Dreams of Frisian Freedom

[diskoerekto]

It can be done without a merchant, yes. But having him there does give a small boost.

so he doesn't need to find another merchant from thin air but just use the one that's collecting at home node and send him to Cape to steer Malacca to English Channel? He already steers Ivory Coast so one would be sufficient I think

 

[jak7139]

so he doesn't need to find another merchant from thin air but just use the one that's collecting at home node and send him to Cape to steer Malacca to English Channel? He already steers Ivory Coast so one would be sufficient I think

Yes, I think that works.

Very key @Bullfilter: you want the chain of merchants to be unbroken. So Malacca -> Cape -> Ivory Coast -> EC needs a merchant for each leg. You can also go from Iory Coast -> Caribbean -> Chesapeake -> EC, but you would need a merchant for each.

Having the route be more circuitous and longer, and pushed forward by more merchants means more profit.

 

[Bullfilter]

OK, we're back to Friesland and a good long session played, most of it covered in the next chapter. Getting closer to end game now!

Hang on, where are the Italians?!

I suppose that's when the Curia itself (usually the largest single influencer) nominates the Pope? Not this time though: hooray!

Kilwa lowkey turned out to be quite scary itself

Yes, eclipsing Somalia as the front runner. But as a few have mentioned, it will eventually bring them face to face with the overawing Turkish Republic!

Shu was like this as well when they had the mandate of heaven, that only went on until they hit Russia, let's see if Dai Viet can keep this up against either of Russia / Hindustan. Or maybe they'll become a third focus of strength in Asia, let's see

A bit like Kilwa, they are benefitting from not being close to Russia (and having Hindustan as a partner in crime), while Shu (like Somalia) expanded until they became a victim instead

Now this would change the power balance considerably in their favor in the region

Dai Viet is the rising regional power, as long as they can keep friendly with Hindustan they should do well.

you really use the AI to good use with those pics, very well done!

Thanks: had a few spare pic slots here, so decided to use them.

sounds like we're in need of some expansion

Yes, just trying to work within the limits, especially the braking effect the Coalition has had for many years now. Forces us to work in Africa and the East Indies. More on that in the next chapter.

the rule of thumb is to try to collect only from your home node (i think that can be done without a merchant), and rerouting all the trade you can through the most indirect way possible to arrive at your home node. the more meandering way the trade comes, the more money you make. if there are places where you cannot steer it towards your home node then you can collect there but that's suboptimal. one has to look at the trade map to figure out where to expand next so all trade loops back to your home node. In your case, Chesapeake Bay should be steering towards English Channel instead of collecting. If you somehow managed to have one extra merchant so you steer Malacca to Cape and then Cape to Ivory Coast you'll make more money. There'll be people with better and more precise advice than this though.

I agree with @diskoerekto. Probably best to transfer from Chesapeake (since it flows into the English Channel where you collect) and Malacca (eventually flows into EC via the Cape and Ivory Coast). You want to push as much money forward into your main node as possible.

so he doesn't need to find another merchant from thin air but just use the one that's collecting at home node and send him to Cape to steer Malacca to English Channel? He already steers Ivory Coast so one would be sufficient I think

Yes, I think that works.

Very key @Bullfilter: you want the chain of merchants to be unbroken. So Malacca -> Cape -> Ivory Coast -> EC needs a merchant for each leg. You can also go from Iory Coast -> Caribbean -> Chesapeake -> EC, but you would need a merchant for each.

Having the route be more circuitous and longer, and pushed forward by more merchants means more profit.

It can be done without a merchant, yes. But having him there does give a small boost.

Thanks both of you. You'll see how I've applied this advice in the next update, with a minor variation. I'll have some more questions after that (mainly about how much trade is passed on, and whether you should have trade protection fleets in the intermediate zones as well, especially if others are prominent in them).

Great news I guess! Congrats! I never saw/read about a country that has papal control so it'll be exciting to see what can be done with this

Although it seems that much of the juicy stuff has largely passed its 'use by' date this late in the game.

Every country that has diplo tech 23 automatically gets imperialism as a CB. But I just checked on the wiki, subjects can't use it. So you will have to go with a normal claim (fabricated either by yourself then granted to F Aust, or by them).

Nominating just the bordering provinces should be enough. As long as FrAus remains loyal, they will fabricate. I have no evidence for this, but anecdotally I feel like if you highlight too many target provinces, the subject AI becomes paralyzed with too many options.

You have to build the spy network in Portugal itself, but once you have enough strength can make a claim on PAus. Then just give that claim to FrAus in the subject interface.

Thanks, see the next chapter.

Only vassals I am pretty sure.

Right, thought so.

If Austria hasn't done so already, I doubt they'll do it now with the threat of Frisian intervention.

OK.

A sign that the Republic is of course blessed by God! Huzzah!

Naturally. For now, anyway.

Thanks as always for the support and advice.

 

[Bullfilter]

Chapter 69: Building the Colonies (1777-81)

The late 1770s and early 17803 saw a major development and building boom in the Federal Republic, especially in the Frisian East Indies and Niger. [Bing AI, DALL-E3]

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

The Dai Viet-Lan Na Cleansing of Heresy War

Vietnam had launched another religious war on a neighbour, this time Lan Na with its allies Kham, Taungu and Ayutthaya in February 1776. They had the support of the Asian superpower Hindustan and two other minor powers. Kham was forced into a separate peace in September 1776 while Taungu was effectively annexed by Hindustan in November of the same year.

​

The one-sided conflict ended in July 1777 with Ayutthaya losing land in southern China and Indo-China to the Vietnamese and Kedah in Malaya going to Hindustan. Lan Na was forced to convert to Mahayana Buddhism.

​

At that time, the British-Chilean War was still going, as was the Russian attack on Kikuchi and Japan and the Turkish War against Jimma and its allies in the Horn of Africa.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

The British-Chilean Imperialist War

Britain, supported by Castile, had begun a war against Chile and its allies Cuba and Mexico in June. For the next three years had seen most of Castilian California and Pacifico Norte occupied by Mexico and Chile, the British objective seemingly distant and forlorn. But by March 1779 Britain had turned this around, with Castile occupying large swathes of Chile and southern Mexico.

​

By then, it was one of only three wars in progress around the world – internal revolutionary uprisings aside.

Just four months later Mexico had pulled out of the war, cutting a separate peace with Britain for a small reparation payment.

​

Chile and Cuba did not last much longer, with the peace treaty of 30 August 1779 forcing Cuba to cede Trinidad to British Colombia, with Britain gaining territory in Peru and northern Chile after six years of war.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

The Turkish-Jimma Annexation War

The aggressive Turkish expansion in the Horn of Africa had continued in November 1775 with a bid to annex the small revolutionary state of Jimma, one of many that had spawned from the defeat of Somalia in a previous war. This had roped in a range of Jimma’s allies who were forced to confront the might of Revolutionary Turkey. But Turkish ally Mombasa had been isolated and was eventually overwhelmed by the growing Kilwa in August 1777, forced to cede some land and leave the war.

​

By then, Jimma had been long occupied by the Turks, as had much of Somalia. In May 1778, Revolutionary Ethiopia was fully annexed by Turkey.

​

The once-powerful Somalia was next to capitulate, losing a large slab of its provinces to the Turks in August 1778 and now reduced to a minor regional footnote.

​

Due to Kilwa’s continued participation it took until November 1780 for Jimma to concede defeat. Its neighbours had been devastated and devoured just so Jimma could fail in its attempt to not become a Turkish vassal: their allies had suffered far more than they had for their commitment!

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Hindustani Wars

Hindustan-Dai Viet ‘cabal’ turned to the Shu Chinese kingdom as its next victim in February 1779. Shu had only partly recovered from its past losses against a range of rapacious enemies by this time and were vastly outnumbered by its principal opponents.

​

Shu resistance only lasted a year and a half, though their concessions were comparatively limited. They lost one isolated province on the border with Hindustan and were forced to give up their overlordship of Bengal: probably releasing them from some future damaging obligation they would have been unable to fulfil anyway.

​

The Hindustan-Dai Viet axis next bullied the minor Malayan state of Pattani just three months later, dragging Bengal and Malacca into what would doubtless be another fist-beating!

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Austrian-Swiss Counter-Revolutionary War

Revolutionary regimes took over the governments of Switzerland (now reduced to a two-province minor) and Lorraine in May 1777. In August 1779 this had become too much to bear for the reactionary Austrian Archduchy, who with British support set out to crush the Swiss revolution. The Austrians alone now commanded over 330,000 troops and the result was never in doubt.

​

Lorraine’s resistance only lasted until the end of January 1781 with them forced to convert to Catholicism, with Switzerland defeated barely a month later. Their short-lived revolution was ended and they became an Austrian vassal.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Other Wars

After almost five years, Russia’s weight had finally been brought to bear against Japan. Not only was Kikuchi annexed, but Japan was also forced to yield nine provinces in its south. No eastern power had yet been able to stand up to the Russian juggernaut.

[Image from Leonardo AI, Phoenix 1.0]​

The two minor former Shu-Chinese kingdoms of Miao and Yi were fighting against each other again in February 1781 – even though Yi didn’t even field a standing army.

​

And in East Africa, Turkey was at it again a few days later, this time seeking to annex Revolutionary Harar, who only had Funj as an ally. Two more minor powers likely to be annexed or vassalised by the ever-expanding Turks, their revolutionary governments giving them no moral protection.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Diplomacy, Espionage and Revolution

April 1776 saw another attempt to explore the option of instigating a colonial war between Frisian and Portuguese Australia. First, a spy network would have to be developed in Portugal before a new claim could be fabricated.

​

The expanding bevy of Frisian diplomats was active during this period. The recent gaining of control over the Papacy granted an extra diplomat by the start of May 1776 – who was the one sent to build the spy network in Portugal. In June, spice trading granted a very useful increase of 25% in spy generation. Over the next three years, diplomatic missions came and went as some were fulfilled or networks were discovered and recalled.

​

Relations were improved with both allies and former enemies at different times, while the long-term campaign to dispel Castilian rivalry continued on and off, including trust-building initiatives. Enmity with Franconia was a constant theme, as was keeping New Friesland from developing a dangerous level of liberty desire.

The new claim in Portuguese Australia was gained in August 1777 – before the network was degraded a year later – and it seemed this was automatically also adopted by Frisian Australia. But any action was forestalled when a review of the relative strengths showed Portuguese Australia had gained considerably in strength over the last few years and an inter-colonial war was no longer looking desirable.

​

The Federal Republic at least tried to boost their colony’s manpower and officer corps, which it was hoped might encourage them to grow their own army and did at least act to significantly suppress liberty desire. Otherwise, a more suitable opportunity to grab some land in Australia would have to be waited for.

Espionage – especially spy network construction – was further enhanced in October 1777 with another idea unlocked: this now made spy-building efforts very efficient indeed in combination with the President’s skills, an effective spymaster and spice trading.

​

And with diplomatic power at a premium, the next skilled diplomat recruited in December was kept at court to provide advice to the President.

The last mainland Frisian province to have the revolution spread to it was Meppen in May 1778. And by July, the Portuguese Australian army had grown further to 50,000 men, delaying any move there to the more distant future [unless anyone has any bright ideas on anything further I can do to improve the odds without going to war directly with Portugal itself].

In September-October 1779 there was something of a surge in potential unrest in New Friesland. Revolutionary upheaval there had to be met with the use of favours owed and another tariff reduction to keep thing in check in late September.

​

Just a month later, mercantile interests were sacrificed to ensure more unrest did not eventuate.

When the spy network in France reached the required threshold, some agitation for liberty in Floride was considered. But given it was already at 100% it was assumed this would not make any material difference for now. So it was decided to corrupt the French bureaucracy instead. [For what good that would do.]

​

From November 1779 to March 1781 the usual fluctuations in missions occurred, with a major event being the gaining of an eighth diplomat in October 1780. From late 1780, attention was turned to Africa, with spy networks started in Air in November and then Kanem Bornu in January 1781. By March 1781, two diplomats were still returning after the end of their missions.

​

In September 1780, New Friesland was once again complaining about trade and again, with liberty desire only just under control, the Federal government compromised once more.

​

The previously mentioned idea breakthrough of improved agent training in October 1780 not only increased the number of diplomatic operatives but also decreased advisor costs.

​

Having not suffered much from its at-a-distance conflicts with Turkey, in November 1780 Kilwa was now the leading East African regional power. And saw fit to declare Friesland to be a rival. The President hoped it would go no further than that. The Republic now had five enemies, including Castile (still) and three declared rivals.

​

Between January 1777 and March 1781, the long lasting anti-Frisian coalition, started by Saxe-Lauenburg way on 6 April 1747 after Friesland’s extensive conquests in Northern Germany, continued to break up at an increasing rate. Bengal left in January 1777; followed by Pomerania (Feb 1778); then a gap until Malacca (Nov 1780); and a flurry of Berg, Saxe-Lauenburg, Mainz, Austria, Magdeburg, Brunswick, Cologne and Deli (Feb 1781); followed by Saxony, Goslar, Pahang, Franconia and Kedah in early March. This formally dissolved the coalition which had lasted almost 34 years.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Domestic and Economic Affairs

Based on the advice of economic experts, in April 1776 Friesland began to adjust its trade flows in the hope of making them more efficient and lucrative. The merchant assigned to Chesapeake Bay started to transfer trade to the English Channel instead of collecting. The merchant in Burgundy was recalled and three days later was on his way to the Cape of Good Hope, where he arrived on 1 July with instructions to transfer to the Ivory Coast, which already fed the trade route to the English Channel.

At that point, Sjoerd Ripperda who ran the Indonesian Charter from Malacca was switched from collection to forwarding trade to the Cape. Other factors may have affected trade income during the period of reorientation, but net trade collections from the previous three collection nodes had been 441 ducats and was 461 by 1 July through the English Channel alone: the adjustment seemed to have worked.

​

Over four days in September 1776, two major events saw a conservative approach to education gain a one-off administrative boost, while a large sum had to be allocated from the treasury to deal with some political ructions that threatened to undermine Friesland prized AAA-rated stability.

​

At the start of 1777, yet more funds had to be allocated, this time to deal with the effects or urbanisation in six provinces across the Republic in both Europe and the colonies. And to keep the burghers happy and gain some longer-term tax revenue.

​

To follow up the recent trade moves, the 18 frigates of the Lubeck trade protection fleet were ordered to join the larger English Channel fleet in June 1777, where the British had been slowly eroding Frisian trading influence.

The ten-year debate timer in the Landtag ran out in October 1777. The President did whatever it took – money, influence peddling, appeasing the clergy and outright bribes – to quickly bring the new debate to a successful close. Quartering of Troops was enacted for the next ten years: especially important at that time as the Frisian standing army far exceed its support limit.

​

And the following month another member was added to the expanding Parliament: a colonial seat from the FEI. The Landtag would later expand again with the addition of Verden in March 1779. For reasons that were not entirely clear (or explored much) at the time, by February 1778 trade income had fallen to 446 ducats per month after having climbed as high as 479 in June 1777.

A long process of conversion in Pasai ended in July 1778 and this gave a boost of Papal influence – enough for a Frisian-controlled Pope to happily grant a sanction for increased taxes, which would also aid in a modest construction program that persisted throughout the period.

​

A big mission to convert the Sunni province of Kutaraja followed. As did a bountiful harvest a few months later, which helped to replenish a good deal of the recent expenditure from the already healthy treasury.

Recent frigate builds and the transfer of the Lubeck fleet to the English Channel had boosted the Frisian trade power there to 63% (up from 49% in April 1776) with monthly trade income up again to 463 ducats by September 1778.

Despite the adoption of the Enlightenment and parliamentary republicanism in Friesland, some superstitions still persisted in the late 18th century: the sighting of a comet in June 1780 sparked a nationwide panic. The loss of stability was soon remedied by the President of course, at the cost of considerable (though affordable) administrative power.

​

From 1776 to 1780, Friesland’s ranking among the world’s great powers remained unchanged in 5th place. The increase in their score had come through development in the colonial provinces, seeing Friesland improve more that France above them and the three powers below them. However, the top three behemoth powers had grown significantly more over that time, fuelled principally by conquest.

​

In terms of Friesland’s position over the long stretch of time since 1444, they also ranked 5th though there was some variance in the other positions of the top contenders. Friesland’s administrative rating, boosted in particular by their very large monthly income, was their strongest suit. Waning or def7unct powers like Portugal, Morocco and Poland were descending on the list, while Turkey, Hindustan, Russia, Friesland and Great Britain (in that order) led those on the upward trend.

Again for reasons not fully explored, by September 1780 the fluctuating trade income had ‘fallen off a cliff’ again, down to just 393 ducats/month and had only risen slightly a few months later.

A heavy program of development and building ran from January 1778 to November 1780, using a combination of surplus administrative and military power that could not yet be spent on further research advances, where Friesland was well already ahead of the international benchmarks. In January 1778, 546 admin and 165 military power was spent to develop Pekalongan (+6 dev), Poso (+7), Karta (+4), Surabaya (+5), Pindinga (+2) and Banten (+8) enabled four new conscription centres to be built in Karta, Surabaya, Pindinga and Banten to help redress the large land force limit (LFL) deficit. A cathedral also began construction in Poso. The completion of those builds in November 1778 saw the LFL raised to 365 regiments – still 25 short of the current establishment, which cost the budget an extra 25.59 ducats/month.

Another 59 admin and 105 military power saw Paul developed by +8 to 20 in April 1779, with another conscription centre commenced. The same was done in Ondo (in Frisian Niger) in August 1780 (70 admin, 70 military, +4 dev to 10) and Wakari (35 admin, +1 to 10 dev), with two more conscription centre builds commenced. At the same time, the withdrawal of the colonist from Gabon allowed grand shipyard to be built there as the development program moved into West Africa. The last development in 1780 came in Idah (again in Frisian Niger) a few months later (72 admin, 72 military, +6 dev to 10) for yet another conscription centre build.

Navy builds over this period were all of frigates in Europe, to support the protection of trade in the English Channel, as the naval force limit gradually increased. One was laid down in May 1777 and three in March 1778. Given the LFL overrun, no new regiments were trained. Instead, the focus shifted to drilling to increase army professionalism. From February 1779, eight of the ten Frisian Leger were drilling with army professionalism then at 33.89%.

As Friesland waited for the coalition to wither away and with the prospect for a colonial war in Australia on hold, the expiration of old truces meant a major attack on Air (army strength 68,000 from Air and its minor allies) was again on the cards. An assessment in November 1780 showed the prospects were good, so a diplomat was sent to set up a spy network. L.v. Idah stopped drilling and was moved up to the border; with the other Nigerian colonial army, Friesland had 65,000 troops in the region.

To ensure better odds and get mercenaries to soak up some of the inevitable casualties, the Grand Company (30 regiments) was hired in early February 1781, which deployed by 15 February but would take some time to organise. This put the book strength of the Frisian army to 420 regiments – 51 over the LFL, so therefore considerable extra costs incurred above the mercenary fees. By 5 March 1781 monthly net income was down to 144 ducats (trade at 395), with 50,000 in the treasury. The monetary cost could be sustained indefinitely, though it did dent the army’s professionalism.

On 15 March 1781, Friesland was ready. War was declared and the three armies poised on the border began heading towards their objectives. Two large Air border forts would have to be taken before further progress to the interior could be made. Aragon was not called in to support for now, as the Frisian leadership hoped to garner all the glory and gains for themselves, but the option remained if required.

 

[StrategyGameEnthusiast]

Its neighbours had been devastated and devoured just so Jimma could fail in its attempt to not become a Turkish vassal: their allies had suffered far more than they had for their commitment!

Two more minor powers likely to be annexed or vassalised by the ever-expanding Turks, their revolutionary governments giving them no moral protection.

There can only be one... (revolutionary state)

 

[diskoerekto]

The one-sided conflict ended in July 1777 with Ayutthaya losing land in southern China and Indo-China to the Vietnamese and Kedah in Malaya going to Hindustan. Lan Na was forced to convert to Mahayana Buddhism.

consolidation goes on

Due to Kilwa’s continued participation it took until November 1780 for Jimma to concede defeat. Its neighbours had been devastated and devoured just so Jimma could fail in its attempt to not become a Turkish vassal: their allies had suffered far more than they had for their commitment!

rev turkey not so nice against fellow revolutionaries

And in East Africa, Turkey was at it again a few days later, this time seeking to annex Revolutionary Harar, who only had Funj as an ally. Two more minor powers likely to be annexed or vassalised by the ever-expanding Turks, their revolutionary governments giving them no moral protection.

what was that doctrine of stalin's, socialism in one country or something?

Between January 1777 and March 1781, the long lasting anti-Frisian coalition, started by Saxe-Lauenburg way on 6 April 1747 after Friesland’s extensive conquests in Northern Germany, continued to break up at an increasing rate. Bengal left in January 1777; followed by Pomerania (Feb 1778); then a gap until Malacca (Nov 1780); and a flurry of Berg, Saxe-Lauenburg, Mainz, Austria, Magdeburg, Brunswick, Cologne and Deli (Feb 1781); followed by Saxony, Goslar, Pahang, Franconia and Kedah in early March. This formally dissolved the coalition which had lasted almost 34 years.

finally

At that point, Sjoerd Ripperda who ran the Indonesian Charter from Malacca was switched from collection to forwarding trade to the Cape. Other factors may have affected trade income during the period of reorientation, but net trade collections from the previous three collection nodes had been 441 ducats and was 461 by 1 July through the English Channel alone: the adjustment seemed to have worked.

goed gedaan!

On 15 March 1781, Friesland was ready. War was declared and the three armies poised on the border began heading towards their objectives. Two large Air border forts would have to be taken before further progress to the interior could be made. Aragon was not called in to support for now, as the Frisian leadership hoped to garner all the glory and gains for themselves, but the option remained if required.

hoping for a quick and painless win once again!

 

[jak7139]

But any action was forestalled when a review of the relative strengths showed Portuguese Australia had gained considerably in strength over the last few years and an inter-colonial war was no longer looking desirable.

[unless anyone has any bright ideas on anything further I can do to improve the odds without going to war directly with Portugal itself].

Throwing any spare development (mil category especially) into FrAus. will help build up their manpower and troop numbers. You have such a large treasury, so a building spree in the colonial subjects with barracks, forcelimit buildings, etc. would not be amiss. They also need income to support those armies so build income buildings after that.

You can also subsidize your colonies directly in the diplomacy screen (same section as embargoes, sending gifts).

When the spy network in France reached the required threshold, some agitation for liberty in Floride was considered. But given it was already at 100%

Can you support their independence, or are you worried that might drag you into a war you don't want?

Aragon was not called in to support for now, as the Frisian leadership hoped to garner all the glory and gains for themselves, but the option remained if required.

A good play. You want Aragon to be strong, but not too strong. Friesland can manage the land better.

 

[Bullfilter]

There can only be one... (revolutionary state)

rev turkey not so nice against fellow revolutionaries

what was that doctrine of stalin's, socialism in one country or something?

All of the above! Glad they're not our neighbours ...

consolidation goes on

TTL does seem to be all about blobbing.

finally

A decades-long deep freeze on European expansion. A good deterrent for any future major land grab there from multiple countries! Will make us think twice about some Napoleonic land grab in the future!

goed gedaan!

Hartelijk dank!

hoping for a quick and painless win once again!

We can hope, at least ...

Throwing any spare development (mil category especially) into FrAus. will help build up their manpower and troop numbers. You have such a large treasury, so a building spree in the colonial subjects with barracks, forcelimit buildings, etc. would not be amiss. They also need income to support those armies so build income buildings after that.

You can also subsidize your colonies directly in the diplomacy screen (same section as embargoes, sending gifts).

Good hints, thanks. For now, I think the ask is a bit big for FA to handle this, even with assistance. But if Portugal/PA falters in the future ... well, at least I now know how to do it! May practice with a bit of that development assistance later, after the war with Air is over, perhaps.

Can you support their independence, or are you worried that might drag you into a war you don't want?

I suppose I could - would that do much good, make a revolution more likely? I kinda want them to erupt in a massive colonial civil war like Portugal did, then hit continental France while they're embroiled in that and can't call in lots of allies. If a war did eventuate from an independence guarantee, how does that tend to play out with respective allies of each side?

A good play. You want Aragon to be strong, but not too strong. Friesland can manage the land better.

It's certainly the intention and we'll soon see how it has worked out.

 

[Bullfilter]

Chapter 70: The Air War (1781-84)

A contemporary drawing of an engagement between Frisian and Air infantry at the 2nd Battle of Logone, 1782. [MS Copilot]

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Air War Phase One: Gone to Logone

The first phase of the war saw Frisian forces occupy their initial siege lines on the Air border by 27 March 1781, with a barrage directed onto the major fort in Katsina.

​

In late April, the first Air army appeared in Borno and L.v. Idah, having just occupied Biram, marched to meet them, arriving in Marghi a month later.

​

By early June L.v. Idah was advancing on Logone, the sole remaining province of Air ally Kanem Bornu, where a chance to knock out their army was being taken.

​

At this point, it was decided to raise another (smaller) mercenary company in Zazzau to augment the defences. The budget remained in healthy surplus despite rising army maintenance costs.

The 1st Battle of Logone lasted just three days, with the only partly-prepared and heavily outnumbered Kanem Bornu army wiped out despite putting up a furious fight.

​

But a few weeks later, the main Air army had swung south-east to confront the Frisians in Logone and more enemy reinforcements had appeared to the east. The Free Company had not even made it out of Zazzau yet, so the Grand Company ended its siege of Bedde early in order to assist L.v. Idah. However, they would have to swing around to the south first due to the fort, delaying their approach.

​

The 2nd Battle of Logone began on 30 June, with General Sibracht Bergsma putting up a stout defence which began to wear down the enemy’s morale. Despite being outnumbered, by 12 July the Frisians were winning, despite heavy losses.

​

Unfortunately, it was at this point that the first wave of Air reinforcements finally arrived, swinging the battle in their favour. And yet another column of 19 regiments had appeared east of Logone as Air amassed its whole army in the sector.

​

The Grand Company was still slogging its way through Bauchi at that point and could not hope to relieve L.v. Idah. A heavy defeat was suffered on 21 July. The GC reached the border at Marghi on 29 July and halted there.

By 7 September, the GC still faced off with a similar sized Air army sitting in Mandara, while L.v. Idah had finally rallied in Bonny with just 13,100 men in its 33 regiments and began the long return march. The Free Company was in Bauchi at that point and by late September had joined the GC and together they marched forward into Mandara, which the enemy had vacated.

Finding Logone occupied by a smaller army on 6 October they were ordered to advance, perhaps with the Frisian leadership more willing to risk the lives of their mercenaries this time to wear down the enemy than sacrificing more Frisian soldiers.

​

The 3rd Battle of Logone was joined ten days later, but on arrival the mercenaries got a very nasty surprise: an even larger Air army had been lying in reserve to the east. And they were unable to retreat any time soon.

The first column of enemy reinforcements arrived two days after the battle commenced and the rest had piled on by the 21st. Another even heavier defeat had been suffered by the time the carnage ended on 5 November.

​

Logone was becoming known as a Frisian graveyard by this time. Yet another mercenary outfit, the Asafo Company, was raised in Marghi but would take until mid-December to deploy.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Air War Phase Two: The Republic Strikes Back - Carefully

In mid-December, the new Frisian defensive deployment was coming into shape. L.v. Idah had returned to the front and was approaching full strength again, besieging Bedde. The Asafo Company had just deployed in Marghi and was organising, while the other two mercenary companies were still routing south in Idah. L.v. Calabar continued its long and so far uneventful siege of Katsina.

​

A month later, with the war stalled, Aragon was given and accepted a belated invitation to join in.

​

Things progressed in February 1782, with the fall of Katsina and siege barrages conducted in Daura and Bedde and Biram having to be reoccupied, by the returning GC and FC mercenaries. The cumulative effect of all the mercenary hiring had reduced the monthly balance to a small surplus. But the war had begun to turn in Friesland’s favour at last.

​

By May the Aragonese were arriving in force as the Frisians spread eastwards – and no Air armies had been spotted in some months.

​

The reason for this lull was soon explained. A report arrived that enemy forces had arrived in the Libyan outpost of Thubaqt. It was there and in the adjacent Aragonese territories that Air had decided to try its hand, effectively abandoning their heartlands.

​

To the south, this allowed Friesland to get on with the job of occupying as much of Air as they could. And a small revenge was taken in Logone, where the Asafo Company engaged a regiment of local troops on 31 May, destroying them and starting a new siege.

​

On the northern front, Thubaqt fell on 12 June as Air took that and Aragonese provinces without opposition, as yet. By early September, Air and smaller armies from its two allies continued to take land without opposition as Tunis was threatened.

Illustration: a soldier from Air in the North African campaign, 1782. [MS Copilot]​

However this was outweighed by Frisian gains in the south as they and their allies continued to reduce Air’s homeland and secure the northern approach to it through the Sahara.

Illustration: a Frisian line infantryman from Leger van Idah during the Air War, 1782. [MS Copilot]

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Air War Phase Three: Denouement

In the early months of 1783, the Frisian choke-hold on Air itself was almost complete, with a small force of Air’s allies destroyed on 8 April in a skirmish in Yao.

​

In the north, Aragon had finally reacted to the Air invasion. They had defeated the enemy some time earlier and by 30 April had begun the task of retaking lost provinces while the main enemy routed south – towards the Frisians in Air.

Illustration: “¡Aragón al Rescate!” (Aragon to the Rescue!), Aragonese court artist, 1783. [MS Copilot]​

The remnant Air force fled around the blocking force in northern Air and was not brought to bay until 5 August 1783, when they were run to ground in Al-Junayah. A ferocious defence by the enemy commander Yunus Kel Ouzzeyn took a heavy toll on the attackers, though the nearby L.v. Idah in Darfur broke its siege there to aid their comrades.

​

This was just as well, as Yunus’ tactical acumen continued to inflict heavy casualties even as the morale of his troops failed against the renewed Frisian onslaught. A very expensive victory was won on 24 August as the war moved into its final stages.

L.v. Idah remained relatively unscathed from the last battle and they attacked Yunus in Darfur on 11 September. Once more, the enemy commander showed his mastery of the battlefield but could not prevent the destruction of his army the following day after a heroic last stand.

​

By mid-December Friesland was on the brink of total mastery in the vicious war for Air [99% warscore] after the enemy capital of Air fell after a 488-day siege. On Christmas Day 1783, the Free and Asafo Companies were disbanded, with the former not available again until 1788 and the Asafo in 1786 while they recouped their losses. The monthly balance recovered to a 115-ducat surplus.

On 7 March 1784, Air’s emissaries arrived to offer their unconditional surrender, prompting peace negotiations and an end to the three-year war. Eleven Air provinces and the annexation of Logone were demanded by Frisia, while Aragon was allocated the province of Taharji in the north as a reward for their support. The aggressive expansion penalty for this big land grab would be quite localised with any coalition risks hopefully minimal.

​

Frisian Niger had been greatly expanded again, with a big administrative effort going into the coring of many new provinces to reduce the huge amount of ensuing overextension that resulted. Friesland had taken the bulk of the allied casualties during the war, but manpower levels were not too badly dented (260/275 reserve manpower).

​

Post-war administration was soon in full swing: the Grand Company was also dismissed (not available again until 1789), increasing the monthly balance to 178 ducats. The big expansion of territory meant the Army force limit had almost caught up with the standing army strength again (390/388) and at home, the Pope was asked to provide Papal sanction for the government, boosting Republican tradition and helping with improving diplomatic relations.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Foreign Wars

Revolutionary Funj surrendered to Turkey and was annexed in July 1781. The original war against their ally Harar continued.

​

Bengal suffered yet another humiliation at the hands of Hindustan in August 1781, losing another nine provinces as Hindustan and Dai Viet continued their war against Malacca.

​

Russia continued its aggressive Far Eastern imperialism with a declaration of war against the Shu and Korea in March 1782. As that war moved in Russia’s favour, minor Chinese power Miao defeated Yi and annexed it in October of the same year.

​

Just over a year later, Shu lost another large chunk of its northern lands to Russia and Korea lost most of its remaining territory to the Tsar.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Domestic and Diplomatic Affairs

With eight diplomatic teams now on a range of missions, in March 1781 spying resumed in Franconia (espionage at its height of effectiveness and taking up half the diplomatic effort). Another returning diplomat was sent to do some alliance maintenance in Scandinavia soon afterwards. The ‘blown’ spy in Austria in June was left spare until January 1782 when the ring in Franconia was also compromised again and the call to arms to Aragon in the Air War was issued. The effort switched back to France and currying favours in Frisian Australia.

​

Brunswick then replaced France on the spy circuit and Russia swapped in for Scandinavia on the influence missions, with another free spy retained after the war with Air was largely done. Towards the end of the period, a major breakthrough was made with Castile. After years of diplomacy, they renounced their long-standing rivalry with Friesland. They were not yet ready for an alliance, but the possibility was a big step closer.

While there was war in Africa, the FEI were quiet for now, with a large sum out-laid in September 1781 to upgrade the Borobudur Temple site in central Java.

​

January 1782 saw the Burghers gain even more influence in Frisian political circles. While they remained solidly loyal, some began to wonder whether they might soon pose a risk to the political establishment.

Question: is this something I need to worry about, decrease their influence a bit? Or is it OK so long as they remain loyal?​

In any case, President Martena seemed to have risen to the military challenges of the day and in March 1782 became known as an effective martial educator. Meanwhile, all the recent mercenary recruiting in Niger had considerable diluted the overall professionalism of the army.

​

And later in the year, a master recruiter joined the army staff, ready to take on a higher role (for less money) should a cabinet vacancy arise.

​

The nobles of Friesland, marginalised within the political system, stirred up trouble in late 1782 and undermined the Republic’s prized national stability. Considerable political capital was immediately expended to reassure the populace.

​

Recent development and a shipyard building enabled four new Great Frigates to be laid down in the European ports at the same time. They would be employed in trade protection in the English Channel when commissioned.

A large revolt broke out in Frisian Australia on 5 January 1784 with 20,000 revolutionaries rising in Nukunu. However, all 27 regiments of the FA army marched west to confront them and by the end of March the revolt had been crushed at the cost of around loyalist 3,000 casualties.

Following the end of the Air War on 7 March 1784, Friesland still ranked fifth in the list of great powers, but once the new provinces had been integrated it appeared likely that the Federal Republic would surpass France on that list.

​

By the end of the month, liberty desire was well under control in the two main main self-governing colonies in America and Australia.

 

[StrategyGameEnthusiast]

January 1782 saw the Burgers gain even more influence in Frisian political circles. While they remained solidly loyal, some began to wonder whether they might soon pose a risk to the political establishment.

How are the Fries/Chips doing?

Question: is this something I need to worry about, decrease their influence a bit? Or is it OK so long as they remain loyal?

Idk, don't play enough to know for sure, but I think the disaster is caused by high influence and low loyalty, while rebels spawn with low influence and low loyalty.

 

[Bullfilter]

How are the Fries/Chips doing?

Haha, nice one. I’ll fix it.

 

[jak7139]

A month later, with the war stalled, Aragon was given and accepted a belated invitation to join in.

They provided a nice distraction, certainly!

It's good to have friends.

The aggressive expansion penalty for this big land grab would be quite localised with any coalition risks hopefully minimal.

You can also check the blue and red flags in the bottom right of the peace screen for countries that might join. Same info, different format.

Towards the end of the period, a major breakthrough was made with Castile. After years of diplomacy, they renounced their long-standing rivalry with Friesland. They were not yet ready for an alliance, but the possibility was a big step closer.

Surrounding France is good.

Question: is this something I need to worry about, decrease their influence a bit? Or is it OK so long as they remain loyal?

You don't have to worry as long as they remain loyal. What privileges do the estates have as a refresher?

but once the new provinces had been integrated it appeared likely that the Federal Republic would surpass France on that list.

Take that, France!

 

[diskoerekto]

Unfortunately, it was at this point that the first wave of Air reinforcements finally arrived, swinging the battle in their favour. And yet another column of 19 regiments had appeared east of Logone as Air amassed its whole army in the sector.

oh boy

The first column of enemy reinforcements arrived two days after the battle commenced and the rest had piled on by the 21st. Another even heavier defeat had been suffered by the time the carnage ended on 5 November.

Things progressed in February 1782, with the fall of Katsina and siege barrages conducted in Daura and Bedde and Biram having to be reoccupied, by the returning GC and FC mercenaries. The cumulative effect of all the mercenary hiring had reduced the monthly balance to a small surplus. But the war had begun to turn in Friesland’s favour at last.

those west african wars can quickly turn ugly, good that it's turned for the better this time

The reason for this lull was soon explained. A report arrived that enemy forces had arrived in the Libyan outpost of Thubaqt. It was there and in the adjacent Aragonese territories that Air had decided to try its hand, effectively abandoning their heartlands.

ah, the AI

On 7 March 1784, Air’s emissaries arrived to offer their unconditional surrender, prompting peace negotiations and an end to the three-year war. Eleven Air provinces and the annexation of Logone were demanded by Frisia, while Aragon was allocated the province of Taharji in the north as a reward for their support. The aggressive expansion penalty for this big land grab would be quite localised with any coalition risks hopefully minimal.

good return for all that blood spilled

Following the end of the Air War on 7 March 1784, Friesland still ranked fifth in the list of great powers, but once the new provinces had been integrated it appeared likely that the Federal Republic would surpass France on that list.

GB (and later France) delenda est!

 

[Rensslaer]

Hehe Glad that you won the Air War against the Air Force using your CoPilot! . I could tell you were having fun with that.

Great to see you edging up on France!

Rensslaer

 

[Bullfilter]

Right, next session all played through and the first of two chapters arising from it is ready to go. Some comment responses first.

Idk, don't play enough to know for sure, but I think the disaster is caused by high influence and low loyalty, while rebels spawn with low influence and low loyalty.

OK, so I just need to keep them loyal 'in the green'?

They provided a nice distraction, certainly!

It's good to have friends.

Yes, in this case their help was very welcome - and diverted all the attention of Air their way! In retrospect, I should have brought them in at the start.

You can also check the blue and red flags in the bottom right of the peace screen for countries that might join. Same info, different format.

Ah, right, thanks.

Surrounding France is good.

Yes, still looking for an opportunity to take them down.

You don't have to worry as long as they remain loyal. What privileges do the estates have as a refresher?

Got it. Here's where things were at the start of the recent session (ie when this last chapter finished). Unchanged privileges since then, though loyalty and influence will have changed.

Take that, France!

"Yeah, get a mullet up ya, Froggies!" As we might so charmingly say in old Aussie slang.

oh boy

Yes, a grim loss, though as I've said before it's good for the AI to provide a challenge every so often.

those west african wars can quickly turn ugly, good that it's turned for the better this time

Sure can - took some doing and a few initial lost battles, but a good learning experience and outcome in the end.

good return for all that blood spilled

Yes, I think so, and no new nasty European coalition formed either.

GB (and later France) delenda est!

I know you're gunning for GB, but I;m still looking to recruit them as an ally against France one day, if possible. Though Castile may be even better (especially in North Africa) to take the heat off. Still, a bit of delenda for Gaul, certainly!

Hehe Glad that you won the Air War against the Air Force using your CoPilot! . I could tell you were having fun with that.

Great to see you edging up on France!

Rensslaer

Boom-tish! Yes, still keeping an eye on those perfidious French. If only one or more of their American colonies would revolt!

 

[Bullfilter]

Chapter 71: Tensions Rising (1784-85)

With their administration overextended following the end of the Air War, tensions rose across the Republic, including in Europe, Africa and Indonesia. Above, a contemporary lithograph shows a Frisian officer attempting to keep the peace at the regional capital of Kutaraja in Aceh, Sumatra. [MS Copilot]

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Rebellions Abound

The first uprising to strike the Federal Republic broke out close to home in Bremen. A large army of Frisian Particularists assembled in the city, whose fort had been mothballed, on 4 May 1784. Three Frisian armies were close by and began to surround the province. However, they had all been drilling and would require weeks to get back to combat readiness.

​

All three armies were in position by 10 May: well-trained but almost completely unprepared for combat. They were only around 50% ready when Bremen fell on 14 June after just a 42-day siege.

​

Vengeance was delayed but completed by 15 August after a short battle which saw the entire rebel force eliminated for around 5,000 Government casualties. But the rebels still holed up in the reconstituted fort would not be winkled out until the following April.

​

The period of almost universal army training was coming to an end, with a rising revolt risk in Aceh leading to L.v. Bengkulu ending drilling in mid-December 1784 to be ready to intervene in internal security if required. This was well-timed, as the first Indonesian revolt broke out early in the following February in Kutaraja.

​

Though outnumbered and taking around 8,000 casualties, the attack was driven home successfully, with those rebels not killed outright melting back into the jungle and order restored by the end of March.

Even as order was restored in Kutaraja, a few days later religious extremists revolted in neighbouring Gayo. L.v. Bengkulu did not even wait to reorganise and reinforce before marching on to stamp out the latest threat, which it had done by 15 April.

​

And over in Frisian Niger, a rebellion in Borno erupted on the same day as in Gayo. L.v. Idah was nearby but still drilling, so a long wait ensued before they were ready to march. Borno had already fallen to the rebels by the time the Leger could react but the battle was over quickly and the separatists wiped out by 22 June. However, rebel activity in the neighbouring (and not yet cored) Air lands remained elevated.

​

Indeed, in July 1785 unrest remained high across Africa and Indonesia. Less than three months later, a ‘double’ uprising of Air separatists occurred in Biram and Daura. The two colonial armies converged first on Biram, with only one of them required to quell the revolt easily by 18 October.

​

They then marched north to Daura to confront the larger of the two rebellions, which was defeated over a week (no battle report saved) in early November. By that time, unrest elsewhere was abating and only Madura off eastern Java remained a hotbed of dissent.

But of course Madura also then revolted just as the Air campaign was reaching its end. Ships needed to be sent to pick up L.v. Bengkulu from Gayo, which would delay the response until the new year. The Sundanese separatists occupied the island on 16 December, just as L.v. Bengkulu was boarding their transports in Gayo.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Turkey Takes on the Pope

As Friesland was largely preoccupied with a spate of revolts in from 1784, on 18 July Revolutionary Turkey launched a war to spread the Revolution to the Papal States, of all places! But the Pope had some powerful friends on his side, even if they could not hope to fully match Turkey’s military might (of over 1,200,000 troops). The Pope’s main allies would be Aragon, Castile and … Franconia!

​

Friesland actually had the opportunity to enter the war on Turkey’s side if it wished: tempting perhaps against Turkey, but it would involve taking on long-time ally Aragon and recently mollified Castile, both in Europe and in the colonies. Not a particularly attractive prospect, especially with a string of revolts wracking the Republic.

By the end of the year, the Papal alliance had managed to take a little Turkish land in southern Italy and Croatia as armies gathered and the Turks made an incursion into Tuscany. Interestingly, a New Frisian army was still stranded in North Africa after the recent war.

​

There was also action at sea, with both Castile and Aragon clashing with Turkish fleets in the central Mediterranean, the while the Turks had invaded Aragonese North Africa, where armies were gathering on both sides.

Turkish and Aragonese ships engaging each other south of Sicily, 30 December 1784. [MS Copilot]​

By the end of March 1785, occupations and blockades by each side balanced the other out, but after ten battles the Papal alliance was ahead after [+14% warscore]. In North Africa, by mid-April both sides were massing large forces but Turkey was gaining the advantage in numbers as a major battle (which Turkey would win) approached.

​

By October 1785, the fortunes of the war had begun to turn in Turkey’s favour: they were just ahead [+2% warscore] including in battles [+1% after 19].

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Other Foreign Wars

Before they went to war with Turkey, Castile (assisted by France) declared war on Blambangan and its small regional allies in April 1784.

​

A year and a half later, Blambangan was forced to surrender the island of Sumba to the Castilians.

​

The Hindustan-Pattani War had been going for five years before the final victory for the great sub-continental power in November 1785. Not only was the small state of Pattani annexed but all of Malacca’s Malayan holdings were also seized. This brought them into close proximity with the FEI – and tensions between the two would soon build.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Diplomacy

The range of Frisian diplomatic missions went through its normal cycle of positive and negative efforts. Major changes included rebuilding the spy network in Franconia (after a previous discovery had exposed the last mission) improving relations with Castile in April 1784. Another spy mission was compromised in France in November 1785 and those diplomats transferred to Turkey to ensure relations with the belligerent revolutionary nation.

​

By this time four diplomats were currying favours, two spying, one improving relations and one on standby.

Also in April 1784, informal negotiations with Castile had indicated they would have finally accepted an alliance offer if Friesland had been able to make it. But it wasn’t, because Frisian opinion of Castile remained too low [-78 and it needed to be positive]. Friesland may not have been ready for such an alliance at that. A few months later the point was moot after they went to war on the Pope’s behalf – though Friesland wouldn’t have been obligated to support them.

July 1784 saw another advance in espionage ideas, with improved vetting boosting foreign spy detection and helping to fight corruption: useful in the murky political dealing of the Federal Republic.

​

Before the spy network was discovered in France, its large network of spies was used fabricate two claims in two French-held lowlands provinces. Just in case an opportunity arose at some point …

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Domestic Events

The Clergy gained some influence and the Republic improved administration with the appointment of a Cardinal to the Cabinet in May 1784.

​

The good reputation of Frisian merchants boosted trade power in July and would do so for the next ten years.

​

Only for the merchants in the English Channel zone to provoke the opposite reaction, leading to a big sum being lost to the treasury.

​

By next March, the coring of newly acquired provinces in Africa was in progress, the last mission launched in March 1785. But it still had some time to go and until then, Frisian overextension continued to fuel the unrest being manifested in part by the rash of revolts.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

Military Development and Border Tension with Franconia

In March 1784, recent advice to help build Frisian Australia’s military was implemented: almost 1,900 ducats was spent on building or upgrading six conscription centres and three training fields. But by December 1787 FA still fielded only 25 regiments and actually had 6,000 fewer men in their manpower reserve.

After general growth and a new grand shipyard was completed, two new three-deckers and four regiments were begun.

​

In July 1785 a decision was taken to position for a possible surprise attack on Franconia – not as an ally of the Turks, but as a separate venture. Armies started moving to the frontier and those that had recommenced drilling after the Bremen revolt began working back up to operational readiness, but a final decision was not taken yet.

​

By mid-August, the front-line Frisian armies were in place along the Franconian border, but four of the five were still reorganising. But it seemed Franconia had lost over 40,000 troops in less than a month, presumably in combat against Turkey. The delay wasn’t doing much harm.

​

And in September 1785 new military technology became available – and it was a significant one for the Leger. The adoption of impulse warfare allowed drill infantry to become the new standard battalion organisation.

​

This gave the Frisians the edge in firepower over shock, which they hoped would give them an advantage in future combat. However, in the short term it set back the organisation of all the Frisian armies after the new doctrine was implemented and all infantry regiments had to re-train in the new tactics.

Not long after, the Landtag began complaining about high military expenses: clearly, cutbacks when war was being contemplated would simply not do. It seemed the extra expense of a round of large bribes to the complaining parliamentarians was entirely acceptable!

​

On 2 October 1785, Friesland stood at fourth in the global power rankings. Though when it tried exerting some of that power on Franconia’s allies, they were not remotely interested in breaking their pledges.

​

Franconia had lost another 24,000 troops by this point as the war with Turkey bled them dry.

♥♥ ♥♥♥ ♥♥​

The Frisian-Franconian Nationalist War

Friesland’s armies were finally ready after their series of reorganisations by early November 1785. By then, Franconia’s army had been even further depleted due to the war with Turkey, though two of them were stationed in the west of the country at that time. And only Saxony was prepared to help them at that time. Savoy was otherwise occupied with Turkey and was not prepared to support either party, with whom they were both allied.

​

Even though their European army now easily outnumbered their enemy’s, the powerful assistance of Scandinavia, Poland and the now Revolutionary Bavaria was enlisted. This would be a major war against a large regional power, even if depleted, especially in the siege work required. No chances would be taken.

As soon as the declaration of war was issued on 9 November, Frisian troops began crossing the border with Franconia at three points. They would all be in position in western Franconia six days later.

The lead elements of a column numbering 44,000 Frisian troops cross the border into Franconia near Nassau on 9 November 1785. [MS Copilot]​

Interestingly, though an extant claim on Coblenz in south-western Franconia was due to expire on 1 July 1787, it later transpired that it would remain in force beyond that date. It seemed the act of declaring war may have kept it in play, even if its end would come afterwards.

By the end of the month, two large Polish armies were besieging Franconian provinces in the east. Franconia had avoided a confrontation with the Frisian invaders, instead striking south into Bavaria with one army: the whereabouts of the other was unknown. The Turks had also begun to attack in the east.

​

Coblenz had fallen by the end of December and at that point the three depth armies began a sweep around to the south via France and Austria, with whom ‘collateral military access’ had been obtained through grants in other wars.

​

By then, the second known Franconian army had joined its colleagues in a siege of Regensburg in Bavaria. The war remained in its early days and would last for a few more years yet.

 

[StrategyGameEnthusiast]

Not long after, the Landtag began complaining about high military expenses: clearly, cutbacks when war was being contemplated would simply not do. It seemed the extra expense of a round of large bribes to the complaining parliamentarians was entirely acceptable!

Of course bribes are acceptable, they were clearly complaining in the hope of obtaining bribes!

 

[jak7139]

but it would involve taking on long-time ally Aragon and recently mollified Castile, both in Europe and in the colonies. Not a particularly attractive prospect

A wise move. Friesland is closer, so Iberia and Franconia would focus on you to peace you out of the war ASAP. And the Ottomans are too far away to help.

This brought them into close proximity with the FEI – and tensions between the two would soon build.

How are relations looking with Hindustan? Could you ally them or buy a treaty port?

because Frisian opinion of Castile remained too low [-78 and it needed to be positive]

Why is it so low? Continuing to improve relations, gifting, etc. should help. Freisland is creating a grand coalition to surround France.

Only for the merchants in the English Channel zone to provoke the opposite reaction, leading to a big sum being lost to the treasury.

This is one of the many bad events that can happen if you have over 100% overextension. Usually, I release vassals or client states so the land can be annexed later for no OE.

In March 1784, recent advice to help build Frisian Australia’s military was implemented: almost 1,900 ducats was spent on building or upgrading six conscription centres and three training fields. But by December 1787 FA still fielded only 25 regiments and actually had 6,000 fewer men in their manpower reserve.

Well, keep trying i guess. With enough investment they'll grow strong enough.

Though when it tried exerting some of that power on Franconia’s allies, they were not remotely interested in breaking their pledges.

At least the Pope and Savoy were going to break their alliances anyway when you declared.

Interestingly, though an extant claim on Coblenz in south-western Franconia was due to expire on 1 July 1787, it later transpired that it would remain in force beyond that date. It seemed the act of declaring war may have kept it in play, even if its end would come afterwards.

Correct.

Friesland's been given a great hand with the Ottomans weakening Franconia. I expect Friesland's diplomats to be ruthless but pragmatic (you don't want to undo all that hard work with the coalition, after all).

 

[diskoerekto]

But of course Madura also then revolted just as the Air campaign was reaching its end. Ships needed to be sent to pick up L.v. Bengkulu from Gayo, which would delay the response until the new year. The Sundanese separatists occupied the island on 16 December, just as L.v. Bengkulu was boarding their transports in Gayo.

so all of the revolts everywhere because you got a bunch of territory in africa? crazy!

Turkey Takes on the Pope

this'll be likely epic, looking at the alliances

By then, the second known Franconian army had joined its colleagues in a siege of Regensburg in Bavaria. The war remained in its early days and would last for a few more years yet.

good to take the opportunity, hoping for a clean one!

 

[Bullfilter]

Of course bribes are acceptable, they were clearly complaining in the hope of obtaining bribes!

Naturally. Party politics 101

A wise move. Friesland is closer, so Iberia and Franconia would focus on you to peace you out of the war ASAP. And the Ottomans are too far away to help.

My thoughts too.

How are relations looking with Hindustan? Could you ally them or buy a treaty port?

Funny you should mention that ... the second half of the session saw a diplomatic focus on them, in fact, but I'll not say any more about that so as not to spoil.

Why is it so low? Continuing to improve relations, gifting, etc. should help. Freisland is creating a grand coalition to surround France.

Not sure how much I can do to improve our opinion of them. May be a matter of waiting for negative factors to decay over time. At that point, them having recently both pirated us and and conducted recent covert actions against us were the prevailing factors, but they should erode over time. The mid-term issue would also be their continuing war with Turkey on behalf of the Pope.

This is one of the many bad events that can happen if you have over 100% overextension. Usually, I release vassals or client states so the land can be annexed later for no OE.

I suppose I may get my head around such smart tactics eventually!

Well, keep trying i guess. With enough investment they'll grow strong enough.

We can hope so.

At least the Pope and Savoy were going to break their alliances anyway when you declared.

Exactly - it helped confirm the move knowing Savoy in particular would be out.

Correct.

Friesland's been given a great hand with the Ottomans weakening Franconia. I expect Friesland's diplomats to be ruthless but pragmatic (you don't want to undo all that hard work with the coalition, after all).

You've summed up the approach exactly. This is what we'll be aiming for (had already played through, so I won't spoil too much on that).

so all of the revolts everywhere because you got a bunch of territory in africa? crazy!

I believe so - general over-extension malus, increasing revolts in some other areas that were also a little iffy already.

this'll be likely epic, looking at the alliances

It's a big war, indeed. But even so, the Turks are huge once they apply their numbers.

good to take the opportunity, hoping for a clean one!

This is the plan. Have been gunning for them for a long time now, since they turned on us.