater of a province with neither high tax or manpower.
We can suffer some heresies spreading around it.
(https://i.imgur.com/RCw7MJT.png)
Pope Alexander VIII has decided that it is time for Papal States to expand beyond the Old World.
Spain never colonized Land of Mosquito, so we shall!
(https://i.imgur.com/K0lnWCt.png)
Already the natives are coming out of the woodwork to meet with our missionaries and settlers.
With the Papal treasury full of monies, we can trade with them in peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/gbROQwp.png)
It's been a while since all those African conquests, huh?
The two provinces connecting Judea and Alexandria are finally considered our territorial cores.
(https://i.imgur.com/u3QZCjO.png)
Out of all possible, exotic goods that Mosquito could produce, we instead get salt mines.
Such is God's will! Shortly afterwards we make Mosquito the focus of our national interests.
(https://i.imgur.com/3YYVCa3.png)
Mosquito is a full-fledged city now!
It will take 30 years to build up its infrastructure, but we can do it.
The locals rename their capital city to 'Alexanderville' to commemorate the sponsorship of their colony by Pope Alexander VIII.
(https://i.imgur.com/62qA0Xf.png)
Our traders, while still mercantilistic, are influential enough to do some trade outside Europe.
Thanks to the trade centers of Tamaulipas and Cumana, we get access to Coffee, Tobacco and Sugar!
(https://i.imgur.com/4UGat3s.png)
Great news indeed!
We need more Popes like Alexander VIII.
(https://i.imgur.com/1XD3bfq.png)
We get a free core on Dauphine.
It would connect Avignon with the lands of our vassal, Duchy of Savoy.
WAR IMMINENT!
(https://i.imgur.com/7WQRW7t.png)
France collapses under our push like a house made of cards.
Dauphine is ours; it's a bit backwater in terms of infrastructure, but we will build it up.
(https://i.imgur.com/GFwyqdV.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/SIs7AN0.png)
And that will be all of Alexander VIII's achievements.
Habemus Papam! Pope Gregorius XVII is a military strategist in an era where our armies win easily against most enemies, and sieges are conducted by spies and saboteurs.
But I'm sure we can find an use for his talents, one way or another.
-
031: Wrapping Up the 18th Century
(https://i.imgur.com/rz463g0.png)
One of Pope Gregorius XVII's first acts is to commission the Cathedral of Avignon.
The old seat of the Papacy needs to be memorialized with grace.
(https://i.imgur.com/uvnGnNv.png)
Oooh, Republic of Alsace is doing its best to curb Imperial power!
We should probably knock down the Alsatians a bit before they stir more trouble.
(https://i.imgur.com/1ytncky.png)
Some English/Spanish colonials have rebelled, and... eh...
Canada.
Yes... This, this is good placement for Canada. Simply sublime.
(https://i.imgur.com/t4OhvWu.png)
Pope Gregorius XVII is firm believer that in this time and era, we need to loosen our mercantilistic policies if we want to trade efficiently.
We hire a skilled Trader, Xystus Schio, and prepare to move our slider from Mercantilism towards Free Trade.
(https://i.imgur.com/MhQhnmh.png)
Haiti, a nation in South America, has rebelled against many people - including Savoy.
Savoy being our vassal, has called us into war against the rebelling nation. Pope Gregorius XVII is not sure what to do.
So when Haiti asks for white peace, we simply accept.
(https://i.imgur.com/hh5VcTs.png)
Three years later, while our Cardinals are idly discussing theological stuff, our way comes declaration of war!
From Austria, too!
Shaken but not afraid, we send our navy to blockade their only port at Gorz. Our Armies will hunt down their main force and besiege Wien.
(https://i.imgur.com/7g6pvVo.png)
This is result of the interception of Austrian second force that tried to besiege Salzburg.
(https://i.imgur.com/v2rCciB.png)
And this is the result of victory at Krain, and then at Karnten.
It is said that our Cardinals have been a bit dissappointed, hoping for a fair fight under the watchful eye of our God.
Alas, Austrians crumpled easier than wet paper.
(https://i.imgur.com/nPMOEmA.png)
Out of all little nations involved in this war, we annex Cremona, a small republic that existed for several centuries.
It would continue to exist a bit more, but their short-sighted leaders allied with Austria, and, well.
(https://i.imgur.com/euCOjD3.png)
And this is how Austria is punched in the face. Gorz, with its gold mines and strategic location between Istria and Papal States proper, is now ours.
Don't worry about Bosnia, this landlocked province will be sold to Yugoslavia once we settle on the price.
(They buy it after few months for 80 ducats)
(https://i.imgur.com/GvmWnLQ.png)
We've got a bit of Infamy and I've only now noticed we lose about -0.85 per year.
And Embassy will help with that.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ztz5psE.png)
Few years of peace later, the Austrians and Slovenes rose up in rebellion!
The local force posted to keep the peace reacted swiftly, informing His Holiness of this.
(https://i.imgur.com/g8Al1KM.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/PU2uNJg.png)
Unfortunately, that gave the Pope a fatal heart attack, it seems.
Habemus Papam! Clemens XXIII is everything but a diplomat.
(https://i.imgur.com/i1chGZH.png)
Three months later, General Castiglione reports:
No rebels remain alive in Papal Austria!
(https://i.imgur.com/V8375Aa.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/EBBuB88.png)
Revolts in Austria and Near East continue to pop up despite us having military presence and/or cores on the land.
Pope Clemens XXIII thus decides that it is time to deal with the old prejudices, and institute some more tolerant and humanist laws.
(https://i.imgur.com/QyxmRco.png)
Three years pass, and nothing interesting happened - now 1800s have begun.
For the end of this update, here you have Iceland. Still sitting in its corner of the world, still dirt poor, yet still happy and peaceful.
Somewhere down the line, their bureaucrats overthrew their rightful king, and created an Utopia where all the paperwork is in order.
What a wild, wild world we live in.
-
Canada guajeh |v
-
Almost at the end, and your cloning experiments continue to be successful!
-
032: Narrowminded Modernism
(https://i.imgur.com/BxICAoL.png)
Pope Clemens XXIII decides that new era requires new music styles!
Romantic music will do nicely, even if its a bit emotional.
(https://i.imgur.com/v69tyvl.png)
We might as well be called a financial institution.
The money flowing into the Papal treasury is immense as of late!
(https://i.imgur.com/8im0fOo.png)
It is first time in the game I get a Merchant event.
And all it boosts is Trade technology, bweeeh.
(https://i.imgur.com/HiCv2WV.png)
We're getting Land technologies so much that we're switching unit types every few months.
Soon, the final upgrade to our Armies should become available.
(https://i.imgur.com/E5DUKGp.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/wNkBsUD.png)
Habemus Papam! Recently there's a trend to revive old names... but I think Pope Callixtus went a bit too far when choosing the name.
(https://i.imgur.com/LvamB6r.png)
It's been a while since someone offered us an alliance.
We accept the alliance with the pious Catholic rulers of Scotland!
(https://i.imgur.com/HeH1CYY.png)
Pope Callixtus III believes that we're a bit too innovative and decides to curb the modernist tendencies.
This causes the people of Romagna to reject the tenets of our faith! However, a well-sponsored missionary will be dispatched to bring the flock back unto our fold.
(https://i.imgur.com/dZZ2D9B.png)
Austria declares war against us once more!
We shall kick their buttocks once more.
(https://i.imgur.com/mdTWYEg.png)
With the help from Salzburg, we beat Austrians at Lienz, then Steiermark, and finally we annihilate them at Linz.
(https://i.imgur.com/D6kNBUu.png)
The main Austrian force is thus defeated; Savoy and Tuscany are hunting down their secondary army.
Our Armatas are split into smaller units and sent out to capture Austrian territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/lugA8Gr.png)
Jesuits working in China send news that Xin Emperor dropped the ball hard.
Manchu, Dai Viet, Wu and even Oirats have parceled the mainland China between themselves.
(https://i.imgur.com/cLtXQws.png)
Our war with Austria progresses so boringly slow that we get the final idea.
We go with National Bank mostly because our Inflation was nearly 9% already.
(https://i.imgur.com/6nJze47.png)
A month after that, Wien is captured and Austria capitulates to our demands.
They lose 6 provinces total thanks to release of Styria and Hungary.
(https://i.imgur.com/AHlQqtb.png)
And there you have it, like I said, the final infantry/cavalry upgrade.
We're fully 19th century now!
(https://i.imgur.com/KmCAQOg.png)
U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!
They won't survive long though - they're quite pathetic, and at war with Galicia who is basically native to this continent now.
(https://i.imgur.com/WvXsH6c.png)
The recent (minor, fortunately) Reformist rebellions in Romagna caused our God to bestow upon us the most holy mission to eradicate heresy from Italian soil!
+50% Army Tradition for a successful missionary? Yes please!
(https://i.imgur.com/PITDRXH.png)
Just few months later, we complete that mission, yay!
(https://i.imgur.com/K5mJcAf.png)
No heresies allowed here, my good sir!
Also, we're decked out on standard buildings in every Papal province. Only special ones remain.
We decide to build Arsenals in Lombardy region, while all other lands will get Mints and Stock Exchanges for massive money generation.
(https://i.imgur.com/IRjzmAn.png)
F r e e c o r e
Obviously the truce with Austria still holds. We will get Slavonia in the next update!
-
Galicia independent? Galicia colonizing? The stereotype of Galicians emigrating instead of protesting really is true V:
Also "the Emperor should of tried and burnt Luther"
"should of"
-
033: Clemens XXIV and the Arabic Influences in Europe
(https://i.imgur.com/sjDr80N.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/epVtTdJ.png)
We begin with new Papal Conclave!
Habemus Papam! Because we didn't have enough Clemenses!
(https://i.imgur.com/BA2rR4T.png)
Pope Clemens XXIV coninues the policy of loosening up the mercantilism within the States.
Not everyone is happy about that, but such is the price of change.
(https://i.imgur.com/FOBJtCs.png)
Some level 5 buildings are due to be constructed.
These will be built in high-tax provinces first.
(https://i.imgur.com/rHrjp3j.png)
We won't be stirring up trouble though.
(https://i.imgur.com/emtAi1V.png)
Instead, we will concentrate on retaking the province of Slavonia.
Portugal comes to aid their ally, but the Bohemian Emperor does not!
(https://i.imgur.com/JznQTIJ.png)
The enemy fleets are sunk or blocked away from Mediterranean, while we drive away Austrian forces from Styria.
Then, they're destroyed at Wien, which we begin besieging in earnest.
(https://i.imgur.com/AVYkhDL.png)
By God, Milan, what have you done??
(https://i.imgur.com/YSW6t3X.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/xcI8Hun.png)
The war has been completed with conquest of Wien. Meanwhile, it turns out our allies captured several Portuguese provinces too.
We've exorted great amount of money from both Austria and then Portugal, along with some core revocations.
The province of Slavonia is greatly underdeveloped, but in 20 years (give or take a few), its infrastructure should be up-to-date.
(https://i.imgur.com/bh9zh3w.png)
Pope Clemens XXIV cannot watch the great city of Milan falling into peasant hands.
We deal with the uprising and there's only nine thousand casaulties. Very nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/kuxhygy.png)
We need another Trader; the replacement we get is only 4-star, but it has to do.
(https://i.imgur.com/LukpdiG.png)
Meanwhile, the Holy Roman Empire has became a joke of itself.
A Moroccan-parent, Bohemian-born Catholic is now occupying the throne.
Pity that we do not get a casus belli against them.
(https://i.imgur.com/kf13LFD.png)
It's been only 50 years since Mosquito was colonized by Papal settlers?
Feels more like a century or so.
(https://i.imgur.com/552q1jN.png)
The peoples of Near East are uppity again.
Pope Clemens XXIV has decided to not be lenient with them anymore.
(https://i.imgur.com/Or2BYkO.png)
Charter of the Guild of St.Luke will be renewed, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/hzPlIh2.png)
More 'colonial' trouble within the area of Jerusalem.
Pope Clemens XXIV demanded that all independence movements are to be curbed.
(https://i.imgur.com/xMLNVJS.png)
Back then, the Arabs have found a place within the halls of Papal Court.
Now Venetians are barred from it.
What will future bring? Will there be Arabic Cardinals chosing our Pope?
(https://i.imgur.com/KTC70lg.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/1eDy3cM.png)
Who knows, maybe they're already working to bring down the Papacy!?
Habemus Papam! May God help us, for Pope Alexander IX is ill-suited to govern the States!
-
Only 18 years left and you got a crappy pope, what could go wrong?
-
034: Final Papal Update, feat. The Socialists and Austrian Immortals
(https://i.imgur.com/n1cGuTN.png)
It seems that the late instability in Europe have not avoided Papal States!
At least we're not Spain, whose territories in and outside Iberia are exploding.
(https://i.imgur.com/wPg20vJ.png)
Hmmm, the Austrians are on the throne of the Empire once more?
We better throw some guarantees around, because I'm sure the Emperor will try taking Styria and Hungary back.
(https://i.imgur.com/BirIs4X.png)
Nothing happens in three years of Pope Alexander IX's rule.
And then he gets sick.
(https://i.imgur.com/ih1pRMr.png)
As if on a cue, the Socialists appear in the Papal States!
Pope Alexander IX denounces the movement and begins suppressing this school of thought.
(https://i.imgur.com/uq16xms.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/RUvgUH1.png)
The sickness gets Alexander IX to early grave.
Habemus Papam! Yet another Clemens on the Papal throne.
(https://i.imgur.com/cWZQHMG.png)
Socialists are helping the Arabs, for sure!
Armata di Judea of course deals with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/rCF98vA.png)
This is new, however.
We fetch the Army of Roma with help of our fleet to deal with Moisquitoan rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/nzK2ALf.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/L3lR4rg.png)
Clemens XXV is assassinated! It must be the Socialists! (the other option is Bohemia, and I wasn't keen on fighting them).
Habemus Papam! Pope Pius IX is elected, and he is quite a good diplomat.
(https://i.imgur.com/P60HrRu.png)
Even more rebels pop up in the recent years.
First a peasant uprising in Liguria, now this.
(https://i.imgur.com/iBZJq0f.png)
Cremona, and then Gorz become our cores.
That helps little with the rebel sentiment in the States.
(https://i.imgur.com/21bSj6s.png)
Look at those percentages - and we're at 2 points of Stability.
(https://i.imgur.com/R9VSSWp.png)
We get a core on Iraqi-held province of Mus.
We go to war immediately.
(https://i.imgur.com/iPOUjVT.png)
Per standard modus operandi in dealing with Iraq, we take Mus, then besiege Sharizhor, the capital of the Sultanate.
The Iraqi try to relieve the sieged capital, but fail to do so. By December, peace is concluded, and we gain Mus.
(https://i.imgur.com/p5WOMYC.png)
The high revolt risk in our provinces, especially newly conquered Mus (which, despite being a core, has 10.50% chance of rebellion), convinces Pope Pius IX that a High Judge is needed.
Signor Cremona will help curb the seditious thought in our lands. Armata di Judea will also be stationed in the province of Mus to pacify the Shiite natives.
(https://i.imgur.com/cmi9oRS.png)
Out of nowhere, Tirol stirs rebels in Apulia and then Calabria. Pope Pius IX is swift to respond - and so is the Austrian Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/PxDcSm1.png)
Suprisingly, the moloch of 60-regiment Austrian Army beats us at Krain, then Gorz!
We temporarily retreat to Treviso, while Armata di Roma is marching forth. We shall double-team the Austrians.
(https://i.imgur.com/FKCehne.png)
What is this Austrian force made of??
There have been already TWO battles in Friuli or elsewhere, and they retreat, only to beat one of our advancing armies into retreat.
(https://i.imgur.com/kjsnG4e.png)
Treviso! Verona! And Mantua, then Verona again and now Ferrara!
And the Austrians are still forming a coherent force, despite Duchy of Tuscany and Salzburgian troopers coming into the fray.
(https://i.imgur.com/K9qLZ4P.png)
Okay, clearly, CLEARLY, someone has loaded the dice.
Not only we've chased Austrians all the way to the gates of Rome, they've BEATEN our attempt to stop the siege.
Fortunately, Armata di Ancona has beaten up Swiss and Polish allies of Austria who fetched their troops to Veneto region. Now we can drown the Austrian in Papal soldiers!
(https://i.imgur.com/iSMLaZL.png)
Victory! Victory is in the hands of the soldiers of God!
We did have to chase Austrians to Siena, then Pisa, but finally we've caught them unprepared in Modena, where they were annihilated.
Emperor Albrecht VI managed to escape, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/ytLysa4.png)
Filled with rebellions of Naples, Sardinian and Sicillian nationalists, we get a nice pop-up for once.
We can start developing infrastructure in Mus, but the time limit of the game is approaching fast.
(https://i.imgur.com/FUF5bKb.png)
Finally, Austria agrees to a peace.
To cripple the powers of current and future Emperors, we have Albrecht VI revoke the only Reform in power.
(https://i.imgur.com/hCPNo8n.png)
Oh Lord, I am so happy! It is first ever time that I get this event and this modifier! Pity that it comes so late.
Peace returns to the States, but rebels, both revolutionary and nationalist, pop up with increasing frequency.
Does that spell an inevitable doom for the Papal States? Perhaps. With Pius IX, everything's possible!
(https://i.imgur.com/TJ7CFhe.png)
At least in Iceland, everything is the same as it ever was.
Even their bureaucratic despotism thing. And if you wonder if we're doing Iceland next, then... no, no we won't.
We've been in Europe for way too many LPs now - it is a time for a change of scenery. What do you think about bamboo and chinaware?
(https://i.imgur.com/DbyMZ4H.png)
And for the book-keepers out there - the second half of the list of Popes that I've posted earlier. (http://www.bay12forums.com/smf/index.php?topic=171362.msg8080492#msg8080492)
Conclusion: There have been much fewer Popes in the last two centuries!
-
001: The Tribe of Manchu
(https://i.imgur.com/uuzMZJq.png)
We are the Manchu. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DlETvAfOMbk)
We're proud peoples of the steppes that extend northwards from the mighty Ming Empire.
However, compared to theirs, our income, manpower and army limits are laughably small.
And no, we don't have regional portraits for advisors. That's something only in EU4.
(https://i.imgur.com/uEW2yqB.png)
The Celestial Empire southwards of us has only recently emerged, since collapse of the Yuan. Unlike the Ming, we're not restricted by the factional conflicts and ineffective government.
Furthermore, they're bordered by bloodthirsty Chagatais and Oirats, while we at best have to deal with the Mongols - themselves also warring with civilized Ming.
Their raids into Ming China will prove a valuable distraction as we build up and wait for prime opportunity.
(https://i.imgur.com/bDvTn1G.png)
Not only we're a Despotic Monarchy, the most primitive of civilized monarchies there is, we're also wonderfully, oppressively feudal.
We gotta get those Free Subjects going for better tech-up in coming decades. We need to tech-up if we're to overcome Ming.
In the coming centuries, besides Ming, there will be visitors from distant lands who decidedly will want local lands as colonies.
(https://i.imgur.com/8J68Occ.png)
We don't want the Khanate's lands, of course - that would put us at border with Oirats, who would murder us.
Instead, we will force the Mongols to pay us tribute.
(https://i.imgur.com/9cdpWv3.png)
We do have potential to grow huge if we get Green and Eight Banners, both raising our army limits by 33%.
With the cities of Ming, we could get as much as 300-400 regiments at the max.limit.
Ah, but the dreams of tomorrow...
(https://i.imgur.com/HE6qkQv.png)
There is also another road we could potentially take - that of colonization of Siberian taiga.
Unfortunately, being not-Catholic, means we get no Colonists at all. Bordering the Nomads gives us 0.25 yearly, but that's it.
(https://i.imgur.com/ADchl8d.png)
Well, that's one side of our borders secured.
(https://i.imgur.com/geCYyWk.png)
Goddamn magical Mongols and their magical knowledge of Siberia allows them to move through Terra Incognita.
Hopefully Dornod falls faster than our capital does.
(https://i.imgur.com/VcSAmCM.png)
GODDAMN MAGICAL MONGOLS REEEEE
And yes they did get our capital before we could save it.
(https://i.imgur.com/vx6wALs.png)
We denounce the Neo-Confucian sects because one day we will go full Innovative, meaning we get a massive negative Missionary count.
And yes, this is all of religious acts that Chinese tech groups get. Pretty terrible, huh?
(https://i.imgur.com/QGN8X1l.png)
We manage to recover our capital and beat the Khanate all the way to Chahar, then Ulaanchaab.
(https://i.imgur.com/mBYPP5d.png)
After long, long bout of ping-ponging the Mongols between Dornod, Ulaanchaab and Ordos, we annihilate their army.
We can begin sieges and captures of their lands.
(https://i.imgur.com/CSvQj5h.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/x7eiIt2.png)
The mediocre heir dies and we get a good administrator heir in his place.
I ain't gonna complain.
(https://i.imgur.com/HoaXQL1.png)
As you see, it ain't much, but it earns us 2.4 ducats yearly.
We will continue to exploit the Mongols like this, hopefully Ming won't eat them up one day.
(https://i.imgur.com/7LsZa3b.png)
Magistrates, also very important. Mostly because our Government sucks at making them.
And considering our future landspan, we need them all.
(https://i.imgur.com/FiePLIx.png)
It seems that I was wrong about Ming - Oirats and Mongols haven't managed to as much as tickle them.
(https://i.imgur.com/H5eD24R.png)
AGAIN?
Man, our sons are terrible horse riders. Such indignity...
Well, they were - we have no heirs left at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ey8Zf4h.png)
I am at rest knowing that the Ming has it even worse - not only their heir, Yongle, died, so did their Emperor.
The Cao family now rules the Ming Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/nxfgtu1.png)
Though occupied by Ming forces, the Khanate goes to war against us.
We shall preemptively ocupy their lands. We never know when Ming might call a peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/FJh5w8C.png)
Administrator boy is just what we need.
(https://i.imgur.com/Lh8wrTr.png)
A regency, however, is not needed.
I think this will be one of those a long, painful, and difficult games.
-
002: Jiaqing and Zilang
(https://i.imgur.com/ZvTRwgS.png)
We are the Manchu.
The Mongols of the Khanate are rebelling against our occupation, but the regular visits by Ming trops help beat them up.
(https://i.imgur.com/nLcWh9y.png)
Just as we ready ourselves to give commoners more freedoms, a comet is sighted.
Despite the bad omen, we do as planned.
(https://i.imgur.com/RIO7xzu.png)
Our peoples have a tradition of raiding Koreans.
We allow these raids; relations with Joseon dynasty are repaired by some military access treaties.
(https://i.imgur.com/I4saQMO.png)
Free cultural tradition!
We need more if we want our country to progress, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/3ehqKHE.png)
The Ming's stability has went so low that there are now rebels roaming their border lands.
That includes Manchu-populated provinces at the border with us.
The regency council can't do nothing but pray for the rebels' success.
(https://i.imgur.com/BIuEwXE.png)
See? With Magistrates spent on paintings, we can commission such men like Tolo Zhifang for our court.
Regency continues and young Jiaqing is growing up in health and peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/hU7L6bW.png)
Free centralization is always nice even if it costs 1 point of Stability.
I doubt our young prince did say 'L'etat c'est moi'. We haven't met French yet.
(https://i.imgur.com/ngFRogZ.png)
Finally, a National Idea!
To better deal with any steppe nomads in future, we get Military Drill.
Meanwhile, Oirats and Kazakh nomads went to war with each other. Long story short, Kazakhs now also border Ming.
(https://i.imgur.com/NcHnxf2.png)
Unlike Ming, we can easily afford -1 Stability hits; we regain it in about a year.
(https://i.imgur.com/nIz9lQ8.png)
Suprisingly enough, our merchants manage to get trading in Nanjing!
Chinaware modifier is excellent for regency time, Tea's also useful at times.
We also tried haggling at Kyoto, but the Japanese kicked us out almost immediately.
(https://i.imgur.com/IRPF1T3.png)
Land Technology goes into level 4, and we can now build Armories.
The regents of Jiaqing order two to be built, at Haixi and Heilongjiang.
(https://i.imgur.com/LOCOq1Q.png)
I love this event.
There's no problem in this game that cannot be solved with enough money.
(https://i.imgur.com/GY8vEAQ.png)
With enough paintings made, our cultural tradition allows us to hire another high-ranking advisor.
His level is curbed by the fact that our Army tradition isn't as high, but hey, 4-stars is quite good too!
(https://i.imgur.com/RvyBcgU.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/odfsgio.png)
Jiaqing reaches the age in which he can keep the throne by himself!
Immediately he helps our people develop an Alphabet, in which Manchu edicts shall be henceforth written!
Jiaqing's heir and brother, Giocangga, is a skilled diplomat, but not much of an administrator or general.
(https://i.imgur.com/Q2asx0m.png)
For once, a positive event when we move towards Free Subjects.
Our inflation isn't that big (yet), but it helps anyway.
(https://i.imgur.com/csyhh3e.png)
More good events!
This time, the money offered is 23 ducats, so we go for Government technology.
Easily pushes us into level 5.
(https://i.imgur.com/1TIQwJn.png)
New tech, new building! We need constables everywhere.
Funny that, for someone as primitive and backwater as us, we get more money than some states in Europe.
(https://i.imgur.com/2zU8yBx.png)
Introducing our heir gives us prestige, legitimacy and cultural tradition.
What's there to not like?
(https://i.imgur.com/iwR8IVk.png)
Our leader, Jiaqing Aisin Gioro, finds a second ally in Dai Viet.
Like Korea, its also in immediate vicinity of the Ming.
(https://i.imgur.com/6HRvB5t.png)
Time to move northwards - the mineral rich lands of Siberia lie just across our border!
And it takes slightly over a month to colonize Albazinsky. Nice!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZfPWdda.png)
GOLD STRUCK IN ALBAZINSKY!
Unfortunately, maintaining a colony is quite a drain on the Treasury, so we won't develop more than one of them at once.
(https://i.imgur.com/AxrJvZI.png)
This is fine, our relations are high enough.
(https://i.imgur.com/hgzVyDm.png)
Ah yes, after all good events, now come back.
First tensions with Korea, now death of the wise Zilang. Such is life!
We have no money or cultural tradition to replace him at the moment, but we will try.
(https://i.imgur.com/GESW2lR.png)
To commemorate the passing of our genius statesman, we rename Albazinsky to Zilangzhou.
The colony itself grows quite quickly, thanks to temperate climate and docile natives.
(https://i.imgur.com/5f6vMr9.png)
The colony of Zilang has become a city, and the natives have been made Manchus.
This is but one step toward greatness that awaits us - and we need to make much more steps.
We shall succeed in the end, however!
-
003: Jiaqing the Great
(https://i.imgur.com/py6tFye.png)
We are the Manchu.
A brilliant Statesman by the name Hoogle Xi arrives in our capital.
He will replace the late Zilang as chief advisor to our glorious emperor, Jiaqing.
(https://i.imgur.com/3iSS4bm.png)
Zilangzhou shall become our new national focus.
All provinces will receive a boost - especially new colonies, which now will get approx.100 people per year.
(https://i.imgur.com/7jRfZGf.png)
And we start with Nerchinsky province - it has base tax of 4, which is highest from all lands available to us.
(https://i.imgur.com/RKKXDbI.png)
A war!
One that shall give us war taxes.
(https://i.imgur.com/SNK2UeD.png)
Copper ain't Gold, but it has a nice base price.
Later on, when artillery regiments show up, Copper's value increases dramatically.
(https://i.imgur.com/XX48zd3.png)
We also get a new philosopher. Our Prestige will raise and stabilize around 60 points thanks to Fulu Ji.
(https://i.imgur.com/eQVDB3c.png)
But then our good luck runs out, and Giocangga falls ill!
The medicus who was in charge of the heir's healing fails in his duty, and is summarily executed.
The Manchus have no one to lead them in case of Jiaqing's death!
(https://i.imgur.com/wjDfyFO.png)
I believe there's some sort of faux pas involved in naming a child after oneself in Asian cultures, or maybe I'm wrong.
We do have a heir now - and Jiaqing Jr. is better than his father, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/cuegoDi.png)
Our army reformer, Ganzhan Zhifang, has perished!
His heirs get to rule the former land of Nerchinsky.
(https://i.imgur.com/1HKWLgK.png)
Zhifang became a city, albeit natives died in an attack against our regiments passing through.
More importantly, Emperor Jiaqing has heard an interesting tale:
(https://i.imgur.com/R96xukA.png)
Korea is devoid of soldiers - their troops, locked in far-away Indochina, are unable to get home.
Knowing that soon he will die of old age, Jiaqing has severed ties with Korea, and sent troops southwards.
(https://i.imgur.com/K7teynr.png)
In 1449, suffering a hit to Stability, we invade Korea.
Jiaqing himself is leading the troop that shall siege capital city of Hanseong in Chungcheong province.
Dai Viet joins the war on Korea's side, and we hope they won't make much of a threat with 3 transports they have.
(https://i.imgur.com/uy1rBGP.png)
Our Emperor learns fast of Korea's attempt to raise military regiments.
Taking the cavalry we have, he bravely chases down Koreans and mows them down.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZUNexZV.png)
Palaces of Hanseong are occupied by 28th November; by 7th December, Jiaqing is already at Jeolla.
Meanwhile, Dai Viet forces fail to show up, either by land or by the sea.
(https://i.imgur.com/EymrcEb.png)
Interesingly, Kingdom of Ayutthaya offers us alliance. We accept, and immediately draw them into the war.
They will either be mowed down by Dai Viet, or deal with Viet and Korean soldiers. Either conclusion is favorable to us in the long run.
(https://i.imgur.com/UDwfg8T.png)
Shortly after start of 1451, province of Gyongsang falls, and we occupy entirety of Korea.
We grab three out of seven provinces they have. Emperor Jiaqing has further plans for Korean peoples, but those won't be realized for next 10 years.
To deal with the Infamy we accrued, we hire a rank-3 Diplomat.
(https://i.imgur.com/KCpkOkD.png)
We continue to expand northwards into Siberia - now Saghalian Oula is our colony.
It has 1000 natives who are mostly docile, so we won't interrupt their growth. One day, they shall be Manchus, like us.
(https://i.imgur.com/JxOp2oJ.png)
Saghalian Oula will produce Furs!
All we need to finish off 'what you can make in Siberia' list is just Iron.
(https://i.imgur.com/h33hIpr.png)
It was inevitable that Koreans would rebel.
Jiaqing leads the army himself to eradicate the restless Koreans.
(https://i.imgur.com/wt5eSBJ.png)
The glory that is Jiaqing's rule is reflected in good events bestowed upon us!
The other option is a trickle of prestige and Stability, which we already have maxed out, so of course we get military traditions' boost.
(https://i.imgur.com/dvNDuhn.png)
In this dispute at the court, Jiaqing graciously rules in favor of the foreigner.
After all, you can't have too much nepotism at home.
(https://i.imgur.com/rbo0ZsA.png)
Saghalian Oula stops being a colony and becomes a city.
Colonies drain about 2 ducats yearly, so we should reconsider our colonization policies.
There are other venues of expansion, after all **cough*Korea*cough**
(https://i.imgur.com/rcNOw5T.png)
AWWW SHIT
I didn't plan for them to go this way this early!
I DIDN'T PLAN FOR THIS!!
-
So this is what happens when you don't keep Ming in check :V
What is Xin tho
-
It is a reformed Ming which no longer has any Factions in effect, which means they have no more limits on army size, merchant/missionary/colonist use, and because they are an Absolute Monarchy (150-200 years before normally possible), they get Imperialism casus belli which has 50% infamy/warscore cost on annexing provinces.
Yeah, I've made them a bit OP.
-
004: Manchurian Rollercoaster
(https://i.imgur.com/gWEneWb.png)
We are Manchu, and we're potentially fuck'd. The Xin is already sending settlers to Oirat lands to deal with the nomads, and Mongols are on the way to be colonized too.
We're totally not prepared to wage war against the Chinese right now, so Emperor Jiaqing orders annexation of Korea to go ahead of schedule, without waiting for our Infamy to drop.
(https://i.imgur.com/LGXG8hp.png)
While Jiaqing Sr. is out at war, Jiaqing Jr. is wooing ladies and bribing courtiers of Hinggan's courts and palaces.
(https://i.imgur.com/ujXDByq.png)
Jiaqing Sr. wastes no time in beating up the Koreans.
In less than a year, Korea ceases to exist as sovereign nation. This bumps our Army limits to 18 regiments.
That's quite sizeable force for this part of the world.
(https://i.imgur.com/tR4cmcz.png)
Our accumulated Cultural Tradition is nearly 100%, so we opt for a Diplomat.
Muduri Xi is whom we get. Very nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/h4biQbP.png)
Woe! Emperor Jiaqing I is now riding horses with his ancestors.
Jiaqing II ascends the Manchu throne. He has superb stats, but no heir at the moment.
(https://i.imgur.com/aBLQ5vh.png)
Well, that's one fast delivery!
Kangxi isn't as good as his dad, but still better than our ancestor Boksun.
(https://i.imgur.com/zGwmRsP.png)
Hordes are shrinking and Xin is blobbin'.
And that's just since they started sending colonists 2-3 years ago.
(https://i.imgur.com/i34sbx1.png)
Emperor Jiaqing II decides to go with the will of the Heavens, and sends colonists to take Deren.
We gain a free core, and another mission to turn Deren colony into a city.
Reward will be extra base Tax and some Manpower in that province.
(https://i.imgur.com/YT6nH4M.png)
Our Emperor also has plans to reform our government into a system based on landed vassals and such. It will increase our Army Limits (+10%) and National Manpower (+20%).
More importantly, change slider time from 13 years to 11, allowing us to go Free Subjects/Innovative/Free Trade much faster.
Unfortunately it will cause our Stability to go down by 4 points, so governmental reform will have to wait a few years.
(https://i.imgur.com/aeWscQJ.png)
Fulu Ji has died! No longer his caligraphy and wisdom will guide our peoples.
We can't get another like him, we have neither money nor cultural tradition required.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZpiipbK.png)
There was a great uproar at the palace of Hinggan when the delegation of Xin nobles have came to deliver the Jade Seal of Xin to Jiaqing II!!
A closer reading of statistics revealed the reason for this; at death of Emperor Cao, their prestige was 86 - ours was 94, just few points over the requirement for the Personal Union.
WE ARE THE CHIN- well, not yet. We must now rein the Xin in and then inherit them, which might or might not happen.
Xin has much greater economy, military power and amount of land. They probably won't want to stay in union with us.
(https://i.imgur.com/zyUmhxq.png)
The change in Xin's leadership made them end the endless war with Mongols - allowing us to move in.
Once we take Dornod, we can civilize the local nomads and bring them into our direct control. Unfortunately, the other Mongol province, Ulaanchab, is outside our reach now.
(https://i.imgur.com/73nPOfp.png)
We cannot slip in our control of situation for even a moment.
The Koreans are restless, and shall be put down.
(https://i.imgur.com/BjPZAKS.png)
Meanwhile, colonists at Deren find abundance of deer, seals and foxes they can skin for furs.
That is good, furs are both pricey and provide +1% Prestige if you trade in it.
(https://i.imgur.com/rDsvxFq.png)
Another of our genius officials died - this time Hoogle Xi, our Statesman.
Our stability is low and will be even lower after switch to Feudal Monarchy, so we get an Artist, Zhonghu Yuanwen, into our court.
(https://i.imgur.com/7ahwksw.png)
This is what I feared! The Xin are sending us insults to lower our relationship.
If it hits 0 or lower, and our current Emperor, Jiaqing II, dies, the PU is broken and Xin are free once more.
(https://i.imgur.com/kGlBLKk.png)
Three years pass without an incident, and our Stability is maxed out.
Emperor Jiaqing II goes with the planned reform - more powers are given to nobles, who instead provide us with military force we need.
(https://i.imgur.com/6kaPyNY.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Skm4Bt3.png)
Our prayers go unanswered and the deadly illness takes Kangxi away!
However, he is soon replaced by Qianlong, who has decent stats all around.
(https://i.imgur.com/7aszZJO.png)
Hooray for Zhonghu Yuanwen!
We grab the Stability we so desperately need.
(https://i.imgur.com/tJnCo0f.png)
I don't know where I'm gonna get all the money we need, but we need Oori Zhifang's services right now.
(https://i.imgur.com/rv0Ch0X.png)
And the gambit was successful! Now we own Dornod, the Mongol province bordering us.
The colonial drain on our Treasury has been lessened, and soon Deren by the sea will also become a city.
What will happen to Personal Union with Xin? Can our constant warring with Nomads and token participation in Ayutthayan-Taunguan conflicts keep Xin distracted from insulting it into oblivion?
I don't know!!
-
005: Long Wait, Short Reign
(https://i.imgur.com/LjEs0cV.png)
We are the Manchu.
Our infamy is high, our legitimacy mediocre.
But at least we still rule over Xin via a personal union.
(https://i.imgur.com/JDe2kRV.png)
REEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
I mean, I'm not gonna fight, I just don't like the risks involved with a regency period.
At least our Legitimacy was reset to 100. Few marriages and we should have positive net gain of it, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/xOzXgkj.png)
No longer bordering any Steppe Nomads, we get no colonists, and thus we can shift National Focus from north to south.
Putting it in former capital province of Korea will help lower local revolt risks by a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/OrqZn6b.png)
Wow, a 6-star Treasurer arrives in Mudanjiang.
And I didn't have to spend any cultural tradition.
Sometimes, RNG is nice to you.
(https://i.imgur.com/8AiL0f6.png)
How did we get the maps of seas on other side of the world?
No idea. Probably via Kazakh marauders or something.
(https://i.imgur.com/kfFE90F.png)
Not much happens these days.
Free centralization is good thing to have!
We're also trying to get high level Philosopher, to keep our prestige high.
(https://i.imgur.com/ezX8CPN.png)
We should consider our economy, too.
Our inflation especially is terribad at the moment. And we gotta keep minting if we want to build up our infrastructure.
(https://i.imgur.com/s0B6fsu.png)
Deren becomes a city!
Completing the mission and losing colony status gets our Treasury into positive cashflow!
At 0.5 ducats monthly, we can actually reduce minting by a bit.
(https://i.imgur.com/uwbYCz8.png)
Shortly after a gift to the state enlarges our Treasury by 120 ducats, we get another National Idea!
It is Patron of Arts, frees our magistrates to build more stuff instead of commissioning paintings.
(https://i.imgur.com/y6RqfBO.png)
And, of course, to get this sweet, sweet event.
(https://i.imgur.com/9UZJTPh.png)
We go full throttle on free Government investment.
That bumps us 1/5th toward lvl 10.
(https://i.imgur.com/IMsO6T0.png)
Our Innovativeness (and warmongering) allows us to grab this particular act.
Currently, not-that-far from our grasp are Eight Banners and Militia Act.
All we need is for Qianlong to become an adult and independent Emperor of Manchu.
(https://i.imgur.com/sjCH6JY.png)
Finally, the Philosopher we wanted, we get.
With his skill, our Prestige should equalize at about 40 points.
(https://i.imgur.com/mLh4xaw.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/5Cew6Ux.png)
Our much awaited Qianlong becomes Emperor of Manchu (an Xin)!
He immediately establishes the Eight Banners system. For Militia Act, we need a bit more centralization.
His heir Yintu has superb stats, and isn't far from adulthood himself.
(https://i.imgur.com/oXFmjEH.png)
They've got the continent wrong, I'm afraid.
But I won't say no to free stuff. For those curious, the other option switches the values.
(https://i.imgur.com/trYYUsg.png)
Yintu has been introduced to our courts.
As you can see, our infamy dropped low enough that our merchants can comfortably compete in Nanjing.
We earn money now!
(https://i.imgur.com/2NcC5dy.png)
For a preacher of universal truth and brotherhood, Nanak's followers are quite combative.
Probably a requirement, consider the Muslim-Hindu tensions and wars plagueing the region.
(https://i.imgur.com/HQc6XM3.png)
A man from the Xi family is a master of the mint.
A man from the Xi family has been our diplomat for three decades.
It is obvious that one shall replace the other. It is about time we deal with our inflation!
(https://i.imgur.com/5PFRTF2.png)
Our direct centralization attempt results in revolts.
Fortunately, they're very minor. By December, none of the rebels are still alive.
(https://i.imgur.com/wUrlZV9.png)
First of unit upgrades. We go with the offensive variant.
(https://i.imgur.com/g2n9m2E.png)
Qianlong has died, after only seven years on the throne!
The young Emperor's passing propelled Yintu to leadership. His heir, Giocangga, has below average stats, however.
Will the Manchu prosper under Yintu's rule just as they did during Qianlong's regency and short reign, is the question for the next update.
-
006: The Inevitable
(https://i.imgur.com/r6dteWv.png)
We are Manchu, and we get so many war taxes as of late!
All thanks to Taungu, our ally, being the warmonger of South Asia.
(https://i.imgur.com/kWseNmk.png)
Finally, the first conquests of Korea has been legitimized and accepted by our subjects.
In ten years or so, the rest of Korean peninsula will follow.
(https://i.imgur.com/u3nrq3U.png)
A culture that is accepted, uhhh, I think Koreans are less likely to revolt?
Also as you can see on the side, I'm building up our navy - mostly to fulfill a mission to create a proper fleet (amount of ships at 100% navy limit)
(https://i.imgur.com/9xdbeoh.png)
More info on the distant lands in the west!
I'm actually curious how Ethiopia is doing if their name stretches all the way up to Egypt.
(https://i.imgur.com/ito0QCQ.png)
Dang, Xin! They've split up their markets to Nanjing and Hanyang.
We need to occupy the other market soon to regain the bonuses!
(https://i.imgur.com/WNJ1zxn.png)
Military reform!
Of course we focus on land forces, we ain't a colonial empire anyway.
(https://i.imgur.com/rwSbmUH.png)
Just before this we've got Architectural Development, which is why our missionaries are going down.
We will prioritize construction of Workshops for a while. Higher tax means more money and larger armies!
(https://i.imgur.com/QiaWXoW.png)
Gift to the state's monetary award has gotten quite big since last time.
It is a proof that our economy is doing well.
(https://i.imgur.com/TLDTSva.png)
A-ha! Our Treasurer of 30-something years finally triggered the event.
Prestige is what we need - bringing it to 99 points!
(https://i.imgur.com/IZea8OH.png)
And this is why I was stockpiling our Magistrates.
Once we get this decision through, we're back to building up Workshops.
(https://i.imgur.com/m4FGfX0.png)
Taungu is doing hellishly well in this playthrough.
In fact, I'm getting a tiny bit worried.
(https://i.imgur.com/ELQlWDH.png)
Obviously, we're Chinese already!
I will try to issue the Dictionary as soon as possible. 60 years of (tiny) Government boost ain't bad.
(https://i.imgur.com/oxELm5b.png)
Final cores in Korea - obtained!
(https://i.imgur.com/MkzrOnM.png)
Grand Chinese Dictionary - published!
(https://i.imgur.com/KKqj13C.png)
Insults from Xin - RECEIVED!
(https://i.imgur.com/lzwQDtW.png)
PERSONAL UNION - BROKEN!!
AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA okay, enough panicking.
Lately they've been going through some rough events. This is the best and only chance we have - to war!
(https://i.imgur.com/mIiS1V7.png)
We win the initial fighting but oh god the casualties.
I hope they will be sufficiently distracted by Taungu and their network of vassals.
I also preemptively take a loan to pay for our military maintenance.
(https://i.imgur.com/iItDm5u.png)
The fightining is intense but we manage to win the fights, going all the way to Beijing and Chengde!
(https://i.imgur.com/bKh2E3Z.png)
This is the third Xin army we pulverize to dust!
Yet they're still about 60 regiments strong, and they keep coming.
(https://i.imgur.com/YZtDyHb.png)
I'm forced to give up war taxes and grab this option in Weeping Song.
Otherwise our backs will be broken no matter what gains we make in this war.
(https://i.imgur.com/jqZqPxs.png)
The few spies we have manage to infiltrate Xin's palaces!
Just like I thought, they're concentrating their efforts on Taungu-Dai Viet offensive.
We must hurry - if Taungu pulls out of the war, all these angry Xin will be marching our way.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yjty9sx.png)
The Xin Emperor himself fights us within borders of Chengde!
We beat his forces and then annihilate them at Heijian, but Qin Zhu escapes.
(https://i.imgur.com/HZc8zx4.png)
The Xin keep coming, despite the fact that we, the Viet, the Taungu, and even Kazakhs and Mongol rebels are fighting them.
We must keep on our offensive however.
(https://i.imgur.com/KadIOu1.png)
Our newest general, Encehen Xi, takes our soldiers to Dornod, where Xin army has ventured.
He narrowly wins the battle and destroys the offending troop at Chahar.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fdbl7EW.png)
We extend the loan, it is the only option.
In next two months, we defeat two more armies - one at Handan, one at Beijing.
(https://i.imgur.com/WNv8PMr.png)
Dai Viet and Taungu has been beaten.
The Xin hordes are en route towards us.
Or the Kazakhs, who knows.
(https://i.imgur.com/SWqwqDs.png)
Encehen Xi has died shortly after a battle in which he saved Giocangga's army from destruction.
But now, we take Hoogle Folun. Look at his stats - 3 Movement, 6 Shock!
(https://i.imgur.com/aX45baV.png)
Our Master of Mint is helping!
Meanwhile, most of forces under Emperor Giocangga's control were transferred to Hoogle Folun's.
His stack now rather comfortably deals with numerous Xin forces that attempt to rally into bigger force just outside our conquests.
(https://i.imgur.com/oMq9CzU.png)
Speaking of Emperor Giocangga - he dies!
His 40-something heir takes over. Next in line is Yangzheng, who has nice stats but is unfortunately underage.
In other news - somehow, Oirat and Kazakh nomads are rampaging in western Xin with impunity. I wonder what's up with that.
(https://i.imgur.com/LyQ6Vp4.png)
Despite their numerical superiority, our partially depleted forces kill Xin soldiers in thousands!
The reason for that is war exhaustion - Xin has amassed 12.2 points of it, while we have none (thanks to all our provinces being free and no war tax being gathered).
(https://i.imgur.com/eKZXJ3M.png)
We're down to one troop after we had to retreat and consolidate our forces.
Xin has racked massive amount of war exhaustion but THEY KEEP COMING.
How do we continue winning yet are still in losing position?
(https://i.imgur.com/28eldXy.png)
At least we get the loan repaid.
(https://i.imgur.com/oNFOzjt.png)
Through perseverance, patience and plain stubborness, we've reached the point in the war where Xin, when refusing our peace offers, suffer Stability hits!
We need to carry on a bit more while our diplomats pester Emperor of Xin with peace offers.
(https://i.imgur.com/DLF61NX.png)
VICTORY! VICTORY! VICTORY!!!
The Xin Emperor has been humilitated and the northern provinces are ours!!
We also demand a mountain of gold and silver, and snatch the title of Defender of Faith right away.
-
007: The Blue Dragon Soars in the Skies!
(https://i.imgur.com/fK10WRX.png)
We are the Manchu.
Beating up the Xin has drained our economy and manpower. We need to regain that, and fast.
Doesn't help that hero of the war, Hoogle Folun, has just died.
(https://i.imgur.com/TV2eFkB.png)
...Sure.
I mean, dang Japanese pirates!
(https://i.imgur.com/cgVknmW.png)
The pirate event chain continues.
(https://i.imgur.com/s5zp0gB.png)
And reforms in our army continue as well.
It will make our troops a bit stronger.
(https://i.imgur.com/Qc6gjU4.png)
Yinreng has died, and Yangzheng sits upon the throne! His son is eight years old, and has very nice stats.
However, Yangzheng believes that it is time for the Manchu to accept their future more fully.
That we're to rule the Chinese people as their new dynasty - Xin failed, and shall fail again.
(https://i.imgur.com/cXbKKi6.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/pG0tljR.png)
Therefore, let the Qing Empire be born! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKV0awb3J2Y)
We lay proudly and publicly announce our claims to the entirety of the China, let the Xin tremble and prepare for our inevitable reconquests!
Just as we prepare our troops and reserves for it.
(https://i.imgur.com/68dCq9N.png)
Chihan culture, the main culture of Chinese peoples, is now accepted in our courts.
All to better prepare them for assimilation by the Blue Dragon!
(https://i.imgur.com/ubkRZmx.png)
This raises our inflation, sure, but that bump of 2000 tech points brings us very close to next level.
That will give us a National Idea slot, and a much needed one too.
(https://i.imgur.com/2coZrFf.png)
The Japanese pirates keep poking Liaodong and other places, and finally it's time to do something with it.
Some money is thrown at the problem!
And yes, our Prestige is plummeting - it's because of all those unclaimed cores we have in the south.
(https://i.imgur.com/DHMPcdl.png)
There it is!
We grab National Conscripts right away - with them, we get more than 1000 Manpower per month (max is above 60000).
(https://i.imgur.com/K2qY7Ar.png)
Preparations for an expedition against Wokou pirates have been finished!
We send a regiment to deal with the criminals of the sea.
(https://i.imgur.com/PHDsTIW.png)
The truce has expired, and time has come to fight Xin again!
This time we're much better prepared, and they're in much worse shape.
Especially their war exhaustion remains high!
(https://i.imgur.com/mH4lWI2.png)
The battle order of this war is as follows:
Two armies besiege the Xin provinces, one remains at the back.
If any Xin Army enters combat with the siegers, the reserve 7th Army, led my 5 Movement general, Zhanhung Tianfu will rush in.
(https://i.imgur.com/q8FNvrT.png)
Once again we send our spies in - and once again they provide us with maps and movements of the Xin.
They're consolidating their forces in the south - that is good.
(https://i.imgur.com/IeHZnbG.png)
The first large battle of the war occurs at Handan.
We're victorious - the invervention of Zhanhung Tianfu was both timely and effective!
(https://i.imgur.com/f7Y4w8H.png)
The 'Two Dragons, One Snake' strategy we're using is working superbly well.
So far, 4 Xin armies were wiped out! That is somewhere about 50-55 regiments destroyed.
The Xin Empire, of course, has much more, and their manpower is still high. It shall be gradual, bloody, meat grinder.
(https://i.imgur.com/aRdmkdQ.png)
ARGH THE STRETCHY WINDOW I mean, Wokou pirates have been defeated!
We get 50 ducats out of it and population increase in Gyeonsang.
(https://i.imgur.com/3eOIRM8.png)
It is a risky strategy, for we must juggle our Armies' positions well to avoid attrition.
Still, it pays off, even if we almost let Xin retake Jinan province.
(https://i.imgur.com/WXJKO3c.png)
Just as before, we've reached a point in which we must merge our armies and consolidate regiments.
We're down to about half of the regiments we've had at start. We're still making progress, however.
And more importantly - Xin's war exhaustion is climbing upwards.
(https://i.imgur.com/OhHft77.png)
Our manpower is rock bottom at the moment, and we've had to use mercenaries to fill up our ranks.
There are pessimistic talks amongst Qing courtiers about outcome of this war.
(https://i.imgur.com/u5khNra.png)
We obtain maps of the West!
What a clusterfeck of vibrant colors it is.
Meanwhile, as years pass by, we simply recover our manpower and regiments.
(https://i.imgur.com/EpXeprt.png)
I accidentally missed the pop-up informing us that Mongke Temur is now Emperor of Qing, oh well.
It allows us to pass Militia Act, helping with our discipline.
(https://i.imgur.com/9XtUlky.png)
This battle is almost a disaster - but we win it and destroy the Xin Army involved.
We're on the defensive right now, and it shows.
(https://i.imgur.com/MJN0yNb.png)
For a brief, brief moment, Mongke Temur was tempted. To accept the offer and resume the life of peace in the north.
"Do not!" Said his concubine. "If they offer peace, they're weak. Press on with your conquests!"
(https://i.imgur.com/WU3u8IE.png)
Was the concubine a Taoist mystic that she knew the truth?
Xin troops, despite edge in numbers and technology, are once again losing to our armies.
What's more, we're capturing more of their territories.
(https://i.imgur.com/lWJIkox.png)
This battle is unique because the Xin army does not retreat - it is annihilated on spot.
War exhaustion and negative stability is wreaking havoc amongst Xin forces!
(https://i.imgur.com/JvEVVWf.png)
Pretenders and independent warlords show up their heads in south and centre of China!
This all works for us in the long run.
(https://i.imgur.com/yTUFDIi.png)
We relentlessly refuse peace with the Xin and capture more of their cities.
We attack their armies rallying at the capital of Hanyang and win the battle.
We annihilate the fleeing soldiers, butchering them like pigs for a feast!
(https://i.imgur.com/rPub8qA.png)
Hanyang, the capital city of the mighty Xin, has fallen into our hands!!
But Mongke Temur is not yet satisfied - he believes we can get many more.
(https://i.imgur.com/S9d9xQL.png)
Terrible news! Mongke Temur, the Qing Emperor, dies during siege of Hangzhou!
His averagely talented and barely adult heiress, Zhuangjing, is scared of further fighting with Xin.
"It's time we make peace with our neighbours." She says, dipping the brush in the ink jar.
(https://i.imgur.com/B6DYj5Q.png)
The Xin Emperor humbly bows in front of the throne of Qing Empress, presenting his reply to the peace deal.
The treaty is sealed and the sacrifices to the ancestors burnt on the altars.
We take the wealthy provinces between Beijing and Nanjing.
This kills the Xin, their back is broken. They shall never recover from this - and for Qing, there's only glory ahead! (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=26BVoCAEK08)
-
008: Campaigns for the Recovery of the Southeastern Coasts
(https://i.imgur.com/wdpfS1Z.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And we're at peace with the Xin, who are suffering from rebels, invasions and nomads.
We won't keep idle too, we shall keep ourselves busy by civilizing Mongols in the west.
(https://i.imgur.com/A2vbnU9.png)
Already the victories in the field become prosperity in the provinces.
More money to add to our already big income!
(https://i.imgur.com/9ed2HUP.png)
We do not need to recruit any troops at the moment, and the penalty is only half a year.
We need to get more regiments raised before next war, though. Something to keep in mind.
(https://i.imgur.com/Il06BxJ.png)
Tshiyet Noyan is ours!
Once Mongol Khanate attacks, we will grab provinces from Ulaanchab to Nanyang in the south - the last is our core, so rebels won't be a problem.
(https://i.imgur.com/iEgohxX.png)
This is an event that I will welcome with open arms!
Military arms! Get it, huh, huh??
(https://i.imgur.com/K0VZUIM.png)
Oooh, lookit what has just reappeared on the map of China!
Perhaps we can get the Green Standard Army going if we somehow get to war with them.
(https://i.imgur.com/qN3Q5eY.png)
Aah, a new cavalry upgrade!
We keep to our roots, and get Steppe Cavalry.
(https://i.imgur.com/wzd70ID.png)
Steppe Cavalry will be the core of our new armies.
The two new Banners will have 17 regiments = 9 footmen, 8 cavalry.
One is assembled in Changzhi; the other at Nanjing, our coastal trade centre in the east.
(https://i.imgur.com/itXiO4i.png)
A few years earlier we've gotten this high-ranking Spymaster.
Now he prompts an event. We're fortunate - the boost will coincide with two first years of our next war with the Xin.
(https://i.imgur.com/heO1FVu.png)
The Empress gets sick, which is a bad omen.
Prince Giocangga is only 5 at the moment, and has average claim to the throne...
(https://i.imgur.com/P82r5bV.png)
Three years of building up later, it is time for Banners of Qing to march south again!
(https://i.imgur.com/8NCohJp.png)
This time, the Xin have no chance against the might of Qing Banners!
In the first battle, at Shaanxi, we defeat their main army, led by their current Emperor.
(https://i.imgur.com/BkPwOFn.png)
At Kaifeng we thwart their attempt to loot and pillage provinces at our side of the border.
Both armies are eventually annihilated. The Xin Emperor can flee, sure, but his capital of Hanyang has already been taken.
He has nowhere to hide.
(https://i.imgur.com/51gfQGc.png)
The final Xin army, which was pulled back from Taungu border, we defeated at Shenquing.
It was later destroyed as well. Nobody stands in our way to simply take the provinces we want!
(https://i.imgur.com/cd4S0aS.png)
The provinces once held by Xin has access to what they possess that we do not - cannons!
Five regiments operating the Culverin artillery will be produced in Huai'An - one regiment for one Banner each, including Fifth Banner that's in the making.
(https://i.imgur.com/YJwHNkD.png)
Emperor of Xin makes a surprising comeback, and almost obliterates the Second Banner.
Thanks to invervention by Oori Xi and the Fourth, we save the Second.
Now comes the time to punish the fake Emperor!
(https://i.imgur.com/DDS0ftQ.png)
Haha! Qing soldiers rejoice upon learning that Emperor of Xin has died during Second Battle of Shenquing!
A pretender is now skulking at our borders while Xin regiments are running around in amok.
(https://i.imgur.com/qZaGWAG.png)
That gives us an opportunity to deal with the upstart Kingdom of Wu in the south.
We're not exactly a naval power, so dealing with the islands of Macau and Hainan might be a bit problematic.
But we will win in the end, of course.
(https://i.imgur.com/32YYvXe.png)
Xin and Wu have been forced to give numerous provinces to the rightful Empress of China!
The Qing grows stronger with each war. Next time - we shall remove all the false colors!
There shall only Empire - the Qing Empire!!
-
009: The Blue Dragon's Patient Reconquest of the Minor States
(https://i.imgur.com/Fi4JjZW.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
We've accepted the southern Chinese into our courts. We're prepared for unification!
(https://i.imgur.com/RvTyCby.png)
To ensure that Xin does not bounce back into strength, we sponsor Sultanate of Khmer in its war agaisnt it and Dai Viet.
And by that, we mean that we throw money at them.
(https://i.imgur.com/Za92SB2.png)
People of Beijing wear the furred coats and the officials at the palace wear the yellow and blue!
They're truly Manchu peoples now.
(https://i.imgur.com/IRJRuzp.png)
This genius of a statesman has joined our court!
"My Empress, I have an idea in mind." He whispered into Zhuangjing's ear.
(https://i.imgur.com/WGpwK23.png)
"We should civilize the natives of this island. It shall make perfect harbor for our navy!"
And so, the colonization of Taiwan has begun.
(https://i.imgur.com/LbY0qbs.png)
Upon the statesman's advice, she also refuses to allow currency reevaluations.
"It would hurt the stability of our people."
(https://i.imgur.com/Cxy9kNb.png)
Taiwan turns out to be perfect place to produce ceramic wares, similar to those made in the mainland.
(https://i.imgur.com/r9Tj2A4.png)
In the meanwhile, we're slowly reclaiming our cores from steppe nomads.
It's a slow, arduous process.
(https://i.imgur.com/DDl2nRf.png)
We also make a deal with the Westerners currently occupying Malacca.
Thanks to being able to trade there, we now have access to most spices of the world!
(https://i.imgur.com/up8nire.png)
Similar dealings with the Indian states allow us to trade in Kutch and Bihar.
This is probably the best trade good for us. We will march northwards into Siberia, one day.
(https://i.imgur.com/flBXLZ5.png)
Taiwan has been colonized!
Despite their high aggressiveness, the natives didn't threaten the colonists.
Now, the Taiwanese are part of the Qing Empire.
(https://i.imgur.com/fjW3Z2s.png)
Our attempt to reconquer Wu has gone awry - because Xin decided to help them out.
That has given them an excuse for another truce and ten years of peace. Curses!
(https://i.imgur.com/nB9gg8w.png)
The Battle of Guangxi is the only big battle of the war. Following it, Tibet, Ming and Lan Na, Xin allies, quickly ask for peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/R62GOvz.png)
The coastal Kingdom of Wu has fallen into our hands!
Now is the time to deal with the Xin, who had to audacity to lift the siege at Hanyang and even capture some of our borderlands.
(https://i.imgur.com/XC98R2w.png)
Somehow, be it by pure luck, or perhaps by the will of Heavenly Emperor, all the major battles of Xin take place at Shenquing.
And in this war too, we defeat Xin Emperor at Shenquing. Then, we pursue him all the way to Lianshang, where his troops are annihilated.
This time, the fake Emperor escapes with his head intact.
(https://i.imgur.com/T0Ja2hU.png)
The peoples of Dai Viet took a prime opportunity to revolt against their Xin oppressors.
The Empress, drawing the lines of future peace treaty, made sure to separate Xin and resurgent Viet.
(https://i.imgur.com/lnF2A2Y.png)
Kingdom of Sukhotai, the only state that remained with Xin to the end, has been punished.
From now on, they shall pay tribute to Qing Emperors and Empresses, and will have to provide troops for our future conflicts.
(https://i.imgur.com/ORVxuAf.png)
Shortly after declaring that the newest incursion by Mongol Khanate is a sign that we need to civilize the savages, Empress Zhuangjing dies!
Her son, Giocangga, is second to bear that name. His already adult son is Taksi, and he will be a superb Emperor, if he survives long enough to rule on his own.
(https://i.imgur.com/tdAlPzA.png)
We force the Xin to give us two provinces, denying them access to Dai Viet (which already declared independence).
Qin is also set free! But it is holding our cores. Do you know what that means?
(https://i.imgur.com/xyFumy4.png)
Declared as a rebel nation of fake Kings under the Heaven, holding control over the rightful subjects of the Qing Empire, the Qin state shall be annexed!
Already our mighty armies move out to liberate the lands unrightfully held by the Kingdom of Qin.
(https://i.imgur.com/6iFyxD5.png)
And now, only two states remain independent from the rulership of the Qing Empire.
Neither will survive past 1610s. The China will soon be united once more!
-
010: The March of the Six Banners to Sichuan Valley and Beyond!
(https://i.imgur.com/8SKWIpb.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And finally we get back into trading of Chinaware.
We need that legitimacy - or rather, Emperor Giocangga needs it!
(https://i.imgur.com/cOvuUex.png)
Plague appears in Wusuli!
Fortunately the monetary need to combat it is laughably low.
(https://i.imgur.com/wDO17Bo.png)
Universities unlocked! Considering our money flow, we shall build one in our capital, Beijing.
As soon as it finishes its Spy Agency.
(https://i.imgur.com/wHU5vir.png)
The efforst to make our subjects more free ended in getting us an inflation reduction.
Now it will be at 6.4%!
(https://i.imgur.com/yv4N09S.png)
The provinces we've been colonizing? They're now becoming Qing-settled lands.
Do not pay attention to the Mongol revolt, it died so easily.
(https://i.imgur.com/YK7sBmS.png)
Weapons Manufactory is now available!
Just like with the University, we will build one. Some of the western Provinces produce iron.
(https://i.imgur.com/CRaTT9X.png)
The university of Beijing has been finished.
We can now establish schools to educate the young peoples of Qing!
(https://i.imgur.com/CEuVOYj.png)
Having created the Sixth Banner and getting our manpower to limits we never had before, we declare war on Xin.
This time they stand totally alone. Victory is assured, and shall be swift!
(https://i.imgur.com/xzqNDCn.png)
In one day, so much occurs - we lose our Emperor Giocangga and annihilate the Xin army that was caught unprepares!
But with Takshi on the throne, our future is bright!
(https://i.imgur.com/X79fABo.png)
In the ending months of the war, the Kazakh dare raid our borders.
Fools! They shall be civilized and made direct subjects of the Qing!
(https://i.imgur.com/GnKuxMO.png)
And there you have it. Xin armies have been annihilated and their Emperor is now expelled.
China is united under the banner of Qing! But our work continues; the Kazakh must be taught a lesson in civilization.
(https://i.imgur.com/Abaz2Qi.png)
We go to war against Taungu. Their vile overlords are holding Dali, a core of Qing, hostage!
We shall tear it from their hand after a bloody (but presumed short) war.
(https://i.imgur.com/hyPCcMw.png)
Taungu loses pretty badly. We also punish their ally, Shan, by passing one of their provinces to our vassal Sukhotai, who had a core on it.
Still - not enough warring in this decade! An event has given us a core on part of Tibet.
(https://i.imgur.com/CIdUkVv.png)
In midst of our preparation, we get a cavalry upgrade!
It even comes with Fire combat ability, which is very, very nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/76FbPL8.png)
Surprisingly, a whole coalition of Indochinese nations has stood against our attack on Tibet.
They shall be all punished.
(https://i.imgur.com/Y39jcxq.png)
Taizu, Prince of Qing, dies! We need a new heir.
Few days later, Emperor Taksi not only takes lands that belong to Qing, but also a proper tribute from the Tibet.
They're also vassalized, as we're not very keen on directly governing the inhospitable Himalayas.
(https://i.imgur.com/6uVF0c3.png)
And thus is the extent of Qing Empire (with its vassals, Tibet and Sukhotai) as of year 1614.
But what's this on the horizon to the west, you might ask?
That is Persia - whom is eating up the Nomads, getting a border with us... and which is a country full of heathens.
-
011: The Heavenly Mandate to Expand into the Central Asia and Siberian Forests
(https://i.imgur.com/Ad69Q5M.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And the Mongols, both as nomadic raiders, and borderland rebels, continue to pester us.
(https://i.imgur.com/fvLEJUi.png)
We decide that the only way to get rid of the Mongols is to annex their lands.
War against the Oirats, without a casus belli, cost us legitimacy and stability, but we can weather that.
(https://i.imgur.com/G7beP8R.png)
In middle of our forays into the lands near and surrounding Takla Makan desert, we get another Banner going.
And still, we're not even close to 2/3 of army limit!
(https://i.imgur.com/H8mqlEu.png)
Finally! The fourth idea is available!
Due to the nomadic provinces we need to colonize, as well as wild Siberia await our arrival, we grab extra Colonist per year.
This time we can blanket more lands, even if +1.35 colonist yearly isn't that much.
(https://i.imgur.com/mDIcjEn.png)
These Average-claim heirs we're getting lately are a bit worrying, but I ain't complain.
We need the line of succession to be secure.
(https://i.imgur.com/G9V2H50.png)
To make sure that Persians do not feel too cozy in Siberia, we escalate the complaint.
(https://i.imgur.com/WwnoL5q.png)
Of all the nomad's provinces, Yunnan was most important.
The last and final core we had to recover!
(https://i.imgur.com/HBdof6m.png)
Shortly afterwards, we make inroads into Central Siberia - mostly to stop Persians from going east.
We will be able to get national focus moved there, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/YKpuXQ4.png)
Haha! Taksi is not only Emperor of Qing, but now also Emperor of Japan too!
I'm tempted to wage war against someone just to see if the Shogun and Daimyos of Japan will follow after us.
(https://i.imgur.com/XAlgoJG.png)
Our Land technology boosting guy has died.
The minor, yet numerous, revolts in provinces we're recently captured point out the need for a High Judge - so we recruit one.
(https://i.imgur.com/ppC1HTp.png)
Just as predicted and planned, the Daimyos listen to their Qing Emperor, joining our war in Siberia against Persia!
Now, that's a sentence you don't see often, do you?
Persians are distracted by Great Britain, and our war plans are to take their Siberian colonies and perhaps demand some money.
(https://i.imgur.com/2fAi9VU.png)
The battle of Altai is a disaster!
Not only we're routed, we lose the Seventh Banner!
It shall be restored back at Beijing and the nearby provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/eA33mIf.png)
Meanwhile, the First, Second and Fifth ride to avenge their fallen Manchurian brethren at Urumqi.
And this time, we win the battle. The fleeing Persians are pursued by two Banners to Dzungaria, where they're annihilated to the last man!
(https://i.imgur.com/RcVd3AT.png)
Woe! Emperor Taksi has died during his return to Qing proper!
His underage son's viability to rule is questioned (we will construct a statue to remedy that a bit).
The foolish pretender spawns in Ningxia with 4 regiments, and is easily eradicated by the newly restored Seventh Banner.
(https://i.imgur.com/9Ycfn8J.png)
Persians accept our demands at the negotiation table.
During the war, Kulunda became our core via an event. The rest is just extras!
(https://i.imgur.com/Wtlj208.png)
Peace reigns supreme so well, that we get this event.
100 Ducats is nothing for our Treasury, and thus we get +5 Prestige.
(https://i.imgur.com/Jyz9UoV.png)
Another 500 ducats goes, but we get an instant Fine Arts Academy out of it.
Progress!
(https://i.imgur.com/pqM1PXU.png)
Just as we finish making ex-Persian colonies into Manchurian cities, we get ability to have Monopolies in centres of trade.
Even more progress! And to think we're currently in a Regency.
(https://i.imgur.com/DDENZtH.png)
Young Yinzhi has ascended to the thrones of Qing and Nippon!
Surely, such a blessed youth will surely propel us into golden age of China!
-
012: The Relentless Push Southwards Despite the Decadence of the Heavenly Emperor's Most Erudite Regents
(https://i.imgur.com/5mkAPKY.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And young Emperor Yinzhi needs all the concubines and wives he can get to build up his legitimacy.
Sadly, only Assam accepts his offers.
(https://i.imgur.com/HMHt5mL.png)
We continue making inroads into Siberia, to ensure that Persia does not reach too far east.
(https://i.imgur.com/QjdqZTh.png)
Just few days later, a heir to the throne of Qing is born!
He has good stats but again, his claim is only moderate.
Iwonder what's up with that lately.
(https://i.imgur.com/SYOe6Pz.png)
In Shenquing, we create the Eight Banner!
Along with few others, it will be used in the upcoming war.
(https://i.imgur.com/wUo6k18.png)
For there can be no peace in the world if others are not subjects of the Qing!
With help of Sukhotai, Japan and Tibet, we shall take some provinces of Dai Viet.
(https://i.imgur.com/WypPYDJ.png)
We took two provinces - one for us, one for Tibet, the smaller of our vassals.
What we've noticed in this war is that Japanese Daimyos who capture provinces for our Emperor do NOT relinquish them upon completion of a siege.
This makes calling Japan into wars a tricky business.
(https://i.imgur.com/KHfr8d6.png)
The years afterwards, whilst peaceful, are marred with constant rebellions by the Mongol peoples. The Oirats rise in recently civilized provinces near and around Takla Makan desert.
Fortunately, our soldiers are many and easily wipe out any nationalists that show up.
(https://i.imgur.com/xPURrRp.png)
Tempting, but we shall pass.
Absolutism path of monarchy gives us a casus belli for easier conquests, and we want that.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fq7gSV1.png)
The healers have failed us once again!
Yangzheng dies, and again there's no heir to the throne of Qing.
(https://i.imgur.com/rOnQ1Wv.png)
A new heir! With average claim!
Did we anger the Heavens somehow?
(https://i.imgur.com/RpkvFs8.png)
Finally! We gain access to firearms!
Asian Arquebusiers have two pips more than other variants, so we shall take it.
(https://i.imgur.com/11YJPYN.png)
We move our national focus away from Siberia, and place it at the southern coasts.
This allows us to create a centre of Trade at Guangzhou.
It encompasses a belt of territories in Indochina, from Bengal to Macau. Its value settles at about 600 ducats.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZmGFTMs.png)
We wait few more years before we pounce upon the Dai Viet once more.
This time we do not call in our allies. Similarily, allies of Dai Viet turn their backs at them.
(https://i.imgur.com/o4N9dZB.png)
This? This is the most annoying of all pop-ups.
A failed colonization at 99% chance. Blaaaaargh!
(https://i.imgur.com/y6rtHt1.png)
Emperor Yinzhi dies! The average claim of Huang Taiji causes one of Qing nobles to lay a claim on the Empire's throne.
Obviously, he and his supporters were crushed unto dust.
(https://i.imgur.com/uPaqkrt.png)
The Viet governor of Luang Prabang offers his submission to Qing.
We gracefully accept it. Less warscore needed at negotiation tables this time.
(https://i.imgur.com/GECSzDX.png)
We beat up the Vietnamese and take a strip of land from them.
We've grown big, prosperous-
(https://i.imgur.com/RNgRbPo.png)
-and perhaps, a bit too proud.
The regents of Huang Taiji must slow down in their expansion, lets the fires of rebellion shatter our country!
Or, we go broke with world conquest and cleanse the fires of rebellions with our numerous armies and huge manpower reserves. Either works just fine!
-
013: Eradication of the Rebellious Masses and Establishment of the Enlightened Era of Emperor Huang Taiji
(https://i.imgur.com/cpxdY8A.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And there's a swarm of rats gnawing upon your divine feet.
Rebels - nationalists, patriots, peasants, pretenders - pop up in our provinces with alarming frequency.
(https://i.imgur.com/8u1pOwv.png)
Despite military presence of the Banners in most inflamed provinces, the seditious thought is still high.
And we simply cannot afford to have a High Judge at the court, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/xaAPMLG.png)
Some previously Mongol provinces have become Qing cores.
The worst is behind us, for now.
(https://i.imgur.com/LGgnZOq.png)
We don't need either +10 revolt risk nor a regiment of arquebusiers that the 1st option gives.
The 2nd does spawn the heretics, but Seventh Banner is nearby. It will deal with the rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/xPPeDqv.png)
Things have calmed down, and it has emboldened us to begin a move into Easternmost Siberia.
We gotta secure the coastline before Europeans do so.
(https://i.imgur.com/XrZQ22n.png)
As if on cue, our Diplomat has died of old age.
Perfect opportunity to get a High Judge, especially that the one we've bought is of Rank 6!
(https://i.imgur.com/78NlrB4.png)
That doesn't stop the Vietnamese to raise against our glorious overlordship!
Alarmingly so, their main peasant troop is larger than any of our banners.
(https://i.imgur.com/LHZhT0p.png)
Sixth and Eight Banners together storm the province of Binh Tri Thien!
The battle is a ferocious one, but what can peasants do against might of Manchu banners?
After this battle, which sees a third of their men killed, the Vietnamese disperse, fleeing into jungles of swamps of Viet.
(https://i.imgur.com/6JtircI.png)
Even if this guy ascended when exactly 15, this puts him at 73 years of age.
What a champ! This was your irregularly scheduled Europe News!
(https://i.imgur.com/uIQGJr7.png)
And so ends the regency - Emperor Huang Taiji now rules alone!
Immediately he gathers the Ministers of his court for a meeting.
(https://i.imgur.com/TG0oK3z.png)
"Ours is the glory and prosperity of the Middle Kingdom. But what have Europeans?" The Ministers were silent.
"Europeans have firearms and bureaucracy better organized than ours." The Ministers gasped in shock.
(https://i.imgur.com/rxsg9oL.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/Qtv0KsG.png)
"So as to progress, we must adopt their ways of science and philosophy. It is the only path we can take!"
Few weeks later, the conservative Ministers began organizing a resistance against European influence in Qing Empire.
The Emperor agreed to their demands, but only temporarily, to lower the anger of the peoples - the reforms remain in place.
(https://i.imgur.com/U7yrTMh.png)
Our Emperor however does not stop with his reforms, and accepts a new Judiciary system.
It helps a bit with revolt risk, which will be crucial in the coming decades.
(https://i.imgur.com/2NM2X61.png)
Blessed be the work of our High Judge Hoogle Folun!
Obviously we take the free Stability boost.
(https://i.imgur.com/l6KMbtm.png)
As the years pass by in relative quiet, Emperor Huang Taiji is pushing for more and more reforms.
This time, to combat piracy and make us look less of a bloodthirsty horde we were two centuries ago.
(https://i.imgur.com/JZW2FnW.png)
True enlightment awaits us in the near future.
For that, we shall build some Fine Arts Academies, just like those in European kingdoms of Tuscany and Burgundy!
We're doing that mostly for stability investment.
(https://i.imgur.com/UgxWAV8.png)
But the Heavens themselves have been angered by Huang Taiji's progressivism!
They've struck down the Crown Prince, and there's no heir ready to take over if our current Emperor dies.
(https://i.imgur.com/HDSivEc.png)
Jugjur, one of the most strategically placed Siberian provinces, connecting with many others, is now our colony!
In the future, when the Siberian lands are properly developed, we might place a Centre of Trade there.
(https://i.imgur.com/16ga6su.png)
Emperor Huang Taiji is the great administrator we've needed.
Under his economic policies, our inflation drops quite rapidly!
(https://i.imgur.com/98rDKPx.png)
Gold has been struck in Jugjur, making it our second ever gold mine. This is a good sign!
(https://i.imgur.com/03SQUgR.png)
Prosperous is the rule of Emperor Huang Taiji, and the astrologers have proclaimed establishment of a new era of peace and glory.
But the position of Crown Prince is still vacant, and the Emperor is not getting any younger. When shall there be prosperity within the Imperial family, just like there is in the rest of China?
Why can't men of Aisin Gioro be like Jan I Hrvatinic, King of Celje? He lived all the way to February 1668... we need to prod the Slovenes about secrets of immortality!
-
014: The Unappreciated Love of Western Culture, the Weeping for the Lost Siberian Riches, and the Ultimate Insult in the Face of the Glorious Emperor of All Qing and Japan!
(https://i.imgur.com/NUVRmDH.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And we're not yet ready to continue westernizing. We need to get our Stability up to 3.
(https://i.imgur.com/YPA3uTD.png)
Both the old and young officials of the Qing court rejoice - we have heir to the throne!
Tolo is much awaited Crown Prince. The colony of Jugjur has been renamed to Tolo to honour the infant Prince.
(https://i.imgur.com/eoznsXb.png)
We also set it as our National Focus; it will be easier to build colonies in lands surrounding it.
(https://i.imgur.com/7KXn7wG.png)
Finally, the idea slot shows up and we take the only option right now.
Religion shall unite Qing China and help it become a modern nation even faster.
(https://i.imgur.com/wC0izL3.png)
The amount of Manchurian and Han peoples in our courts makes the Koreans a marginal race.
To the rice fields with them!
(https://i.imgur.com/tSdR224.png)
With the Church leading stabilization efforts, we reach Stability 3.
Another step of Westernization gets us tech speed comparable with Ottomans and Eastern European nations.
One more, and we will be truly Western in thoughts!
(https://i.imgur.com/qQGPyig.png)
To bring stability to the nation, Emperor Huang Taiji loosens the iron grip on the local administration.
It pays off immediately!
(https://i.imgur.com/8LKdjiE.png)
The passing of years have quenched the flames of rebellions that once pestered our great nation.
High Judge Hoogle Folun is sent into retirement; the philosophies of Ajige Tianfu shall restore our prestige!
(https://i.imgur.com/mnb0KAa.png)
Our movements toward the Western countries have given us access to their artists and courtiers.
The old Qing artist, Zhongcheng Nurchaci, has died, just as Lukhum Gedevanishvili, a Georgian poet, has fled his home country.
We accept him at our court to learn more about Caucassian arts. Perhaps, the foreign literature shall have healing effect on our stability.
(https://i.imgur.com/pCpyWVE.png)
Lacking explorers and conquistadors, we must rely on random discoveries occuring to get Siberian provinces.
We send our colonists to Okhotsk immediately.
(https://i.imgur.com/LS20PNY.png)
Usually, I go with free base tax in this event.
However, we have so many provinces and so much tax, that +1 to Stability is better choice.
(https://i.imgur.com/QeUNnRt.png)
Free money?
I don't mind at all!
(https://i.imgur.com/yCmWtPv.png)
Dangit!
While usually a good event that lets you get that inflation down, this is a major setback.
The final step of Westernization will have to be postponed several more years.
(https://i.imgur.com/0NRB7ff.png)
We continue to expand, but this time, we move out into the eastern seas.
British and Burgundian ships have been spotted cruising along Kamchatka peninsula and on the islands north of Japan.
Emperor Huang Taiji worries that the Europeans have started founding colonies there.
(https://i.imgur.com/oqxAS7e.png)
His worries are quickly proven correct!
Already we can see the shades of Burgundian and British reds in the region.
Now we must scramble to get as much coastline as we can!
(https://i.imgur.com/vP8A4WZ.png)
Finally! Finally we reach the level of technological and cultural sophistication equal to Western Europe!
Now if only we could get our forces up to their standards...
(https://i.imgur.com/xsIzstR.png)
Noes!! Them Europs in them Siberia!!11
They've taken much more lands than I've suspected. Truly, a moment of silence for all the gold mines we could've got...
Then again, the same map update also have shown us that most of Spice Islands are unclaimed.
(https://i.imgur.com/GYnXFyp.png)
The first performance of Baroque music in the palaces of Qing Empire have left many Confucian scholars complaining that the music is too loud and too pompastic.
They better get up with the times! This is how the music will be played nowadays in China!
(https://i.imgur.com/QQoZJae.png)
In blatant disregard to our supremacy, the Daimyos of Japan are allowing a rebel to besiege Kyoto!
We have no right of passage through Minamoto Shogunate's lands, and thus the fall of Kyoto is but a matter of time.
(https://i.imgur.com/kI9H0uG.png)
Already the war drums of Manchu banners and the horns of the Qing Emperor can be heard across the Yellow Sea.
Japan will be brought under Qing influence once more - by fire and sword!!
-
All under heaven is rightful Qing clay
-
015: The Great War Under the Pretext of Restoration of Overlordship over Japanese Islands and the First Step on the Path to their Total Annihilation as a Nation!
(https://i.imgur.com/nBFwvoI.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And our peoples still resist western influences, but our Emperor allows it.
He has more pressing concerns to deal with.
(https://i.imgur.com/AnYX6w0.png)
The greatest being war against Japan and its Shogun!
The Minamoto are the largest and strongest, but fortunately their fleet is not a match to us.
This allows us to land the Fifth Banner at Izumo, besieging the city.
(https://i.imgur.com/3UOLrZE.png)
We have underestimated the Minamoto's army size and composition!
The battle is lost and the Fifth Banner flies south, where it is annihilated!
This does not worry our Emperor, for he was simply testing the waters.
We have enough money and manpower to rebuild the Fifth, and in meanwhile, we shall blockade the Japanese coastal cities.
(https://i.imgur.com/K4P1zQr.png)
The Academy of Beijing will train our agents and magistrates.
Fifth Banner is being rebuild in the provinces south of the capital.
This time, the Fourth Banner will assist it; and instead of landing on the main Japan island, we shall strike south first.
(https://i.imgur.com/qSfMAp1.png)
Worrying news come from the Japanese seas, for our mighty fleet has been beaten back by Minamoto.
Perhaps the Japanese are not as meek as we've thought?
A shipbuilding order has been placed on some caravels and many transports to bolster our navy.
(https://i.imgur.com/mmpyJj3.png)
A free core in the middle of the war against Chagatai nomads?
Why, by all means! We will colonize it once Kashmir is done kicking the nomads for their own purposes.
(https://i.imgur.com/lABUluJ.png)
We almost miss a cavalry uprade!
The Reformed Steppe horsemen are superb on attack, and still quite good on the defense.
Soon, we will use them against Japanese, mowing the islanders like scythe mows millet!
(https://i.imgur.com/8qm7nOB.png)
The main Imperial Fleet and the Soldier Fleet, have soldiers packed upon them.
Their first mission is to destroy or dispel the Minamotoan ships that landed troops on Okinawa, captured once by our ally, Sukhotai.
They do that with ease.
(https://i.imgur.com/vcH71oh.png)
Winning this one was much harder to accomplish, but we've prevailed, and sank 9 Minamoto ships to boot!
Our troops were then landed in Chikuzen and Hizen areas on the Southern Island.
(https://i.imgur.com/yym6VA0.png)
I gave up on 2100 Ducats to get this Stability increase.
(https://i.imgur.com/Zina5KQ.png)
An oversight in our strategy almost sees Fifth Banner annihilated again!
The Japanese had moved through their Inland Sea to Bungo, then to Chikuzen.
Once the main Minamoto troop left for the main Island, the Soldier Fleet was called in to blockade the Inland Sea.
(https://i.imgur.com/uT8OTid.png)
The Southern Island is taken - we shall now commence the attack on that other Island as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/X1igV3F.png)
First our Philosopher, and now our Georgian Artist!
We need to find a replacement, and fast.
(https://i.imgur.com/kSAhl17.png)
Now what, you may ask? There has been a bold proposal by one of the generals:
We attack Settsu province; if the Minamoto forces respond in strength, we fight, retreat across Inland Sea, recuperate, and repeat.
By attrition and manpower alone we can grind the Japanese like pig meats are ground for filling of baozi!
(https://i.imgur.com/dEXCHx3.png)
The Minamoto took the bait, and lost half their numbers before the Banners had to retreat to Awa province.
Our Emperor has decreed that a new banner is to be assembled; the Island Peace Banner, which shall be stationed in Japan once we win the war.
"But, weren't we going to simply restore our governance over the Chrysanthemum Throne?" Asks an advisor, but the Emperor laughs. "They will be better off ruled directly by us."
(https://i.imgur.com/oZ2Apbe.png)
Our fleets transported the Island Peace Banner to the Japan lands, luring Minamoto into a chance at maneuvering.
This ends with almost 25 thousand Japanese soldiers slaughtered, and their operation to retake the Southern Island ruined.
(https://i.imgur.com/88Ff8x4.png)
The blockades did their work, and the Japanese are suffering starvation and lack of weapons due to capped War Exhaustion.
Qing Banners rush forth across Awa Strait onto the Japan Island, and slaughter the defenders of Settsu!
(https://i.imgur.com/B0hcp7d.png)
Would you believe that, despite our near-constant warring and siegeing, our Army Tradition rarely exceeds past 15-20 points?
Battlefield Commissions will remedy this. It will provide us better generals from the start!
(https://i.imgur.com/yL3pR9J.png)
Eight years into the war, the Japanese are mere shadows of their past selves, while Qing Banners rule over the land!
Soon, the capital of Kyoto itself will be conquered.
(https://i.imgur.com/PFIAkqJ.png)
It took 3 years to wreak havoc upon Japanese and force them to accept our demands.
The Southern Island is ours now! Fourth and Fifth banners shall return to China mainland, and Island Peace Banner remains to cut down any Japanese, be they noble or peasant, who dares rebel against our rule.
One day, all Japanese shall become one with the Qing.
It is inevitable.
-
016: Emperor of Heaven
(https://i.imgur.com/mvxob9n.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And our Emperor, blessed by the Heavens, continues his policies of reform and progress.
Not even the Navy remains at the margin when Huang Taiji promotes advancements in nautical field.
(https://i.imgur.com/55x5coW.png)
Podzhiversk colony is the one that cuts off the Europeans from the inner parts of Siberia.
There might be unclaimed lands towards Kamchatka, but Emperor Huang Taiji is already satisfied of our policy so far.
(https://i.imgur.com/Iz8XcNj.png)
Tian Shen have been finally civilized enough to be considered a place to live for Qing subjects.
As a core, it grants us the buildings within, which is just a Temple, and less rebels to deal with in the short term.
(https://i.imgur.com/QkLnvCg.png)
Speaking of rebels, there might be some Muslim rebels popping up soon in the coming years.
The sliders have been pushed towards Narrowminded, meaning we started getting Missionaries each year again.
That, coupled with heathens being slightly uncooperative, means Emperor Huang Taiji want them to follow Confucian rites.
Buddhists, whilst heretics in the eyes of Heavenly Emperor, are tolerated, and there's no real pressure to convert them.
(https://i.imgur.com/MEHKfNk.png)
"It would be prudent to expand our administration." Says Emperor Huang Taiji.
But we've ran out of ideas to boost our Magistrates-per-year. We will have to build more Colleges for that +0.05 Magistrate each.
(https://i.imgur.com/p3cykXd.png)
Truly, our Emperor's rule is divinely blessed.
Even his officials are blessed!
Blessed is the Qing!
(https://i.imgur.com/ZtijPbd.png)
Despite his advanced age - by all reckonings, Huang Taiji is 72 years old by now - the Emperor continues to reform the country.
He has set the Glorious Monument to be constructed at the old Manchu capital.
(https://i.imgur.com/kQULbPv.png)
He has also decreed that it is time to crush independent thought of the local nobles.
Now only the Heavenly Emperor above the common peoples of the Qing!
His will is the Heaven's will now. And his officials and magistrates will proclaim it to the most distant corners of the Empire.
This also grants us Imperialism casus belli. No more stability hits, no more enormous Infamy cost per each province.
(https://i.imgur.com/0DFglWA.png)
However, we shall use a different one against the Khmer.
This is to bring the province of Thang Long into our fold.
(https://i.imgur.com/jf6uNdB.png)
Unfortunately, this has caused Persia to join the war on the Khmer's side.
We will send our troops to Argyn and see what the Persians shall do; they're already distracted by three different wars with some minor states in Asia and India.
(https://i.imgur.com/8Cqe65I.png)
Our string of excellent ministers continues; the 5-star diplomat Fisin Tianfu gets us Infamy reduction and Stability bonus.
(https://i.imgur.com/rQLfz3R.png)
Persian soldiers marched through Kashmir and attacked Tian Shan.
However, the First Banner which kept watch over the Muslims there, beat the Persians and sent them into rout.
(https://i.imgur.com/QlnvnwK.png)
Khmer, beaten up on several fronts thanks to Sukhotai and Tibetian vassal armies, surrenders to our demands.
Thang Long is ours, but the involvement of Persia remains to be solved.
(https://i.imgur.com/qpibXRg.png)
Turns out, the Persians weren't willing to continue the fighting.
They even meekly gave away Argyn province and a load of Iranian cash at the negotations' table, very nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/xuuu7cr.png)
Princesses weep under the heavens and Confucian scholars pull on their beards, all mourning the passing of Emperor Huang Taiji!
His rule of nearly 50 years has ended, and now his son, Tolo, is the Emperor of Qing.
Not all accept his establishment, and his distant cousin, Yinxiang Folun, has risen in rebellion.
Emperor Tolo inherited vast Empire with merciless Banners and Treasury full of coin. The rebels are crushed easily.
(https://i.imgur.com/YEkRSVr.png)
Emperor Tolo has noticed the flaws of the previous war with Japanese.
"Their fleet was able to push ours away with enough numbers." He says. "We need more big ships to keep Minamoto navy at bay."
"The size of Japanese Army was sufficient to beat a singular Banner despite our technological superiority." He says. "The Banners need to be enlarged."
We have still enough space to get all the additions to our Navy and Army, even after transition from Feudal to Absolute Monarchy.
For Qing, 10% less Army limit and 20% less Manpower is still an enormous amount.
(https://i.imgur.com/YtXcOWH.png)
Emperor Tolo, although not much of an administrator like his venerable father, nonetheless passes some edicts.
This creates a council that will help keep the workings of the nation going smoothly.
Also, -3 Infamy, of course we will take that.
(https://i.imgur.com/L4QBOZX.png)
The Banners have been preemptively transported to the Southern Island.
Imperial Fleet is opposing the Minamoto Fleet, while Soldier Fleet was split in two to rule the seas south of Japan.
(https://i.imgur.com/MdZTgHF.png)
Emperor Tolo has been rather reclusive lately, and many at the Palace were forbidden from seeing him.
But now the extent of his illness has become known, and Imperial Ministers stepped in to provide assistance.
(https://i.imgur.com/PhKOd5m.png)
The illness of Emperor Tolo took him away, and now his son, Fuman, is the new Qing Emperor! All that he lacks is a heir.
Noted as a diplomat and administrator, the Imperial Ministers thusly asked:
"Shall we postpone our war against the Japanese?"
And so replied the Emperor:
(https://i.imgur.com/crnGkOD.png)
"Are you joking? Of course not!"
-
017: Unrivaled Expansionism
(https://i.imgur.com/SZXy7L4.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And we're in middle of a vicious war against the Japanese.
Our ships successfully blockaded most of their ports, and our armies are besieging the Settsu Island.
Soon enough we get Musket Infantry replacing Arquebus Infantry...
All that earns us is shuffling of Shock and Fire values around, and just 1 pip each more into Offensive and Defensive morale.
(https://i.imgur.com/z84v9CH.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/GvF8XlN.png)
Emperor Fuman decrees that a new centre of trade will be made - in Okhotsk.
It will allow us to pressure foreign nations with colonies in Easternmost Siberia to trade there and thus fill our pockets with commerce profits.
(https://i.imgur.com/iB3vDCj.png)
Our invasion of Japanese mainland starts with an auspicious sign - that of annihilation of Minamoto Army!
This emboldens our generals to march forward and seek battle with the 45-regiment strong Japan Army.
(https://i.imgur.com/B76oqyY.png)
Ha ha, the Japanese retreated to Bingo province which simply became their graveyard.
(https://i.imgur.com/3gPXI6q.png)
Our Banners have then chased their remnants to neighbouring provinces, annihilating the fleeing Japanese in the process.
(https://i.imgur.com/BNxfpNu.png)
Our diplomats, guided by the Emperor, are so excellent that even Europeans take notice.
Perfect timing for Infamy reduction!
(https://i.imgur.com/OgYbRqB.png)
Shortly after we decimate Minamoto fleet, the defenders at Kyoto are pulverized.
The war is coming to a rapid closure.
(https://i.imgur.com/KrXH82I.png)
It's middle of Siberian tundra, but sure.
*click!*
(https://i.imgur.com/J9Cf8Yc.png)
This is second time in past few months that we receive a core on Persian-held Siberian province!
The other is Pegaya Orda, just south of Narym.
Once we're done with the Japanese, I know where we will fight next.
(https://i.imgur.com/SCLKnqb.png)
The Japanese Emperor has no choice but surrender to our generous demands.
We take the important Settsu province, and now can attack from two straits at once in the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/adjNSKG.png)
Once our fleets and soldiers are on their way home, Emperor Fuman gives autonomy to the island of Okinawa.
Otherwise, the Ryukyuan natives of Japanese loyalists would only be a nuisance there.
(https://i.imgur.com/DpqjsaN.png)
As we prepare for the war with Persia, joyous news are announced:
There's heir to the throne of Qing! May he live long and prosper.
(https://i.imgur.com/Lnl61sb.png)
There was not much to the war with Persia.
Persians once landed in Binh Thi Trien, but were annihilated by nearby Banner.
Meanwhile, we conquered Pegaya Orda and Narym, and Persian ruler agree to hand them over along with some cash.
(https://i.imgur.com/ENAvcAz.png)
Heijian, a province just outside capital of Beijing, is hit with plague!
Fortunately we can easily fix the long-term side of the problem.
(https://i.imgur.com/WXl0OiE.png)
"Persians and Japanese can't stop our expansion, but the accursed northern forests can!" Complains the Emperor. "And the New World and Kamchatka have been taken by the Europeans. Is there any other place we can settle our peoples?"
An elderly minister steps in. "There is, son of Heaven, there is!"
"Show me!"
(https://i.imgur.com/rIxGhfK.png)
"The place is called 'Spice Islands', and it will soon be all ours, your Majesty..."
-
There must be some way to pay for this spice! Maybe some kind of addictive drug... Like tea
-
018: Hunt for the Red Spice
(https://i.imgur.com/EkfDrcL.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And we really gotta make it up with them missionaries!
So much heathen and heretic land remains to be converted...
(https://i.imgur.com/JNKTisc.png)
Woo! The first colonies in Spice Islands start off without a hitch.
Time to delegate few big ships to patrol the surrounding seas.
(https://i.imgur.com/yjMNhbe.png)
Aha! Under our glorious agricultural policies, even the conquered Japanese are thriving!
Of course we get the monetary benefits of this event.
(https://i.imgur.com/IvEex2K.png)
The Great Plan To Obtain Islands of Spice has our colonists blanketing the little islands.
The earlier we claim them, the faster they will grow up to maturity.
And start bringing massive profits to our trade centers!
(https://i.imgur.com/eQDAheo.png)
Our Emperor, Son of Heavens, the Dragon Reborn, has been killed by a mere diplomat!
The Kingdom of Ayutthaya shall pay once the oprhaned Hongzhou arises to the throne of Qing!
(https://i.imgur.com/yfwzKlZ.png)
The Regent Princes have developed a fear that Qing might be attacked in their moment of internal weakness.
"A new, defensive formation must become backbone of our Banners!" They've settled on it being part of our cavalry forces.
(https://i.imgur.com/Dp1W4TD.png)
They also get the bright idea of resettling undesirables and criminals to the colonies.
If only to boost their annual growth.
(https://i.imgur.com/ifHmTej.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/eI12H2m.png)
Government level 30! We get the Inflation reduction from Gold Standard, and then pick Land of Opportunity to further strengthen the grow of Spice Colonies.
Meanwhile, we also receive Nationalism casus belli on all East Asian peoples - Japanese in particular.
(https://i.imgur.com/GMfO780.png)
The natives of Flores island are particularily happy to assimilate into our colonial settlements.
Already there have been 2 waves of assimilated natives, bumping the colony to the level at which commercial growing of grains was viable!
(https://i.imgur.com/KmgybK1.png)
Meanwhile, in Europe, Bohemia has evolved...
Into some sort of eldritch starfish. I don't even know what that shape is.
(https://i.imgur.com/s580h11.png)
The Sibir Nomads have attacked our borders.
That gives us an opportuntity to conquer them and expand further into central Siberia!
Maybe we will be able to go as far as Kazan's territory?
(https://i.imgur.com/dnj3FFn.png)
Two architects were given the permission to build the Forbidden City, where the Regents want to keep Prince Hongzhou safe.
One architect was soon dismissed for claiming he wants to 'build a labyrinth to house the Prince' instead.
His family was also executed.
(https://i.imgur.com/hCXBo13.png)
The Spice Islands are refusing to give us what we want - Spices.
Instead, we get everything else - cloth, tea, chinawares, even coffee on the small island of Buru.
This archipelago is a wild place.
(https://i.imgur.com/gyusPDB.png)
Aha, Sibiraks have been civilized!
A settler party has been sent to Berezov region. Central Siberia will be ours!
(https://i.imgur.com/FuOxAnh.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/rs9tWbL.png)
Mere days after we finish the construction of Forbidden City, the settlers of Sumba announce they are able to grow spices!
This must be a divine sign of our prosperous rule!
(https://i.imgur.com/jfEE3S0.png)
The long wait has ended - Emperor Hongzhou has been enthroned and wields the Jade Seal in his hands!
And just in time, too - we have a certain unfinished business that requires our attention...
-
Hongzhou rises!
And so does this LP \o/
-
Heavenly Empire RISES YET FURTHER
-
019: No More Shoguns
(https://i.imgur.com/KHkRQ8V.png)
We are the mighty Qing!
And its time to invade Japan once more.
This war's goal: probably munch all but core parts of Minamoto and Kyoto itself.
(https://i.imgur.com/bcBYSRZ.png)
Having captured Nagato, capital and main port of the Minamoto, their fleet sails away.
Right into the waiting arms of our Imperial Fleet, ha!
(https://i.imgur.com/LtERdru.png)
Shortly after victory at the sea (we capture a Caravel and sink 3 Galleys), a heir is born!
Prince Zhuangjing has decent stats, but average claim. His mother must be some low-born concubine or something...
(https://i.imgur.com/oJCHs5m.png)
Minamoto levies crumble like wet paper under during fight against Qing Banners!
Their 18k 'reinforcements' meet the same fate at the battle of Tajima province.
(https://i.imgur.com/b42aJjn.png)
While our conquest of Japan proceeds smoothly, the Timurids invade our borders again.
Emperor Hongzhou decides it is time to deal with them once and for all.
Our soldiers will wipe out their horsemen and Qing settlers will civilize their families!
(https://i.imgur.com/lEy0jHR.png)
Chased from port to port, Minamoto Fleet decides to give one last fight at Tokai Sea.
We capture one of their cogs while the rest is sunk. The seas are ours!
(https://i.imgur.com/PC9f2nQ.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/AVozcar.png)
With the destruction of Minamoto Fleet, the Emperor and Kyoto in our hands, the leaders of Shogunate disbanded their system.
The chaos allows us to directly demand annexation from Lord of Taira, and he complies.
(https://i.imgur.com/fFQKtZJ.png)
Due to all the assimilations in Flores, the colony grows fast.
It is designated as a new centre of trade, concentrating on Spice Islands and parts of Indonesia.
(https://i.imgur.com/mtwHgR6.png)
Vietnamese are rising in revolt at alarming frequency as of late.
Our war exhaustion has gotten too high; Emperor Hongzhou has magnaminously called of war taxes to mitigate the problem.
(https://i.imgur.com/F5TTAs6.png)
A boundary dispute with Persia gives us a core on Koda region.
Right next to our Siberian reaches, nice.
(https://i.imgur.com/5uSwbwT.png)
As our enemies are stomped out like a gardener stomps out weed, our government progresses.
We build a splendorous royal Palace for our ruling dynasty in Beijing.
(https://i.imgur.com/UGkOtTe.png)
Persian Sultan is defeated at his own capital province of Luristan!
Emperor Hongzhou believes this gets are more than we wanted, and thus a wide strip from Koda to Samarkand is captured.
(https://i.imgur.com/cAjCk3W.png)
"And compared to Buddhists, who at least contribute to our society", says the Emperor, "the followers of Muhammad are troublesome folk."
It has been decided that, instead of converting every province as we go, we shall concentrate on Heathen ones; that means Christians, Pagans and Muslims.
(https://i.imgur.com/WFKkwlz.png)
And first time in a long while, we create a new Banner.
The Siberian Banner will, surprise surprise, keep the peace in Siberia, beating up turko-ugric nationalists or muslim rebels.
(https://i.imgur.com/Yw19PlF.png)
For the second time in this generation, our Emperor has been assassinated!
And once again, it is the filth of Ayutthaya Kingdom who perform this vile deed.
Late Emperor Hongzhou has always mentioned that he was forgetting something.
It was about eradicating Ayutthaya from the face of the Earth.
(https://i.imgur.com/bVFrxVg.png)
Bad events, hits to stability, Japanese revolts, and now this.
Prince Zhingjiang narrowly escapes the embrace of death.
Have we offended our ancestors in any way to deserve such bad luck as of late?
(https://i.imgur.com/Nv32d9e.png)
At least Samarkand turns over to us, the colonization process completed.
Timurid nomads no longer threaten our borders.
(https://i.imgur.com/D53eXZ9.png)
The regents of Prince Zhingjiang decide to call for peace.
Few provinces of Minamoto are taken, Taira Kingdom is ressurected, and Kyoto falls into our hands.
The Japanese shall never recover from this blow!
-
Oh, wow. I had no idea Haspen is still around. Nice LP.
-
020: East to South Campaigns
(https://i.imgur.com/Nwro4nr.png)
We are the mighty Qing.
And our Infamy is over the limit, which is very unfortunate.
Let's hope that nothing bad happens out of it.
(https://i.imgur.com/Fyl8ms7.png)
Just because we gave the Taira monarchists a place to live, doesn't mean we will let them live.
They are, after all, in the path of our conquest of Japanese Archipelago.
The Japanese will rue the day they've rejected Qing Emperor on the Chrysanthemum Throne!
(https://i.imgur.com/K4Ta9U8.png)
With Zhuangjing II on the throne, and Jiaqing nearly his adulthood, we can continue our plans.
Well, or we would, if our Infamy wasn't so high.
Thus, immediately after her ascension, Empress Zhuangjing II decides that we need to expand our foreign diplomatic corps.
(https://i.imgur.com/p3hNGLe.png)
After nearly a year, the bureaucrats and diplomats finally agree to form a Cabinet.
It puts our yearly Infamy reduction at -2.15 per year. Not much, but it still counts.
(https://i.imgur.com/oOcyuRz.png)
Not only does Taira clan stands against us, the Minamoto broke their truce and joined them!
Fine then, we will take more of Minamoto lands as well!
(https://i.imgur.com/gDd4SId.png)
The main body of Minamoto army is caught at Hoki province.
They suffer defeat, and then again at Izumo, and are utterly destroyed at Iwami.
Meanwhile, we're halfway to completion of our conquest of Taira-held provinces.
(https://i.imgur.com/n1hIzhb.png)
On 3rd July 1752, the Taira clan is eliminated.
We continue the war against Minamoto, however; there are two coastal provinces worthy of grabbing.
(https://i.imgur.com/0PXgcdH.png)
Due to our rising infamy, two nations decided to go to war against us.
Delhi, and Champa. Do their leaders have a death wish? We do not know.
We will gladly replace them with someone more competent, though.
(https://i.imgur.com/sLwZPpi.png)
A revolt in Korea catches us unaware; all our Banners are in Japan, or south or east.
The closest is Second Banner led by Ganzhan Yuanwen, and even they are marching out of Kaifeng.
We hope that General Yuanwen is swift enough to put down the rebellion in time. (PS: he does)
(https://i.imgur.com/vaS1Syc.png)
Shiribeshi, the colonial settlement on Hokkaido, is taken from Minamoto's hands.
The population now is Manchurian and follows the teachings of Confucius.
(https://i.imgur.com/x0t1pck.png)
With conquest of Japan proceeding ahead of schedule, we will be removing Fourth and Sixth Banner from Japan.
Instead, a native-supported Kyoto Banner will keep the peace in the mainland Japan, while the Island Peace Banner will be relocated to the southernmost island.
The two older Banners will be now stationed in Korea, to prevent further uprisings, and Eastern Siberia, just in case.
(https://i.imgur.com/luXdEZV.png)
And a new banner will be created in Viet, as well.
Of course, it will be called 'Viet Banner', and will be made of local Viet and Laotian soldiers, taught and equipped in Qing ways.
(https://i.imgur.com/sfugJCU.png)
That's a new one, I don't recall a time when a Qing heir was renowned for his poetry and caligraphy!
Mayhaps this is a good omen?
(https://i.imgur.com/xQI1EEP.png)
It seems that our Westernization is bringing fruit, and our troops are being upgraded more often than usual.
It is not much, but they will help against less advanced nations.
(https://i.imgur.com/P1fJKXL.png)
Empress Zhingjiang has died!
Crown Prince Jianqing III quickly ascends the throne.
His diplomatic acumen allows us to begin negotiations with Minamoto. How shall we humilitate them this time?
(https://i.imgur.com/lR0DGtD.png)
That's how. We take most of their lands in north, and force them to forever give up claims to the Japanese provinces we hold.
Next war should be the last for Minamoto, and us, in the Japanese peninsula.
(https://i.imgur.com/dbSuJFo.png)
Finally, we catch up on Production technologies enough so that we can build a Grain Depot.
One is put to construction in Nanyang, in the heart of our Empire, keeping it far away from enemy hands.
(https://i.imgur.com/Wd4GbkT.png)
There's a heir to the throne of Qin! His name is Daoguang.
Emperor Jianqing will celebrate this birth with conquest of Bukhara, a Persian province.
The heavens themselves dictate so!
(https://i.imgur.com/PDmWZIw.png)
The war was short, painless, and uneventful.
(https://i.imgur.com/kj19fLT.png)
Timurid nomads attack our borders, and Kazan and Khmer feel emboldened enough to strike us.
It seems that we have long way to go in department of teaching our neighbours a painful lesson.
Not that we complain!
-
021: All Your Bases Belong To Qing
(https://i.imgur.com/vwzSbcx.png)
We are the mighty Qing.
And we're seriously considering wiping out Kazan and Timurids off the map.
This way they won't be annoying thorns in our side. Well, back.
(https://i.imgur.com/waIIq99.png)
A rather ungentlemanly display on the behalf of our merchants.
Still, we decide to sponsor them to protect our trade income, which starts to make quite a buck these days.
(https://i.imgur.com/dmBtbW8.png)
We punish Khmer by taking one of their provinces.
A day later, we conclude the war with Kazan; we take their Siberian province.
(https://i.imgur.com/WnRCCo2.png)
Some 'Emperor' of Burgundy has illicitly procured parts of Hokkaido.
We have core on that land, and it shall become part of Qing Empire within few months.
(https://i.imgur.com/NVkuLiq.png)
And the Heavenly Emperor knows what land we will be conquering next.
It's easier on Infamy this way, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/QIc5iQ5.png)
Burgundians have quite a few colonies, including Kurils and the Samtoy area.
As we find out their fleet was sunk in a war with Bohemia, we have free reign to conquer these lands.
And even start some colonies ourselves; they have many aggressive natives, but Emperor Jianqing believes its our mandate to enlighten the natives.
(https://i.imgur.com/HIRKhBz.png)
The lands we have taken have predominantly European and Christian population.
We will convert the western barbarians and teach them the Chinese ways. The proper ways!
Our territories in Japan grow, and we need more forces there. Hokkaido Banner will keep the peace in north of Japan.
(https://i.imgur.com/k4wZ3kM.png)
King of Ayutthaya is very elusive, and so are his forces.
And despite capture of his capital of Rayong, he refuses to budge to our demands.
But in time, he will be dealt with, and he shall become our vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/y3YRDxj.png)
Sultanate of Pegu thought that attacking our vassal, while it was not allied with us, was a smart idea.
They will be beaten to a pulp to learn a lesson.
(https://i.imgur.com/B3VLtD4.png)
Wielding spears, swords, muskets and light armor, our cavalry is now based on Western forces.
We wish we had true European units in our midst, but our military modernization is but a dream of the future.
(https://i.imgur.com/Dt4NAPM.png)
Yet another campaign is launched against the Minamoto.
Unfortunately our diplomats believe that annexing entirety of it in one go is impossible, even with our Imperialist reasoning.
Oh well, ten years is not that much for us.
(https://i.imgur.com/Up9vnwe.png)
We have to retry three times because natives burnt down our fledgling settlement.
No longer! City of Manila now hosts all these natives, who learn Chinese and follow the learned ways of Confucius.
(https://i.imgur.com/pLxFvHN.png)
The blow has been struck.
Next time, we will remove all of Japanese lords from the isles, and only the banner of Qing will flutter above them!
The land of Benin is in Africa, apparently; the local colonial power, Venice, bought this useless parcel for 100 gold.
(https://i.imgur.com/dvGFMFn.png)
When we weren't looking, Ayutthaya managed to conclude their war with Pegu.
And they've annexed them!
Emperor Jiaqing is proud to have such warlike and bold vassal under his rule.
(https://i.imgur.com/V9nSHpB.png)
We need more colonies out in the seas.
The island of Guam, held by fearsome natives, will be colonized.
We might do the same with the land called Visayas, south of Manila, but natives there are viciously aggressive, making this a risky endeavour.
(https://i.imgur.com/V7yk818.png)
Rather than the tax bonus, it is the higher amount of magistrates that we need.
We have so many undeveloped, Fort level 1 provinces, that I've lost count.
(https://i.imgur.com/zYvE9eS.png)
So strong is Jiaqing's desire to see Minamoto's downfall during his enlightened rule, that he decided to break the truce.
Nobody's there to save the Japanese now! We shall rule all of the islands!
(https://i.imgur.com/a5qqtkr.png)
Priests whisper that it is ancestral spirits who cursed Crown Prince Diaoqung, who died during a hunting accident.
There is only one Prince left to inherit the throne, the rather incompetent Jiaqing.
(https://i.imgur.com/WAl9dYO.png)
But Emperor Jiaqing laughs at superstition, for it does not bother him. Surveying the heads of Minamoto royals, he has dipped the quill in ink jar.
'Our destiny is fulfilled, and there's no one greater than Us.'
After a hundred years of wars, if not more, the Japanese islands are fully ours!
-
Only the Qing Empire can protect Japan from being invaded by Great Powers ;P
-
022: Everything is Fine
(https://i.imgur.com/73IyBTz.png)
We are the mighty Qing.
And everything is fine.
(https://i.imgur.com/ysVrcvn.png)
The ancient trading city of Samarkand shall be reborn!
The trade centers at Hanyang and Guangzhou both exceed 800 ducats of wealth, so its about time we split.
Also, this should potentially wrestle some profits from both Hormuz and Kutch.
(https://i.imgur.com/5ea1EwS.png)
Imperial Treasury ran into a rougher times. But that is okay - investments bring profits!
One loan is not too hard to pay back.
(https://i.imgur.com/J1U02v0.png)
Unfortunately these harsh times give rise to unscrupulous officials.
We have more important issues at hand however.
And inflation is being dealt with at -0.02 rate per year, so we're fine.
(https://i.imgur.com/zRfaJlK.png)
With Guam firmly established as a Qing colony, the Emperor wants us to reach even further!
The Hawaii islands will be taken is as a port for our traders and travellers going to America.
(https://i.imgur.com/9fMQIpo.png)
Still, our Treasury could do with some loot.
And vassalizing Khmer would also safeguard us from southernly attack.
(https://i.imgur.com/6tBMDQH.png)
The tiny Sultanate of Delhi, which isn't even located in Delhi, dared join Khmer when we were looking elsewhere.
Our Tibetan vassals conquered Ladakh in our name.
We annex the Sultanate right away, to make sure it will never again be a thorn in our side.
(https://i.imgur.com/grkJTEj.png)
I honestly have no idea what's up with all those incompetent, asisine courtiers these days.
And we're back at maximum negative stability.
Still, everything's under control and we're doing just fine.
(https://i.imgur.com/vwzAX9g.png)
Unfortunately, the cost of vassalization was 106% war score.
We've decided on taking Champassak province from Khmer.
As for vassalization, we will return to that in ten years.
(https://i.imgur.com/jXILPf8.png)
It's been a long, long while since we needed the services of a court artist.
But there you go; Fisin Xi will help us recover our Stability.
(https://i.imgur.com/ISSCu7n.png)
It wasn't until we had to take second loan that the court officials began panicking.
"All is fine." Said Emperor Jiaqing, calming them down. "There's an enlightened, calculated move behind this loan."
(https://i.imgur.com/I5ZChX6.png)
All in all, the small wars with the Indochinese nations are just simple land grabs.
(https://i.imgur.com/0G6ClRz.png)
The Royal Treasurer dared ask Emperor Jiaqing what was that 'enlightened, calculated move' about.
He and his family were executed for his impertinence while a new treasurer was hired to replace him.
(https://i.imgur.com/8FiwRzg.png)
Unfortunately, dealing with plague on Hainan island would cost money.
We did place some sacrifices on the ancestral altars to appease the spirits, though!
(https://i.imgur.com/9UuaKFT.png)
Our sacrifices worked!
We get money now, which will be used to pay off one of the loans.
And look, our Stability is rising as well!
(https://i.imgur.com/8xTooz9.png)
Blessed be Qianlong Zhifang!
For his services to the nation, Emperor Jiaqing made him Count of Qianlong, which once was the Udinsky Region.
(https://i.imgur.com/NYQ2o9I.png)
Unfortunately, we missed the loan repayment by just few hundred ducats.
But! The next year, we can repay that other loan.
We just need to be stringent with expenses and keep them just to basic level infrastructure.
(https://i.imgur.com/n3Z7jJw.png)
There has been an incident in Dali, uh.
We assume the harbor referred to local river harbor shipping tea to Sukhotai in the south.
(https://i.imgur.com/VbuuvRu.png)
Aha! We get a core on Persian-held Charjo.
Reconquest casus belli is best. The war ends quickly and of course we get what we wanted.
(https://i.imgur.com/f47LY0Y.png)
A core on Tauisk has gotten some unfortunate consequences going on; Great Britain and Denmark joined the war against us.
But that is fine, these two nations are far away in Europe.
(https://i.imgur.com/A4WmDPC.png)
After we force Malacca to hand over Tauisk, Great Britain loses its interest in the war.
We graciously accept their offer of white peace.
(https://i.imgur.com/waTF5yU.png)
It was almost a free university in Timor, but that island is prosperous enough.
And we need the cash.
(https://i.imgur.com/79COnRt.png)
Another bout of Plague? Geez.
Unfortunately we need cash more than we need alive peasants.
(https://i.imgur.com/0WMu3Xm.png)
After Xiankhouang, there's also revolt in Champassak and Vijaya.
All three are swiftly crushed by the Viet Banner.
(https://i.imgur.com/5QgH1QV.png)
We did not forget our goal!
A short war will result in collapse of Khmer Sultanate and its inclusion into our array of vassals.
(https://i.imgur.com/qhqwDXn.png)
The Hawaii islands, or rather the locals there, prove too much of a hassle.
We decide to expand into Visayas, which are much more profitable and are much closer to home.
(https://i.imgur.com/yAwKn0c.png)
Finally! We can pay off one of the loans!
Now just one more remains. But we're getting there.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ot0Y7Yt.png)
Unfortunately for Taungu, our new monarch is an adult and totally capable of waging war.
There will be hell to pay!
-
What if we consolidate all of our loans into one big, easier to manage loan?
t. Royal treasurer's last words
-
023: A New Direction for the Ship of State
(https://i.imgur.com/QM4ll2E.png)
We are the mighty Qing.
And the Kingdom of Taungu is going to be destroyed!
They will pay for assassination of our previous monarch.
(https://i.imgur.com/NfEhq55.png)
There is only one land battle in the entire war, and that is the Battle of Kyaukse.
Once defeated, Taungu armies are annihilated in the hills of Hsenwi, in the northeast.
(https://i.imgur.com/cTOxmAt.png)
In the far north, in Siberia, the Sibir Khanate goes to war.
Whilst besieging by angry peasants.
We will assimilate these lands into Qin as well.
(https://i.imgur.com/wcvcAVQ.png)
In the past few years, we've been spammed with these quite often, at least 2-3 per year!
It's all good, and the frequency is due to all the Grain-producing provinces we have.
(https://i.imgur.com/ZXCG9F2.png)
Taungu was halved in its size.
Tibetans had a core on Brahmaputra, but that's okay.
In ten years from now, we shall eradicate the vile Taungu from the map.
(https://i.imgur.com/O8m0KNh.png)
Well we can't have the Green Banners, so at least we can have Green Cavalry!
It has excellent marks in all three stats, too.
If only our infantry was as good.
(https://i.imgur.com/unxytpL.png)
We're not sure if that is a good thing or not.
If our administration is so behind that people build things out of boredom?
Nah, we're fine.
(https://i.imgur.com/CuX2DWp.png)
With the Sibir nomads conquered and their Muslim population on the way to adopt Confucianism, we once again try to get Visayas colonized.
We've got plenty of money and plenty of colonists, let's go!
(https://i.imgur.com/1Snks6c.png)
As a precaution, this time we've sent one of the colonial regiments to Visayas, but the natives fell upon them like rabid dogs.
Well, what's to say? Visayas colony will no longer have a native problem.
(https://i.imgur.com/RSXW55x.png)
As you can see here, we're going deep into infrastructure expansion.
So many of our provinces lack Courthouses, Level 2 Forts or even Workshops!
We're a giant blob of minimal economy and lackluster stability. That's got to change.
(https://i.imgur.com/cfxSYn7.png)
Consolidating our Empire, we absorb Sukhotai via a sacred mission.
It gave us cores on 2 Sukhotai provinces! Four others will now produce rebels to annoy us till end of the game. D'oh!
Sukhotai Banner will be created to maintain peace in the lands of our ex-vassal.
(https://i.imgur.com/bTjfbyM.png)
Blessed Taizu, heir to the throne of Qing, is struck down by the Heavens!
Nothing came out of prayers, and it seems they even hastened his demise.
(https://i.imgur.com/1UkVfxC.png)
Despite our Western educational system and administration, we're so behind in some techs (Production and Trade especially), we need to do something about it.
Hopefully the ideas of Scientific Revolution being spread around the Qing Empire will do.
Also, it came to the notice of the Emperor, that we still haven't paid off that one loan. We gotta tighten our purses, everybody!
(https://i.imgur.com/iJqwCSZ.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/jgJKYhv.png)
The dynasty of Aisin Gioro has come to a brutal end!
The State Ministers at Beijing have killed Emperor Jiaqing IV and installed their leader, Qianlong Udige, as the new ruler.
Long live the Udige! Long live the Qing Empire!
Under new leadership we shall tidy up our internal problems and new peace shall come upon the Middle Kingdom!
(https://i.imgur.com/zBhR7el.png)
Emperor's first edict brings execution's sword upon the heads of hardline Aisin Gioro loyalists.
This includes 2 out of 3 Great Courtiers. We replace them with a Marshal (to strengthen our legitimacy) and a Banker (to curb interest rate on our loan).
(https://i.imgur.com/YSGXwae.png)
Next, we deal with our outstanding economy problems.
The solution is simple yet brilliant. We cut down maintenance across the board (especially military), and start minting coins.
A lot of them. Emperor Qianlong also curbs down people's freedoms, pushing the slider away from Free Subjects to Serfdom.
This should hasten restoration of our Stability in these dark times.
(https://i.imgur.com/Ka3dn19.png)
A heir is born to the throne of Qing!
And peasants rebel across Indochina and Japan. Fortunately, while our economy might be weak, the Banners are not.
(https://i.imgur.com/IiCi5yj.png)
Our austerity measures and suppression of free thought does not sit well with some.
Oh well, in time of chaos there's always some villages that need to burn.
This teaches the peasantry some valuable lessons.
(https://i.imgur.com/MSUM0GX.png)
"Socialism? What under all Heaven is Socialism!? How dare they upset the natural way of things!"
Emperor Qianlong was furious and ordered that everyone identifying as 'Socialist' is to be executed by sword.
(https://i.imgur.com/TGfq3Og.png)
Including the brother of our Emperor!
Harsh law is still law, and making an exception would make us weak.
(https://i.imgur.com/eey2kIh.png)
The final proof that the Aisin Gioro dynasty was ineffectual.
The implemented reforms of Emperor Qianlong has borne fruit - our Stability is rising, and our loan is repaid!
(https://i.imgur.com/ICYjWY8.png)
Mongol uprising almost succeeds.
They hold onto Ordos plains for about two weeks before arrival of the Second Banner.
It then storms their main city, ending the Mongol rebellion in five days.
(https://i.imgur.com/4mD7eNd.png)
Meanwhile, our diplomats in the West report that the Holy Roman Empire, led by Burgundian King, had changed its form.
Apparently, priviledge of autonomous rule was revoked.
That does not bother Emperor Qianlong - politics of barbarians are not much of our concern.
(https://i.imgur.com/1wMkuVW.png)
During his sickness, in which he delegated some of his duties to aristocrats, Emperor Qianlong declined the implementation of national security program.
"We will be fine", he was heard saying, echoing the words of the failed dynasty of Aisin Gioro.
This does not sit well with his ministers, but they of course follow the Emperor's orders.
(https://i.imgur.com/UZOX0sV.png)
The rebellious Assamese finally broke free from the oppressive rule of Taungu!
We offered them coins and treaties and they accepted to become our vassals.
Emperor Qianlong is smart - Assam has several cores within Bihar territories that we could help them retake in exchange for prestige and loot.
(https://i.imgur.com/tbn9L59.png)
And so, we begin a new war. The war plan is simple:
Eighth Banner will strike through Tibet into Bihar proper, while Sukhotai Banner and our vassals will capture Assamese-populated lands.
Within a year or mayhaps two, the war will be concluded in our favor.
(https://i.imgur.com/W6Akent.png)
As was written before, happened now.
We will give Assam its provinces one by one in the coming month.
(https://i.imgur.com/FexMQ9R.png)
Guangzhou trade center gives us 950+ ducats of income. Time for a split!
We put the new center of trade in Moulmein, once belonging to our vassal, the Sukhotai.
(https://i.imgur.com/h4rmn0y.png)
If there are still any Aisin Gioro supporters, surely this changes their minds.
Our economy was restored, peace was instituted, and good events bless the Udige dynasty.
Times couldn't be better.
-
Blessed Burgundian HRE
Also to be fair on the workshop peasants, there's not much to do in Eastern Siberia, even under the heavenly auspices of the Qing dynasty
-
024: Da Ching
(https://i.imgur.com/KclYmYF.png)
We are the mighty Qing.
And our dominion reaches from Siberian forests to the islands of Kuril and Guam.
(https://i.imgur.com/C2wyFYn.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/pVhCXqZ.png)
All that was to be colonized, has been colonized, either by us or by Europeans.
We replace Colonial Ventures and Land of Opportunity ideas with two mercantile ones.
After all, we own several centres of trade, we ought to get best profits out of them.
(https://i.imgur.com/VBi9xg6.png)
This in turn allows us to further strengthen our grip on these trade centers of ours.
We will be seeking further centralization of mercantile power.
(https://i.imgur.com/CnsdOZ2.png)
We ought to prevent hostile takeover by Socialist thought.
And that means we stick to traditional ways of architecture and aesthetics.
(https://i.imgur.com/nvCSKEC.png)
With help of a skilled Zhongyou Nurhaci, we can push through an agricultural reform.
From small, family-owned farms, to big tea, spice and rice plantations!
(https://i.imgur.com/7vWEigv.png)
Boundary disputes over land?
Serve us nothing more but distractions for our powerful armies.
(https://i.imgur.com/jsugqG8.png)
Our people will surely appreciate if we wrap our iron fist with a silk fabric.
Some loosening of central control will help our stability, too.
(https://i.imgur.com/hmhwnEm.png)
Even children of the Udige are bright and smart.
Truly showcases how Qing Empire is both powerful and enlightened!
(https://i.imgur.com/Vc2ewAv.png)
Ours is the Empire so delightful that even the savage Japanese people finally gave up on independence.
All of the Eastern Islands are truly part of our domain!
(https://i.imgur.com/7umZUUv.png)
Occassional, and only minor, disturbances, are swiftly dealt with.
And we kindly remind Taungu that our retribution is not yet complete.
(https://i.imgur.com/V6gWBQ4.png)
There are some that question the legitimacy of Ugide dynasty.
They are removed from our soil, swiftly and permamently.
(https://i.imgur.com/V7UqhPl.png)
Socialists keep trying to have a voice.
We crush them without difficulty.
(https://i.imgur.com/y0JOR93.png)
Those who wrong us, suffer.
Mostly annexations and vassaliship.
(https://i.imgur.com/6bMouTE.png)
And even if there are certain wrongs in the world...
(https://i.imgur.com/bXljAHD.png)
...we continue to remain strong.
(https://i.imgur.com/2J3ufM6.png)
Of course, there's occassional changes on the Jade Throne.
But that's okay, as long as the legitimacy is upheld.
(https://i.imgur.com/2XMO9ig.png)
For we are the Qing! We're 2nd?? Who the fuck dares!?
(https://i.imgur.com/tlXKlJa.png)
And we're the greatest!
-
Is that quantum hyperspace protestant pope?
-
No idea.