Concert of Europe: Gameplay Thread

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Statement from Denmark-Norway

We wish to declare our opposition to Catherine of Russia, and we request Ivan VI and Peter III join in alliance against the Tyrant of Moscow. We declare equal recognition of Ivan VI and Peter III and ask them to fulfill our request before they fall.

How can two kings rule at the same time???

Well, if Madame de Pompadour and a dozen royal lovers ruled France for years...

There is only 1 King in France, and it has been me for many years now.

I hope that the King of Danemark will precise his thought on the matter, I'm truly intrigued.

If there was a King, why was Madame de Pompadour ruling over the state with near absolute power?

And once she departed... well.

[GoTfan]

1) Our foreign policy shall remain one of armed neutrality. We shall remain open to all, but any conflicts in our waters or within our border shall be met with the full force of the Venetian military.

2) We are meant to be a republic, and due to this, a House of Assembly, consisting of deputies elected by districts of people, shall be firmed to protect the interests of the people.

3) Any powers involved in conflicts that do occur under our jurisdiction will suffer high tariffs on all trade conducted through Venice.

[CMB222]

Regulations on trade in the Americas will be relaxed to hopefully become more profitable. The Spanish Crown is extremely saddened by the war and how much life has been taken and urges the powers of Europe to stop this madness at once. The Spanish Empire will remain neutral and urges Naples to do the same.

[Kingpoleon]

Statement from Denmark-Norway

We wish to declare our opposition to Catherine of Russia, and we request Ivan VI and Peter III join in alliance against the Tyrant of Moscow. We declare equal recognition of Ivan VI and Peter III and ask them to fulfill our request before they fall.

How can two kings rule at the same time???

Well, if Madame de Pompadour and a dozen royal lovers ruled France for years...

There is only 1 King in France, and it has been me for many years now.

I hope that the King of Danemark will precise his thought on the matter, I'm truly intrigued.

We are not asking for a rule of two kings, but rather a temporary alliance between two kings. The Prussians have foolishly and hastily declared support for Ivan VI. Peter III has popularity among the peasants that would keep any future rebellion contained, while Ivan VI has the Cossacks by his side. Perhaps our allies would do wisely to declare neutrality between all enemies of The Tyrant of Moscow.

[windjammer]

Statement from Denmark-Norway

We wish to declare our opposition to Catherine of Russia, and we request Ivan VI and Peter III join in alliance against the Tyrant of Moscow. We declare equal recognition of Ivan VI and Peter III and ask them to fulfill our request before they fall.

How can two kings rule at the same time???

Well, if Madame de Pompadour and a dozen royal lovers ruled France for years...

There is only 1 King in France, and it has been me for many years now.

I hope that the King of Danemark will precise his thought on the matter, I'm truly intrigued.

We are not asking for a rule of two kings, but rather a temporary alliance between two kings. The Prussians have foolishly and hastily declared support for Ivan VI. Peter III has popularity among the peasants that would keep any future rebellion contained, while Ivan VI has the Cossacks by his side. Perhaps our allies would do wisely to declare neutrality between all enemies of The Tyrant of Moscow.

Why are you so opposed to the current regent by the way?

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Copenhagen's position on the issue is quite bizzare, which is all the Sublime Porte has to say at this moment.

[windjammer]

Copenhagen's position on the issue is quite bizzare, which is all the Sublime Porte has to say at this moment.

Yes, I ask the Danish King for more precisions. I continue to be intrigued.

[Atlas Has Shrugged]

Statement from Denmark-Norway

We wish to declare our opposition to Catherine of Russia, and we request Ivan VI and Peter III join in alliance against the Tyrant of Moscow. We declare equal recognition of Ivan VI and Peter III and ask them to fulfill our request before they fall.

How can two kings rule at the same time???

There is precedent for this in Russia. Peter the Great had a co-monarch for a while.

[windjammer]

Statement from Denmark-Norway

We wish to declare our opposition to Catherine of Russia, and we request Ivan VI and Peter III join in alliance against the Tyrant of Moscow. We declare equal recognition of Ivan VI and Peter III and ask them to fulfill our request before they fall.

How can two kings rule at the same time???

There is precedent for this in Russia. Peter the Great had a co-monarch for a while.

Ooooooh, I didn't know it happened in Russia. I thought that was only a Byzantine Empite tradition.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Can we please f-king stop using the gameplay thread for discussions like this?

[Spamage]

The Concert of Europe

January 1758

Nations, Leaders, & Players:
Russian Empire- Empress Elizabeth Petrovna (Henry Wallace)
Kingdom of France- King Louis XV Bourbon (Windjammer)
Kingdom of Prussia- King Fredrick II Hohenzollern (Lumine)
Archduchy of Austria- Emperor-Regent Francis (Dereich)
Kingdom of Great Britain- King George II of Hanover (DKrol)
Kingdom of Spain- King Ferdinand VI Bourbon (CMB222)
Ottoman Empire- Sultan Mustafa III Osmanoğlu (Kalwejt)
Kingdom of Sweden- Adolf Frederick (YPestis25)

Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont- Charles Emmanuel III Savoy (TimTurner)

Kingdom of Denmark-Norway- Frederick V Oldenburg (Kingpoleon)
Republic of Venice- Doge Francesco Loredan (GOTfan)

Economic Standings:
Kingdom of Prussia- Very Strong
Kingdom of Great Britain- Strong
Kingdom of Spain- Strong
Kingdom of Portugal- Strong
Kingdom of France- Moderate
Kingdom of Denmark-Norway- Moderate
Sardinia-Piedmont-Moderate
Republic of Venice- Moderate
Kingdom of Sweden- Moderate
Ottoman Empire- Moderate
Russian Empire- Weak
Archduchy of Austria- Weak

Ongoing Conflicts:
-War of the Grand Coalitions: Kingdom of France, Empire of Russia, Archduchy of Austria, Kingdom of Sweden (and others) v. Kingdom of Great Britain, Kingdom of Prussia, Ottoman Empire, Kingdom of Portugal, Kingdom of Denmark-Norway (and others)

Russian Empire:

-Catherine, Russia is facing its most dire times. Elizabeth’s sudden death has only serve to further divide the polarized society, leaving you alone in St. Petersburg to stop the chaos. While you are regent for your son, there are many suggesting that crowning yourself as co-ruler would be a more effective policy, stabilizing your position and allowing for your authority to be unquestioned. There is precedent for women joining their family on the Throne, look no further than Peter I and Catherine, but never has a mother served alongside her infant son. Will you crown youself or show restraint, even if it means facing challenges to your regency?

-Peter, your husband, has proclaimed himself Tsar in Siberia, claimed a divorce, and called Paul a bastard. Yet, with his limited numbers and distant location, some are arguing you should crush the Cossacks before dealing with him. Others believe that he should be caught while he is weak. Which rebels will you fight first?

-With the Civil War, it is almost universally accepted in St. Petersburg that the Russian Army along the Danube should be withdrawn immediately. While this would give you access to thousands more soldiers, it would also mean leaving Hungary open to Ottoman rapine and pillaging, strengthening the Empire against which your people have struggled for more than a century and leaving Austria vulnerable to further collapse. What will your military policy be?

Archduchy of Austria:

-Emperor-Regent Francis, your children have been captured and your wife is dead. Austria is in a state of utter confusion and panic over the loss of Vienna, Prussian victories in Bohemia, and attempts by the Ottomans to cross into Hungary. Many generals demand peace be established as soon as possible, or at very least your children be returned. They state they will not obey any offensive plans without a good deal of convincing. How will you solve this pressing issue?

-While you were officially elected Holy Roman Emperor, the title came by virtue of your marriage to Maria Theresa. She was always far more active than you in governing the vast provinces of her domain as well as with Imperial affairs. There are some who suggest that you resign the title of Emperor and give it to your son once he has been rescued, in order to ensure the scepter remains in Habsburg hands after your death. Others point out that this could mean damaging your influence for very little short-term gain. What will you do about your imperial title?

-Your regency is in very unstable ground, Francis. Though you lived with your wife in Vienna, there are many Austrians who see you as foreign, or at very least as an “outsider”. Regardless of the merit of these claims, any misstep could lead to attempts to unseat you as regent, even if you were to remain as the Holy Roman Emperor. Naturally, would not be ideal (dividing your son’s inheritance between separate administrators). Should those plotting against you be dismissed, even though Austria is in such dire straits? Or perhaps their scheming should be endured until the situation is stabilized?

Kingdom of France:

-You managed to badly maul the Prussian Army in Central Europe, though some in Paris fear the attack came too late. They demand the French Army return to the homeland, which remains under-defended due to the recent expedition. Furthermore, with Austria clearly looking to now exit the war, leaving your men in their territory could strain your recent feelings of goodwill. Some urge for a campaign into Bohemia, others for the seizure of Hanover, still a third faction wants Bavaria to be liberated. Whatever the case, King Louis, you possess one of the largest forces on the Continent and have a lot of options. How will the war be won?

-Without New Orleans your men in North America will soon face a shortage of supplies and be cut off from news and commands from your government. Perhaps evicting the Portuguese would be beneficial, though other officials suggest a concerted push north back up the Ohio Valley towards Quebec would be a more efficient use of your soldiers. Maybe some native allies could be won in the region to help bolster your ranks?

-The events in Poland have not occurred in a vacuum and there is growing desire in France among some to weaken your divine right to rule unchallenged. The talk about holding a session of the Estates General before the war only further encouraged these treasonous ideas. Some are calling for you to openly assert royal authority, crushing those who would challenge your rule with repression and persecution. This could include calling off the postwar Estates General. Others argue a lighter touch is necessary and could prove to be more effective in the long-run. What will you order?

 

Kingdom of Great Britain:

-The Emancipation of Catholics in Britain has been hailed by subjects at home and observers abroad. The early embers of another Jacobite rising in Scotland have been thoroughly put out and stability has been achieved in Great Britain proper. Some newly enfranchised Catholics are now urging this toleration be extended throughout the entire colonial empire. They point to the colonies in North America, in particular, as locations where reformed religious groups in the north and Anglican colonies in the south persecute and forbid the settlement of Catholics. Pushing this idea forward is risky however, as the entrenched majority of Protestants in these areas could turn against you, something that would be disastrous under current circumstances. Will you expand Catholic toleration?

-Several ambassadors have arrived in London, reportedly from “James III of Ireland”, with an offer of a peace agreement. Reportedly, James Stuart is willing to surrender his claims to the remainder of the British Kingdoms if your government withdraws from Ireland and recognizes him as King. It would create peace and allow you to focus on the Continent, but at a heavy price. Some courtiers are suggesting you should have the traitors who approached with the offer hanged as a sign of your commitment to fight the usurper, though this would undoubtedly be the most brutal action. What is to be done?

-The French may have presented you with a once-in-a-war opportunity, leaving most of their Kingdom much more lightly guarded than usual with their large expedition to Austria. Some in London have been quite persistent an expedition should be undertaken to cripple the Kingdom, even if the gains would be minimal. These officers desire the same harsh treatment that befell Ireland to be turned against France, with squads crippling the countryside, looting the cities, and causing all-out misery. Others argue this would only serve to enrage the French people, thus prolonging the War. What will your Continental Policy be?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Spain:

-The Spanish public is increasingly calling for you to enter the war, before it is too late to gain any spoils from it. The French victories in the Netherlands and Austria have caused the conservatives in Madrid to urge you to join your Catholic brethen, while the more reformist-minded courtiers see Portugal and Britain as ideal allies. Regardless, both sides agree if Spain waits too long, they could be left behind by the victorious coalition following the war. How will you respond to these demands?

-The Catholic Church has always had a strong grip over power in Spain, but some of your advisors see the Enlightenment ideas sweeping Europe as an opportunity. They believe you should bring the Spanish Church to heel by taxing it, removing clergy from government offices, and reducing the power of the Inquisition. Others believe this will only serve to provoke conservatives and the relaitionship should remain as it is. What are your orders?

-Ricardo Wall, the Irishman who is one of your chief ministers, is sympathetic to his people. He has been repeatedly urging Spain to send supplies or soldiers to free Ireland from Britain. At very least he requests that your government attempt to negotiate a peace between the Irish Jacobites and the government of Britain, perhaps establishing an independent Ireland. Others see this as breaking your friendly agreements with London. What will be done?

Kingdom of Prussia:

-King Frederick, the situation in Europe hangs on the edge of a knife. While you managed to deeply wound the Austrian war effort (seeing the death of your rival and capturing the royal family in the process) the arrival of the French reversed all of your gains in Austria, save Vienna. Despite this, you do control most of Bohemia. How will the war be continued?

-Peter III, the would-be Tsar, has sent agents to Berlin to talk with you. He expresses open admiration for your victories in Europe, reminding you he has long backed your efforts to strengthen Prussia, but is dismayed by your recognition of Ivan VI. He requests you reimprison the pretender to his throne, offering to join your side in the War should he win the War of the Three Tsars as recompense. Peter also requests the daughter of a Prussian noble be betrothed to him, in order to further cement the proposed agreement. While allying with Peter could make sense (in some ways he’d be even more of a puppet than Ivan VI due to his incompetence), the move would be highly divisive. What will your policy be on Russia?

-Naturally, holding the Habsburg children is a huge advantage for you. Some crafty advisors have further designs planned for them other than just ransoming them. They request that you either have Joseph crowned Holy Roman Emperor over his father or perhaps have the young Habsburg decree an end to the institution, freeing your Kingdom in the future. Others suggest forcing the children to convert to Protestantism in order to further create uncertainty over their future. These moves would undoubtedly throw Germany further into crisis, but with the long-term benefit of damaging the legitimacy of the Empire. What will you do with the Habsburgs?

Ottoman Empire:

-The casualties in the Battle of Croatia were atrocious, Sultan, though there is some consolation in the fact that the Austrians have been forced from their Capitol. Regardless, decisions must be made about the future of the war. The loss of so many soldiers has some in Istanbul clamoring for peace, while others see opportunities with the recent Prussian success. How will you address the unease among some of your subjects?

-The Khan of Crimea, your loyal vassal, has enjoyed great success against the Russians over the last few months. They’ve been expelled from his lands and he has even seized some of their territory. These victories have cost him men however, and he requests reenforcement be sent in order for the offensive to be continued. Will you send him the men, perhaps backing expeditions further northward, or should they be stationed elsewhere?

-There is an uneasy peace in the Caucus Mountains with the Kingdom of Imereti, though one that threatens to break if the issue is not addressed. King Solomon has begun a policy of aggressive expansion, stabilizing his realm and seeking to reunite the Kingdom of Georgia. This move would harm Ottoman influence in the region and leave an Orthodox Christian enemy near the heart of the Empire in Anatolia. Some are urging you to issue a preemptive strike in order to prevent any attempts to undermine your control, while others believe an attempt at friendship should be made, even if it means relinquishing some degree of power in the area. Regardless, the Georgians would be far more likely to ally the Russians in the future, something that must be remembered no matter which choice you make.

Kingdom of Sweden:

-While the flight of your queen was embarrassing, it has been notable that the Caps have proven more willing to cooperate in her absence. There are reports circling that she was working with the Hats behind your back. Regardless, the land reform movement’s pace has been tempered a bit, though it continues. Some Caps, as well as some Royalists, demand you launch a full investigation of your wife’s actions as well as prosecute any Hats who may have been working with her. What will you do?

-Capturing parts of Trøndelag gives  Sweden its first North Sea port in many years. Regardless, much of Norway remains in Danish hands following the two stalemates and the fighting there continues. Your clever ideas during the most recent battle were praised, but some are wondering whether they can be used again. What is to be done in Norway.?

-A group of Norwegian nobles have approached you with an offer, though one that may not be in Sweden's best interest. They are offering to join you in the fight against the Danes if you have your second son, Charles, named King instead of directly annexing the region. While this would expand your family's control, it would also mean Sweden would gain little direct economic benefit from Denmark. Will you take them up on their offer, or continue to fight in order to annex the Kingdom?

[Spamage]

Kingdom of Denmark-Norway:

-Christiana now seems quite secure, King Frederick, and some are urging you to evict the Swedes from their newly captured territories further north. This region is much more mountanous however, and much harder to supply. Others among your general staff suggest leaving the Swedes be in their northern territory and launching an offensive into Sweden itself instead. This, of course, would leave the recaptured territory in Norway at risk of falling again. How will you prosecute the war?

-There are some in the distant territory of Iceland who have begun to recently clamor for more home-rule, especially in light of the Crown being distracted by events in Norway. These Icelanders, while stressing their loyalty to you, demand that the Kingdom of Iceland be declared, with its own institutions but you remaining as King. Some urge you to accept, in order to keep these subjects happy, while others are demanding you reject these pleas, seeing  them as a dangerous precedent. What will you do about the matter of Icelandic home rule?

-Some of the Prussian soldiers you've had fight in Norway have become highly demoralized, seeing little point in their fighting so far to the north of their homeland. While they still generally obey orders, their quality has suffered in recent months, especially with the onset of winter. Some suggest writing to Frederick II of Prussia in order to recieve new troops, or at very least get orders commanding the ones already abroad to remain loyal. What will you do?

Republic of Venice:

-Your creation of an assembly for the common people has been very well received in the Republic. It appears to have satisfied those demanding reform without alienating those who cling to their old privileges. Even so, another domestic matter has come to the forefront. Your position is no longer as powerful as the glory days of Enrico Dandolo and other great Doges in the past. Many actions have been limited through the course of time, something your closest advisors are urging you to change. They demand you hire mercenaries and use the established military to evict those who would challenge you and reestablish your title’s executive supremacy. They point to the benefits of such a move, but also ignore the risks (which include a coup against you by these same rival nobles). What actions will be taken?

-With your declaration of a league of armed neutrality, several minor powers have already approached you and requested membership. The Dutch, wary of their trade routes after making peace, have requested joining. Baden, Liege, and the Palatine all also desire the security that would come from such a group. Will you accept their offers and, if so, are their other powers that should be welcomed into the league?

Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont:

-Welcome Charles Emmanuel III, King of Sardinia and leader of one of the oldest royal houses in Europe. You find your Kingdom at a crossroads, involved in the War of the Grand Coalitions on the side of the French and Austrians, your Kingdom has taken little action in the fighting so far. Though your men are less numerous than larger powers, the House of Savoy has a rich military history to look back on. How will you follow in the footsteps of your forefathers?

-Your father was originally the King of Sicily, being given the Kingdom of Sardinia only as a consolation prize after other powers objected. Sardinia is much poorer and less developed than your continental lands and many are urging you to take steps to improve the situation. This could involve active investment in the island, resettlement, and the undertaking administrative reforms. Some worry pushing too hard, too fast could result in locals being reminded how little they have in common with you, though. What will your policy be regarding the island of Sardinia?

-Some commanders are requesting state funds go to repairing and refurbishing forts throughout your territory. Even though you do not share a border with any current enemy, they argue it should be undertaken out of an abundance of caution. These moves would be highly expensive though, and could be quite a drag on the economy in the long run (with upkeep). Will you expand your Kingdom’s defenses, or spend your money on more immediate, pressing issues?

Armies & Locations

Kingdom of Prussia
84,153 Royal Army
57,240 Army of Silesia-Saxony
6,500 Army of Norway
20,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 15,000 more)

Kingdom of France
185,938 Army of the Netherlands
32,000 Army of France
8,640 Army of Quebec
15,411 Army Louisiana + Ohio
4,140 Army of India
(Can raise 10,000 more)

Kingdom of Great Britain
36,480 Army of Ireland North
14,573 Army of Ireland South (in Wales)
16,000 Army of Britain
35,000 Army of Hanover
15,000 Army & Garrison of the 13 Colonies
10,604 Army of Quebec
11,578 Army of Ohio
6,584 Army & Garrison of India
(Can raise 17,000 more)

Kingdom of Sweden
30,632 1st Army of Norway
39,240 2nd Army of Norway
10,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 5,000 more)

Kingdom of Denmark-Norway
62,837 Army of Norway
(Can raise 5,000 more)

Kingdom of Sardinia-Piedmont
32,000 men raised and mobile
8,000 men garrisoned
(Can raise 10,000 more)

Kingdom of Spain
60,000 men raised and mobile
25,000 men garrisoned
15,000 Army & Garrison of New Spain
10,000 Army & Garrison of South America
2,000 Army & Garrison of the Philippines
(can raise 30,000 more)

Russian Empire
108,263 1st Army
93,240 2nd Army
40,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 5,000 more)

Archduchy of Austria
138,521 Army of Croatia
30,490 Army of the Danube
(can raise 15,000 more)

Ottoman Empire
86,450 Army of the Danube
60,000 Army of Istanbul
35,000 men garrisoned
(can raise 20,000 more)

Republic of Venice
12,000 men raised and mobile
(can raise 20,000 more)


Navies of the World
Kingdom of Great Britain
170 Ships of the Line
123 Frigates

Kingdom of France
107 Ships of the Line
51 Frigates

Kingdom of Spain
57 Ships of the Line
28 Frigates

Kingdom of Portugal
32 Ships of the Line
20 Frigates

Russian Empire
31 Ships of the Line
5 Frigates

Kingdom of Denmark-Norway
22 Ships of the Line
18 Frigates

Kingdom of Sweden
23 Ships of the Line
11 Frigates

Ottoman Empire
18 Ships of the Line
8 Frigates

Republic of Venice
10 Ships of the Line
21 Frigates

[Dereich]

HOLY ROMAN EMPEROR FRANCIS ADDRESSES THE DIET OF HUNGARY

Noble gentleman of Hungary, I address you today not as an Emperor or as royal regent but as, first and foremost, a grieving widower and a father. My wife, your Queen who bore nothing but goodwill towards Her Magyar subjects, was cut down in her prime by a ferocious tyrant. Bloody Frederick would have you believe your Queen committed suicide in her grief at the loss of a single battle. Nonsense!

As the man who knew Her best, I tell you that your Queen would not abandon her husband, her children , or her people. The notion that She, a faithful and ever-loyal Catholic, would stain her immortal soul by taking her own life is absurd! I ask you, noble Magyars, to look further at the man of blood who would claim that he is innocent of your Queen's murder. A man who has done nothing but wage war since the day he took up his crown. A blackguard who was caught taking the life of our fair and noble friend, Empress Elizaveta, just as he took our own ruler's life. An assassin who takes the life of anyone, even Kings or Emperors, who dares oppose him. I tell you that I myself will be at risk for speaking these truths. I remind you that this barbarian even now has my son and your King caught in his infernal clutches.

Frederick has devoured Saxony. He has devoured Bavaria. He has devoured Elizaveta. And he has devoured our Queen. Now, with the help of your heathen former occupiers, he would devour my son, Bohemia, Austria, and Hungary too. Most August Diet, I beseech you: help me save my son and the Monarchy before this tyrant liquidates us and all of Catholic Civilization! I beg this Diet to furnish an army to save its King and avenge its fallen Queen. Do not be seized with the timidity that has shaken your Germanic counterparts. March, loyal subjects! Your King's friends are strong and its enemies shaken; the time to press forward is now! With your aid, the Monarchy could be saved and its terrible enemies be forced to do what they hate more than anything else: make peace.

Until the time that Francis, King of Hungary is safe, I call on this Diet to stay in emergency session. I vow before God on high that my son and all his descendants will remember the decisions that you, his loyal nobles, make here today. My son and his descendants will respect Hungary's privileges, its Golden Bull, and above all its Diet. I vow in his name that this body will be frequently assembled, that your concerns will be addressed, and your burdens will be light.

God save the Diet and may God save the King of Hungary.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

The House of Habsburg died with Maria Theresa. The House of Lorraine has no right to claim being its successor. Maria Theresa, while our sworn enemy, was a true monarch, while the deposed Duke of Lorraine, who'd been but a puppet in his wife's skillful hands, borders on tragicomedy.

In the eyes of the Sublime Porte, the so-called "Habsburg Monarchy" no longer exists. We consider Hungary and Bohemia as separate, independent Kingdoms, no longer subjugated by the puny Archduchy of Austria.

[Lumine]

ON FRANCIS OF LORRAINE:

His Majesty King Frederick prided himself on his ability to tolerate criticism from foreign heads of state, and on always keeping his patience despite the disturbing actions of some of the monarchs who formed or are part of the French-led coalition. The latest display of theatrics by Francis of Lorraine, is not only more befitting of an hysterical woman than a sovereign, it has had the virtue of finally breaking the patience of His Majesty King Frederick. He can not and he will not tolerate this poor excuse of a regent to blame him in such public manner for the suicide of Empress Maria Theresa, who His Majesty has grieved openly, just as he will not tolerate the other lies coming out of this most shocking speech.

The generals, the nobles, the soldiers, the clergy and the people of Austria want peace. Francis of Lorraine will not give them peace. Unwilling to listen to reason, unwilling to consider peace, he calls onto his subjects to march north and face the might of the Prussian military, and suffer at any cost if it means the bloodlust of Francis can be satisfied. Despite having a unique chance to end this war, he chooses to continue no matter how many die, no matter how his own family, lands and peoples suffer if it means that he can finally wield the power he's been too timid to use until now. He dares us to occupy all the cities of the empire and destroy all of its armies in the field, rather than make pace.

His Majesty King Frederick will not stand for this.

He makes it known here and now that while he is perfectly willing to conclude peace with Austria, he no longer considers Francis of Lorraine a man who can sign that peace. King Frederick does not recognize any authority of Francis of Lorraine as regent or in any future peace process, not after the display before the Diet of Hungary. His Majesty is perfectly willing to discuss matters with a suitable statesman in Austria that is not a dangerous, bloodthirsty maniac, and so remains attentive to the moment in which a different regent announces his willingess to negotiate. But so long as Francis of Lorraine keeps trying to rule the fate of the Empire, he will not treat with him, for the Kingdom of Prussia is now at war, not with a people or its armies, but at war with Francis of Lorraine.

His Majesty King Frederick also believes the magnitude of the insult and the danger to peace posed by Francis too large to stand, and so he feels forced to take dramatic, drastic actions that will be informed across the Empire very soon. But he does make one fact known with full clarity: the irresponsible Francis of Lorraine will rue the day he decided upon this course of action.

[windjammer]

Statement from King Louis XV:
I'm not going to give up my colonies in India to Danemark, a country whose territories are literally being occupied by France's ally, his Majesty King of Sweden.

[Dereich]

It astounds the mind that any good Christian would give a passing thought as to the opinion of the Mussulman sultan. So instead of acknowledging whatever statement he believes is relevant, I will instead ask that Churches within my son's domains as well as throughout the Holy Roman Empire spend a moment in prayer for the lives of all good Christians caught under the thumb of Mohommedan tyranny and that they may be one day free.


As for Bloody Frederick, I have made myself clear. The poisonous opinions of the man who murdered my wife are irrelevant. His opinion is as worthless as that of any murderer. He will face justice for his crimes, either in this life or the next.

[windjammer]

Regarding the Austrian situation,
The King of France woud like to make it clear that the safety of Empress Maria Theresa's children is one of his main priorities.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Regarding the Austrian situation,
The King of France woud like to make it clear that the safety of Empress Maria Theresa's children is one of his main priorities.

Indeed. Clearlt they're safer in the Prussian custody that with their crazy father.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

The Ottoman Empire is at war with the puny Archduchy of Austria, not the noble Kingdom of Hungary.

[Spamage]

Treaty of Coimbra: Portugal Leaves War in Exchange for French Colonies

While they remained a largely comitted member of the British-led alliance, the Portuguese were given an offer by the French for peace that was too good not to accept. In a stunning move, King Louis XV announced that France would agree to cede Saint Domingue, French Guiana, and part of French India to the Portuguese Crown in return for peace, a pact of non-agression, and future trade between the two nations. Most remarkable is how much land Portugal gained for so few casualties, causing the popularity of King Joseph I to greatly increase. Less than 1,000 Portuguese were killed in the war, compared to tens of thousands of Austrians, French, Prussians, and Russians.

The reaction in Paris was far more mixed. Many wealthy subjects, who owned profitable plantations in the highly valuable colony of Saint-Domingue, were enraged. These include nobles and members of the upper middle class. Economic damage may occur in France, with one key support of the trans-Atlantic trade network now lost. Furthermore, some see French prestige as highly damaged, the King giving away so much land to a power they hardly fought. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop further.

Reactions from Portugal's former allies are likewise forthcoming.

The Birth of the German League, Bavaria Reenters the War

The French crossing into Austria caused paranoia, outrage, and fear to spread among the small states of the Holy Roman Empire. Never before had their longtime foe marched so deep into their lands, with some being reminded of the Thirty Years War from a century ago. Frederick II of Prussia capitalized on this situation, and the captivity of the Habsburg youth, by declaring the "German League". In essence, these small states would form an alliance against the foreign armies moving through their lands and agree to economic and political cooperation in the future, all of this conducted outside of the existing Imperial System.

Prussia was naturally joined by its existing German allies (Oldenburg, Mecklenburg, Hesse-Kassel, Brunswick) but also several others, eager to join in this beneficial agreement. Maximilian III Joseph, the Duke of Bavaria, signed the pact and joined the League. He was released from Prussian confinement following negotiating favorable terms for his people. Bavaria would not be punished for its fighting against Prussia, but in fact rewarded. The Duke had himself crowned King Maximilian I of Bavaria in Munich, demanding other European powers recognize his right to the throne. He followed his move up by rejoining the war on the side of Prussia, preparing forces to join in the fighting. Ansbach and the Palatine were also lured by Prussian succors to join the fighting.

Whether the Empire and the German League are mutually exclusive remains to be seen, though undoubtedly this move has shook Germany to its foundations. Some hope the League will ensure peace in Germany proper, though others fear retribution from enemy soldiers. Will the League grow further? Only time will tell.

Land for Sale! Genoa offers Corsica to the highest bidder

Following the declaration of the Corsican people of their own republic, Genoa has been forced to fight an intense war for control of the Island. Much of the inland areas are dominated by Pasquale Paoli and his allies, though the Genoese control the sea coast and cities. The fighting has been expensive however, and the Republic of Genoa has announced to Europe that it is willing to sell the rights to the the Island to any power interested in purchasing it. Any interested power should contact Genoa (me, via PM) with an offer. Rights will be sent to the highest bidder.

[Lumine]

GERMAN LEAGUE:

A historic date is upon us.

After the reckless actions of the Austrians have pushed the Empire into a costly war, the German princes and states begin to unite in outrage at the whole might of the French army marching into Austria, a move which directly threatens each and every German principality inside the Empire as many in Versailles have expressed their open desire to see the direct domains of Louis XV expand across the Rhine and into our lands.

After too many compromises, too many retreats, today the princes of Germany stand up and state a line on the sand has been drawn: this and no further. The Kingdom of Prussia, the Kingdom of Bavaria and the princes and rulers of Mecklenburg, Oldenburg, Hesse-Kassel, Brunswick, the Palatinate and Ansbach have joined their collective forces into a most noble German League. Putting our differences aside, we join forces to put an end to the threat of French domination in Europe, and to make sure we protect each other from threat and extortion while collaborating on matters of trade.

A wave of patriotism sweeps across the land as men and women are proud and doubly proud to be German, to be heirs to a great culture and a great history. Before us stands a unique chance to seize the moment and the future, and ensure the collective prosperity of our separate kingdoms and principalities against those who would see us bleed. Fellow Germans, for how long must we fight and bleed for foreign powers and foreign overlords? For how long must Germany stand divided and disunited as the French plot to expand, and the Austrians play a cynical game of chess in which we fight each other?

No more, we say. No more! It is time to take up the banner of our common culture, heritage and history. It is time to teach our enemies a valuable lesson. It is time to stand up for ourselves, together, and fight like we never have before. We have taken decisive steps for reconciliation and unity in embracing the Wittelsbachs as allies, and we are pleased to address Maximillian Joseph as His Majesty the King of Bavaria. Fear not, German princes, for the German League will welcome you to the fight for justice, honor and pride.

Rise up, my friends! Rise up, drive the French back to where they came, establish your rights as German states and reform this old Empire! Rise up and fight for what you know is right!

TO THE HAPSBURG SUBJECTS

Almost two years of hard, bitter war have passed us ever since this conflict was thrust upon all of us. Regardless of our allegiance and allies, we have all fought hard and nobly for what we believe, but not all those who have fought on this war appeared to have been rewarded as they should. The first impression His Majesty King Frederick drew from the hysteric speech of Francis of Lorraine before the Hungarian nobility was one of anger, anger at the recklessness of the “Emperor”, anger at the lies he spreads about us, anger at his disregard for the future of his own children, anger itself. We wasted no time in responding, making it perfectly clear we no longer recognize Francis of Lorraine as a man one can speak to for peace.

But there is another emotion to be drawn from that speech, leading to this proclaim directed at the subjects of the Hapsburg monarchy so all of its different peoples can read it and hear about it: we speak of gratitude. His Majesty King Frederick has been forced into war against the late Empress and the current Emperor several times, and in every opportunity, it was shown to him that the many peoples under Hapsburg yoke never seemed to be properly thanked, properly cared for despite the debt of gratitude those in Vienna owed to them. For example, His Majesty the King openly acknowledges you could hardly find more loyal subjects than those of Hungary, who fought long and hard for Maria Theresa even at the bleakest hour.

But, we ask ourselves, what do they have to show for that loyalty?

Ancient monarchies such as Bohemia and Hungary have been captured by the Hapsburgs for decades, their greatness reduced to a secondary role as Vienna makes all the decisions. Peoples of all cultures, and backgrounds, and beliefs are held together and commanded, while entire regions are traded away at the whims of the ruling monarch in Vienna. Hungarians, Bohemians, Croatians, Germans, Austrians and so on have fought, and bled, and died with dignity, courage and honor in a manner which His Majesty King Frederick cannot but respect and salute.

But, as he has drawn from the speech to the Hungarian Diet, little gratitude appears to have been shown to them. Even now, with peace at his grasp, Francis of Lorraine rejects any talk of it and commands what he believes are his unquestionable subjects to send more men, to march north despite of dangers or consequences, to be even more loyal than they have been thus far. And this despite being seen as a foreigner even at Vienna and amidst the Austrian court, let alone in the other territories he now commands as regent.

Hard as Prussia has fought so hard, it has never been with a sense of hostility against the many peoples suffering from the Hapsburg yoke. We invite all of you, nobles, clergymen, generals, soldiers, merchants and people from all backgrounds and beliefs to ask yourselves a question: is it worth it? Is it worth it to march, fight and die at the whims of our so-called Emperor? Is it worth it to remain loyal to foreign rulers who hardly seem to care? Is it worth it to see your ancestral laws crushed, your rights curbed, your beliefs attacked? Is it truly worth it?

We believe there are many inside the Empire who might as well answer no. The Kingdom of Prussia stands before you not as a deathly enemy, but as a potential friend. So ask yourselves, good men and women of the Hapsburg controlled lands, is it worth it to die for Francis of Lorraine?

[President Punxsutawney Phil]

In a world where the George the Child-eater and Bloody Frederick have raped the European continent, ravishing her like a defenseless maiden as they embark upon what Bloody Frederick has called "A final solution to the Catholic Problem," I call upon all of my fellow Catholic brothers in Christ to join together as one and strike a blow for the Lord against this barbarian horde. We must look to The Pope for moral leadership and answer his call to fight these Godless Prussian Pagans and English Savages wherever we may encounter them. 

x Charles Emmanuel III of Sardinia-Piedmont

[Lumine]

ON LIES AND DECEPTION

Clearly, there is nothing some allies of France will not do in order to make this war a far bloodied one, playing with forces they cannot understand or comprehend for the sake of their own despair. The latest of this ludicrous series of statements comes from the King of Sardinia-Piemont, who contiues the trend of those who push for a highly damaging, highly irresponsible "religious war" at any price in order for the war to turn into a long war of attrition.

His Majesty King Frederick II would note that during two years of war he has always counseled tolerance and has sought peace on several ocassions, only to be rebuffed by irresponsible foes. His armies have proven their worth defeating the Austrians and other armies, with no war crimes heard or known from the Kingdom of Prussia. Is is therefore surprising the King of Sardinia-Piemont would go for such an obvious, transparent lie as to talk about a "final solution", considering His Majesty King Frederick's desire for tolerance and the fact that not only Catholic nations fight as his allies, but people of different faiths as well.

Heed not the irresponsible, self-entitled calls of men like Charles Emmanuel III or Francis of Lorraine, for their only motivation is their own boundless ambition, for which they are willing to see all of Christendom and our continent bleed.