A Reforged World (NO SV, You are King of Italy, in a Greatly Changed World)

The Rumor Mill 4
The Rumor Mill 4:

Macheveli:D100 => 1

"Is he here?" He looked to one of his apprentices, his biographer as he wrote. The Priest was trying to give him last rites, but Macheveli did not care for theatrics or pleasantries of religion, at least from a man who was not a friend.

"Please, he will not be here! I ask you to take the rites, save your soul from damnation." The Priest begged, but Macheveli only waved him away. "So you may see him when you greet him in heaven."

"Hell awaits me, for what I have done, and I do not believe anything on earth can help me. But Heaven awaits Him, for his goodness." He said.

He looked to his biographer. "Write this down quickly, before I leave this mortal coil. I want to make sure he gets all of it."

Hours passed, even days… but Macheveli knew it was important. Nay, revolutionary.

He then coughed… knowing it was the end. "Did I play the part well Luciano?" He whispered, and the scrawling stopped. "My son?"

"I think you have." His apprentice said quietly. Dammit, he wished his son was here. To not let him be alone with a man, who was never going to be his equal.

Octavian… Augustus destroyed the Republic. Destroyed a dream that he himself gave up on for a United Italy.

But Macheveli admitted one thing. Augustus had a fine choice of final words.

"Time to applaud for my exit." He said. Whether it be heaven or hell, it would not matter.

He would dream of a better world in his final moments. Better than Heaven promised, or maybe, he would be there.

And he closed his eyes and embraced eternity.

Reward: Nicciolo Macheveli is dead. His legacy is touted, and legendary. A single man, who through will and fortune, unified Italy.

Legacy Score: 500,000: Widely considered the master of politics, a man who could prosper in any era. You are a titan that all political men and women will aspire to be. And above all else, you leave behind a nation that will now struggle to outlive you.

But you have faith, even in your final days… That Italy will survive without you.

New Action available.
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Isabella of Austria:D100 => 68

As she looked to her son, she held him tight and allowed herself to nurse him. And it was something she did not expect. Expecting something that she never felt in her short life.

She felt truly afraid that she needed to be better not for her husband or her father. But for her son.

Because holding him in her arms, she did not see anything, no ambition, no secrets. Not a single thing that she had known her entire life.

And he was her's. Not to mold, to turn into anything…

But to love.

Reward: Isabella has realized something, that has only been gnawing at the back of her mind. She wants to love her son. To support him in whatever he desires. And she will do everything she can to do that.
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Rome: 94+5=99+D100 + 5 => 88

Rome rallies not to the Pope for spiritual guidance. Because there is a need for His word and the words of the Popes.

But now is not the time for anything. This is a time for when ITaly will be forged again. This time forever.

Perhaps it may be lost.

But they learned one thing from the great inventor who was their king.

"Better to be together in progress, than masters of nothing."

Reward: Rome begins to do more than inhale a new breath.

New Action available.
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Florence:D100 => 85
Milan:D100 => 37

Meanwhile, in Florence, the Opportunity to make money off of war is sniffed, and Italian Bankers rush to every corner of Europe, hedging their bets and making deals with anyone they think can turn them a profit.

Though it seems that even with a central bank, some rouge bankers, from Milan, have invested money into France, to give the Emperor more money to field troops, and buy weapons… though not Italian ones, given the Troops at the border.

But even though, there is an opportunity that any man would be insane not to take.

Reward: Florence begins to invest heavily in all sides of the war, to make a killing on who might be the victor. Even keeping a large sum ready to lend to the Kingdom of Italy.

Meanwhile, French bankers in Milan begin lending illegal sums of money to the French… traitors. But they fled with much of their assets back to France. Somehow.
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Venice:D100 => 50

The sisters of the academy begin to beat the sounds and drums of war.

Classes are expanded. Sailors are trained in small maneuvers. Captains, big and small, merchant or navy men, are given orders from the Doge.

War is coming, and we will win it.

Reward: Venice prepares. For War, so that it may live in peace.
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Naples:D100 => 79

The riots were put down with pike and shot. Cannon and bluster.

They could feed the mouths of the hungry, the ill, and the poor if there was order.

Order was restored… though there are quite a few fewer mouths to feed.

And even great Duke Cosmo knows that to be harsh invites rebellion. So he does his patriotic duty to the state.

He gives many rioters, the men at least a choice.

The Mines, or the Army.

Most choose the Army.

Reward: Naples's food situation is sorted, though with a heavy-handed approach that is unpopular, and some say, illegal.

And Duke Cosmo has indeed done his duty to fill out the ranks of the Army. "They are the scum of the earth." He says.

"But they are our scum."
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Sicily:D100 => 56

All they see is profits from sulfur and saltpeter. Guns and gunpowder.
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Greece:D100 => 86

The Knights of Rhodes, and many of the men who are now… substantially part of the Italian Army, have formed their own battalions and regiments, to fight beside, but not part, of this Italian struggle.

They hold no love for the King, at least fully, as many others do.

But they have hatred for the Heathan and the Heretic.

Fighting with Italians will do.

Reward: Seasoned Knights join the Italian Army, and prepare to defend Italy. Though not part of the chain of command. Something that irks many of the officers of the Army.
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The Army:D100 => 92+5+D100 => 76+5

The army made progress on their fortifications, and are making quite some good time. It's enough for now. Even as the French watch their every move, and look for any weaknesses.

Because that is their life now. They are the first, and some would say, the last line of defense for Italy.

Reward: The Fortifications will be finished one turn ahead of schedule (next turn)
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The Navy:D100 => 1+5+5=11

Corsairs. Pirates.

French. That were some of the few words that managed to reach the admiralty, or the academies from couriers and commanders.

They were pirates, privateers hired by the French, giving them a blanket to hide their involvement.

But the fleet is scattered and disorganized.

But the command was never broken. There is a plan. Many plans are in place for this scenario.

They have orders. Training. Time… And above all else, purpose.

The French made a mistake. And by God, they would reap the whirlwind of their misfortune.

The sea would run red with blood.

Reward: The Italian Navy was scattered, and spread out all through Italy.

But they are about to come in for round two.
 
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Reward: Nicciolo Macheveli is dead. His legacy is touted, and legendary. A single man, who through will and fortune, unified Italy.

Legacy Score: 500,000: Widely considered the master of politics, a man who could prosper in any era. You are a titan that all political men and women will aspire to be. And above all else, you leave behind a nation that will now struggle to outlive you.
Goodbye Machiavelli. The republic you dreamed of will exist someday, but for now, take solace in the better world you left behind.
Doesn't our admiral add +20 so long as he lives?
Reward: Florence begins to incest heavily in all sides of the war, to make a killing on who might be the victor. Even keeping a large sum ready to lend to the Kingdom of Italy.
... Lend us money? The wealthiest nation in the world, currently exporting the world's most desired resources in this time of war? Our bankers are halfwits.
Reward: Seasoned Knights join the Italian Army, and prepare to defend Italy. Though not part of the chain of command. Something that irks many of the officers of the Army.
Better than nothing.
 
Doesn't our admiral add +20 so long as he lives?
Normally I would have said yes.

However, France rolled bullshit. Not to kill him, but to make him lose contact, cutting it in half, to that 10.

Please note this... if the navy rolls well, France is about to get an ass-whooping that will be sung about in the annals of Navel history for all time.
... Lend us money? The wealthiest nation in the world, currently exporting the world's most desired resources in this time of war? Our bankers are halfwits.
But they are our halfwits. :V
 
But they are our halfwits.
Our bankers are halfwits.
Yes, and that's why I said Our Bankers are halfwits, Rather than "These bankers are halfwits."
Please note this... if the navy rolls well, France is about to get an ass-whooping that will be sung about in the annals of Navel history for all time.
Well let's hope that works out. Of course, we could always give them orders again. It worked last time.
 
The Navy:D100 => 1+5+5=11

Corsairs. Pirates.

French. That were some of the few words that managed to reach the admiralty, or the academies from couriers and commanders.

They were pirates, privateers hired by the French, giving them a blanket to hide their involvement.

But the fleet is scattered and disorganized.

But the command was never broken. There is a plan. Many plans are in place for this scenario.

They have orders. Training. Time… And above all else, purpose.

The French made a mistake. And by God, they would reap the whirlwind of their misfortune.

The sea would run red with blood.

Reward: The Italian Navy was scattered, and spread out all through Italy.

But they are about to come in for round two.
[/QUOTE]
huh. You know, seeing how we found french heraldry on corsair ships last quest, this makes to much sense. But at least that could mean that ottomans could join out of spite that their corsairs allies ditched them for the french of all people.
 
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huh. You know, seeing how we found french deladry on corsair ships last quest, this makes to much sense. But at least that could mean that ottomans could join of spite that their corsairs allies ditched them for the french of all people.
I think these are new people, brought from elsewhere and promised a chance to raid the now Uber rich from steel production Italian cities.
 
And Duke Cosmo has indeed done his duty to fill out the ranks of the Army. "They are the scum of the earth." He says.

"But they are our scum."

Italian Sharpe is coming? Didn't know Duke of Wellington is cosplaying as Cosmo.

Reward: Seasoned Knights join the Italian Army, and prepare to defend Italy. Though not part of the chain of command. Something that irks many of the officers of the Army.

The Jedi Order in a Nutshell
 
Reward: Nicciolo Macheveli is dead. His legacy is touted, and legendary. A single man, who through will and fortune, unified Italy.

Legacy Score: 500,000: Widely considered the master of politics, a man who could prosper in any era. You are a titan that all political men and women will aspire to be. And above all else, you leave behind a nation that will now struggle to outlive you.

But you have faith, even in your final days… That Italy will survive without you.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVII6kUfcQ0&t=29s

:cry::cry::cry:


"May God grant me these last wishes: Peace and prosperity for Italy and her people."
-Not Machiavelli's actual last words, but I am sure the sentiment was there

Rest in peace, Father of Italy.
We will make sure that your dream lives on. That, we swear.

Con onore e dovere. Gloria all'Italia.
 
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Book 4: Chapter 5: Over the Hill
Book 4: Chapter 5: Over the Hill
Where the King Goes to War with himself and tries to rule without his mentor.

"Luciano,

If you are reading this letter, then I have met the creator, and my time on this earth is at an end. Before you proceed, know that I have arranged my affairs well in advance of my demise. While several individuals will inherit books and property, I intentionally haven't left you with any material possessions, as I have already imposed a significant burden upon you. Nevertheless, for the sake of your old master, I implore you to accept one more responsibility—one more burden—before witnessing my final rest.

Throughout the years, I have amassed valuable information about the French Nobles, with whom we may soon find ourselves at war. Among them, I've discovered a General who could potentially tip the scales in our favor.

Astor Lefvbre, stationed as a captain in Marseille, is an engineer and one of the few architects of the last decade whom I genuinely believe, had it not been for French cowardice, could have elevated the army to modern standards. It is imperative that you eliminate this man before he is recalled to the French Court.

I am convinced, with good reason, that the only reason he continues to fight for his king is due to his unwavering loyalty to God, surpassing that to the King. Given that the King has transformed into a temporal power seeking to usurp the throne of Saint Peter, this loyalty might pose a significant problem.

His removal would divert France's attention elsewhere and hinder their progress in the war. If their foolish king realizes it…

No, I cannot leave this letter without acknowledging the weight of political intrigue it carries.

No...

I am proud of you, my son. Proud that you have embraced the duty I thrust upon you and illuminated it not only as a pathway to the future, demonstrating that a republican dream can coexist even with a monarch at the helm but also as a testament to your courage in the face of danger. The Danger I placed you in. I have often questioned whether my victories, achieved with perhaps excessive boldness, placed you in unnecessary jeopardy. Yet, you have shown me that the world can evolve for the better through science, engineering, and sheer determination.

In my pride and arrogance, I hope that my choices and mistakes do not lead you into trouble or foster resentment towards me.

May God be with you, Luciano. And when we meet again, I hope that it will be with happiness, than sadness.

Niccolo.


The tears in the letter and on the paper did not go unnoticed by you.

But you only folded it away and prayed.
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Actions taken:
-[X] The Italian Northern Defenses Act: Fortifications in the North is seen to be outdated against the now Modern type of Siege warfare through cannons. The Prime Minister, Octavian, recommends the official positioning of Border Security through revitalization of the Fortifications in addition to new Forts developed at Strategic positioning with upgrades (such as the addition of Cannons to the forts) and changes to previous designs to make the Fortress less likely to break down against Cannon fire. (Finishes this turn)

Governmental Action:

You have 3 government actions.

[]Assasination for National Interest: You will kill the man who has made your mentor so scared. DC: ??? Reward: Your government carries out an assassination.

[]How to Industrialize Faster: You are going to talk to your ministers and ask them a simple question. Can they build your designs faster? DC: ??? Reward: Can they?

[]The Generals Worry: You need to look at the General's plans, and find out what they will do if War is declared… when it's declared. DC: ??? Reward: You see the Plan.

[]Guns of Patriots: Beretta has come to you, asking for a royal subsidy for a year, to pay for the excess arms that they are going to produce for the Army. DC: 50 Reward: Beretta increases production.

[]I Am not Afraid: The Emperor of the HRE, the new one, has come to you… and he is not happy with anything he sees. DC: ??? Reward: Not this shit again.

[]And Out Came A Madman: Senator Octavian is a strange man. But you honestly didn't expect him to do that for DC: 0 Reward: Octavian gives one helluva speech.

[] The French Connection: The French Ambassador has come to Rome to deliver something to you. You don't like it. DC: 20 Reward: The French are the French.

[]Forign Diplomatic Adventures: You are to send diplomats out and about to make sure that the interests of Italy are respected. DC: ?? Reward: You see what is to be done. (Linetail what you want to do diplomatically)

[]Ordering the Navy: You have the most powerful navy in the world. You can use it as you see fit. So you will see it. DC:??? Reward: You use the Navy to enforce your diplomatic will. (Linetail what you want them to do)

[]Invest in the Future: You want to invest in your country, and there are a few ways you can do that (Write in what you want to invest in) DC: ??? Reward: You invest in the nation (Linetail what you want to invest in below this action as a line tail)

[]The New World: You want to plan a new world Expedition. DC: 40/80 Reward: You begin the Planning phases of a New World Expedition.

[]Take Command: You are going to the Army and take command of the Defense of Italy. DC: 0 Reward: You take command.

Personal Actions:

You have 3 actions.

[]Niccolo: You look at your son and held him tight. DC: 0 Reward: Fluff.

[]Aftermath: Isabella was quite happy. "You know despite a war going on, I can't say you've been happier." DC: ??? Reward: Fluff

[]The Prince: You are going to learn from your master's book, and see what wisdom you can gleam. DC: 55 Reward: you learn how to be a Prince of a nation.

[]Of God and Command: Your Master was not just a diplomat without peers, but he is a commander of men, and while he is not as seasoned as other commanders in Italy, he does have immaculate organizational skills. God Why is he gone leaving you alone. DC: 25 Reward: You learn how to command men, and to be a leader.

[]The Keys of State Craft: Your master wanted you to learn the fine arts of making friends and allies. Even if it means you abhor them. He's smiling while you do this. DC: 40 Reward: You learn the fine arts of diplomacy.

[]The Law of the Land: You need to learn how this new constitution works. And that means doing other things. Like learning how laws work. DC: 40 Reward: You learn more about the law.

[]The New Nobility: You want to meet the new courtiers. AKA the people you know will be wishing to be parasites to the state. DC: 30 Reward: You talk to the new courtiers.

[]Innovate or Die: You are the greatest engineer alive. Perhaps you can come up with something. DC:??? Reward: You invent something (Must line tail what you wish to invent below this action, can be taken multiple times)

[]To Design a Better Gun (Firing mechanism): You have an idea to make the Design better, and now all you need to do is put it to paper and try it out. DC: ??? Reward: You make the gun better.

[]To Design a Better Gun (Reload Speed): You have an idea to make the Design better, and now all you need to do is put it to paper and try it out. DC: ??? Reward: You make the gun better.

[]To Design a Better Gun (Manufacturing): You have an idea to make the Design better, and now all you need to do is put it to paper and try it out. DC: ??? Reward: You make the gun better. For yourself to make it that is.

[]To Design a Better Gun (Cannons): Your field battery is not the best, you know it, your navy knows it, and your army knows it.

[]To Design a Better Gun (Cannons, Ammunition): You want to see if you can make a better cannon shot. Reward: You make the explosive better.

AN: Plan format.
 
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Okay. Now, with that established...
I am convinced, with good reason, that the only reason he continues to fight for his king is due to his unwavering loyalty to God, surpassing that to the King. Given that the King has transformed into a temporal power seeking to usurp the throne of Saint Peter, this loyalty might pose a significant problem.
This seems to me like Machiavelli trying to tell us that we might be able to get this guy to defect to us, but I'm not seeing an Action for it. Does anyone have any suggestions?
 
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