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

[Magoose]

The Protestant Reformation rolls:

The Protestant Reformation:D100 + 30 => 92
D100 + 30 => 102
D100 + 30 => 110
D100 + 30 => 103
D100 + 30 => 91
D100 + 30 => 88

Martin Luthor has nailed the 95 Thesis to his church doors. He wanted to change the Church for the better.

Now he has created something that will make Europe Burn!

The Nations that become Protestant with this thesis:

Italy:D100 => 48 (Stay catholic)
Scandinavia: D100 => 63 (Became Protestant)
France: D100 => 95+D100 => 84 (Became Protestant)
England:D100 => 52 (Became Protestant)
Scotland: D100 => 50 (Stayed Catholic)
Ireland: D100 => 35 (Will never stop being Catholic)
SpainD100 => 37 (Wil never stop being catholic)
North Germany: D100 => 69 (Became protestant)
Brandenburg Prussia:D100 => 65 (Become Protestant)
Austria:D100 => 47 (Stay Catholic)
Bavaria: D100 => 44 (Stay Catholic)
The Low Countries:D100 => 65 (Become Protestant)

AN: France just went protestant.

You may now panic.

 

[Magoose]

The Rumor Mill 3:

Macheveli:D100 => 98+D100 => 92+D100 => 3

The Old Fox of Florence was smiling at many things that he saw. But first he smiled the most at… Senator Octavian. Now First Minister, in all but name, if only because of his situation, and his need to be approved. But that would take only a little bit of time.

"Your… Student will accept my position." He stated.

"Of course he will." The fox said as he laid back in his bed, writing down another line for his book. "Yet I know your ambitions and do not mistake my fear for disapproval. But I am going to tell you the same thing that I told many others when they sought my counsel. Be very careful about trying to change something that will take time."

"Time is on my side. And the People are on my side!" Octavian smiled. "You are growing too worried about-"

"I know what I am. And I am not worried for you, more my student. He understands the need for change. But he also knows that he cannot do it without a great deal of support, of time. As you said yourself, time is on your side."

"But-"

"But." The fox smiled. "First minister Travoli, for all his flaws, was excellent at making the people of Italy, and the Senate, view his reforms, and revitalizations… as something tolerable to both the nobility and to the People. Find that balance, and you will have a great deal of success."

"I don't need balance, I need-"

"You can. And you will." He stated. "Now leave me, I need to finish this chapter."

Reward: The Old Fox has still got it, and is mentoring the next generation of Italian statesmen.

Octavian will have to take that lesson to heart.
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Isabella of Austria:D100 => 74

The doctors were not giving bad news. "A healthy baby is on the way your grace." The doctor said as she leaned back in bed. "Though I advise bed rest and a-"

Isabella was getting quite bored. "I want to ride a horse. Or failing that, do something interesting than sit on my ass and do nothing."

The Doctor was not amused. "Your grace, you are pregnant with the heir to the kingdom, and it is imperative that you-"

Isabella pulled out one of the pistols that her husband gave her. "Say that one more time, and I will shoot your fucking hand off! Now get me out of this damn bed. I want to do something that isn't sitting on my ass!"

Reward: You have rubbed off on her. She sees that activity and doing things are the way to go, and will do things, as best she can.

Also, despite everything, you have given her something that she never thought she would have.

Freedom.
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Rome:D100 => 99+D100 => 64

It started with the lack of sickness in the winter. That was simple people believed what they wanted. Even the Pope was happy that it was the case, God's Blessing on the world and city.

But then it became something more.

And all could see that Rome was beginning to turn to Marble again. Money from merchants, from nobles, from churchgoers.

Rome breathed in, and out for the first time in centuries, on its own. Wealth came in, not for the Church, but to the City itself.

It breathed and the world would see the Center of the Christian world… begin again.

Reward: Begin the Rebirth of Rome.

Every Rumor mill, +5 to Rome.

If it gets to 1000… A miracle will happen.
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Florence:D100 => 55

The city of your birth sees many new opportunities that may seem impossible before.

But they have seen you rise to the occasion.

And they will do it too.

Reward: Florence is trying to expand and see new opportunities to make money.
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Venice:D100 => 91+D100 => 48

Venice has secured another grand contract from the Italian government, and the Navy. 20 ships for combating pirates and a grave threat to the world.

The seas need to be protected. Or all will falter.
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Naples:D100 => 29

Bread riots and protests. There is nothing more to be said. The city is hungry, and the citizens have taken up arms. Many of the government officials have fled to the city, and there are many things… that will need to be done.

While it is simmering, and chaos is not bubbling to the surface… it can burn.
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Sicily:D100 => 85

Sicily has seen a boom in its sulfur mines, and its trade. Sicilian merchants travel the world for fun and profit.

And soon, Sicily would see more than anything… development.
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The Army: D100 + 10 => 90+D100 + 10 => 110+D100 + 10 => 90+D100 + 10 => 99+D100 + 10 => 48

It was high time, the Army got what it deserved.

But instead of being humiliated by the Navy Again, The Army got to training.

The Officers, many of them former mercenaries, set down roots in Milan, a place where the Army had gravitated for it's size and stress at the barracks.

And they got to training.

The soldiers gathered for their drilling and training… got to training.

It was a manner of professionalism. They would earn their respect from the government and from the rest of Europe.

Reward: Oh god the Army is training and they are awesome, and… going to be a hammer that will strike at any who attack Italy.

The Navy:D100 + 20 => 52

The Navy exists.

And that is enough to scare much of the world to think about their actions.


Carefully.

 

[Magoose]

Book 4: Chapter 1 A New Government
In which our Hero, meets his equal… in ambition to change the world.​

Senator, Now First Minister Octavious, or Octavian, as he is called by everyone else, was a known figure all over Rome. He was the proprietor of the Times New Roman, possibly one of the most important institutions that has sprung up since the Unification.

It's slowly reaching all of Italy. You knew it was a weekly paper that was only produced once a week because of a lack of availability. Yet he made do with several long articles from anything from fashion, politics, economics, and even Inventions. It was fascinating.

Yet you also knew the man as a radical, with many warning you that he had plans. A great deal of plans to shake up Italy at the foundations, with very long lists and plans that would take years to see to fruition.

Yet here, he sat, a smile on his face, and you could not read it. "First Minister." You said.

He smiled. "Your majesty." He kissed the ring before he sat down across from you. "I won't be… playing a game with you sir. You know what I want. What I plan to do."

"Correct." You replied. "And while I support you in all ways that I am allowed. I will say my hesitation to publicly support this."

He nodded. "Correct."

You gave a nod. "Shall we begin?"
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The Reforms of Octavian: These Reforms are the brainchild of Octavian, a man who wishes to do away with the backwardness of the nation.

All Reforms will take 4 turns, or more if rolls are low.
(Choose 1)

[] The Octavian Electives Schooling: Believing an addition could be developed for the creation of a new field of Study that would benefit Italy as a whole for the future. Octavian approaches the Parliament with the proposal of a collection of Elective Classes for Students to attend on their own choice compared to Mandatory Subjects. The Following would be accounted as Electives: Economics (Championed by Octavian as a worthy Field of Study with the creation of a book dedicated to its current history to learn from, and a guidance plan towards utilising real examples and allows the Students to explore and receive help when they request for it), Engineering, Political Studies, Medical Sciences (Championed by Octavian as another field of study to approach, inviting Medical Experts that has the desire of teaching to..well teach), Chemical Sciences (Proposed by Octavian as a result to His Majesty's innovation and creation of a field of Study).
[] The Octavian Economics Field of Study: Believing an addition could be developed for the creation of a new field of Study that would benefit Italy as a whole for the future. Octavian approaches the Parliament with the proposal of an additional class on the basis he dubs "Economics" -- The Study of the concept of "Wealth". He also introduces a Book that collects all past economics-related notes, thought processes, and how it would've been practiced.
[] The Italian Agriculture Land and Farmer's Reform Phase One: Senator Octavian proposes a beginning to a set of phases that would amount towards a solution to the "Serfdom Question". Phase One focuses towards surveying the lands across Italy, preferably in the lands that would be open to Senator Octavian's Project, and begin the creations of Serf-Towns and Farms, along with the creation of the Serf-Town's Budget.
[] The Italian Army Revitalisation Act: Noting that the Army is currently in dire straits, Senator Octavian proposes the creation of a staff of Army Officials to coordinate in a cooperative effort towards the Reformation of the Army from every operation possible (Training, Logistic Supply, Strategic Decisions, Doctrines, Finances, Information, Battle-Readiness, etc.), an enlarged Budget is established to the Army to see the reforms done, and to employ and actively encourage new officers to have a voice in the Italian Army Reform Staff.
[] The Italian Northern Defenses Act: Fortifications in the North are seen to be outdated against the now Modern type of Siege warfare through cannons. The Prime Minister, Randio Travioli, recommends the official positioning of Border Security through revitalisation 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.
[] The Italian Agency for Infrastructure and Public Works: Senator Octavian proposes the expansion of the Da Vinci System of Road Maintenance to be expanded into a Government Agency with an added focus on other necessary infrastructure works with an effort towards: Maintenance, Upgrades, and Construction. Civilians can request service of the agency via payment to act as a renovation and construction company. This Company would also be accounted as a Crown Corporation with its leadership being a position chosen by His Majesty the King under further notice.
[] The Royal Coal and Iron Company: A Scheme that Octavian proposes to have both Iron and Coal mines and the land near it under one directive under the Government's control of the production of those resources. This Company would also be accounted as a Crown Corporation with its leadership being a position chosen by His Majesty the King under further notice.
[] The Royal Steel Mill Company: A Scheme that Senator Octavian proposes to begin investing towards creating Italy's first Steel Production Plant that utilises the Luciano Processes as a way of producing Steel on a larger scale. This Company would also be accounted as a Crown Corporation with its leadership being a position chosen by His Majesty the King under further notice.
[] The Royal Sicilian Sulphur Company: Senator Octavian, seeing the up-coming costs of ammunition in the form of blackpowder, proposes the official creation of a Company based in Sicily in excavating Sulphur for the production of blackpowder. This Company would also be accounted as a Crown Corporation with its leadership being a position chosen by His Majesty the King under further notice.
[] The Saltpeter Collection Act: With the scarcity of Saltpeter compared to Sulphur is a major stopping point towards Black Powder production, with the only source belonging to the HRE and the Syrians, Senator Octavian proposes a scheme dictating to farmers who can source Saltpeter, to be paid money if the material is given to the Government.
[] The Royal Firearms and Ammunition Company: Senator Octavian proposes a radical change towards the production of weapons and ammunition, rather than relying on grumbling gunsmiths, he suggests the creation of a Royal Company, owned by the Government, towards producing Firearms, cartridges, and ammunition of the weapons in a specialised building. This Company would also be accounted as a Crown Corporation with its leadership being a position chosen by His Majesty the King under further notice. Since the Grazini Company is already acting as the Royal Firearms company, it will take on its name.
[] The Royal Engines Company: Senator Octavian proposes the creation of a specialised building dedicated towards the creation of Steam Engines to increase the supply of the machinery to be bought in the Markets and used by other Industries when needed. This Company would also be accounted as a Crown Corporation with its leadership being a position chosen by His Majesty the King under further notice.

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Governmental Action:

You have 3 actions.

[]The Gunmakers of Italy: Besides yourself, and Beretta, there are other arms manufacturers that are trying to win contracts for the Italian Army. And you want to see what they are, and what they can give. DC: 40 Reward: You learn of Italy's growing Arms industry.

[]The Calls for Protection: You are hearing calls from the many bankers and Companies that wish for protectionist Tariffs on all Exports… A strange thing, but you will see if you can answer them. DC: ??? Reward: You see what those Tariffs can do, and see if they are stupid or not.

[]A Central Italian Bank: The Banking Class of Italy wants a Central Bank, not a decentralized system that currently works in Italy… where Florence, Milan, and Naples dominate. DC: ??? Reward: You see what is the fuss about a central bank.

[]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.

Personal Actions:

You have 3 actions.

[X]The Eagle: Ezio has returned and is back to the problem at hand. Trying to serve as a friend to a king. DC: 40 Reward: You meet Ezio again. (Autopasses this turn)

[]Child… and Children and So Much more: You are… surprised how quick and easy the birth was. DC: 0 Reward: You see your child.

[]Simple Moments Alone: Isabella cuddled up against you as you both took a moment to sit and watch the sun. "So… what now?" You asked. DC: ??? Reward: You and Isabella talk.

[]Retiernment: Macheveli is enjoying his retirement. But that does not mean you do not come to him for wisdom. DC: 0 Reward: You get Wisdom from your Old Master.

[]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 is 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. DC: 25 Reward: You learn how to command men, and to be a leader.

[]The Keys of State Craft: Your master wants you to learn the fine arts of making friends and allies. Even if it means you abhor them. 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.

[]The Diplomatic Situation: You need to know how the state is viewed by the Rest of Europe. DC: 40 Reward: You see the documents. And worry about progress.

[]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: Enjoy and vote in plan format please.

 

[Magoose]

Book 4 Chapter 2:
Things happen that make our hero happy​

-[X] The Italian Northern Defenses Act: Fortifications in the North are seen to be outdated against the now Modern type of Siege warfare through cannons. The Prime Minister, Randio Travioli, recommends the official positioning of Border Security through revitalisation 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. Rolled:D100 + 25 => 109+D100 + 25 => 78

Reaction From Other Nations:D100 => 2

First Minister Octavian's proclamation of the defenses to the borders was met with great applause from the Senate.

Milan's council, the city burger class had spent much of the first months of the First Minister's term… begging him to begin fortificatons. To secure the border from any aggressor.

The Northern Frontier has always been in a state of contention since Unification, with France, and the Empire laying claim to many territories that could be seen as their rightful territory.

To have them cut off. To have them all under Italian issues, where the lucrative trade of the wondrous Italian Florin no longer being under threat from Mercenaries and bandits and raiding armies looking to make a fortune…

To not have them in a state of flux would be disastrous, for the Emperor's prestige. For the King of France's new revolution on the Catholic world. A revolution that was taking shape in a way that would be devastating.

Where the church was sacked. Looted. Bowing down to the new Emperor of France, and his new clergy that preached that he was the true spiritual guide to the Christian world. Not the pope. And he had the Army to silence all who would stand against him.

The Army, the city's architects, and engineers were given a task that could not be stopped.

Italy would see itself safe.

Reward: Italy begins one of the most important fortification programs in its short history, spending untold millions of FLorins to build a line of fortifications along her northern boarders.

The Emperor of the Germans, in all but name, has protested and spoke that such actions will disrupt relationships that many could not come back from.

The New Emperor of France, the former King… has all but declared war. Declaring any Italian who enters his lands will be captured, for not only ransom but to convert to his Holy light.
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-[X] The Gunmakers of Italy: Besides yourself, and Beretta, there are other arms manufacturers that are trying to win contracts for the Italian Army. And you want to see what they are, and what they can give. DC: 40 Reward: You learn of Italy's growing Arms industry. Rolled:D100 + 25 => 62

It seems, in your absence of making guns, and… producing them… You have started a revolution.

Beretta has begun producing multi-barreled firearms like that special arm you made for Severin. Though heavy, and still using a wheel design, they are clearly functional, and popular weapons among local garrison troops, but not nearly as much as the regular army. Too heavy they said. But they were focused on heavy arms for accuracy, leisure, and for simple garrison work.

Another firearms corporation, Romulus Arms, was a designer of pistols, not unlike you before gaining a crown. But they were focused on making the single-shot, rapid-fire designs that had managed to somehow pass muster for the Italian Navy. Their "Regalia" Design was a single-shot, muzzle-loaded pistol, like many others. Yet it had a flintlock design, one of your own designs, and it was gaining popularity as rugged, reliable, and above all else, rapid fire. Sure it didn't have multiple barrels… but they didn't need it. Making them cheap, and popular.

And finally The Royal Arms Company, formally, the Grazini Firearms… was whatever the hell you wanted. Cannon. Rifles. Pistols. All were built to serve at your leisure and for your own designs. Them having you as its maker… well had a real royal stamp of approval. And they made anything that struck your fancy. Including arming the Army with simple designs. Though the army is rather sad that you have begun to turn away from the Wheel lock designs, to the cheaper, and more reliable flintlock mechanisms.

All are selling weapons quite a lot. Italian arms exports from other nations are seen as higher quality…

And all have a reputation of Excellence.

Though all know that you will make a cartridge design that will be cheap and effective… something that all firearms manufacturers are waiting to see. Because if it is… the possibilities are endless.

You had proven the concept well enough. But making it cheap… difficult.

Reward: Three large Italian Arms manufacturing corporations are in the Italian Arms industry. All produce high-quality weapons, for various uses.

And all are banking on you to push firearms and ammunition forward, as you have done before.
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-[X] A Central Italian Bank: The Banking Class of Italy wants a Central Bank, not a decentralized system that currently works in Italy… where Florence, Milan, and Naples dominate. DC: ??? Reward: You see what is the fuss about a central bank. Rolled:D100 + 25 => 36

You learned that the Banking families are demanding this new central bank to secure their assets. And won't take no for an answer.

Bare success: The Banking families are all about to band together to make their own central bank. And either you give them a charter, or they will do it themselves.

Giving them an incredible amount of power over Italy's fiscal policy.
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-[X] Foreign Diplomatic Adventures
--[X] Attempt to convince the pope to accompany Luciano on a trip to england to attempt to convert it's people back to Catholicism. When in negotiations with the Tudors, stress them of a need for a united alliance against Protestant France and of the many benefits of continued English friendship with Italy under the Catholic Church. Rolled:D100 + 25 => 42

To say the King of England did not approve… of this matter. He did not want the Italians interfering with the affairs of the Papacy.

But he did thank you for setting up the meeting.

Bare Failure: The English have shut you out from negotiations.

But they are negotiating with the Pope. (World Rumor mill update)
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-[X] The Eagle: Ezio has returned and is back to the problem at hand. Trying to serve as a friend to a king. DC: 40 Reward: You meet Ezio again. (Autopasses this turn) Rolled:D100 + 25 => 75

Ezio looked at you with a smile. "Well, brother. Sorry for being late."

He was covered in blood. "Can I see the kid?"

You were looking at his bloodied sword. "Oh sorry bout that. Seems that mercenaries wanted your child's head."

(Continued in An Heir)
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-[X]Child… and Children and So Much more: You are… surprised how quick and easy the birth was. DC: 0 Reward: You see your child. Rolled:D100 + 25 => 109+D100 + 25 => 121+D100 + 25 => 118+D100 + 25 => 117+D100 + 25 => 108+D100 + 25 => 41

An Heir is born, under auspicious signs.

Your child is not… normal, according to the priests, and the doctors. Too many signs point to too many questions than answers.

(Continued in: An Heir)
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-[X] The Keys of State Craft: Your master wants you to learn the fine arts of making friends and allies. Even if it means you abhor them. DC: 40 Reward: You learn the fine arts of diplomacy. Rolled:D100 + 25 => 57

You learned. Because you had to.

+1 to Charisma.
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-[X]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. Rolled:D100 + 85 => 180
D100 + 85 => 181
D100 + 85 => 142
D100 + 85 => 110
D100 + 85 => 159
D100 + 85 => 86

Breechloading was always something that you considered a fantasy. To load a shell into it was considered… well unheard of.

You didn't think you could do it.

But you still designed a cannon that could do it anyway. To soothe your curiosity.

And it worked.

Now all you needed was to make the ammunition cheaper.

Reward: You made a breechloading canon… a howitzer. Now if only you could make better ammunition.

 

[Magoose]

Interlude An Heir:

Isabella was going through her contractions and the midwife was speaking to you very… carefully. And it was infuriating. "For the love of god, speak to me like I'm a father, not a king." You stated as the midwife shook in fear. "I just want to know what I can do."

"Have you ever delivered a child before?" she asked.

"I'm certain it's not as difficult as creating new machines." You replied.

"That is where you are wrong, and I suspect you keep those thoughts to yourself." She stated. "A living child being born is not a machine you can create. And the signs she is showing mean this will be a difficult birth."

You frowned and sighed. "What can I do?"

"Allow us to work Your Grace. Allow us to work and keep her safe in this most precarious of positions." She said. "And it would be safer if you would leave us to work alone. Husbands' hands have been known to be broken by their wives, and I would rather not have that happen to you, for obvious reasons."

Isabella then grunted in pain. "Go, I'll be fine."

You nodded. "Very well." You then walked away, out the door. Your guards were waiting, standing at attention with spears and swords and pikes. "No one enters." You ordered.

As you walked, you found yourself walking towards the kitchens, to snack on something and to get your mind. Part of you wanted to wander towards your forge and workshop, yet something in the pit of your stomach needed something more.

It was perhaps providence that you were being sent this way. As you saw Ezio there, cleaning his nails with his knife. "You know I was wondering when you would finally see me?" He smiled as he held out his arm and you clasped it. "Good to see you brother."

"Oh come now, I'm not your brother anymore, as much as I hoped that nothing would change." You replied.

"True." He smiled as he sheathed his blade. "Going to the kitchens for any reason Your grace?"

"Stop it, you can call me by my name, I order you to." You said.

"Ass." He swore. "Are you hungry?"

You shrugged. "Everything is so new. Maybe I'm just afraid that I won't… can't be a better person. All I have are memories of my parents… and they were not that plentiful for advice. They just cared for me, and they made me happy."

Ezio smiled. "Take some advice from me. Don't throw away what you have out of fear of losing it. Accept whatever happens to you with a smile, and don't be afraid."

You found yourself shivering. "Who said that?"

"My father, before he was murdered." He replied. "When they put the noose over his head, and let him swing for the crime of looking into your parent's death."

That was new. "They investigated my parent's death?"

"They did." He replied. "And I never found out what they knew. Only that someone very powerful… more powerful than what we ever thought ordered their deaths."

"Conspiracy?" You asked.

"No, someone very powerful. Someone that your father angered in his past. Someone who never forgot. And would never let anyone who was born from their body forget."

Both of you paused, and you asked. "You think it could be the French?"

Ezio then began to laugh. "The FRENCH! AHAHAHA!"

Both of you then laugh at the thought of the French being mortal enemies with a simple gunsmith and had him assassinated. Then you stopped and thought about it. "Maybe?"

Ezio then looked at you with a straight face. "If it were the French, it would be impossible for them not to brag about it. It's the French after all."

"Fair enough." You replied as you reached the kitchen. "Josephine, can I have some beer and some tarts for my-" You then saw ten armed men in the kitchen, finishing their murder of your kitchen staff.

"Fuck!" Ezio swore as he drew his blade and threw it, hitting bullseye on one of them, through the eye, and the man dying instantly.

"GET EM!" One screamed.

"RUN!" You screamed as you dove through the door as Ezio locked it.

"Hurry get the door open, we need to kill the child and the wife, the King dosen't matter!" One screamed.

You looked to Ezio as you ran. "I'll get to my wife. Get the guards!"

You both split up as you ran towards your wife's birthing chamber.

What the hell is going on?! Who the hell would?

Then you thought back to Ezio and wondered just wondering, if it might be some enemies that you did not know you had.

Which means diddly squat as you finally reached the chambers. "Get ready to move!" You ordered as you barged in. "We need to leave, we have assassins coming our way!"

The midwife did not skip a beat as she looked at Isabella and said. "I'm sorry, but we're going to have to carry you out of bed."

"Who's trying to kill us?" Isabella asked before she screamed in pain. "Because I will make them burn in hell!" She was then lifted from her bed by the guards and the midwife.

You opened the bedside drawer and removed two of your own pistols. Flintlock designs, all loaded, and a powder horn. Fully prepared. Now if only you could make a design that could be easily reloaded with cartridges. That would be incredible… "You kept guns in the birthing chamber!" The midwife screamed, interrupting your train of thought.

"They didn't have powder in the pan!" You said as you got the powder ready and held them at the ready. "And you are asking me, one of the greatest gunsmiths in the world, why I keep pistols on my bedside?"

"Why?"

"For these kind of situations!" You proclaimed as you led the way. "Follow me to my forge, it's the safest place here!"

"It's unsafe and dangerous, and-" The midwife protested, but you stopped her.

"I have all my weapons and prototypes there, and there is enough cover to really stop anything coming our way. So shut up and follow me!"

You led the way, checking all your corners and behind as your men carried your screaming wife and protesting midwife towards your forge.

Thankfully it was not the case, as no one followed you, and the forge was safe. "Clear a table!" You ordered as Isabella was set down on one of the cleaner forge tables. Your drawing desk.

"She will be in pain." The midwife protested.

"I'd rather she be safe, and in pain than at risk and dead." You ordered. "Lock the door behind me, and arm up, help her with anything she needs."

You pulled out two prototypes, single-shot cartridge pistols, and a couple dozen that were in a holster. "Don't let anyone in. If I'm not back, get them out of the palace." You ordered as Isabella then screamed and the Midwife looked to her.

"You're doing great my queen, now keep pushing when I tell you too!" The midwife ordered.

The door shut again, and this time, you stormed your way to look for those assassins.

But instead, you arrived near the birthing room where your wife formally was. And there were 9 corpses. He killed them all, and he was bloodied and battered as well.

Ezio was smiling, as he cleaned the blood from his blade. "Well, brother. Sorry for being late."

He was covered in blood. "Can I see the kid?"

"They are at the forge." You said.

You were looking at his bloodied sword. "Oh, sorry bout that. Seems that mercenaries wanted your child's head."

"Learn anything from them?" You asked as Ezio stabbed one again, just to make sure he was dead, before he fell into your arms.

"No… but I have theories… and not any of them good." He replied. "But that can wait."
--------------------------------------------------

Isabella, despite the difficulties, gave birth to a healthy baby boy.

She screamed bloody murder for a few hours. But it was all for the good of the state.

The Senate went into action and started doing its job, trying to find out who was trying to kill you, but you only trusted Ezio to lead the investigation.


What do you name your son:
[]Write in

Meta Vote: Do you want the child to be weird (Isakai protagonist from another world who will be mighty confused at your… awesomeness.)
[]Yes
[]No
[]Dont ever do this again Magoose, come on you're better then this.

 

[Magoose]

The World Rumor Mill 2

The Ottomans:D100 => 1
Suliman: D100 => 63
Severin and the Order of Solutions Escape:D100 => 80

He had chased them through his empire. He had chased the men who killed his friend. And he had them…

Rather they had him. Jon Charles Severin was the greatest master of war of this century, many would claim ever. But instead, he merely brought him before him.

Jon Charles was a strange man. He seemed jovial and loved battle, yet as he stared at you, alone with a sword and hand, he laughed but was serious in his tone. "I killed your friend? Didn't I?" he asked. "And why have you not brought your army with you?"

"Because it is my revenge, not theirs." Suliman stated.

"Then he should not have tried to hard to kill me and mine. You should have shown mercy to men when you murdered them, and took them prisoner." Jon said. "I aimed to kill because I wanted to escape, and no longer be part of a conflict when our contract had been voided by the Mamluks." Jon then took out his pistol and aimed it at the young Sultan's head. "I am showing you this mercy, so that I may get home, and nothing more."

"I should kill you all!" Suliman screamed.

"Perhaps. But you are not in any position to make those threats." Jon Charles said as he held his pistol at the Sultans head. "Now give me your word that we will pass unmolested back to Europe."

"Or what?"

"I'll kill you." Jon Charles said. "Simple as." He pulled back the hammer. "Make your choice."

The Order of Solutions would be allowed to leave the Ottoman Empire.

Reward: Through an act of emotion, Suliman was captured by the Order of Solutions, and managed to negotiate for safe passage out of the Ottoman Empire.
---------------------------------------

Austria:D100 => 13
Poland/Lithuania:D100 => 85

Poland came to Vienna's aid, and saved the city from siege and destruction.

The Austrian Hapsburgs had all but thanked their saviors… because there was only one thing they could do. Pay them sums of coin, and pray to god the Ottomans did not return.
---------------------------------------------

France:D100 => 92+D100 => 17

The French Pope… or as he is called by his people, the Hammer of God, has brought forth a proclamation to the rest of Europe.

That the Pope is an apostate, who has sullied and corrupted God's word on earth. And that the only ones who have found Jesus will.

And tens of thousands… nay, hundreds of thousands from all over Europe headed the French King's call. Churches burned.

Bishops and priests were killed, and their livelihoods were sacked and brought to France, filling the French coffers richly.
------------------------------------

England:D100 => 31
The Papacy Diplomatic Efforts:D100 => 85

The Pope succeded in bringing the English back to the fold, after a fear that they would leave.

But the English were given a free opportunity to fight the French without harming their immortal soul and to finally take the throne that they had been fighting for for centuries.

England will rule France. Or failing that, show that they are the superior nation.
---------------------------------------
Scotland:D100 => 48

Scotland just… followed the English's lead for the first time ever.

Mostly because they wanted to beat up the french for abandoning them.
-----------------------------------------

The HRE:D100 => 38

The emperor of the Germans sees many of the principalities burn. Many of his western Princes joined the new French Pope, and struck out for riches and glory, and the ability to become rich under this new regime.

And to the east, the fear of the Ottoman Turks still remains.
----------------------------------------------------------------

Spain:D100 => 92+D100 => 97+D100 => 60

But in Spain, there was nothing of the sort of chaos or destruction from France. If anything there was fervor. Religious fervor from their new king, who had brought them gold from a new world. Gold and a place of refuge if they were to fail, and Europe becomes lost.

Yet Charles has begun his own reforms. His reforms… that will bring Spain to the future.
--------

New Spain (Carribian):D100 => 95D100 => 92+D100 => 97+D100 => 48
Charles the V:D100 => 97+D100 => 87

With the King offering land and gold to his new settlers, the New Spain's population has been exploding.

But it was also exploding for another reason.

Bartolomé de las Casas, the king's newest governor, has had a change of heart, and a change of style. Inspired by the King of Italys crusade against slavery, and seeing the horrors that such a system has brought, even with the King ordaining it as God's mission to build Spain's new empire…

He used his wealth, his influence, and his power as Governor of New Spain… to free every man, woman, and child that was in bondage. He declared to his Sovrigen, under pain of death and treason this simple fact.

"My King has brought subjects of the Spanish crown, and God himself, into a cruel and unjust servitude. Through every fiber of my being, I despise it. I lash out at it. I use every avenue, legal and otherwise, to do one good thing in this world. We have been shown that men can be free from the oppression and servitude of slavery by others in the Old World. So I say this, to my King. Let us be free from those same chains in this New World."

The King, Charles said nothing about the treason. But rumors abound, that he smiling at a portrait of his friend. "You win." He had said.

Accepting that he had been defeated by his friend, both on the argument to him… and by the will of his own people and subjects.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Pizzaro:D100 => 38
The Inca'sD100 => 33

A standstill, where no one can win… but no one can lose.

That is what Pizzaro finds himself.

But he and his enemy, cannot make the first move.

 

[Magoose]

Book 4 Chapter 3 Something Else
In which our Hero, is now a father.​

You were honestly lost in what to do, as the meeting with First Minister Octavian was… well beginning and you were finding yourself lost and unfocused.

"Your Grace, I understand the need for wanting to be with your child, but can you at least pretend to be paying attention to this meeting." The First Minister said as he quickly moved papers through his place. "Or is such a thing difficult for you?"

"I think it is." you replied honestly. "Though honestly, I would rather be there, rather then here, but I know my duty requires me to be there for this. And I will not shriek my duty when my country needs me."

Octavian nodded. "I just need you to approve these final mesures." You didn't even look at the papers, before putting your signature on it. "Sir, I would recommend you read them-"

"I trust you." You stated. "To not require me for the time being."

The First Minister nodded. "Very well."

You then left to your home.

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.

Governmental Action:

You have 3 actions.

[]Meanwhile with the Pope: Oh… He's here, and at least he isn't… oh by all that is crazy, he's come to make demands!? DC: 50/??? Reward: You see the pope.

[]Simple Matters: Isabella came to your room with a stack of papers and your son. "We have to deal with something that we cannot wait on." DC: 40 Reward: Oh no, dynastic politics!

[]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.

[]The Imperial… OH FUCK!: The Emperor is dead. And the Imperial Diat is trying to elect a new one before war breaks out. DC: 0 Reward: You see what the hell happens in the HRE.

[]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.

Personal Actions:

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

[]Aftermath: Isabella was quite happy. "You know, despite the assassination attempt, and giving birth in your dirty forge. I can safely say that I had a remarkably simple birth. DC: 0 Reward: You and Isabella have some pillow talk.

[]Retiernment: Macheveli is enjoying his retirement. But that does not mean you do not come to him for wisdom. DC: 0 Reward: You get Wisdom from your Old Master.

[]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 is 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. DC: 25 Reward: You learn how to command men, and to be a leader.

[]The Keys of State Craft: Your master wants you to learn the fine arts of making friends and allies. Even if it means you abhor them. 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.

 

[Magoose]

Book 4 Chapter 4: As the World Falls Apart Some More


-[X]Meanwhile with the Pope: Oh… He's here, and at least he isn't… oh by all that is crazy, he's come to make demands!? DC: 50/??? Reward: You see the pope. Rolled:D100 + 30 => 73

"We need your army." The Pope, Leo X stated as he sat across from you. "To crush the Heathan King that has declared himself head of a new church."

At almost impossible insanity at the request, you laughed. You laughed and almost buckled to fall to the floor in laughter. "I'm sorry, you must think you have control over me, your Holiness. You are asking for something impossible to ask of me? And what do I gain from following you, to fighting for St.Peters church which has for centuries been extorting the members of the Lay people and the desperate for salvation."

"And yet you would stand by as Christendom burns!" He protested. "Are you a soldier of god that you were in your youth or a coward!"

"I think it is quite clear you are in a position that requires my help. Why not go to Spain? To Germany of Poland?" You asked. "Go to a place where your authority may still matter."

"Because without the greatest navy on earth… it will be all for naught!" He replied.

And so he reveals what he wants. "You want my navy to keep you safe?"

"Without the Italian Navy, any threat made can be acted upon. With the Italian Navy… no threat can be acted upon." He said.

You looked to the pope and frowned. "To think you are still in Rome because of Macheveli. I will think of this."

"If you do not accept, I will excommunicate you." He said.

You blinked once, before shaking your head. "And then I will make your successor reconcile me, at gunpoint. Do not assume you have the all-power authority of God on earth. Do not make threats when you have done nothing to stop the evil in this world."

"And what evil is that?" He asked.

"The evil that my navy is stamping upon and destroying with every day. The Evil of the Barbery corsairs that are but a memory. The Ottoman captains that flee to the sight of the Italian Flag… and of course the slave trade that should have been destroyed centuries ago, where our brothers in the faith are stolen away and enslaved." You said.

"That is evil. And it is the only evil."

Reward: You learn of the Pope's request and give him the beatdown for allowing such evil to continue and even encourage.

Meanwhile, your government is considering it.
------------------------------------------------
-[X]Niccolo: You look at your son and held him tight. DC: 0 Reward: Fluff. Rolled:D100 => 75+30=105

You looked at the little one and rocked him slowly as you looked at Isabella. "You know I don't get the royals who don't spend time with their children, and be affectionate. It's rather strange to isolate them with strangers."

"It's standard practice, the state requires such unflinching devotion from its sovereign." She replied as she sat at the desk, reading several letters.

"But I am not the only sovereign in my nation, at least it's only absolute authority." You said as Niccolo squirmed and hugged you and you returned the embrace with a soft squeeze. "Such as, it gives me time to actually enjoy such moments you never had."

She looked away. "It's nice." She whispered as she turned to face you. "It's nice to be able to do this."

"I know." You replied with a smile. "Want to hold him?"

She took hold of Niccolo and rocked him, and he cooed and cawed at him. "I think he's hungry."

"No he's happy." You replied before she could pull him away to summon a wet nurse. "It's okay."

And Isabella held him in her arms, and she was happy.

Reward: Fluff.
-----------------------------------------------

-[X]Simple Matters: Isabella came to your room with a stack of papers and your son. "We have to deal with something that we cannot wait on." DC: 40 Reward: Oh no, dynastic politics! Rolled:D100 => 97+30=127+D100 => 59+30=89
-[X]The Imperial… OH FUCK!: The Emperor is dead. And the Imperial Diat is trying to elect a new one before war breaks out. DC: 0 Reward: You see what the hell happens in the HRE. Rolled:D100 => 82+30=112

Isabella was trying her best to not panic. "Please don't panic." You whispered as you watched her pace around the room.

"I will panic when I want to." She replied. "This is bad. Very bad."

"Yes the Emperor is dead and I really don't care about it."

"They want to hold elections in the Diat and summon the electors for a new emperor." She said.

"Once again, I know. You can stop pacing and come back to bed, and we can deal with it tomorrow morning." You replied.

"But the problem is, they want you to be there, they want the King of Italy there to act as a force for the Papal Loyalists." She said. "Because my brother wants to adopt you."

You frowned. "I'm not giving up my name to become a Hapsburg."

"Well that's the problem, they want you to be one so that in the eyes of the law, you can be a supporter of the Emperor. My brother." She said.

"Yes, I will support him, but that is not the point. He wants me to give up my name for his power." You said. "And you want me to?"

She paused as she thought. "That's politics."

"Well it's not what I want, and the Diet will try to make a push, and none of the electors can win without someone breaking rank." YOu replied. "It wont be as chaotic, so come to bed."

Reward: At the moment, no one can become Emperor with the electors separated and at war.

Meanwhile, the Hapsbugs want to adopt you just so that they can use Italy as a bargaining chip.

You refuse that.
------------------------------------------------------------------

-[X]Aftermath: Isabella was quite happy. "You know, despite the assassination attempt, and giving birth in your dirty forge. I can safely say that I had a remarkably simple birth. DC: 0 Reward: You and Isabella have some pillow talk. Rolled:D100 => 33+30=63

But a few nights later, you and Isabella were sleeping together and she couldn't sleep. "You know, despite the assassination attempt, and giving birth in your dirty forge. I can safely say that I had a remarkably simple birth."

"My forge is not dirty?" You protested. "I clean it every day."

"You leave guns and powder around."

"Well, that is true. But hey, you were safe there."

"I was." She blushed. "It's quite sinful to think about the things I want to do to you there."

"Well, we can make it less sinful." You smiled.

"Oh stop it you." She then stopped. "Are you afraid?"

"Yes, but I can think of something and build it to do that. I always do."

Reward: You reassure Isabella and then remind her that you can build something.
---------------------------------------------------------------

-[X]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. Rolled:D100 => 28+30=59

To say that your courtiers were different was to put it mildly.

Most of them were landowners in Rome, and the surrounding countryside in Ferrara, and they have been remarkably kind to you.

You had suspected that they were all soldiers, but instead you were just men who loved books and inventing just as you had.

And they were able to spend much of their time in their own workshops to build things.

And they hoped to meet you as well.

Reward: Your courtiers are just as industrious as you are. and enjoy inventing things.
--------------------------------------------------
-[X]Innovate or Die
--[X] Steampowered Transport Carriages and Tracks: The Creation of the Steam Engine brings forth a great potential towards the potential of the future. The possibilities of a wagonless transportation device is what interests you. You spend time producing a Horseless Steampowered Form of transportation that can carry materials and people to different places..of course with its tracks. Rolled:D100 + 85 => 164
D100 + 85 => 104
D100 + 85 => 185 | natural 100: 1
D100 + 85 => 103
D100 + 85 => 125
D100 + 85 => 124
D100 + 85 => 127
D100 + 85 => 111
D100 + 85 => 97
D100 + 85 => 181
D100 + 85 => 111
D100 + 85 => 97
D100 + 85 => 181
D100 + 85 => 87

All you did was have to make a steam engine and power through the world and build a contraction to carry tens of thousands of pieces of equipment, through mountains and plains and the coastline.

Simple enough.

And you did. Who knew that putting you mind to it would see presentations?

It would take years to build it, but the plan worked. A simple steam locomotive and track, from a station to Capua, and Naples was possible, and cheap even, to get more men and materials down south…

But the carriage wheels needed to remain the same size. Repairs to the engine, places to repair them, and train.

But the North would be neglected… and you needed the North better than ever before war came. The Fortress lines are not done yet.

It was all to much for you… but you had the ideas there.


Reward: You have invented a steam train and carriages for it, but are lacking in… everything to make it happen, even if you wanted to build it. It would take years… and you did not have time.

You need help making this a reality.

New Action available.

AN: Enjoy.

 

[Magoose]

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.
-----------------------------------------------------

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.
---------------------------------------------------
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.
------------------------------------------------

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.
----------------------------------------------------

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.
------------------------------------------
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."
-------------------------------------------------------

Sicily:D100 => 56

All they see is profits from sulfur and saltpeter. Guns and gunpowder.
-------------------

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.
---------------------------------------------------

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)
-------------------------


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.

 

[Magoose]

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.