How about some screenies now, huh??? And would you like some of Farnese's Parmesan Cheese, Liver, Sauerkrauten, and, only today, Sardines fished in the Pyrenees!!!
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So will a Mc Farnese, Liver,Sauerkrauten and Parmesan cheese!!! Now new: Mc Farnese plus: same as usual, but with sardines!!!!
Screenshots will arrive when the home internet connection is restored. And an update later entitled "15 conquistadors and no explorers" 
But I can give you a few game facts from the save game file around the same time
Bad Boy is 12. Austria (my ally) is next with 6 from the annexation of Savoy. Quite why my figure is so high I do not know since I would only have picked up the following
Annex Tunisia (1), Aztecs (4), Helvetia (6), Lorraine (2), Cyrenaica (1) and perhaps one province from annexation of Savoy (1). All other provinces were taken in defensive wars so in total I believe I should have acquired 15 BB points. Since we are in 1528, this should have reduced by 8 BB points so I would have thought 12 was a bit high considering.
But as Bad Boys go, the AI makes an interesting little BB war for me in the not too distant future.
Inflation is running at around 19%. For some reason I decided early in the game to take a loan to pay for colonists. Silly idea really.
Tech levels are 6/5/3/4/4 which is the highest in each field. Most of the small countries are round about the same level with Navarra(!) being equal in all of them. The majors seem to be stuck on trade/infra levels of 2 so still can't get monopolies! Is this perhaps a consequence of the wars?
And there is the one exception. On the desolate Bahamas region, Pirates have built themselves a great shipyard and have developed Naval Tech 19 !!! NOw that would explain a few things
Bad Boy is 12. Austria (my ally) is next with 6 from the annexation of Savoy. Quite why my figure is so high I do not know since I would only have picked up the following
Annex Tunisia (1), Aztecs (4), Helvetia (6), Lorraine (2), Cyrenaica (1) and perhaps one province from annexation of Savoy (1). All other provinces were taken in defensive wars so in total I believe I should have acquired 15 BB points. Since we are in 1528, this should have reduced by 8 BB points so I would have thought 12 was a bit high considering.
But as Bad Boys go, the AI makes an interesting little BB war for me in the not too distant future.
Inflation is running at around 19%. For some reason I decided early in the game to take a loan to pay for colonists. Silly idea really.
Tech levels are 6/5/3/4/4 which is the highest in each field. Most of the small countries are round about the same level with Navarra(!) being equal in all of them. The majors seem to be stuck on trade/infra levels of 2 so still can't get monopolies! Is this perhaps a consequence of the wars?
And there is the one exception. On the desolate Bahamas region, Pirates have built themselves a great shipyard and have developed Naval Tech 19 !!! NOw that would explain a few things
Rumours are abounding that Palúrien wishes to join in our little game and I am suspicious that the Great One has decided that part of my own empire will be taken from me to provide the new nation. One interesting piece of evidence is that Palurien has been pressing me to improve the infrastructure in the Lowlands.
But this is all for later
*****************
1527
For the rest of the year, I can report various matters of exploration and little more. Pizarro disembarks in Rabaul and clears the island of natives before mapping the region. Cortes discovers a region and names it Yazoo which makes me suspect that he is starting to rediscover his quirkier side.
In South America, Narvaez discovers Manaus and the region of the Amazons. He will be remembers in history now as the discoverer of Alaska and Amazon: he is a man of contrasts if nothing.
Sadly we hear reports of the death of Grijalva in Viti Levu.
We defeat the rebels in Nice when troops are disembarked from Africa.
1528
True to form, the new year brings us taxes and news. The Hanseatic League convert to the Protestant cause which, you can be assured will bring them no happiness: only pain and misery.
Chief Judges are appointed in the provinces of Friesen, Holland and The Hague. Late in January we capture Baden and with the 41D of reparations, we appoint another in Zeeland.
During the year Azuay expands finally to become a city colony while colonists are sent to Oskosh and Nipissing.
Narvaez continues to discover regions around the Amazon but is killed in fighting with natives in Canuma. Cortes discovers several regions in inland America.
On the diplomatic front, Iraq pays 242D to Persia for peace while Austria and France agree a white peace.
Finally, we make a move against Pirates in the Caribbean but suffer defeat after defeat taking three attempts to dislodge them from the region around Puerto Rico.
1529
Palatinate turns Protestant as tax income is used to appoint chief judges in Toledo and Sierra Nevada, and build replacement warships in the Caribbean. Azuay is fortified.
We send letter to Naples (+92 to +106) and Cologne (+100 to +116) and have improved diplomatic relations with Austria (+43 to +68) through the work of our diplomats (Random Event).
Pizarro clears the gold province of Wewak and colonists are sent. Colonists also sent to Nipigon and Athabaska in the region where Cortes discovers the provinces of Chimo and Winisk We establish a colony on the island of Rabaul.
Our sole explorer Saavedra Ceron dies of the coast of New Guinea before establishing a link to our maps to China. It appears that we will have to wait a little longer before we find our route to China. Most of our recent explorers live long enough to travel as far as New Guinea and then die.
The year sees rebellions in Lyonnais and Bourgogne.
1530
Cabeza de Vaca, a new conquistador arrives in Havana while a commander by the name of Bourbon takes control of the army in Holland. A tax collector is appointed in Flanders while Chief Judges are found in Luxembourg and Hainault. WE begin to raise a force in Mexico for Cabeza de Vaca to command
Further taxes are used to build four warships for the west coast of New Spain and letters are sent to Naples (+107) and Cologne (+131). It seems that the Cologners prefer our writing style.
But we have been without war for too long and declare war on the Incas at the start of the year. By mid February we have captured land and claimed Coquimbo and Moquega in the peace settlement.
We establish a colony in Athabaska, Nipigon and Nipissing but fail in Wewak. Colonists are sent to Wewak and Winisk.
The rebels in Bourgogne and Lyonnais are defeated as is a later rebellion in Nice. A revolt in Milan remains until the end of the year.
During his journey of exploration around Hudson bay, Cortes encounters the French commander Guise supported by an army of over 30,000 men in Winisk. Rather a large army to use for exploration. It does seem a little unfortunate since I am aware that the region can get very cold. Nevertheless, they are advised to return the way they came and we shall not allow them to pass through our colony in Athabaska. They show no signs of moving and, by the end of October, the force is down to half of its original size.
1531
Troops are raised in Helvetia and Nice while ships are built in Mexico. We use what remains of our census taxes to promote Legal Counsels in Flanders and Artois and to send a letter to Naples (+107 to +123)
During the year, colonists are sent to Oskosh, Ensenada, Pastaza and Altar while colonies are established in Oskosh and Winisk – where Guise’s force has now dwindled to 10% of its original size.
In February. Genoa pays 248D to Venice for peace and, in March, we defeat rebels in Milan.
In August we declare war again on the Iroquois with forces led by Cortes and Cabeza de Vaca ready to attack. We quickly capture Mohawk, Oswego and Tuscarora and take, in the peace settlement, Oswego, Tuscarora and 65D. Losses on our side were minimal while almost 6000 Iroquois were killed in battle against Cortes. This was yet another example of fine Spanish fighting.
1532
Prussia joins the ever growing list of stinking Protestants as the new year also brings another Grijalva to Zacatecas. We fortify Moquega and Coquimbo and raise troops in New Spain and Europe. Letters are sent to Naples (+123 to +126) and Cologne (+131 to +139)
During the year, colonies were established in Ensenada, Pastaza, Wewak and Altar while colonists are sent to Moron (supervised now by Cortes), Nicaragua (Grijalva) and Bogota (De Vaca). The new colony in Wewak numbers some 100 colonists and 6000 troops under Pizarro. Pizarro names the colony Nova The Canary Isles which he believes to be a rather catchy name. I have to admit I am not of the same mind but who am I to argue with the machinations of Paradox, the Great One. It was, quite unsurprisingly one of the last things that Pizarro was to do as he took up residence in Nova The Canary Isles and stayed there till his dying day.
During the year we receive shocking news that we have lost a gold convoy. As if this were not bad enough, we hear that, as a result, we will have no gold for 12 months despite the fact that this gold comes from places are diverse as Toledo, Ayacucho, Tucuman, Potosi, Zacatecas, Michoagan, Saltillo, Azuay, Monterrey, Yukon and Wewak. The bearer of this ill tidings is summarily executed.
Our missions to keep Milan and to have a Royal Marriage with Portugal were successful but we failed to discover Tianjin. We are later asked to Keep Milan for another five years and also choose to ensure that there is, at that time, no Turkey in North Africa and a Royal Marriage with Bavaria.
*********************
At this stage I shall make a short break again. We are now entering a period of consolidation before our next great push. But I shall tell you this at a later time.
But this is all for later
*****************
1527
For the rest of the year, I can report various matters of exploration and little more. Pizarro disembarks in Rabaul and clears the island of natives before mapping the region. Cortes discovers a region and names it Yazoo which makes me suspect that he is starting to rediscover his quirkier side.
In South America, Narvaez discovers Manaus and the region of the Amazons. He will be remembers in history now as the discoverer of Alaska and Amazon: he is a man of contrasts if nothing.
Sadly we hear reports of the death of Grijalva in Viti Levu.
We defeat the rebels in Nice when troops are disembarked from Africa.
1528
True to form, the new year brings us taxes and news. The Hanseatic League convert to the Protestant cause which, you can be assured will bring them no happiness: only pain and misery.
Chief Judges are appointed in the provinces of Friesen, Holland and The Hague. Late in January we capture Baden and with the 41D of reparations, we appoint another in Zeeland.
During the year Azuay expands finally to become a city colony while colonists are sent to Oskosh and Nipissing.
Narvaez continues to discover regions around the Amazon but is killed in fighting with natives in Canuma. Cortes discovers several regions in inland America.
On the diplomatic front, Iraq pays 242D to Persia for peace while Austria and France agree a white peace.
Finally, we make a move against Pirates in the Caribbean but suffer defeat after defeat taking three attempts to dislodge them from the region around Puerto Rico.
1529
Palatinate turns Protestant as tax income is used to appoint chief judges in Toledo and Sierra Nevada, and build replacement warships in the Caribbean. Azuay is fortified.
We send letter to Naples (+92 to +106) and Cologne (+100 to +116) and have improved diplomatic relations with Austria (+43 to +68) through the work of our diplomats (Random Event).
Pizarro clears the gold province of Wewak and colonists are sent. Colonists also sent to Nipigon and Athabaska in the region where Cortes discovers the provinces of Chimo and Winisk We establish a colony on the island of Rabaul.
Our sole explorer Saavedra Ceron dies of the coast of New Guinea before establishing a link to our maps to China. It appears that we will have to wait a little longer before we find our route to China. Most of our recent explorers live long enough to travel as far as New Guinea and then die.
The year sees rebellions in Lyonnais and Bourgogne.
1530
Cabeza de Vaca, a new conquistador arrives in Havana while a commander by the name of Bourbon takes control of the army in Holland. A tax collector is appointed in Flanders while Chief Judges are found in Luxembourg and Hainault. WE begin to raise a force in Mexico for Cabeza de Vaca to command
Further taxes are used to build four warships for the west coast of New Spain and letters are sent to Naples (+107) and Cologne (+131). It seems that the Cologners prefer our writing style.
But we have been without war for too long and declare war on the Incas at the start of the year. By mid February we have captured land and claimed Coquimbo and Moquega in the peace settlement.
We establish a colony in Athabaska, Nipigon and Nipissing but fail in Wewak. Colonists are sent to Wewak and Winisk.
The rebels in Bourgogne and Lyonnais are defeated as is a later rebellion in Nice. A revolt in Milan remains until the end of the year.
During his journey of exploration around Hudson bay, Cortes encounters the French commander Guise supported by an army of over 30,000 men in Winisk. Rather a large army to use for exploration. It does seem a little unfortunate since I am aware that the region can get very cold. Nevertheless, they are advised to return the way they came and we shall not allow them to pass through our colony in Athabaska. They show no signs of moving and, by the end of October, the force is down to half of its original size.
1531
Troops are raised in Helvetia and Nice while ships are built in Mexico. We use what remains of our census taxes to promote Legal Counsels in Flanders and Artois and to send a letter to Naples (+107 to +123)
During the year, colonists are sent to Oskosh, Ensenada, Pastaza and Altar while colonies are established in Oskosh and Winisk – where Guise’s force has now dwindled to 10% of its original size.
In February. Genoa pays 248D to Venice for peace and, in March, we defeat rebels in Milan.
In August we declare war again on the Iroquois with forces led by Cortes and Cabeza de Vaca ready to attack. We quickly capture Mohawk, Oswego and Tuscarora and take, in the peace settlement, Oswego, Tuscarora and 65D. Losses on our side were minimal while almost 6000 Iroquois were killed in battle against Cortes. This was yet another example of fine Spanish fighting.
1532
Prussia joins the ever growing list of stinking Protestants as the new year also brings another Grijalva to Zacatecas. We fortify Moquega and Coquimbo and raise troops in New Spain and Europe. Letters are sent to Naples (+123 to +126) and Cologne (+131 to +139)
During the year, colonies were established in Ensenada, Pastaza, Wewak and Altar while colonists are sent to Moron (supervised now by Cortes), Nicaragua (Grijalva) and Bogota (De Vaca). The new colony in Wewak numbers some 100 colonists and 6000 troops under Pizarro. Pizarro names the colony Nova The Canary Isles which he believes to be a rather catchy name. I have to admit I am not of the same mind but who am I to argue with the machinations of Paradox, the Great One. It was, quite unsurprisingly one of the last things that Pizarro was to do as he took up residence in Nova The Canary Isles and stayed there till his dying day.
During the year we receive shocking news that we have lost a gold convoy. As if this were not bad enough, we hear that, as a result, we will have no gold for 12 months despite the fact that this gold comes from places are diverse as Toledo, Ayacucho, Tucuman, Potosi, Zacatecas, Michoagan, Saltillo, Azuay, Monterrey, Yukon and Wewak. The bearer of this ill tidings is summarily executed.
Our missions to keep Milan and to have a Royal Marriage with Portugal were successful but we failed to discover Tianjin. We are later asked to Keep Milan for another five years and also choose to ensure that there is, at that time, no Turkey in North Africa and a Royal Marriage with Bavaria.
*********************
At this stage I shall make a short break again. We are now entering a period of consolidation before our next great push. But I shall tell you this at a later time.
Last edited:
Despite my early note, I feel perhaps I ought to write another brief summary of the following year for it makes a suitable break in precedings and coincides with a census taking in the dominions of Spain at the time.
****************
1533
England joins the ranks of the Protestant countries and I suspect Aulë has long planned such a move in order to protect any colonies that might be built. A little disappointing I feel but no more that I might have expected. I must remind the Great One about getting some Papal Bull proclaiming the division of the new world between Spain and some other country, say Portugal.
A certain P. Mendoza arrives in court in Castille. He claims to be a conquistador and so we shall send him to relieve Cabeza de Vaca, a far more competent commander, from "settlement" duty i Bogota. I note that the man has given a very precise name and wonder whether or not he may have anticipated some relative of his who might have similar talents. I can only wait and see.
We use our tax revenue to expand fortifications in Oldenberg and Atlixco and to raise tax collectors in Michoagan, Zacatecas and Tuxpan. We also send a personal gift to the King of Naples (+126 to +171).
For the rest of the year administrative matters were the order of the day. We establish a colony in Moron and Cortes oversees its further expansion during the year to what is considered to be a level 3 colony. In a similar manner Cabeza de Vaca oversees the establishment of a colony in Bogota and its expansion to level 2. By the end of the year P. Mendoza has arrived to take over the duty of watching settlements and Cabeza de Vaca is sent to explore places and things. Likewise, H. Grijalva oversees the establishment of a colony in Nicaragua and its expansion to a level 2 colony. All in all, one can say that this has been probably our most successful year for colonisation.
There were of course, uprisings during the year but these were tedious enough for me so I will not bother to repeat the story. I will do likewise on matters concerning encounters with pirates.
Towards the end of the year, we hear that the Golden Horde pay Sweden 42D for peace. We had, it must be admitted, failed to notice this war at all although updated reports tell us that Russia has captured the provinces of Kujbyschew and Bogutjar. One wonders if the Horde's days are numbered.
***************************33
And there we shall end for I can give you details of a small census carried out at the time. Spain in 1492 was a nation of 29 provinces which had taken another 29 provinces from defeated enemies. In addition to these provinces we have two city colonies in the caribbean to take the total of city province to 60.
To add to this, we own a total of 88 colonies. Most of these can be classified as level 1 colonies with populations ranging from 100 to 150. A few, such as Nicaragua, Bogota and Tahiti are level 2 colonies. Our first colony in Martinique has now grown from 200 colonists to 307 while Isle Royale has grown quickly to 365 residents. Finally we have two rapidly growing colonies in the provinces of Kauai and Falklands which each have populations of over 400. The colony of Barahona is over 500 plus an armed force to ensure that it stays that way.
148 provinces in total as testament to the greatness that I have brought to King Philip and Spain. May it continue to grow.
****************
1533
England joins the ranks of the Protestant countries and I suspect Aulë has long planned such a move in order to protect any colonies that might be built. A little disappointing I feel but no more that I might have expected. I must remind the Great One about getting some Papal Bull proclaiming the division of the new world between Spain and some other country, say Portugal.
A certain P. Mendoza arrives in court in Castille. He claims to be a conquistador and so we shall send him to relieve Cabeza de Vaca, a far more competent commander, from "settlement" duty i Bogota. I note that the man has given a very precise name and wonder whether or not he may have anticipated some relative of his who might have similar talents. I can only wait and see.
We use our tax revenue to expand fortifications in Oldenberg and Atlixco and to raise tax collectors in Michoagan, Zacatecas and Tuxpan. We also send a personal gift to the King of Naples (+126 to +171).
For the rest of the year administrative matters were the order of the day. We establish a colony in Moron and Cortes oversees its further expansion during the year to what is considered to be a level 3 colony. In a similar manner Cabeza de Vaca oversees the establishment of a colony in Bogota and its expansion to level 2. By the end of the year P. Mendoza has arrived to take over the duty of watching settlements and Cabeza de Vaca is sent to explore places and things. Likewise, H. Grijalva oversees the establishment of a colony in Nicaragua and its expansion to a level 2 colony. All in all, one can say that this has been probably our most successful year for colonisation.
There were of course, uprisings during the year but these were tedious enough for me so I will not bother to repeat the story. I will do likewise on matters concerning encounters with pirates.
Towards the end of the year, we hear that the Golden Horde pay Sweden 42D for peace. We had, it must be admitted, failed to notice this war at all although updated reports tell us that Russia has captured the provinces of Kujbyschew and Bogutjar. One wonders if the Horde's days are numbered.
***************************33
And there we shall end for I can give you details of a small census carried out at the time. Spain in 1492 was a nation of 29 provinces which had taken another 29 provinces from defeated enemies. In addition to these provinces we have two city colonies in the caribbean to take the total of city province to 60.
To add to this, we own a total of 88 colonies. Most of these can be classified as level 1 colonies with populations ranging from 100 to 150. A few, such as Nicaragua, Bogota and Tahiti are level 2 colonies. Our first colony in Martinique has now grown from 200 colonists to 307 while Isle Royale has grown quickly to 365 residents. Finally we have two rapidly growing colonies in the provinces of Kauai and Falklands which each have populations of over 400. The colony of Barahona is over 500 plus an armed force to ensure that it stays that way.
148 provinces in total as testament to the greatness that I have brought to King Philip and Spain. May it continue to grow.
1534
Census taxes are used to fund tax collectors in Picardie, Lyonnais and Atlixco and mixed cavalry and infantry in Leon. We also send the Elector of Cologne a personal gift of a fine Inca head-dress. Next time I ought to remind his majesty that it would be better to first remove the head (+139 to +146)
In stark contrast to last year we suffer colonial setbacks with only two colonies (Moron and Nicaragua) expanded. Cabeza de Vaca explores regions of inland South America discovering Mirim and Macacos. On discovering the later is loudly proclaims this provinces as being the most difficult in the world to colonise.
There is much unrest in Europe as France declares war on England. France are supported, as usually in a war against England, by Scotland and by Portugal, Algiers and Mameluks while England are able to rely on Navarra and the Hanseatic League. One can only imagine that Manwë is quaking when he realises what a mighty alliance he has pitted himself against.
As one war begins another ends. While Denmark were quick to empty the Golden Horde’s substantial coffers of the remaining 44D, the war concludes with Russia’s annexation of the Golden Horde. Russia’s other ally remaining in the war, Pskov, do not return empty-handed as they keep control of the province of Saratov.
1535
Brandenburg turns to the Protestant camp as another Mendoza turns up in Castille. We use taxes to raise troops in Leon and in South America while the king brushes up on his writing skills with letters to Cologne(+146 to +165), Naples (+171 to +174), Saxony (-195 to –182) and Poland(+14 to +33).
We notice that we have been neglecting trade in the east and send a stream of merchants to Delhi.
In April we declare war on the Incas again and complete this in July after extracting the provinces of Arequipa, Atacama and Titicaca. Cabeza de Vaca attacks from the amazon region after discovering the province of Taqari. After the war he is them able to venture south to the undiscovered lands there.
Our colony in Bogota expands by 200 people while those in Moron and Nicaragua each increase by 100 newcomers. Cortes now leaves the Moron colony to be supervised by regular troops. He is not needed to supervise the new arrivals.
By the end of the year, Scotland has captured Yorkshire from England
1536
The country to turn Protestant on New Year’s day is Kleves while our conquistador for this year is called Alarcon and he’s from our small colony in Barahona.
Cabeza de Vaca continues his explorations in South America and discovers the provinces of Valparaiso, Santa Cruz and San Matias. He informs us that French troops are in Santa Cruz which causes a little alarm – just a little mind you. Colonies in Nicaragua and Bogota expand while colonists are sent to Valparaiso and Pastaza.
In the Anglo-French war, Navarra capture Bearn from the French but return it once England extract 120D from France in a peace deal. It was certainly not the outcome of the war we were expecting.
During the year we send gifts to Poland (+28 to +62) and Saxony (-182 to –129).
In September, we develop High Baroque Infrastructure (Level 5) which, I am told will allow us to appoint governors in each of our provinces. Despite the fact that these cost only 50D to train and take only 1 months to get fully acquainted, I am reliably informed by the Great One, that they can EACH reduce ALL of our costs across the WHOLE empire by 1%. A truly remarkable advance. For the next year we appoint governors successively in many of our European province, although with pressing from Palurien, I begin with the Lowland areas.
1537
Our conquistador for this year is called Quesada which sound like the name of a type of cheese. He’s from Cartagena. There is a certainly balancing effect during the year when P. Mendoza and H. Grijalva die in South America.
During the year our colonial empire continues to grow with new colonies established in Talca and in Magallanes. Our colonies in Honduras, Pastaza, Costa Rica and Nicaragua all expand with the latter inaugurated as our fourth colonial city. To mark the occasion we appoint a tax collector to take more money from the colonists.
Towards the end of the year, we achieve three successful missions (Keep Milan, No Turkey in North Africa and RM with Bavaria). We are then set the finest objective to Vassalize the Papal States. I am not confident that we will be able to achieve this easily. To give us something else to aim our, we set a five year plan to Keep Milan and to Annex Algiers.
At the end of the year, Cabeza de Vaca sets out to sail to Tierra del Fuego and war breaks in the east when Persia once again declares war on Iraq and is supported by Georgia, Astrakhan and Crimea.
1538
We do not have any new conquistadors this year despite the fact that two of them died last year. We are now down to fewer than ten conquistadors. How exactly is one to survive with such a pitiful supply of national heroes.
Perhaps as some sort of compensation, we hear that a new centre of trade has opened in Nipigon. I am reliably informed that this will have the effect of bringing Nipigon to a city within 8 years as opposed to the usual 180, so I am soothed by this positive news.
But there are investments and we build fortifications in Arequipa, Titicaca and Atacama while expanding those in Tortuga and Curacao. We also promote a bailiff in Azuay as the tax revenues from the region have been seen to be inadequate.
Colonisation is more quite this year with only Costa Rica expanding an no new colonies.
After sending merchants to Delhi, we hear news that the Mughal Empire has refused us access to their markets. Such protective measures, as they shall clearly see, will only harm themselves more that us.
As if the province of Emilia were not enough, the Knights are seeking to expand at Portugal’s expense with the capture of Luca. The war is still not won though.
Relations with Cologne continue to improve (+177) with letters.
After a year of war, Iraq make a quick peace with Persia paying 250D in reparations
***************************
Now, I believe that, if you have been paying attention, you will know what you might expect from the next instalment. For the rest of you, I’m afraid there is not a lot that I, nor anyone, can do to help you.
Census taxes are used to fund tax collectors in Picardie, Lyonnais and Atlixco and mixed cavalry and infantry in Leon. We also send the Elector of Cologne a personal gift of a fine Inca head-dress. Next time I ought to remind his majesty that it would be better to first remove the head (+139 to +146)
In stark contrast to last year we suffer colonial setbacks with only two colonies (Moron and Nicaragua) expanded. Cabeza de Vaca explores regions of inland South America discovering Mirim and Macacos. On discovering the later is loudly proclaims this provinces as being the most difficult in the world to colonise.
There is much unrest in Europe as France declares war on England. France are supported, as usually in a war against England, by Scotland and by Portugal, Algiers and Mameluks while England are able to rely on Navarra and the Hanseatic League. One can only imagine that Manwë is quaking when he realises what a mighty alliance he has pitted himself against.
As one war begins another ends. While Denmark were quick to empty the Golden Horde’s substantial coffers of the remaining 44D, the war concludes with Russia’s annexation of the Golden Horde. Russia’s other ally remaining in the war, Pskov, do not return empty-handed as they keep control of the province of Saratov.
1535
Brandenburg turns to the Protestant camp as another Mendoza turns up in Castille. We use taxes to raise troops in Leon and in South America while the king brushes up on his writing skills with letters to Cologne(+146 to +165), Naples (+171 to +174), Saxony (-195 to –182) and Poland(+14 to +33).
We notice that we have been neglecting trade in the east and send a stream of merchants to Delhi.
In April we declare war on the Incas again and complete this in July after extracting the provinces of Arequipa, Atacama and Titicaca. Cabeza de Vaca attacks from the amazon region after discovering the province of Taqari. After the war he is them able to venture south to the undiscovered lands there.
Our colony in Bogota expands by 200 people while those in Moron and Nicaragua each increase by 100 newcomers. Cortes now leaves the Moron colony to be supervised by regular troops. He is not needed to supervise the new arrivals.
By the end of the year, Scotland has captured Yorkshire from England
1536
The country to turn Protestant on New Year’s day is Kleves while our conquistador for this year is called Alarcon and he’s from our small colony in Barahona.
Cabeza de Vaca continues his explorations in South America and discovers the provinces of Valparaiso, Santa Cruz and San Matias. He informs us that French troops are in Santa Cruz which causes a little alarm – just a little mind you. Colonies in Nicaragua and Bogota expand while colonists are sent to Valparaiso and Pastaza.
In the Anglo-French war, Navarra capture Bearn from the French but return it once England extract 120D from France in a peace deal. It was certainly not the outcome of the war we were expecting.
During the year we send gifts to Poland (+28 to +62) and Saxony (-182 to –129).
In September, we develop High Baroque Infrastructure (Level 5) which, I am told will allow us to appoint governors in each of our provinces. Despite the fact that these cost only 50D to train and take only 1 months to get fully acquainted, I am reliably informed by the Great One, that they can EACH reduce ALL of our costs across the WHOLE empire by 1%. A truly remarkable advance. For the next year we appoint governors successively in many of our European province, although with pressing from Palurien, I begin with the Lowland areas.
1537
Our conquistador for this year is called Quesada which sound like the name of a type of cheese. He’s from Cartagena. There is a certainly balancing effect during the year when P. Mendoza and H. Grijalva die in South America.
During the year our colonial empire continues to grow with new colonies established in Talca and in Magallanes. Our colonies in Honduras, Pastaza, Costa Rica and Nicaragua all expand with the latter inaugurated as our fourth colonial city. To mark the occasion we appoint a tax collector to take more money from the colonists.
Towards the end of the year, we achieve three successful missions (Keep Milan, No Turkey in North Africa and RM with Bavaria). We are then set the finest objective to Vassalize the Papal States. I am not confident that we will be able to achieve this easily. To give us something else to aim our, we set a five year plan to Keep Milan and to Annex Algiers.
At the end of the year, Cabeza de Vaca sets out to sail to Tierra del Fuego and war breaks in the east when Persia once again declares war on Iraq and is supported by Georgia, Astrakhan and Crimea.
1538
We do not have any new conquistadors this year despite the fact that two of them died last year. We are now down to fewer than ten conquistadors. How exactly is one to survive with such a pitiful supply of national heroes.
Perhaps as some sort of compensation, we hear that a new centre of trade has opened in Nipigon. I am reliably informed that this will have the effect of bringing Nipigon to a city within 8 years as opposed to the usual 180, so I am soothed by this positive news.
But there are investments and we build fortifications in Arequipa, Titicaca and Atacama while expanding those in Tortuga and Curacao. We also promote a bailiff in Azuay as the tax revenues from the region have been seen to be inadequate.
Colonisation is more quite this year with only Costa Rica expanding an no new colonies.
After sending merchants to Delhi, we hear news that the Mughal Empire has refused us access to their markets. Such protective measures, as they shall clearly see, will only harm themselves more that us.
As if the province of Emilia were not enough, the Knights are seeking to expand at Portugal’s expense with the capture of Luca. The war is still not won though.
Relations with Cologne continue to improve (+177) with letters.
After a year of war, Iraq make a quick peace with Persia paying 250D in reparations
***************************
Now, I believe that, if you have been paying attention, you will know what you might expect from the next instalment. For the rest of you, I’m afraid there is not a lot that I, nor anyone, can do to help you.
Screenshots
Hey, I've got the home link up and running so expect to have some screenshots for you by tomorrow.
So you'll soon be able to see the empire and stand in awe of Ulmo's greatness.
Hey, I've got the home link up and running so expect to have some screenshots for you by tomorrow.
So you'll soon be able to see the empire and stand in awe of Ulmo's greatness.
ever read comic books or greek mythology? every superhero/god has to have a "mortal" personality as well. hence the two names. either that, or his imminence ulmo is suffering from a crisis of identity.
He does try to confuse us with Work and Home names, but inevitably, somebody spots him. As if the name wasn't obvious enough.
Just letting you know I'm still reading this and hoping Ulmo is generous enough to give us screenshots, hint, hint.
Just letting you know I'm still reading this and hoping Ulmo is generous enough to give us screenshots, hint, hint.
Hey!! What's all this about a DUAL personality. As if my first name is Coeur. As promised - albeit tentatively - the Screenies will be arriving tomorrow and they'll be wearing a lot of yellow.
Who was it who said about the "sun never setting..."? In this particular story it'll be that the sea forever caresses Ulmo's lands.
btw. Why am I bothering to discuss these things when I have a world to conquer. Screenshots?! If you're not already yellow then you had better start redecorating for I shall not be long wherever you may be. The world will be a wonderful tapestry of yellow, white and blue.
And the blue will not be France just as the white will not be Austria.
Who was it who said about the "sun never setting..."? In this particular story it'll be that the sea forever caresses Ulmo's lands.
btw. Why am I bothering to discuss these things when I have a world to conquer. Screenshots?! If you're not already yellow then you had better start redecorating for I shall not be long wherever you may be. The world will be a wonderful tapestry of yellow, white and blue.
And the blue will not be France just as the white will not be Austria.
The tour guide was having a terrible time controlling the children that scampered around him in an ever increasing speed. He was starting to get nauseous when he shouted.
"STOP AT ONCE!"
The children froze in place knowing they had gone too far. The priests supervising the work being done in the great temple looked over and frowned in the tour guides direction. He swallowed and the children laughed as his Adam's apple bobbed up and down in his throat. He took a deep breath and began again.
"This is the oldest temple dedicated to the God Ulmo who is as you know the wises and most..."
"What are they doing?"
The tour guide looked at Jacob a troublemaker if there ever was one.
"Don't interrupt Jacob. It's rude to..."
"But what are they doing?" As he pointed all the children turned to see what he was pointing at.
"Ahhhh" They all said in unison for there on the walls where paintings in beautiful gold showing many scenes of far away places. The tour guide looked and snapped.
"Those are called screenies. The proper term is screenshots but most prople just say screenies. It's new invention to show the glories of Ulmo. Now it you don't mind follow me we have several temples yet to see. The next one is quite wonderful. It is dedicated to another even more loved God, ONEN is his name."
And the tour guide with the children swarming around him like bees at a hive left the temple.
"STOP AT ONCE!"
The children froze in place knowing they had gone too far. The priests supervising the work being done in the great temple looked over and frowned in the tour guides direction. He swallowed and the children laughed as his Adam's apple bobbed up and down in his throat. He took a deep breath and began again.
"This is the oldest temple dedicated to the God Ulmo who is as you know the wises and most..."
"What are they doing?"
The tour guide looked at Jacob a troublemaker if there ever was one.
"Don't interrupt Jacob. It's rude to..."
"But what are they doing?" As he pointed all the children turned to see what he was pointing at.
"Ahhhh" They all said in unison for there on the walls where paintings in beautiful gold showing many scenes of far away places. The tour guide looked and snapped.
"Those are called screenies. The proper term is screenshots but most prople just say screenies. It's new invention to show the glories of Ulmo. Now it you don't mind follow me we have several temples yet to see. The next one is quite wonderful. It is dedicated to another even more loved God, ONEN is his name."
And the tour guide with the children swarming around him like bees at a hive left the temple.
Well it has been a while now that Spain has extended it’s territories in the east with most of the work concentrating on consolidating our position in the new world. We must change our focus and gain territory closer to home.
Meanwhile, priests of Ulmo the Mighty have begun to create paintings of Spanish lands despite frequent acts of vandalism from followers of Onen. Let it be known that the cries for vengeance from Ulmo’s faithful will not go unheeded.
I shall also be instituting an empire-wide ban on the use of the word “caress” or any derivative thereof. It is clearly part of a Protestant conspiracy to corrupt and destabilise our realm.
**************
1539
Our conquistador schools fail again to produce any new graduates this year. Austerity measures may need to be implemented soon in order to protect the precious few of these that we have – Pizarro, Mendoza, Cortes, Cabeza de Vaca, Alarcon and Quesada. My apologies to any I may have forgotten.
We have a little more money this year so use this to fortify Nicaragua and to promote a legal counsel in Zacatecas. We also initiate a massive troop building program in North Africa just in case a war might break out with Algeria. It is high time that they and their Mameluk allies were wiped from the face of the earth for their unholy secret alliance with Onen’s followers.
During the year, the king writes lots of letters to Cologne and later proposes that Cologne would accept stronger ties with Spain under which we would offer to defend their nation from aggressors. It is an interim stage and I fully anticipate that they will be fully integrated in the not-too-distant future.
Colonies were established in the provinces of San Matias, Chubut and Santa Cruz.
Our military experts report the development of metal bullets (Land Tech 7) which will provide us with better fighting potential in any possible war with Algeria in the near future. Perhaps.
We also have lots of revolting French, Swiss and German peasants but then, who hasn’t?
1540
Well the good times return as Coronado from Jalisco and G. Pizarro from Ayacucho offer their services for the Spanish crown. Conquistador inauguration parties are celebrated across the realm – well there was a small one in Zurich.
The Teutonic order and Bohemia turn to the Protestant cause but nobody, apart from me, seem to care much about it. But I see a time when we will be able to declare war with impunity on such nations which is why I secretly joy on hearing these little bits of news.
We expand Nicaraguan fortifications and promote legal counsels in the remaining Aztec lands. We recruit lots of troops in North Africa. Did I mention....
Bohemia, it seems, have roused a giant. Hungary, it seems will be hungry and uses the conversion as an excuse to declare war.
This year the king starts writing letters to Naples (+174 to +184 to +200). He sees little point in sending any more pocket money to Cologne because, as he says, “They already love us, how could they love us any more?”. The logic, one has to admit, is flawless.
Being unable to raise troops in North Africa sufficiently quickly, we start to do the same in Sicily.
We establish a colony in Aisen and colonies in Costa Rica and Honduras expand.
1541
Denmark become Protestant for which Makar can presumably have a good explanation. Something to do with the fact that all his subjects are of the same faith. I think he just wants to encourage people to leave for the new world. Well they will not be welcome.
Orellana decides to emulate our conquistadors by becoming one himself. He turned up in our small Isthmus colony.
At the start of the year we continue raising troops and build several transports in the mediterranean.
In February, Naples follow the example of Cologne and accept honorary status as vassals in the Spanish alliance.
F. Pizarro dies of fever in Wewak in March. The nation mourns but isn’t quite sure why. The fever is quick to spread as the other 6000 men who were with Pizarro are quickly reduced to a mere 1,500. Quite remarkably, the population in the colony are completely unaffected and continue to enjoy healthy population growth.
During the year, our colonies in Tehuantepec and Pastaza expand.
In August a scandal breaks in court. It appears that the kings younger brother has been involved in some very uncatholic activities with some of the younger ladies in court. Although Charles is quick to reprimand his brother, his reputation in Europe has been sullied (Monarch diplomatic skills reduced to 1).
This is the signal to strike. Even in his weakened state, the declaration of war on Algeria is understood well enough. They are supported by the Mameluks while all our allies join us. The Algerian forces move first on Orania while our Kabylia regiment marches to their capital in Al-Djazair. Our troops on Sicily board for Egypt.
In September, we hear interesting news that France has joined the English alliance. Certainly unusual bedfellows and I can smell conspiracy in the air. Clearly Manwë and Aulë feel better able to challenge me together rather than for Manwë to join the Algerians in what should be a short war.
By the end of September, over 60,000 Algerians fall on the 10,000 defenders of Orania. Food supplies are hit although we are hurt more than the Algerians. For some reason the locals in Orania must have secretly been supplying the invaders. The defending commander wisely retreats into the mountains whereupon the Algerians launch an assault on the city. They are driven back after losing 10,000 men to only 100 defenders.
Our Egyptian invasion force meets 20,000 Mameluk defenders but defeats them and lays siege to the city. The Algierian capital is also besieged as is Atlas from the retreating Orania force.
1542
The new year brings more potential future enemies as Hannover converts to Protestantism. We have our tax income but are confident for this war so choose to promote legal counsels in Roussillon, Franche-Comte, Picardie and Lyonnais.
However, a further 22,000 Mameluk forces heading south convince us of the need for further troops to be raised in North Africa
In February Bohemia pays 120D to Hungary for a quick peace
In March a breach appears in the walls of Cairo and we assault. Reinforcements also arrive in Al-Djazair and we assault there as well. Our assault in Egypt is interrupted as the 20.6/-/5.0 siege force is attacked by 30.8/5.0/- Mameluks. A small Algerian naval force lands units in Nice but we push them all back into the sea.
April brings news of the successful capture of Al-Djazair province and 7,000 men march for Aures. We also defeat the Mameluk force in Egypt but the assault fails.
Our colony in Pastaza expands
In May, the walls of Cairo show continued signs of weakening as Turkey take this opportunity to declare war on Mameluks and are supported by Iraq and the Hedjaz. The Mameluks are supported by Algiers, for what good that will do them
In June, further troops board in Nice and Tripolitania for Egypt and a recruit force of Algerians are defeated in Aures before we lay siege to the provincial capital. Towards the end of the month, we launch a second assault on Cairo.
July brings troops to Alexandria to begin a siege as news from Egypt shows that our second assault failed. By August, we hear news that Atlas has fallen to our forces
September brings increasingly good news as Cairo falls. The troops are separated and disperse south and west.
In October, we establish a colony in Jujuy and capture two more Egyptian provinces in the colony of Cataract and the unfortified province of Nile.
In November, our military experts produce the first form of effective Arquebuses (Land Tech 8). It should do well to help the battle as our relief force of (13.4/3.0/5.0) arrive in Orania to break the Algerian siege. Unfortunately, though, we are informed that our invasion of Algeria was delayed too long as we fail to annex Algiers or vassalise the Papal States. We did however manage to keep Milan.
In December we are set the objective of conquering Guyenne and choose also those of Annexing Algiers and Keeping Milan. I can quite confidently say that I expect the last two to be successful. The relief force in Orania drives the Algerians away as news from South America reports that Pastaza colony has expanded again.
Finally, on Christmas day, we declare war on the Incas for no reason other than my personal greed.
1543
We appoint chief judges in Gerona, Catalonia, Aragon, Euskadia, Asturias and Galicia.
In January, Algerians from Orania siege fall on Aures siege. In South America we defeat the Incas in Huanuco and agree peace with them in return for Huanuco, Guayaquil and 122D. The two provinces are immediately fortified.
News arrives from the east that Moldavia have become vassals of Hungary.
In February, the Algerians are defeated in Aures but we must reinforce the siege. To the east, we capture Alexandria and we demand it, along with Cataract and Nile, in return for peace. The Mameluks reject our offer. However, the Mameluks offer us Nile, Cataract and Alexandria in April so we agree to peace and capture another centre of trade and a Red sea port which will surely hold a great strategic value for us in the future. We start to fortify Nile province.
In May our colony in Tehuantepec expands as we decide to assault Aures. It is easily captured and we annex the territories of Algiers into Spanish North Africa. We expand the fortifications in Atlas.
In the same month, the Mameluks pay 53D reparations to Wallachia for peace. Clearly money will spent.
And we are now once again at peace. The rest of the year hold little of note with tax collectors appointed in Cajamarca, Titicaca, Arequipa, Moquega and Arica.
Meanwhile, priests of Ulmo the Mighty have begun to create paintings of Spanish lands despite frequent acts of vandalism from followers of Onen. Let it be known that the cries for vengeance from Ulmo’s faithful will not go unheeded.
I shall also be instituting an empire-wide ban on the use of the word “caress” or any derivative thereof. It is clearly part of a Protestant conspiracy to corrupt and destabilise our realm.
**************
1539
Our conquistador schools fail again to produce any new graduates this year. Austerity measures may need to be implemented soon in order to protect the precious few of these that we have – Pizarro, Mendoza, Cortes, Cabeza de Vaca, Alarcon and Quesada. My apologies to any I may have forgotten.
We have a little more money this year so use this to fortify Nicaragua and to promote a legal counsel in Zacatecas. We also initiate a massive troop building program in North Africa just in case a war might break out with Algeria. It is high time that they and their Mameluk allies were wiped from the face of the earth for their unholy secret alliance with Onen’s followers.
During the year, the king writes lots of letters to Cologne and later proposes that Cologne would accept stronger ties with Spain under which we would offer to defend their nation from aggressors. It is an interim stage and I fully anticipate that they will be fully integrated in the not-too-distant future.
Colonies were established in the provinces of San Matias, Chubut and Santa Cruz.
Our military experts report the development of metal bullets (Land Tech 7) which will provide us with better fighting potential in any possible war with Algeria in the near future. Perhaps.
We also have lots of revolting French, Swiss and German peasants but then, who hasn’t?
1540
Well the good times return as Coronado from Jalisco and G. Pizarro from Ayacucho offer their services for the Spanish crown. Conquistador inauguration parties are celebrated across the realm – well there was a small one in Zurich.
The Teutonic order and Bohemia turn to the Protestant cause but nobody, apart from me, seem to care much about it. But I see a time when we will be able to declare war with impunity on such nations which is why I secretly joy on hearing these little bits of news.
We expand Nicaraguan fortifications and promote legal counsels in the remaining Aztec lands. We recruit lots of troops in North Africa. Did I mention....
Bohemia, it seems, have roused a giant. Hungary, it seems will be hungry and uses the conversion as an excuse to declare war.
This year the king starts writing letters to Naples (+174 to +184 to +200). He sees little point in sending any more pocket money to Cologne because, as he says, “They already love us, how could they love us any more?”. The logic, one has to admit, is flawless.
Being unable to raise troops in North Africa sufficiently quickly, we start to do the same in Sicily.
We establish a colony in Aisen and colonies in Costa Rica and Honduras expand.
1541
Denmark become Protestant for which Makar can presumably have a good explanation. Something to do with the fact that all his subjects are of the same faith. I think he just wants to encourage people to leave for the new world. Well they will not be welcome.
Orellana decides to emulate our conquistadors by becoming one himself. He turned up in our small Isthmus colony.
At the start of the year we continue raising troops and build several transports in the mediterranean.
In February, Naples follow the example of Cologne and accept honorary status as vassals in the Spanish alliance.
F. Pizarro dies of fever in Wewak in March. The nation mourns but isn’t quite sure why. The fever is quick to spread as the other 6000 men who were with Pizarro are quickly reduced to a mere 1,500. Quite remarkably, the population in the colony are completely unaffected and continue to enjoy healthy population growth.
During the year, our colonies in Tehuantepec and Pastaza expand.
In August a scandal breaks in court. It appears that the kings younger brother has been involved in some very uncatholic activities with some of the younger ladies in court. Although Charles is quick to reprimand his brother, his reputation in Europe has been sullied (Monarch diplomatic skills reduced to 1).
This is the signal to strike. Even in his weakened state, the declaration of war on Algeria is understood well enough. They are supported by the Mameluks while all our allies join us. The Algerian forces move first on Orania while our Kabylia regiment marches to their capital in Al-Djazair. Our troops on Sicily board for Egypt.
In September, we hear interesting news that France has joined the English alliance. Certainly unusual bedfellows and I can smell conspiracy in the air. Clearly Manwë and Aulë feel better able to challenge me together rather than for Manwë to join the Algerians in what should be a short war.
By the end of September, over 60,000 Algerians fall on the 10,000 defenders of Orania. Food supplies are hit although we are hurt more than the Algerians. For some reason the locals in Orania must have secretly been supplying the invaders. The defending commander wisely retreats into the mountains whereupon the Algerians launch an assault on the city. They are driven back after losing 10,000 men to only 100 defenders.
Our Egyptian invasion force meets 20,000 Mameluk defenders but defeats them and lays siege to the city. The Algierian capital is also besieged as is Atlas from the retreating Orania force.
1542
The new year brings more potential future enemies as Hannover converts to Protestantism. We have our tax income but are confident for this war so choose to promote legal counsels in Roussillon, Franche-Comte, Picardie and Lyonnais.
However, a further 22,000 Mameluk forces heading south convince us of the need for further troops to be raised in North Africa
In February Bohemia pays 120D to Hungary for a quick peace
In March a breach appears in the walls of Cairo and we assault. Reinforcements also arrive in Al-Djazair and we assault there as well. Our assault in Egypt is interrupted as the 20.6/-/5.0 siege force is attacked by 30.8/5.0/- Mameluks. A small Algerian naval force lands units in Nice but we push them all back into the sea.
April brings news of the successful capture of Al-Djazair province and 7,000 men march for Aures. We also defeat the Mameluk force in Egypt but the assault fails.
Our colony in Pastaza expands
In May, the walls of Cairo show continued signs of weakening as Turkey take this opportunity to declare war on Mameluks and are supported by Iraq and the Hedjaz. The Mameluks are supported by Algiers, for what good that will do them
In June, further troops board in Nice and Tripolitania for Egypt and a recruit force of Algerians are defeated in Aures before we lay siege to the provincial capital. Towards the end of the month, we launch a second assault on Cairo.
July brings troops to Alexandria to begin a siege as news from Egypt shows that our second assault failed. By August, we hear news that Atlas has fallen to our forces
September brings increasingly good news as Cairo falls. The troops are separated and disperse south and west.
In October, we establish a colony in Jujuy and capture two more Egyptian provinces in the colony of Cataract and the unfortified province of Nile.
In November, our military experts produce the first form of effective Arquebuses (Land Tech 8). It should do well to help the battle as our relief force of (13.4/3.0/5.0) arrive in Orania to break the Algerian siege. Unfortunately, though, we are informed that our invasion of Algeria was delayed too long as we fail to annex Algiers or vassalise the Papal States. We did however manage to keep Milan.
In December we are set the objective of conquering Guyenne and choose also those of Annexing Algiers and Keeping Milan. I can quite confidently say that I expect the last two to be successful. The relief force in Orania drives the Algerians away as news from South America reports that Pastaza colony has expanded again.
Finally, on Christmas day, we declare war on the Incas for no reason other than my personal greed.
1543
We appoint chief judges in Gerona, Catalonia, Aragon, Euskadia, Asturias and Galicia.
In January, Algerians from Orania siege fall on Aures siege. In South America we defeat the Incas in Huanuco and agree peace with them in return for Huanuco, Guayaquil and 122D. The two provinces are immediately fortified.
News arrives from the east that Moldavia have become vassals of Hungary.
In February, the Algerians are defeated in Aures but we must reinforce the siege. To the east, we capture Alexandria and we demand it, along with Cataract and Nile, in return for peace. The Mameluks reject our offer. However, the Mameluks offer us Nile, Cataract and Alexandria in April so we agree to peace and capture another centre of trade and a Red sea port which will surely hold a great strategic value for us in the future. We start to fortify Nile province.
In May our colony in Tehuantepec expands as we decide to assault Aures. It is easily captured and we annex the territories of Algiers into Spanish North Africa. We expand the fortifications in Atlas.
In the same month, the Mameluks pay 53D reparations to Wallachia for peace. Clearly money will spent.
And we are now once again at peace. The rest of the year hold little of note with tax collectors appointed in Cajamarca, Titicaca, Arequipa, Moquega and Arica.