Si Deus Nobiscum: A Polish-Lithuanian Scion Quest
- Thread starter Rolman
- Start date
- Mature Historic
XXXII. October 12-16, 1575. Warszawa, Polish Crownlands.
- Location
- United States
Two days pass. You lie in bed, feeling stronger, though not necessarily happier. The hearty meals and various dried herbs hung in your bed's canopy seem to be doing the trick for your humors; the place smells lovely, and your fever recedes by the day – pained remnants of a leg (and that strange, phantom-like sensation of it being there) aside, you almost feel normal. Your mind is less cloudy and you at last possess the wakefulness and vigor to start up politicking again. Staying busy is wise: it keeps your mind off the nightmares you have, nightmares of battle and handless arms and a noseless face, of fingers rotting off one by one. It keeps your mind off of a task perhaps more difficult than any other – the fact that you'll have to learn to walk again, like the invalid you are. A cripple. I'm a cripple. Quiet, now.
So, you think about the election and what needs to be done. Mhm… The Ruthenians may be trouble. After all, Jedysan is a Turkish province, the Crimeans are Turkish clients, and who is the Habsburgs' greatest enemy? The Turk, of course. Their apprehension is as understandable as it is, you're told, palpable in the Sejm camp. They fence-sit, awaiting clarification – news is spreading that the Sublime Porte's ambassadors in Kraków have declared publicly their support for Batory, effectively signaling that an election of the Transylvanian would guarantee peace for the duration of his reign. Meanwhile, you recall that the Archduke, during his speech at Stężyca, only mentioned Livonia and the Tatars – the question of the son being dragged by his Emperor-father into the Turkish wars remains open. However, despite your great sacrifice in the defense of their homeland, you decide that it'd be better for the Ruthenians to hear a promise of peace from the horse's mouth itself: the cadre of Austrian diplomats here at Warszawa. The coming of your brothers and father, too, allow for a broader net to be cast.
Their leader is a certain Baron Adam von Dietrichstein, who has been delivering Latin-language speeches to the Sejm regarding the restoration of the ecclesiastical courts, as well as promising Imperial troops to aid in the conquest of Livonia and in the seemingly-imminent war with Muscovy in general. You summon him to your bedchamber.
After a relatively short wait, a man of about fifty wearing a large fur coat and even bigger ruff is ushered into the room by a servant. He's as dark as a Spaniard, with gray-flecked black hair and a well-styled beard to match – walking with a cane, limping with his right leg! You smile sympathetically at the sight as he bows deeply before you.
"May the Lord and His Archangels, Michael and Raphael, be with you, Your Serene Highness," he says in French. Ah, the protectors of soldiers and the ill. Michael came to me in my dream. "I am most saddened to hear of your predicament, and we are all praying for Your Serene Highness' quick recovery."
"I am glad to hear it, lord Baron," you nod, propped up against the bedframe on a pile of pillows, parchments scattered before you on your tray-table. You judge right away that this is a seasoned diplomat: the cleanness of his bow despite his leg, the clear voice and measured words, his near-unaccented French. He probably even knows you studied in Paris. "May we go on in Latin? My mastery of the French tongue has slipped over the years," you say.
"Of course, Your Serene Highness," he replies, effortlessly switching. "For what reason do I have the honor to come to Your Serene Highness' bedside?"
"Well, I was hoping to commune with yourself and your delegation, lord Baron, to ensure that our efforts may be harmonious." You hate this stuffy talk, this careful wording, but he is a foreigner and an emissary – the pomp is obligatory. "With all due respect, I hope to provide some enlightenment on the domestic matters that ought to be taken into account when your most noble mission speaks to our people." You point to Marszowski's traditional seat in the corner of the room. "And, please, pull up a chair – I understand the feeling of a troubled leg. I'd bring it to you myself, but…" You chuckle. Keep joking about it, keep joking about it, each day it'll become easier.
The Baron looks grateful, and hobbles (with poise, of course) to the chair, picking it up with his free hand and setting it down at the foot of your bed. "I was thrown from my horse a decade or so ago, and the bones in my ankle never healed correctly," he explains as he takes a seat.
"God mends us as He pleases," you say, "and we must remain ever grateful that our lives are not taken from us."
"That is the truth, Your Serene Highness," he replies, matching your stoicism. Good man. Good diplomat, at least.
"Anyway, let us get down to business," you say; he nods attentively. "I wish to discuss two issues: firstly, the offering of a… dowry, of sorts, from the Imperial treasury – that is to say, frankly, a bribe for the rabble-lords – and a guarantee of peace between our Twin Nations and the Turk."
von Dietrichstein crosses his legs and rests his hands limply atop his cane. "His Royal Highness the Archduke, in his remarks at Stenzicen, promised the creation of a string of forts staffed by professional soldiers in Ruthenia, Podolia, and so on, in the same vein as our Military Frontier in Croatia and Hungary. A much more reliable solution compared to the employment of the – how would you call them – cassock-riders?"
"And I am certain that the noblemen of those regions are pleased with such promised aid but, as I'm sure you have heard, Ruthenia has just recently recovered from an attack by the Tatar." He nods. "Nerves are raw; the Tatar Khan is tied to Constantinople, and the borderland lords are very fearful of renewed war, or outright invasion through Moldavia and Turkish Tatary – the place we call Jedysan."
A swelling of patriotism brews in your breast; this is a country of consensus, of free nobles and free assembly and free faith. "Furthermore, it is not in the nature of my countrymen – myself included – to be dragged into foreign wars by bond of blood or by royal fiat," you explain. "Our Senate and assembled estates must assent to the waging of war. However, I believe that there must exist a promise that His Royal Highness the Archduke, if elected king, would not even try."
The Baron leans back in his seat, contemplating. He scratches his beard. "Perhaps we can offer up the promise of a treaty of peace with the Turk founded upon a Polonian alliance with our Empire and Archduchy, rather than make His Royal Highness appear unmanly?" he asks. "For we also must reserve the right to call Polonia up in the event of an emergency, lest the election of a member of the Imperial House prove nothing more than a victory in terms of prestige." He seems a little less cordial, though not unfriendly. "After all, Your Serene Highness' faction has already beseeched our military aid – and now monetary 'gifts,' too."
"That may work, lord Baron, that may work. I recommend you send men to speak with the Turkish delegation at Cracovia so it's more than an empty promise," you say. "Even if it stalls. There are eyes everywhere,after all, though I recommend you announce such a venture publicly at your lordship's next possible convenience."
"Very well, Your Serene Highness, it shall be put under consideration."
"Consider with haste, please, Baron." You stare him down, knowing that dear Lithuania will be forever sidelined should the Crownlanders get their way. "The salient arguments against His Royal Highness the Archduke are on matters of foreign policy and on what he may offer in terms of compensation," you say. "Every group wary of the middling, reform-seeking Crownlanders ought to stand with the House of Habsburg should peace and spoils be guaranteed: the Lithuanian and Prussian to stem Polish hegemony, the magnate to retain his God-given superiority, even the Protestants, so as to not be…" you search for words, pained to take a cynical stand against the Holy Church. God has kept you on this earth so that you may speak against His emissaries? "Meddled with by the more radical Catholics amongst the middling and low lords. Zealous bumpkins, you see, and barely worthy of the title 'sir:' the Reformed make up many of our greatest families," you say, may God forgive them. But you can swear to yourself a thousand times over that your homeland shall never go the way of France or even that of the Empire, even if it enjoys a fragile peace. Baron von Dietrichstein listens along attentively.
"I see," he says. "Now, about the money, Your Serene Highness…" He awaits your response.
"Prince Batory has promised two hundred thousand złoty – that is to say, roughly equivalent to the same number of Venetian ducats – my family may open its purse to the tune of around forty thousand, perhaps fifty." I think. I hope. You're going out on a limb there, but it's close to the sum you netted for the family during the Ruthenian campaign. Hopefully Father will understand the liberty you're taking. "We would need His Imperial Majesty to make up the rest – greater than or equal to Batory's offer."
"We, sadly, must maintain a balanced ledger, Your Serene Highness," says the Baron. "There are many debts from the wars, to be frank. The Archduke is entitled to a one-time cash pension of eighty thousand ducats upon the succession of his brother, His Apostolic Majesty the King of Hungary." That's Rudolf, the big-jawed eccentric. "His Imperial Majesty would likely assent to the dispensation of that amount immediately, in my mind. Perhaps more can be arranged for later."
So… About a hundred and twenty thousand to Batory's two hundred? Not great, but it's something. Ugh, bribery, what Sin. Just a week ago you had received absolution on your deathbed, but we sin everyday in word and deed, don't we? You blink. "It is certainly a start, my lord. Let us review His Royal Highness' potential pacta conventa," gesturing for the Baron to look over your shoulder at your tray-table, as you dip your quill into an inkwell and flip one of your parchments onto its back. You begin to write in Latin:
You look up, and conjure up from some Eve-stained place in your heart a devious smile. "And, of course, off-the-books: the blocking of all executionist reform, and the disbursal of some one hundred and twenty thousand złoty in gifts for the loyal ones."
"I believe we can agree to these terms. Have you a blank parchment? I'll copy this down," says Baron von Dietrichstein.
Will you press the matter at a later date?
[] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
For the Ruthenians' sake.
[] It's worth trying again to secure more bribe money.
To sway the dirty gołota.
[] This will do.
One takes what he can get.
The Baron notes down this provisional pacta and, with matters resolved, you dismiss him cordially. He shall likely speak before the Sejm tomorrow or the day after, offering up these clarified terms and, likely openly, announce the Imperial bribe.
Dear Mariana checks in on you whenever she has the time, God bless her, and you spend every waking moment, whether quietly or loudly, waiting to see her face, hear her voice. You beam at the sight of her in your chamber door.
"Good day, Stanisław," she smiles. "The Lord be praised – you're looking so much better!"
"I feel it, too," you say. "I think God has kept me, well and truly. I'll be ready for crutches any day now. Maybe even going down to the Sejm."
Her happy countenance flickers. "Just– I trust you, but please don't push yourself too hard again."
"I feel better, really!"
"I believe you, I believe you," she says. "Well, sadly, my lord, I'm not just here to stroke your head." She melts your ribs with her smile and quickens your pulse as she approaches your bedside, crouching down beside you. "Though I'll do it, too," she chuckles, sweeping her fingers through your hair, undoing little knots and tangles. She reaches down and puts a finger on your untrimmed, scraggly chin. Why, God, have I married such a wondrous Delilah? Et ne nos inducas in tentationem! You chuckle at your own joke, despite knowing that you'll surely have to bring it up at Confession. "What?" she asks.
"You're just… I married an utter flirt." I love you, I love you, it's Sin how much I love you.
She draws back sharply, mock offense painted on her lightly-powdered face. "Hmph! You rebuke me!"
"No, come back!" you laugh, extending your arms.
She plops herself down to eye-level with you once more, resting her elbows on your chest. They dig in; you don't care. "Alright, but really, I have some political questions for you: there's a dance tonight, and all the ladies have been gathering around me offering up condolences, asking about you, praising you, that sort of thing. So I got to thinking…"
"Yes?"
"Tell me a war story, so I can tell them, and so they can tell their husbands!"
You make a face – still smiling at her, of course. You don't really want to relive it. Let others speak for you. Besides: "Oh, that's not necessary. They've been talking about me. Amongst themselves. Ajax Lithuaniensis?"
Mariana hums in agreement. "Weeeeeell," she thinks aloud, eyes upturned to the ceiling. "I could spread some rot about Jan Zamoyski, say that my dear husband Stanisław knows things Lord Zamoyski would rather not reveal himself about his time on campaign."
Oh, hm... "That's lying, though. He was honorable all the while."
She looks perplexed. "Yes, it's lying, Benedictine! Would you prefer the Radziwiłłowie to lose their esteem, to lose this election?" You say nothing. "I could also talk up the diplomatic benefits if you're so offended," she teases. "Broad-shouldered Austrian sons with ties to the great bankers, blonde Austrian lasses with fat dowries, free attendance of the Jesuit colleges in Vienna – Imperial titles, positions at the Imperial court!"
God, she's so smart she knows women are stupid! They're impressionable, gullible, like children – but not your Mariana, oh no. A wolf among sheep, like a good-hearted version of that snake-harlot, the Queen Mother of France, or a youthful Anna Jagiellonka, that headstrong-yet-wise crone. Such clever women exist, of course, but are rare and dangerous. But she's yours. Or are you hers? Perish that thought. Anyways, that's what makes her so special – her wit, her charm, that glint in her eye you once mistook for manipulativeness. And, surely, she's capable of it, but never has she turned it against you (except to seduce you, of course). She's a potter, and the world's her clay.
The two of you decide to:
[] Spread rumors of your bravery.
A little extra never hurts – not like you need to prove it. If there are some falsehoods regarding your heroism, so be it, and let people believe it, with apologies to God.
[] Spread rumors of Zamoyski's cowardice or incompetence.
After all, he only entered a proper melee once, and he tended to follow your lead when it came to issuing orders. That can be spun into accusation of meekness easily enough.
[] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
Exaggerated, but not unfounded: the Archduke would arrive in a cavalcade of prominent Austrians and, upon his marriage to Infanta Anna, the Queen of Poland would be surrounded with a mix of foreign and domestic ladies-in-waiting. Any smart man or cunning woman could begin to arrange powerful unions – financial, personal, political – between the Empire and the Twin Nations.
Meanwhile, you feel better and better, and begin to hoist yourself out of bed and move about on crutches, one pant leg pinned to your waist. Optimism grows, sadness recedes, at least for the moment; you reckon you can begin appearing at the Sejm again without worry for health (though you are rather hollow-cheeked, still), and the physicians only caution you to avoid miasmas. Which, admittedly, between the Sejm camp's horseshit, latrines, lice, fleas, and duel casualties…
[] Perhaps it's best to rest up a little more.
[] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
[] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the defense of Ruthenia.
[] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the imminent conquest of Livonia.
[] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the material benefits of Habsburg rule.
So, you think about the election and what needs to be done. Mhm… The Ruthenians may be trouble. After all, Jedysan is a Turkish province, the Crimeans are Turkish clients, and who is the Habsburgs' greatest enemy? The Turk, of course. Their apprehension is as understandable as it is, you're told, palpable in the Sejm camp. They fence-sit, awaiting clarification – news is spreading that the Sublime Porte's ambassadors in Kraków have declared publicly their support for Batory, effectively signaling that an election of the Transylvanian would guarantee peace for the duration of his reign. Meanwhile, you recall that the Archduke, during his speech at Stężyca, only mentioned Livonia and the Tatars – the question of the son being dragged by his Emperor-father into the Turkish wars remains open. However, despite your great sacrifice in the defense of their homeland, you decide that it'd be better for the Ruthenians to hear a promise of peace from the horse's mouth itself: the cadre of Austrian diplomats here at Warszawa. The coming of your brothers and father, too, allow for a broader net to be cast.
Their leader is a certain Baron Adam von Dietrichstein, who has been delivering Latin-language speeches to the Sejm regarding the restoration of the ecclesiastical courts, as well as promising Imperial troops to aid in the conquest of Livonia and in the seemingly-imminent war with Muscovy in general. You summon him to your bedchamber.
After a relatively short wait, a man of about fifty wearing a large fur coat and even bigger ruff is ushered into the room by a servant. He's as dark as a Spaniard, with gray-flecked black hair and a well-styled beard to match – walking with a cane, limping with his right leg! You smile sympathetically at the sight as he bows deeply before you.
"May the Lord and His Archangels, Michael and Raphael, be with you, Your Serene Highness," he says in French. Ah, the protectors of soldiers and the ill. Michael came to me in my dream. "I am most saddened to hear of your predicament, and we are all praying for Your Serene Highness' quick recovery."
"I am glad to hear it, lord Baron," you nod, propped up against the bedframe on a pile of pillows, parchments scattered before you on your tray-table. You judge right away that this is a seasoned diplomat: the cleanness of his bow despite his leg, the clear voice and measured words, his near-unaccented French. He probably even knows you studied in Paris. "May we go on in Latin? My mastery of the French tongue has slipped over the years," you say.
"Of course, Your Serene Highness," he replies, effortlessly switching. "For what reason do I have the honor to come to Your Serene Highness' bedside?"
"Well, I was hoping to commune with yourself and your delegation, lord Baron, to ensure that our efforts may be harmonious." You hate this stuffy talk, this careful wording, but he is a foreigner and an emissary – the pomp is obligatory. "With all due respect, I hope to provide some enlightenment on the domestic matters that ought to be taken into account when your most noble mission speaks to our people." You point to Marszowski's traditional seat in the corner of the room. "And, please, pull up a chair – I understand the feeling of a troubled leg. I'd bring it to you myself, but…" You chuckle. Keep joking about it, keep joking about it, each day it'll become easier.
The Baron looks grateful, and hobbles (with poise, of course) to the chair, picking it up with his free hand and setting it down at the foot of your bed. "I was thrown from my horse a decade or so ago, and the bones in my ankle never healed correctly," he explains as he takes a seat.
"God mends us as He pleases," you say, "and we must remain ever grateful that our lives are not taken from us."
"That is the truth, Your Serene Highness," he replies, matching your stoicism. Good man. Good diplomat, at least.
"Anyway, let us get down to business," you say; he nods attentively. "I wish to discuss two issues: firstly, the offering of a… dowry, of sorts, from the Imperial treasury – that is to say, frankly, a bribe for the rabble-lords – and a guarantee of peace between our Twin Nations and the Turk."
von Dietrichstein crosses his legs and rests his hands limply atop his cane. "His Royal Highness the Archduke, in his remarks at Stenzicen, promised the creation of a string of forts staffed by professional soldiers in Ruthenia, Podolia, and so on, in the same vein as our Military Frontier in Croatia and Hungary. A much more reliable solution compared to the employment of the – how would you call them – cassock-riders?"
"And I am certain that the noblemen of those regions are pleased with such promised aid but, as I'm sure you have heard, Ruthenia has just recently recovered from an attack by the Tatar." He nods. "Nerves are raw; the Tatar Khan is tied to Constantinople, and the borderland lords are very fearful of renewed war, or outright invasion through Moldavia and Turkish Tatary – the place we call Jedysan."
A swelling of patriotism brews in your breast; this is a country of consensus, of free nobles and free assembly and free faith. "Furthermore, it is not in the nature of my countrymen – myself included – to be dragged into foreign wars by bond of blood or by royal fiat," you explain. "Our Senate and assembled estates must assent to the waging of war. However, I believe that there must exist a promise that His Royal Highness the Archduke, if elected king, would not even try."
The Baron leans back in his seat, contemplating. He scratches his beard. "Perhaps we can offer up the promise of a treaty of peace with the Turk founded upon a Polonian alliance with our Empire and Archduchy, rather than make His Royal Highness appear unmanly?" he asks. "For we also must reserve the right to call Polonia up in the event of an emergency, lest the election of a member of the Imperial House prove nothing more than a victory in terms of prestige." He seems a little less cordial, though not unfriendly. "After all, Your Serene Highness' faction has already beseeched our military aid – and now monetary 'gifts,' too."
"That may work, lord Baron, that may work. I recommend you send men to speak with the Turkish delegation at Cracovia so it's more than an empty promise," you say. "Even if it stalls. There are eyes everywhere,after all, though I recommend you announce such a venture publicly at your lordship's next possible convenience."
"Very well, Your Serene Highness, it shall be put under consideration."
"Consider with haste, please, Baron." You stare him down, knowing that dear Lithuania will be forever sidelined should the Crownlanders get their way. "The salient arguments against His Royal Highness the Archduke are on matters of foreign policy and on what he may offer in terms of compensation," you say. "Every group wary of the middling, reform-seeking Crownlanders ought to stand with the House of Habsburg should peace and spoils be guaranteed: the Lithuanian and Prussian to stem Polish hegemony, the magnate to retain his God-given superiority, even the Protestants, so as to not be…" you search for words, pained to take a cynical stand against the Holy Church. God has kept you on this earth so that you may speak against His emissaries? "Meddled with by the more radical Catholics amongst the middling and low lords. Zealous bumpkins, you see, and barely worthy of the title 'sir:' the Reformed make up many of our greatest families," you say, may God forgive them. But you can swear to yourself a thousand times over that your homeland shall never go the way of France or even that of the Empire, even if it enjoys a fragile peace. Baron von Dietrichstein listens along attentively.
"I see," he says. "Now, about the money, Your Serene Highness…" He awaits your response.
"Prince Batory has promised two hundred thousand złoty – that is to say, roughly equivalent to the same number of Venetian ducats – my family may open its purse to the tune of around forty thousand, perhaps fifty." I think. I hope. You're going out on a limb there, but it's close to the sum you netted for the family during the Ruthenian campaign. Hopefully Father will understand the liberty you're taking. "We would need His Imperial Majesty to make up the rest – greater than or equal to Batory's offer."
"We, sadly, must maintain a balanced ledger, Your Serene Highness," says the Baron. "There are many debts from the wars, to be frank. The Archduke is entitled to a one-time cash pension of eighty thousand ducats upon the succession of his brother, His Apostolic Majesty the King of Hungary." That's Rudolf, the big-jawed eccentric. "His Imperial Majesty would likely assent to the dispensation of that amount immediately, in my mind. Perhaps more can be arranged for later."
So… About a hundred and twenty thousand to Batory's two hundred? Not great, but it's something. Ugh, bribery, what Sin. Just a week ago you had received absolution on your deathbed, but we sin everyday in word and deed, don't we? You blink. "It is certainly a start, my lord. Let us review His Royal Highness' potential pacta conventa," gesturing for the Baron to look over your shoulder at your tray-table, as you dip your quill into an inkwell and flip one of your parchments onto its back. You begin to write in Latin:
- Restoration of the ecclesiastical courts' judgments on all matters save those of heresy or confessional matters.
- The upholding of the Confederation of Warszawa and all statutes of religious freedom.
- Imperial military aid in the prosecution of war with Muscovy, the conquest of Livonia.
- The creation of a Military Frontier in Ruthenia and Podolia, &c.
- Eternal peace and alliance between the Imperial Princes – the Empire at large – with the Twin Nations.
- The negotiation of a treaty of non-aggression with the Turk, to coincide with the alliance with the Emperor. Peace in Hungary?
You look up, and conjure up from some Eve-stained place in your heart a devious smile. "And, of course, off-the-books: the blocking of all executionist reform, and the disbursal of some one hundred and twenty thousand złoty in gifts for the loyal ones."
"I believe we can agree to these terms. Have you a blank parchment? I'll copy this down," says Baron von Dietrichstein.
Will you press the matter at a later date?
[] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
For the Ruthenians' sake.
[] It's worth trying again to secure more bribe money.
To sway the dirty gołota.
[] This will do.
One takes what he can get.
The Baron notes down this provisional pacta and, with matters resolved, you dismiss him cordially. He shall likely speak before the Sejm tomorrow or the day after, offering up these clarified terms and, likely openly, announce the Imperial bribe.
Dear Mariana checks in on you whenever she has the time, God bless her, and you spend every waking moment, whether quietly or loudly, waiting to see her face, hear her voice. You beam at the sight of her in your chamber door.
"Good day, Stanisław," she smiles. "The Lord be praised – you're looking so much better!"
"I feel it, too," you say. "I think God has kept me, well and truly. I'll be ready for crutches any day now. Maybe even going down to the Sejm."
Her happy countenance flickers. "Just– I trust you, but please don't push yourself too hard again."
"I feel better, really!"
"I believe you, I believe you," she says. "Well, sadly, my lord, I'm not just here to stroke your head." She melts your ribs with her smile and quickens your pulse as she approaches your bedside, crouching down beside you. "Though I'll do it, too," she chuckles, sweeping her fingers through your hair, undoing little knots and tangles. She reaches down and puts a finger on your untrimmed, scraggly chin. Why, God, have I married such a wondrous Delilah? Et ne nos inducas in tentationem! You chuckle at your own joke, despite knowing that you'll surely have to bring it up at Confession. "What?" she asks.
"You're just… I married an utter flirt." I love you, I love you, it's Sin how much I love you.
She draws back sharply, mock offense painted on her lightly-powdered face. "Hmph! You rebuke me!"
"No, come back!" you laugh, extending your arms.
She plops herself down to eye-level with you once more, resting her elbows on your chest. They dig in; you don't care. "Alright, but really, I have some political questions for you: there's a dance tonight, and all the ladies have been gathering around me offering up condolences, asking about you, praising you, that sort of thing. So I got to thinking…"
"Yes?"
"Tell me a war story, so I can tell them, and so they can tell their husbands!"
You make a face – still smiling at her, of course. You don't really want to relive it. Let others speak for you. Besides: "Oh, that's not necessary. They've been talking about me. Amongst themselves. Ajax Lithuaniensis?"
Mariana hums in agreement. "Weeeeeell," she thinks aloud, eyes upturned to the ceiling. "I could spread some rot about Jan Zamoyski, say that my dear husband Stanisław knows things Lord Zamoyski would rather not reveal himself about his time on campaign."
Oh, hm... "That's lying, though. He was honorable all the while."
She looks perplexed. "Yes, it's lying, Benedictine! Would you prefer the Radziwiłłowie to lose their esteem, to lose this election?" You say nothing. "I could also talk up the diplomatic benefits if you're so offended," she teases. "Broad-shouldered Austrian sons with ties to the great bankers, blonde Austrian lasses with fat dowries, free attendance of the Jesuit colleges in Vienna – Imperial titles, positions at the Imperial court!"
God, she's so smart she knows women are stupid! They're impressionable, gullible, like children – but not your Mariana, oh no. A wolf among sheep, like a good-hearted version of that snake-harlot, the Queen Mother of France, or a youthful Anna Jagiellonka, that headstrong-yet-wise crone. Such clever women exist, of course, but are rare and dangerous. But she's yours. Or are you hers? Perish that thought. Anyways, that's what makes her so special – her wit, her charm, that glint in her eye you once mistook for manipulativeness. And, surely, she's capable of it, but never has she turned it against you (except to seduce you, of course). She's a potter, and the world's her clay.
The two of you decide to:
[] Spread rumors of your bravery.
A little extra never hurts – not like you need to prove it. If there are some falsehoods regarding your heroism, so be it, and let people believe it, with apologies to God.
[] Spread rumors of Zamoyski's cowardice or incompetence.
After all, he only entered a proper melee once, and he tended to follow your lead when it came to issuing orders. That can be spun into accusation of meekness easily enough.
[] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
Exaggerated, but not unfounded: the Archduke would arrive in a cavalcade of prominent Austrians and, upon his marriage to Infanta Anna, the Queen of Poland would be surrounded with a mix of foreign and domestic ladies-in-waiting. Any smart man or cunning woman could begin to arrange powerful unions – financial, personal, political – between the Empire and the Twin Nations.
Meanwhile, you feel better and better, and begin to hoist yourself out of bed and move about on crutches, one pant leg pinned to your waist. Optimism grows, sadness recedes, at least for the moment; you reckon you can begin appearing at the Sejm again without worry for health (though you are rather hollow-cheeked, still), and the physicians only caution you to avoid miasmas. Which, admittedly, between the Sejm camp's horseshit, latrines, lice, fleas, and duel casualties…
[] Perhaps it's best to rest up a little more.
[] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
[] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the defense of Ruthenia.
[] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the imminent conquest of Livonia.
[] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the material benefits of Habsburg rule.
Last edited:
- Pronouns
- He
My top 3 option are: the military border, the Austria oportunties and for now just rest
- Location
- Mists of Albion
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Okay so, the Ruthenians are on the fence, with us coordinating with the Austrians, they can hear from the Imperial representatives themselves in regards to what they're most concerned about, defence, we've shown we can fight for them, now show Matthias has long term plans regarding their safety.
Next I want to keep up our reputation as an honest and good nobleman, slandering our enemy isn't the way to go and yet the campaign cannot be solely about 'Ajax'. Though in the future as we fight and win in more battles in Livonia and likely Turkey this will change, for now Matthias has to be able to show that he as a candidate can offer things.
The Ruthenians want security, the Lithuanians want their lands back, the Crownlanders want prestige and power and wealth…so we give the Ruthenians and Crownlanders what they want through border forts and potential marriages to the Emperors court.
Finally…let's not push things too hard yet. I'm sure there'll be a chance for a final speech before the election, for now, rest a little bit instead of diving into things. We already lost our leg for no reason. We're lucky the QM is merciful and giving us the experimental prosthetic that will allow us to ride and fight and walk again.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Okay so, the Ruthenians are on the fence, with us coordinating with the Austrians, they can hear from the Imperial representatives themselves in regards to what they're most concerned about, defence, we've shown we can fight for them, now show Matthias has long term plans regarding their safety.
Next I want to keep up our reputation as an honest and good nobleman, slandering our enemy isn't the way to go and yet the campaign cannot be solely about 'Ajax'. Though in the future as we fight and win in more battles in Livonia and likely Turkey this will change, for now Matthias has to be able to show that he as a candidate can offer things.
The Ruthenians want security, the Lithuanians want their lands back, the Crownlanders want prestige and power and wealth…so we give the Ruthenians and Crownlanders what they want through border forts and potential marriages to the Emperors court.
Finally…let's not push things too hard yet. I'm sure there'll be a chance for a final speech before the election, for now, rest a little bit instead of diving into things. We already lost our leg for no reason. We're lucky the QM is merciful and giving us the experimental prosthetic that will allow us to ride and fight and walk again.
- Location
- United States
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the defense of Ruthenia.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Take the floor and move them with a speech about the defense of Ruthenia.
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- Pronouns
- She/They
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of your bravery.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Playing ourselves up isn't in Stan's nature, but it is in Mariana's, and I want to capitalize on our adventures as much as possible. Except we still need to take it a LITTLE easy.
[X] Spread rumors of your bravery.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Playing ourselves up isn't in Stan's nature, but it is in Mariana's, and I want to capitalize on our adventures as much as possible. Except we still need to take it a LITTLE easy.
[X] This will do.
I think its important to not push the Austrians too far. The more they invest the more they will expect in return
Guidance and coordination is one thing, but if we're trying to push them to invest more cash in bribes and expect less in military alliance its not much of a bargain for them.
Hint and let them decide if they want to up their bet.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
Puffing our own chest isn't quite our speed and may not win more than it already has. And underhanded rumor mongering I think makes a non personal rivalry to one that is personal. We can have opponents but its wise to avoid making enemies that we won't finish off quickly.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Attending without grandstanding seems a good middle ground before staying in bed and trying to push our selves too far
I think its important to not push the Austrians too far. The more they invest the more they will expect in return
Guidance and coordination is one thing, but if we're trying to push them to invest more cash in bribes and expect less in military alliance its not much of a bargain for them.
Hint and let them decide if they want to up their bet.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
Puffing our own chest isn't quite our speed and may not win more than it already has. And underhanded rumor mongering I think makes a non personal rivalry to one that is personal. We can have opponents but its wise to avoid making enemies that we won't finish off quickly.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Attending without grandstanding seems a good middle ground before staying in bed and trying to push our selves too far
- Location
- SF Bay Area
True, but even in spite of Stan's love for his wife, he's still a product of his time who sees her as his subordinate and to some degree an extension of his will. If she goes around lying about what he did in the battle, I think he'd believe that that sin would reflect on him as well.
I'm a little late to the party!
Absolutely love the dynamic between Stan and Marianna. They're such a good pairing, and have surprising synergy... Also, she's starting to reveal her more wolfish tendencies, which kinda proves a statement from earlier, I can't recall from who, about her being a saint around her family and the worst nightmare for her enemies. Either way, it's nice to have a fox like her on our side of things.
Wondering when we're gonna have little Stanlings running around. Lol.
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Okay! So. Reasoning here.
Ruthenians are on the fence in light of recent attacks and Tatar Raids. They want a guarantee of peace with the Ottomans, and thats a little above our paygrade, we can emphasize that the Austrians guaranteeing time and resources to the Ruthenian Frontiers and the protection of the lords' lands and peoples in the form of military establishments meant to deter or make an invasion a living hell, will no doubt win over those ruthenian lords who're uncertain if they wish for Maciej or Bathory.
The opportunities with the Habsburg Candidate is one of the biggest strengths that Maciej brings to the table as King of the Commonwealth. Opening doors politically and finanicially. This won't be the same as just giving the wealth up front, but allowing the lords and electors the opportunity to win and makes deals and earn the wealth themselves on top of a equal, or slightly less so, bribe will hopefully make all the difference. The Crownlanders are concerned with prospects, and what they get out of it. If the prestige, connections and wealth of the Empire and it's court aren't enough, I don't know what is.
And attending outselves... We do not need to be a Cato or Cicero to stand up and make grandstanding orations and speeches. Because words are like wind. We acted. We've sacrificed a lot for our commonwealth, and just attending, being attentive, bring a presence to physically remind everyone of that fact. It will go far, I imagine. Besides, being present will still allow us, if at any point the initiative begins leaving our field, to have a much more hands on capability to help stir the attention back to an Austrian favorable direction.
On an unrelated note. I love this quest, honestly. Disagreements aside in votes, it's so captivating and immersive. I can only hope to have the same quality in my own works. I made an account specifically to participate in this quest, and I haven't regretted it once. Keep up the good work, Rolman! And maybe don't cause yourself phantom pains in the future. Doesn't sound healthy. : P
Cheers to all of our accomplishments and hard work, win or lose, we've done a lot. Endured a lot. And thats worth something.
Absolutely love the dynamic between Stan and Marianna. They're such a good pairing, and have surprising synergy... Also, she's starting to reveal her more wolfish tendencies, which kinda proves a statement from earlier, I can't recall from who, about her being a saint around her family and the worst nightmare for her enemies. Either way, it's nice to have a fox like her on our side of things.
Wondering when we're gonna have little Stanlings running around. Lol.
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Okay! So. Reasoning here.
Ruthenians are on the fence in light of recent attacks and Tatar Raids. They want a guarantee of peace with the Ottomans, and thats a little above our paygrade, we can emphasize that the Austrians guaranteeing time and resources to the Ruthenian Frontiers and the protection of the lords' lands and peoples in the form of military establishments meant to deter or make an invasion a living hell, will no doubt win over those ruthenian lords who're uncertain if they wish for Maciej or Bathory.
The opportunities with the Habsburg Candidate is one of the biggest strengths that Maciej brings to the table as King of the Commonwealth. Opening doors politically and finanicially. This won't be the same as just giving the wealth up front, but allowing the lords and electors the opportunity to win and makes deals and earn the wealth themselves on top of a equal, or slightly less so, bribe will hopefully make all the difference. The Crownlanders are concerned with prospects, and what they get out of it. If the prestige, connections and wealth of the Empire and it's court aren't enough, I don't know what is.
And attending outselves... We do not need to be a Cato or Cicero to stand up and make grandstanding orations and speeches. Because words are like wind. We acted. We've sacrificed a lot for our commonwealth, and just attending, being attentive, bring a presence to physically remind everyone of that fact. It will go far, I imagine. Besides, being present will still allow us, if at any point the initiative begins leaving our field, to have a much more hands on capability to help stir the attention back to an Austrian favorable direction.
On an unrelated note. I love this quest, honestly. Disagreements aside in votes, it's so captivating and immersive. I can only hope to have the same quality in my own works. I made an account specifically to participate in this quest, and I haven't regretted it once. Keep up the good work, Rolman! And maybe don't cause yourself phantom pains in the future. Doesn't sound healthy. : P
Cheers to all of our accomplishments and hard work, win or lose, we've done a lot. Endured a lot. And thats worth something.
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bookwyrm
Doom of Public Libraries
- Location
- Wichita, Kansas
[X] This will do.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Honestly I think the provisional negotiation got a pretty solid concession for Ruthenian concerns, and honestly we don't want more elaboration of the Military Frontier concept, when more details could risk pissing people off that like just the big picture idea of it. Details are for actually reigning.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Honestly I think the provisional negotiation got a pretty solid concession for Ruthenian concerns, and honestly we don't want more elaboration of the Military Frontier concept, when more details could risk pissing people off that like just the big picture idea of it. Details are for actually reigning.
Noroboro
Consistency is key and I’m consistently tired :)
- Location
- Canada
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
- Location
- United States
Thank you so much!!! Honestly blows my mind that you made an account/stopped lurking for lil ole me. I'm really glad people have as much fun reading SDN as I do writing it, and can understand/love these people who I try to make both culturally foreign yet completely relatable. This quest has gotten me through some hard times IRL, and all this praise makes me wanna write even more!
But an artiste must suffer for his work! *swoons*
Maybe. So long as the artiste remains having fun whilst doing it, and it doesn't affect his health too much. : P
But yeah, you've done quite a bit for me. Stopped lurking, also inspired me to pick up some books again. Namely The Use of the Polish Saber on Foot in the 17th Century by Richard Marsden, which is something I got years ago but never actually read(Namely because I'm poor and can't afford gear with which to practice the contents of the book with). Been on my shelf for ages, but now I'm taking the time to read through it to see if I cant get a better peek into the world our Stanislaw Radziwill lives in.
Either way, can't thank you enough for the time you put into this work.
- Location
- United States
Oh man, the way running this has inspired me to do HEMA… German longsword though, but Polish saber is sick as well. Maybe someday.Maybe. So long as the artiste remains having fun whilst doing it, and it doesn't affect his health too much. : P
But yeah, you've done quite a bit for me. Stopped lurking, also inspired me to pick up some books again. Namely The Use of the Polish Saber on Foot in the 17th Century by Richard Marsden, which is something I got years ago but never actually read(Namely because I'm poor and can't afford gear with which to practice the contents of the book with). Been on my shelf for ages, but now I'm taking the time to read through it to see if I cant get a better peek into the world our Stanislaw Radziwill lives in.
Either way, can't thank you enough for the time you put into this work.
Well, reread Staszek's duel scene as much as you want, it's part X-IV "Outside of Kraków" in early 1574 — sadly the first and last one for him, as fate would have it. Maybe someday when I run the Heir Quest we'll have ourselves a real Kmicic…
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
Sert Notes: Currency, Courts, and Ruthenians
Sertorius
Rebellious Legate
- Location
- Roma Invicta
I'm afraid I'm going to have to correct you: a single ducat is not the equivalent of a 1 złoty.
Truth be told, in the Commonwealth coinage system there is no coin worth 1 złoty. It is mostly a virtual currency used for the sake of transactions.
A quick lesson about the coins used in the Commonwealth.
1 Złoty = 30 Groschen (Pl. Grosze, Sin. Grosz) = 90 Shillings (pl. Szelągi, Sin. Szeląg)
The most valuable gold coins present were Portugals and Half-portugals (worth 10 Ducats and 5 Ducats each), that started to be minted in Lithuania near the end of Augustus' reign, but they were few and mostly used as collectibles: the King would present them as gifts, mementos or souvenirs.
A Ducat (gold coin), called also a Florin or Red Złoty (Czerwony Złoty) to distinguish it from the virtual Złoty, was usually the most valuable coin in regular circulation. By the end of the 16th century it was worth about 58 Groschen. In time, this will get even worse (in 1620 - 120 Groschen) due to the debasement of silver coins.
Next we have the silver Thaler (sometimes called the Lithuanian Thaler), also known as Półkopek. A relatively new coin as well (minted first by Zygmunt the Old, before being reintroduced by August in its current form), worth 30 Lithuanian Groschen (about 37,5 Polish Groschen). The closest thing we have to a coin worth 1 Złoty. There was also the Half-thaler (Ćwierćkopek), worth 15 Groschen.
The kopek part comes from the old Polish word kopa, which means 60 units of something. It's easy to count, that a Halfkopek means 30 and the Quarterkopek 15, both mentioned above.
Then there is the old, small silver currency (Szóstak, Trójniak, Grosz, Półgrosz, worth 6, 3, 1 and 0,5 Groschen respectively; Szeląg, Ternar, Denar, worth 1/3, 1/6 and 1/6 Groschen respectively). The last three in time became so debased, that they were more copper, rather than silver (for instance, the Denar even during the 16th century could be worth anything from 1/10 to 1/18 Groschen). These coins are the ones most frequently used in circulation.
The Ducat, Thaler or Half-thaler were usually used in large, bulk transactions and by the rich, while the smaller currency was in everyday use by the regular people.
Fun fact: Zygmunt August has ordered, that official Royal minting would be done in the Grand Duchy in Wilno during the last years of his reign, hence why many of the newer coins are of Lithuanian origin.
The nobility (with the exception of the Reformed), while cross, might just agree, provided that their verdicts shall not be enforced by the administration (the Starostas), since this is the main reason why they were outlawed. The Church can say what it wants, bu cannot enforce its ruling, meaning it is as good as a dead letter.
While true, I would just like to point out, that the Ruthenians were by far the most warlike and eager to fight out of all the nobles of the Commonwealth. Paradoxically, the danger and raids would fuel their anger and lust for revenge, rather than peace talks. Whenever there was a war about, the Crownlanders would want peace, the Lithuanians concessions, while the Ruthenians wanted to join the war effort.
[X] We'll be needing some more concrete plans regarding the Military Frontier.
[X] Spread rumors of your bravery.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
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- Location
- Mists of Albion
Well, considering the Long Turkish was is a thing, I'm 100% certain they'll eventually get their wish.
I can't see Stan not being more willing to fight the Sultan when he hears of him burning saintly relics.
Hell, maybe with The Commonwealth playing a more active role Eger can be relieved and the Christian's can be the ones doing an outflanking manoeuvre on the second day of Mezokeresztes
Kir the Wizard
The Sun King
- Location
- Ukraine
[X] This will do.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
[X] Spread rumors of the glamor and social opportunities brought by a Habsburg candidate.
[X] Begin attending the assemblies again, and let your mere presence speak for itself.
While this system is a mess, that means that 80,000 ducats translates, with the exchange rates of 1 zloty = 30 groschen and 1 ducat = 120 groschen, the means Matthias can give a maximum equivalent bribe of 240,000 zloty from his 80,000 dicats (where we previously assumed 1 ducat ~= 1 zloty). Do I have that right?
Sertorius
Rebellious Legate
- Location
- Roma Invicta
Currently the Ducat is worth, for the sake of easier math, about 60 Groschen or 2 Złoty. That gives us 160 000 Złoty.
I'm not even talking about the differences in coins (the Imperial Ducat could have a different weight in gold than the Polish one for instance), but for simplicity's sake, I believe we can assume that.
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- Location
- United States
Thank you as ever @Sertorius! Really weird about the oft-raided Ruthenians being the most ready to go; I don't know if Matthias would've proposed a militargrenze structure if he knew that… Yep, totally Matthias' bad… All him…
While everyone's here, I may as well describe how I ass-pulled the 80,000 ducat figure:
While everyone's here, I may as well describe how I ass-pulled the 80,000 ducat figure:
- Matthias received 80k from his Spanish cousins while HREmperor in 1612; the Elector of Cologne received 20k — a military engineer on the Habsburg Frontier c. 1570 would receive about 300/yr, with a retirement pension of 150-ish/yr, if you want a comparison to an Imperial official of "middle class"
- Therefore, IRL it probably would have been more of a middle number, leaning closer to 20k. That's my personal conjecture.
- However, the 80k figure is a lump sum, rather than an annual pension as a non-inheriting Archduke would receive, and probably also factors in land titles/a bishopric, as is customary for second and third Habsburg sons to receive in compensation
- So I imagined a total compensation, including land value, of ~4k for 20 years being "normal," and then multiplied it and for dramatic reasons offered it as a lump sum.
Habsburg Faction Bribe Recalc
- Location
- United States
Also, with this math, adding the Radziwiłł contribution, the Batory bribe is, in fact, matched, or even slightly exceeded. Please go forward knowing this; I may or may not edit the in-character post. Nobody voted to try and get more bribe money anyway, though.
Sertorius
Rebellious Legate
- Location
- Roma Invicta
No, no, no, that is a totally valid thing for Ruthenia!
A string of forts guarding the southern border, especially in Ukraine, was a wet dream of the locals since times immemorial. Tatar incursions were by no means pleasant and any deterrent or fortress, that might stop them was always well received. There was just a single problem stopping this from being implemented: money, of course. Like I said, the treasury was empty as a rule of thumb, while the nobility and magnates were rich.
As to why they were so adamant on fighting... well, Ruthenia was a bandit heaven in many parts, like I said previously, trouble was all about and the locals had to learn to fight in order to survive. Poverty was also quite widespread, so they were eager to go and fight a war in order to get some good plunder, especially since they actually had the stomach for it due to living in an unstable region, unlike the poor (and very numerous) Masovian nobles for instance, who had a peaceful and boring existence. Even many of the Ruthenian princes (Dymitr Wiśniowiecki or Samuel Korecki) were infamous for their border raids on Tatar and Ottoman lands and very adventurous spirit.
That is absolutely fine. I would like to point out, that bribes are fine and all, but most foreign monarchs elected to the throne also offered in their pacta conventa a lump sum of money (the bigger, the better) in order to reinforce the royal treasury, since money was always lacking. For instance, Henryk Walezy promised to supply 450 000 Złoty to the Polish treasury each year from his own purse and bring French troops to fight the Muscovites with their upkeep covered by himself.
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