- ARCHIVE - Principal Court of the Palatinate

[Bagricula]

The Court of the Rhineland Palatinate in Heidelburg



Of His Serene and August Highness and Illustrious Grace, Frederick of Wittelsbach, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Count of Wittelsbach Count of Wurtemburg, Duke of Swabia, of Teck, Lord of Ostmark, of Rumelia, King of Albania, Prince-Elector, Archsteward of the Holy Roman Empire, of Swabia, of Franconia, Judge-Elector, Right Hand of the Imperium, Grandmaster of the Knights of St. Henry the Lion


"The Arms of the Ancient Imperial House of Wittelsbach"

Wilkommen! The Rhenish Princes have for many centuries ruled over the bountiful and abundant Rhine Valley welcoming with warmth and hospitality their German brothers as well as their Dutch and French neighbors. The nobility and honor of the Rhenish Wittelsbachs is unchallenged in Europa, and through the pacific and just rule of Emperor Erich von Wittelsbach, First of the Name, Heidelburg and its environs has flowered into a major trade city through which the merchants of Swabia and Franconia reach Burgundy, Antwerpen, and now the far off Danube. Nearing the end of a remarkably stable regency, the young Count, Frederick of Wittelsbach and Wurtemburg, has begun to take the reigns of government in preparation for his majority and the consolidation of his lands.

Recent History:

Following the death of his father Ruprecht III of Wittelsbach, Erich ascended to the Electoral dignity in a time of political crisis in the Imperium. King Albert of the Romans had been imprisoned in the Lateran for the murder of Joan d’Arc and forces in the Imperium were at work to see his deposition. Still young to the Diet, Erich supported Victor von Blommenstein during the elections following the withdrawal of the only other candidate John Grimaldi. Thus the ascension of King Victor was tense and disputed. Though in his own rule, Victor failed to maintain peace and stability in the Imperium and only saved himself the indignity of deposition by his death, he did sign the Reichskammergericht Charter authored by Erich. A staunch supporter of the Imperial ideal, Erich initially supported King Victor along with a coterie of Low Germans including Joachim the Greif. Through this association, his eldest sister Christine of Wittelsbach wed Joachim forging a strong dynastic bond between the House of Wittelsbach and the House of the Greif.

The reign of Victor of Köln was handicapped from its beginning by the struggle between the Low Germans and the Austrians over the fate of Bohemia, which the House of Habsburg had annexed after the victory over the Hussite insurgents. Even by the time Elisabeth of Luxembourg made her offer of marriage to Albert of Habsburg to end the conflict over the Bohemian crown, the march to civil war was inevitable. The King had lost the support of the Low Germans through inaction, and the Habsburg-Luxembourg alliance had little opposition in the bloodless war that followed. The Bohemian crisis would not be truly resolved till the ascension of Joachim to the German Crown.

Following an inquest by the Holy Office, Victor von Blommenstein died, and Erich von Wittelsbach served as archsteward for the Empire during the interregnum. During that election Sigismund von Saxony, Philip von Hesse, and Erich von Wittelsbach were candidates with Sigismund receiving the votes of Saxony and Mainz(Resulting in the expulsion of Christoph from the House) and Erich the votes of Pfalz and Trier. Philip received the vote of Bohemia, and Augustus von Blommenstein was determined mad and ineligible for voting. After evidence of corruption and fraud by Sigismund was revealed the youth took his own life. Following this tragedy, the Margrave of Brandenburg cast his vote for Erich. Thus after a bloody and chaotic election, the Pope Jean-Luc the Reincarnate coronated Erich in Nuremburg as Emperor of Humanity.

Emperor Erich the First ruled over an era of unprecedented peace throughout the Holy Roman Empire, but it is uncertain what factors allowed this blossoming of harmony to occur. Some point to the early support of Rome, others to the support of the Low Germans, still others to the quiet of the Burgundian regency and the Austria. Whatever the reason, all will agree that Erich Augustus ruled from the center working tirelessly towards civil agreement and compromise. By reigning in the armies of the Low Germans, while preventing outside interference in the Imperium, Erich nurtured an Imperium ready to face off with the powerful House Plantagenet in the Norman Crisis. The establishment of the Martial Bull, the Imperial Commerce Commission, the maintenance of peace, the revocation of the Treaty of Verdun, and the protection of the French Crown, will indubitably stand has highlights of his reign. All this activity left him both without an heir and in poor health, and so upon the death of his close friend Heinrich of Wurtemburg, he adopted the twins Frederick and Eva-Maria as his heirs raising them in his own household. His reign ended as a war raged between Austria and Pommern, while he in declining health could not prevent the conflict. There is much speculation surrounding the death of Erich the Lawgiver since he appears to have been murdered by his doctor, a disfigured man who subsequently committed suicided.

Following the death of Erich the Lawgiver, Frederick still in his minority added the his foster father’s dignities to his own inherited from his father, though all his lands were still governed by a Regency consisting primarily of his mother Eleanora of Wittelsbach, Erich’s chief minister Cornelius von Adler, Erich’s sister Ilse of Wittelsbach, and Frederick’s uncle Bishop Rainmund of Wittelsbach. Ilse later married Albrecht of Wittelsbach, the Duke of Bavaria, reducing the Regency to three. Soon Frederick will be of age and will fully take on the reigns of power planted by his father and foster father’s machinations.

Current Events:

Papal Elections – The Metropolitan of Pfalz is currently in Rome attending the conclave to find the new Pontifex Maximus.

War – In conjunction with the Bohemian Wittelsbachs, the Rhenish Wittelsbachs have joined the war against the Duchy of Austria.


The Family: House von Wittelsbach
In 1235, Emperor Friedrich II, being far more concerned with Italian affairs than German matters, conferred the rank of Count Palatine to a member of the von Wittelsbach family, already a powerful ducal family in Bavaria. Since then the Counts Palatine of the Rhine have all been members of this family in some fashion. Both a boon and a curse, the dynastic alliance has led to periods of warm brotherhood and petty feuding between the Rheinland and Bavaria, and a not a few attempts to reestablish the Salian counts. The current Count Palatine, Frederick von Wittelsbach enjoys unusual respect and tranquility in the Rhineland thanks to the steady hand of his predecessor the Emperor as well as the continuation of the administration of the lands by locals like Cornelius von Adler. The History of House von Wittelsbach


*Deceased*Erich von Wittelsbach, Emperor of Humanity, Caesar Augustus et Pater Patriae, King of the Romans, King of Italy, King of Germany, King of Lombardy, Sword of Christ, Right Hand of the Church, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Prince-Elector and Archsteward of the Empire, Grandmaster of the Knights of St. Henry the Lion, Knight of the Golden Spur, Knight of the Lion of Christendom, Defender of the Holy Sepulchre, Count of Wittelsbach, King of Albania, Crowned of God-

Erich was an introspective young man, careful and thoughtful, fully feeling the weight of his office. He bore himself with a quiet patient dignity that with his modest lifestyle had won him the adoration of his subjects and the respect of the Rhenish nobility. He saw the Empire as the best way to bring prosperity and success to the German people and to protect Christendom from the petty quarrels. He viewed the Papacy with reluctant respect, recognizing its far reaching power and its tendency to be dominated by secular agendas while still remaining a devout Catholic. The second reign of Pope Jean-Luc marked a high point in the cooperation between the Emperor and the Pontiff. He had learned Dutch, French, Danish, Latin, and Italian in addition to his native German, which he spoke with a Swabian accent.

During a long and remarkably stable reign as Emperor of Humanity, during which he established the institutions and Imperial bureacracy that maintains the Empire, Erich often suffered bouts of sickness brought on by stress and tiredness. During one of these illnesses, he was murdered by Christoph von Wittelsbach, disowned by Erich ever since the Imperial elections. The assailent had committed gruesome suicide also, and was found dead in the Emperor's chamber.




Christine von Wittelsbach, Queen of the Romans, 1st Cousin of the Count Palatine, Wife of Joachim of the Greif-

A clever graceful woman of 21, cherished by her brother Erich, Christine remains one of his dearest and closest advisors. Knowledgeable in the customs, manners, and languages of the French, Italians, Spaniards, English, and Poles, she serves primarily as a hostess and de facto diplomat ensuring the love of foreign dignitaries for Heidelburg and the Rheinland. In her domestic role, she spun a web of friendships and favors with the noblewomen of Rheinpfalz, trying to build further support for her brother. She has no great love for the Empire, seeing the Emperor and Imperial Diet as less than useless outdated institutions only hampering the Palatinate, but she curbs her tongue in most circumstances, respecting her brother's feelings. The Church she views with a quiet pious devotion largely private from the rest of her life. Hers is the faith of the contemplative and the mystic, not the missionary or prelate.




Ilse von Wittelsbach, Regentess, 1st Cousin of the Count Palatine-

A social butterfly, a carefree spirit, an angel. All of these epithets have been used to describe Ilse, the youngest of the Count's sisters at 18. Vivacious and attractive, Ilse finds herself as welcome in Paris, Rome, Vienna, or London as she does in her native Heidelburg. Consequently, she spends nearly as much time in these foreign metropolises as in the Rheinland. Many a young suitor has had his heart stolen by the Lily Swan of the Rhine, called so for her near white blonde hair, only to have his hopes crushed. Despite the anxiety and worry she often brings her older brother and sister, Ilse manages always to remain the delight of the court and loved by all in Heidelburg.


Maria von Wittelsbach-Kummel, Dowager-Countess of the Rhine, Mother of Erich-

Coming from a wealthy noble family near Pfalz, the Dowager-Countess served for many years alongside her husband Count Rupert III, even riding into battle alongside him. In the months following her husband's death she has remained in mourning retiring to a convent a few miles from Heidelburg. Formerly a strong woman with an independent spirit, she seems broken and oblivious to the world. She cares nothing for the affairs of this world, her prayers and eyes resting on the next.

The Extended Family

Lothar von Wittelsbach, Uncle of Erich, Margrave of Pirmasens
Marina von Wittelsbach-Adler, Lothar's Wife, Aunt of Erich
Rainmund von Wittelsbach, Son of Lothar and Marina, 1st Cousin of Erich, Viceroy of Albania
Siegmund von Wittelsbach, 2nd Son of Lothar and Marina, 1st Cousin of Erich
Nora von Wittelsbach, Daughter of Lothar and Marina, 1st Cousin of Erich, Countess of Wurtemburg
Inge von Wittelsbach, 2nd Daughter of Lothar and Marina, 1st Cousin of Erich
Josephine von Wittelsbach, 3rd Daughter of Lothar and Marina, 1st Cousin of Erich
Ruth von Hindeblum-Wittelsbach, Aunt of Erich, Sister of Lothar
Dirk von Hindeblum, Uncle-in-Law of Erich, Husband of Ruth, Margrave of Oberpfalz
Christoph von Hindeblum-Wittelsbach, Son of Dirk and Ruth, 1st Cousin to Erich, Bishop of Oberpfalz
Erik von Hindeblum-Wittelsbach, 2nd Son of Dirk and Ruth, 1st Cousin of Erich
Eva von Hindeblum-Wittelsbach, Daughter of Dirk and Ruth, 1st Cousin of Erich

Others of Note in Heidelburg


Cornelius von Adler, Regent, First Minister of the Rhine, Margrave of Kleinberg-

Erich's right hand and close friend, Cornelius served Erich's father as ambassador to the Reichstag for twenty years before retiring to a small estate near the Main. Upon Erich's ascension, he agreed to serve as the young Count's primary minister aiding him in the running of all the Rheinland's affairs. Cornelius comes from a long line of minor German nobles along the Main, and holds the German volk and the Empire in the highest regard. He speaks only German, but has inexhaustible experience both in the political arena and in the administration of the Palatinate. This along with his unquestioned loyalty has made him one of the most powerful men in the Rheinpfalz. A good Catholic, but too old at 54 and experienced to be truly zealous, Cornelius views the Papacy with a cool disdainful eye, seeing them as foreign manipulators and corruptors of the good German spirit. He now serves as one of Frederick's Regents.


Franz von Hagen, Bishop of Pfalz, Confessor for the Count-

A proud older man at 43, Franz sees himself as the enlightened shepherd of the masses leading them to God. A victory for the von Hagen family, Erich appointed Franz his confessor in as much an attempt to win the goodwill of the von Hagens as an attempt to endear himself to the Church. In return the von Hagens, a wealthy merchant family in Pfalz, have supported the new Count Palatine, and kept the rest of the merchants in line. Franz often finds himself at odds with Herr von Adler and has thus cultivated the friendship of Christine, hoping to set the older First Minister off balance in the court. His efforts have had mild success and have given the new Count more than one serious headache to contend with. He is disdainful of the Empire and feels that Rheinpfalz would be better off aligning itself with a more 'civilized' sovereignty.


Gunther Anton Weiss, Captain-General of the Rhine, Knight of St. Henry-

A practical stoic soldier, Sir Gunther acquired his title on the field of battle alongside the armies of the Empire at Magyar. Staunchly loyal to the Count Palatine, he and his family live on a small set of estates outside of Pfalz, granted to them by Erich's father after his knighthood. He has little patience or understanding of court politics and concerns himself mainly with keeping the Army of the Elector in fighting condition. Distrustful of those outside the Empire, Gunther is still a faithful Catholic and does not concern himself with the Papacy much. He respects Herr von Adler and the Lady Christine, but finds Lady Ilse's fluttering confusing and Herr von Hagen's schemes repulsive.


Francisco Caravello, Chancellor of the Conservatory of St. Cecilia-

A Venetian by birth, a composer by taste, Francisco Caravello finished his studies in Padua receiving a masters in the liberal arts before going on to Paris to receive a doctorate in theology. After a few years of 'consulting' in the courts of various French dukes he accepted the post of Chancellor of the Conservatory of St. Cecilia in Heidelburg. During his leisure time he has fancied himself a composer and has written a few works of note within the Rheinpfalz region, though he's yet to acquire fame in the rest of the Empire. He feels that art is the highest good, aligning himself with many the struggling artist or court musician. Luckily for the Conservatory, he hasn't let his artistic pretensions get in the way of the good of the institution. Consequently he spends nearly as much of his time making friends and connections in the Count's court, hoping to gain patrons and security for the fledgling Conservatory. He has the patronage of Lady Ilse and the favor of the Count. Herr von Adler mistrusts the Italian and the Bishop views him as a threat to his sway over the masses.


Ambassadors and Foreign Dignitaries in Heidelburg and Abroad

Father Benedict Magini, Emissary Extraordinary of the Rhine

Doctor Konrad von Richter, Delegate to the Reichstag
Cardinal Archbishop Albert Arzt, Ambassador to the Lateran, Imperial High Inquisitor
Karl von Brucker, Ambassador to the Archduchy of Austria
Erik von Lange, Ambassador to the Archbishopric of Cologne
Heinrich von Bauer, Ambassador to the Duchy of Hessen
Father Lucas Frey, Ambassador to the Duchy of Burgundy
Father Michael Widmer, Ambassador to the Duchy of Luxembourg
Hannes von Kleinberg, Ambassador to the Duchy of Bremen
Siegfried von Schlager, Ambassador to the Mark of Brandenburg
Dirk von Hindeblum, Ambassador to the Duchy of Bavaria
Stephen von Hagen, Ambassador to the Duchy of Pommerania
Edward von Staufen, Ambassador to the Archbishopric of Wurzburg
Siegmund von Wittelsbach, Ambassador to the Kingdom of Denmark

Ulrich von Darmstadt, Ambassador from the Duchy of Hessen
Kyle McKay, Ambassador from the Kingdom of Scotland
Marcus Wittgenstein-Kafka, Ambassador from the Duchy of Pommerania
Waldemar von Ravensburg, Ambassador from the County of Wurtemburg
Fredwick von Jehovah, Ambassador from the Duchy of Bavaria
Martin von Buchwald, Ambassador from the Duchy of Bremen
Raymond Morin, Ambassador from the Kingdom of France
Abramo de Mezzo, Ambassador from the Republic of St. Mark
Sébastien d'Estout, Ambassador from the Kingdom of Lotharingia
Andrea Doria, Ambassador from the Republic of Genoa
Viorel Sibiu, Ambassador from the Dominion of Wallachia

[Bagricula]

Heidelburg: Capital of the Palatinate



Willkommen! Heidelburg Castle provides a warm and tranquil retreat for the Count Palatine and his family as well as the center from which all the business of the Rheinland is carried out. In addition to housing the machines of government, Heidelburg Castle is resplendent with the luxuries the nobility, clergy, and ambassadors of Christendom have come to expect. Of especial note are the castle's extensive wine cellars where some of the finest and oldest wines in the Empire are stored in cool darkness, maturing before coming to the Count's table. Beside the extensive services provided by the Castle staff, the quiet town of Heidelburg has its own share of craftsmen and artisans patronized by the Count Palatine and his family and the Conservatory of St. Cecilia, recently opened providing schooling in all the arts but especially the fine arts of music. Easy shipping along the Rhine has ensured that the town has access to many wares sailed down from Holland, Luxembourg, Brabant as well as goods brought down on barges from Switzerland, Lorraine, and Baden.


The Conservatory of St. Cecilia



Named for the patron saint of ecclesiastical music, St. Cecilia's Conservatory has recently finished construction and opened to the public. Paid for and patronized by Count Erich through the direction of his sister Lady Ilse, the Conservatory has brought many young painters, composers, musicians, and sculptors as well as a handful of orators and lawyers to be instructed by St. Cecilia's faculty of masters and doctors gathered from around Christendom. In addition to providing a school for young artists, the Conservatory's grand concert halls looking out on the Rhine produce many interesting and varied entertainments.

The Meistersingers



Originating in Heidelburg as the minnesingers a band of wandering minstrels, the Meistersingers Guild is formed of those artisans and craftsmen that have proven their skill in song and verse and thus obtained the title Mastersinger. The Guild gathers regularly to discuss, formulate, and perform music as well as to reach concensuses regarding local politics. Staunchly German and representing the artisan and merchant classes of Pfalz, the Meistersingers's elevated status in the Rheinland has recently been threatened by the scores of foreign students studying at St. Cecilia's in the Italian method. The able leader of the Guild, Hans Sachs has thus quietly made moves to ensure the integration of Meistersingers into a government civil service while at the same time reaching peace with the Italian artists.

Current Meistersinger Guilds:
Die Meistersingers von Heidelburg
Die Meistersingers von Nurnberg
Die Meistersingers von Köln
Die Meistersingers von Wein
Die Meistersingers von Genoa
Die Meistersingers von Moscow
Die Meistersingers von Stettin

Awards, Honors, and Orders

Order of St. Henry the Lion- Commemorating St. Henry, a German King known for his service to the Church, the Order of St. Henry is awarded to those who have displayed the greatest devotion to the Catholic Church and the Rhineland Palatinate. While usually bestowed upon those who have proven themselves in battle against heretics and heathens, the Order has been given to those that have shown unusual talent and piety in the conversion of nonbelievers and in the defense of the Rhineland. The Knights of St. Henry are held in the highest regard within the Palatine demesnes and are expected to continue their service to Christendom. Knights of St. Henry may travel freely within the Rhineland under the protection of the Count Palatine and are exempted from any and all tariffs or excises beyond the ecclesiastical tithe.

Current Holders of the Order:
Grandmaster Erich von Wittelsbach
Sir Gunther Anton Weiss
Sir Jakob von Kummel
Sir Erik von Lange
Sir Siegfried von Schlager


Golden Cross of the Rhine- Established by Erich's great-great grandfather Frederick I, the Golden Cross of the Rhine is awarded to those that have displayed extraordinary skill and bravery in the defense of the Rhineland and Germany as a whole. Traditionally, awarded to Emperors and fellow princes of the Empire, by custom the Cross of the Rhine guarantees military access through the lands of the Count Palatine if ever the Empire is under attack.

Crosses Currently Awarded:
Friedrich von Hohenzollern, Margrave of Brandenburg

Rights and Privileges of the Count Palatine of the Rhine
In addition to the numerous and far reaching privileges reserved by every Prince-Elector, the Counts Palatine are guaranteed three additional rights of important note.

From the Bulla Aurae:
"Whenever, moreover, as has been said before, the throne of the holy empire shall happen to be vacant, the illustrious Count Palatine of the Rhine, arch-steward of the holy empire, the right hand of the future King of the Romans in the districts of the Rhine and of Swabia and in the limits of Franconia, ought, by reason of his principality or by privilege of the County Palatine, to be the administrator of the empire itself, with the power of passing judgments, of presenting to ecclesiastical benefices, of collecting returns and revenues and investing with fiefs, of receiving oaths of fealty for and in the name of the holy empire."

And further,

"And although the Emperor or King of the Romans, in matters concerning which he is called to account, has to answer before the Count Palatine of the Rhine and prince elector-as is is said to have been introduced by custom:- nevertheless the Count Palatine shall not be able to exercise that right of judging otherwise than in the imperial court, where the emperor or king of the Romans shall be present."

From the November 19th, 1274 Decree of the Nuremburg Diet:

"In public consistory, at the time of the solemn and royal court held at Nuremberg, the princes and a brilliant assembly of counts and barons being in session, and a very great multitude of nobles and commoners standing before the most serene lord Rudolph king of the Romans for the purpose of exhibiting the fulness of justice to each person, the king first asked that it be defined by a decree who ought to be judge if the king of the Romans should have to bring any charge against any prince of the empire in the matter of imperial possessions and those belonging to the fist, and concerning other injuries inflicted on the realm or on the king. And it was defined by all the princes and barons who were present, that the count Palatine of the Rhine has held of old, and does hold, the right of judging in processes which the emperor or king wishes to bring against a prince of the empire.

The said count Palatine, therefore, presiding over the tribunal, the king asked that it be first established by a decree what he, the king, might and should, according to law, do with the possessions which the former emperor Frederick had and held, peacefully and quietly, before the sentence of deposition was passed upon him by the princes; and also concerning possessions otherwise falling to the empire, which possessions others hold, occupying them through violence. And it was decreed that the king him self, in the matter of all such possessions, ought to assert his own claim, and bring back those same possessions into his power; and if any one should presume to oppose himself to the king in the recovering of such possessions, the king should repel with the royal power such hurtful violence, and to preserve the rights of the empire..... "


The State of the Rhineland
Here you may find current information and statistics on the conditions, relations, claims, etc. of the Rhineland Palatinate. If you notice any inaccuracies, the scribes will be glad to clarify matters.

Statistics

Nation: The Rhineland Palatinate
Head of State: Erich von Wittelsbach, Count Palatine of the Rhine
Player: Bagricula
Religion: Catholic
Culture: German
Stats: 1/0/3/4/2 --> [1/0/4/3/0]
Provinces: 1
Ports: 0
Owned: Pfalz

Alliances

Dynastic Marriage with the Bavarian von Wittelsbachs
Royal Marriage with the County of Wurtemburg
Trade Agreement with the Archduchy of Austria
Trade Agreement with the Duchy of Burgundy
Member of the Trans-European Trade Alliance
Member of the Union of Konstanz

Wars


Succession

No direct heir at the moment. Christine von Wittelsbach and Lothar von Wittelsbach are the closest, but neither has a particularly stronger claim. Christine is closer to the bloodline, but Lothar is male. By Salic law then, Lothar would be next in line, despite his advanced age.

Foreign Claims

Lorraine - The Counts Palatine have always had a claim on the lands of Lower Lotharingia dating back as old as when the Rhineland Palatinate was founded and given jurisdiction over the Imperial lands along the Rhine. In light though of present politics, Erich von Wittelsbach has not pressed his claim as Duke of Lorraine.

Bavaria - In addition to being a the leader of House von Wittelsbach, the lands of the Upper Palatinate or Ansbach have traditionally been under the government of the Count Palatine of the Rhine, however with the ascension of the Wittelsbachs to the Count Palatinate the government has been left largely to the Duke of Bavaria. Count Erich is unlikely to drive a wedge in the Wittelsbach Clan and seriously press this claim.

Mainz – Throughout the long mutual histories of the Rhineland Palatinate and the Archbishopric of Mainz, either side has gained or loss control of territories along the Rhine and Main rivers, leading to a legal quagmire concerning the government of the region. Additionally, Mainz is within the boundaries of Franconia West of the Rhine, the titular lands of Pfalz. Not being an ambitious man, Erich is unlikely to raise much noise about this at the moment.

Swabia - Erich has a strong claim to the title Duke or Count Palatine of Swabia due to his position as head of the male primogeniture line of House von Wittelsbach. Back in 1015 Ernst von Wittelsbach was the last to hold the title Duke of Swabia before his sons inherited Bavaria and Austria respectively. Additionally, the Pfalzgraf is the Archsteward of Swabia.

Alsace - The lands of the Archbishopric of Strassburg in Alsace, were ceded to the Counts Palatine of the Rhine in the creation of their title, going along with their governance over Franconia East of the Rhine.

Fraconia West of the Rhine- Count Palatine Ludwig III von Wittelsbach inherited the ducal coronet of Franconia in 1229, and the Count Palatine's right as Archsteward of Franconia was later confirmed in the Bulla Aurae. The ancient Duchy of Franconia stretches through the provinces of Cologne, Pfalz, Hessen, Mainz, Alsace, and Lorraine.

Scandinavia - As the current King of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden is a Bavarian von Wittelsbach, and the Rhenish von Wittelsbachs are the primary line of the family, should the Danish dynasty ever die out, House von Wittelsbach and the House of the Greif would be in close competition for the crown.

Normandie - Through careful marriages, if the English don't press their claims, the Rhenish von Wittelsbachs have the strongest claim on the succession of the Norman lands.

Holland and Zeeland - The von Wittelsbach family ruled the Imperial fiefdoms of Holland and Zeeland as part of the County of Holland long before and up until the Burgundian 'acquisition' of the Netherlands.

Current Events

The Inquisition! What a Show! - Cardinal Archbishop Albert Arzt has been granted the rank of Imperial High Inquisitor to investigate charges of heresy in Cologne, among the von Blommensteins.

New Performance at St. Cecilia’s - The Lady Ilse has commissioned a chamber opera about the Maiden Joan to be performed in the coming months. No word on what ‘interpretation’ they will be using.

Anne of Austria - Erich von Wittelsbach has accepted Anne's hand; preparations for the wedding have been slow.

Union of Konstanz - Recently Erich has approved the ascension of Baden to the U.K. and the U.K. joining the Trans-European Trade Alliance.

Papal Decoration - In the peace of the crusade, Erich received the Order of the Lion of Christendom.

Crown of Albania - While retaining the crown of Albania, Erich has ceded the government of the province to the Holy See.

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[Bagricula]

(OOC: Reserved for the future)

[Bagricula]

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[Schlieffen]

A message arrives, written by the Archbishop of Cologne.

Prince-Elector Erich I,
I have recieved word of your diplomat's arrival in the Holy City of Cologne and would like to extend my own hand in friendship as you have done to me. I fear that I am currently on my way to Frankfurt as well for the Election and am unable to appoint a diplomat at present, but assure you that I will attempt to do so as soon as I arrive. I also add that I look forward to meeting you in Frankfurt, although I wish that it would be under more favorable circumstances.

Your fellow Elector,
Prince-Archbishop Augustus von Blommenstein

[Euro-Maniac]

A ragged and dirty messenger, traveled long from his journeys, all the way from Moskva, tired, exhausted, and sad comes before the Prince and bows humbly and he remains looking upon the ground the Prince's throne rest upon. He comes to plea.

Your highness, lord Prince, it is with my displeasure that the Empire is suffering hard now. I pray that you are not suffering. For I come here all the way from Moskva in hopes of help from afar. Among fellow Christian states. England and France are going to battle again, which spells bad for us in Moskva, as we are fighting the heathen Muslims of the Horde and the traitors of Suzdal and Pskov...a holy Orthodox crusade was called, as the Orthodox breatheren are suffering under Islamic rule...So my Princess has sent me all the way here, to beg for your and other christian nation's help...We beg of you, to please help us...For the Lord Jesus Christ teachings are in danger of being destroyed!We beg of you....please....we are of different faiths, however, we are unified in Jesus Christ, please...I beg of you...please help us...or Islam will triumph over the last remaining faithful nations in the East...

The messenger almost tears still on the ground, begging and pleaing. He is obviously a peasent, and very poor. He wears only an Orthodox cross upon his neck, and it dangles in the sweat...

[Bagricula]

Cornelius von Adler rises from his chair beside the dias about to dismiss the intruder, "This sort of displ--"before being promptly cutoff by the Lady Ilse who moves quickly to the wretched serf, "Oh, you poor thing..." with a quick gesture to the Chamberlain, "see that this man has lodging and a good meal."

The Russian remains on the ground, pleading, "I cannot rest, madam, not while /unintelligible/ /unintelligible/ ransack my homeland...please have pity!" He holds the rim of her fine gown, at which she promptly steps back not wanting to soil her beauty.

Satisfied that the Lady's whims have been quenched, von Adler begins to speak again, "As you can see, my lady, such wretched men are best when dealing with cold authority, not your lady's warm compassion."

After a pout from Lady Ilse, von Adler continues now addressing the peasant, "Your plea is heard and you may remain in the lands of the Palatinate for so long as we require to reach a decision concerning your...mistress." He breathes in, studying a spot on the floor before glancing at the Chamberlain who produces a small pouch, "This money should provide for your lodgings in Heidelburg." The First Minister's posture becomes rigid indicating that the audience is over.

The Russian takes the pouch and rises to depart, sullen about the lack of an answer, awe-struck by the new sites, and gleefull about the weight held in his hand. Such wealth. His head bent on his feet, he hardly has time to see the cold back walking stick of Bishop von Hagen wrap his hand sending the pouch sailing across the marble floor to rest against the edge of Lady Christine's gown.

"Befoul this holy land no more heathen!" Franz von Hagen exclaims as he turns his eyes to von Adler saying accusingly, "And you? Would you let the seeds of heresy take root in the Rhine? Disgusting to suggest we'd even help this welp!" Ha! I'd like to see you save yourself from that von Adler! His eyes study the peasant disdainfully his lips turning to a sneer. Clever woman, sending such a wretched creature. Certainly stirred something in Lady Ilse.

Cornelius von Adler shifts his weight uncomfortably, under von Hagen's cool malicious glare. Seemingly lost in his own reverie, the First Minister allows a tense silence to fall over the room.

Up until now pondering her own thoughts, Christine von Wittelsbach reaches down to retrieve the wayward pouch from her hemm, offering a small smile and the pouch to the poor Russian. She raises her head, letting her eyes fall over the court assembled, "I would venture a solution most wise Herr von Adler and your righteous eminence von Hagen." So vitriolic today! Well, hopefully this will ease his troubles. "Perhaps if the Grand Duchess would permit missionaries of the One True Catholic Church to enter her dominions and preach the Word of God the Palatinate would find it morally permissable to ensure the survival of her reign in the form of monetary assistance?"

She looks from von Hagen to von Adler who suddenly seeing his opportunity, smiles in paternal goodnature, "Why, what a clever daughter your mother raised! I should imagine that you were descended from Solomon. Do you not think so,your eminence?" Be careful von Hagen, I'm still agile enough to deal with the likes of you!

The Bishop smiles, too late to seem completely genuine, before smiling even more broadly as if to compensate, "Yes..eh..yes, a brilliant suggestion. Most ingenious, my lady." He bows.

Grinning from ear to ear, von Adler moves to his desk beginning to write. After a small nod from Christine, the peasant rises and leaves a little to fast too be decorous.

[Karamazov]

A rider approaches from the north wearing a dark blue suit with the mark of Hessen.

Greetings from Hessen, I am Ulrich von Darmstadt, ambassador for my master Count Phillip of Hessen. We are glad the Palitinate is once again receiving emissarys, although we understand that the past few months have been chaotic indeed.

Hessen wishes to extend it's hand in frienship, and we hope that our nations will be able to work progressively together to ensure the stability of the Empire.

We believe a strong union between the German states is imperative to our ability to govern our lands, and we hope you feel the same.

[Bagricula]

Herr von Adler rises from his desk after the ambassador from Hessen speaks. He is grinning broadly as he greets von Darmstadt,

"Willkommen, Herr von Darmstadt, to Castle Heidelburg. The chamberlain will see you to your rooms in a moment. Undoubtably, you are weary from the journey."

The older man shakes his head briefly,

"Regrettably, the Count Palatine isn't here to receive you at the moment. He is in route to Frankfurt to choose a new Emperor. I however want to convey the Count's and my own deep feelings of sympathy for your lord's call for a strong unified Germany. Erich and I have often discussed how the tragedies of the past few years could have been prevented. It is with a calm and serious manner that he now considers the election of a new Emperor."

von Adler chuckles to himself,

"But enough of such somber musings! Our own emissary to Count Phillip should arrive in Hessen within the next few days, one Heinrich von Bauer. A good man, I reviewed him myself. Perhaps you will dine with us latter, Herr von Darmstadt, and tell us of matters in your homeland?"

Though phrased as such, it isn't really a question. The First Minister returns to his desk, looking over some papers, indicating that the audience is over. Taking his cue the chamberlain, leads von Darmstadt to his lodgings in the castle.

[Darth Tracid]

A messenger from Luxembourg arrives.
"Duchess Elisabeth is very pleased by your kind words and your support. But it is with joy that we decline your offer, as our holdings are currently in peace and stability after a long time of war and killing.
We will surely ride alongside in battle for the empire one day, and I will hold your words in my mind.
I hope for peace, friendship and a long reign for you."
The man bows.

[BzAli]

A letter arrives from Bremen.

Noble Erich von Wittelsbach, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Prince-Elector and Archsteward of the Empire, Grandmaster of the Knights of St. Henry the Lion.

It was with great pleasure I received the news that the court of the Rhineland Palatinate is once more open to foreign diplomats.

Unfortunately, I am writing this letter on my way to Stettin, and I am thus unable to appoint an ambassador to your fine nation, but I am glad to open my hand in friendship to your nation, and thus I invitate any man you may chose to act as ambassador in Bremen.
I hope to receive an invitation to send a diplomat to your court within a short time, as it shall never be said that any Bremer entered a foreign court uninvited.

I trust your wisdom in fullfilling the great responsebility that lies upon your shoulders in the Imperial Elections, and I'm am assured that God and your own wisdom will guide you to the best decision for the Empire.
I do offcourse have given the matter considerable thoughts, and I am more than willing to offer you my advice, but I am aware that this is most likely not necessary.

I pray for your good health

Johann II
Duke of Bremen

[Bagricula]

The First Minister of the Rhine and the Count's sister sit together in the garden of Heidelburg Castle, enjoying a leisurely tea-with-work. The porcelain finery of the tea service seems to glare at the chaotic assortment of letters, notaries, and reports it shares the garden table with. The time is mid-morning, shortly after a light rain and the birds have just started to come out to sing again.

Cornelius von Adler sits reading through government reports, occasionally taking a sip of his tea, dampening his bushy mustache. The Lady Christine reads through some of the papers, only choosing those of interest to her. Her fingers alight on a missive bearing the seal of Bremen. Daintly she picks it up, and reads.

After a few moments, she laughs, handing the letter to von Adler, "Amazing. We have Doctor von Richter make a formal request for the advice of all the princes and still they are reluctant. I wonder if they're trying to guess poor Erich's mind."

Cornelius frowns as he takes the letter, "Ah, well, perhaps Bremen does not have a delegate to the Reichstag. In recent years many of the princes of the Empire have failed to follow matters there."

Christine nods taking a sip of her tea, "He did say he was traveling to Stettin at the time of writing. Though I still think most of the Empire's secretly trying to guess who to align themselves with."

von Adler brushes his mustache as he rereads the letter, "Yes, Imperial elections are always a tense situation." He places the letter, down and begins searching for one of his reports, "Who're the candidates? The Doge of Genoa and the Margrave of Brandenburg?"

"And the Archbishop of Cologne," Christine adds, "The Saxons nominated him." She spends a moment looking out over the gardens, admiring the trees.

"His brother, my lady, Victor. That's two votes at least. If the Margrave continues to run, I imagine he'd vote for himself which leaves the Archbishops of Mainz and Trier and your brother." He pauses, brooding, "It would be dark indeed if this election split the Empire even more than the Northern War has."

Christine shakes her head slightly, still studying the garden, "I doubt it will come to that, though I have heard murmurings against the Electors." She breathes in audibly, afterall her brother is in transit to Frankfurt and the highways have never been safe.

Herr von Adler chooses not to comment, leaving Lady Christine's fraternal concerns to herself. Instead he continues shuffling through his papers until he comes upon a notice concering one Hannes von Kleinberg, future ambassador to the Duchy of Bremen, "Ah, it turns out there was a diplomat being prepared for service in Bremen."

"Oh?" inquires the Count's sister, "I shall have to compose a suitable response for Herr....von Kleinberg to carry."

The two continue their conversations, pleasantly basking in the verdance of nature as they go about the business of the Rhineland.

[Longinus]

(In Frankfurt or somewhere on the way to Frankfurt)

A skinny, rather middle aged man with a round hat and simple but expensive clothes enters the chamber. When he approaches the count the old marks after smallpox are clearly visible on his face.

Count Erich thinks ***"I don't think this face could ever belong to an angel."*** He smiles slightly.


He bows before the count.

"err... Good and khe khe Honorable Count Erich von Wittelsbach, err.. Count Palatine of the Rhine,

I am Marcus Wittgenstein-Kafka, envoy of most enlighted and err... even more honorable Joachim of the Greif Du... err... Regent and Protector of Pommerania. ***Yes... What I wanted to say*** he mutters. Suddenly his voice is clear and resonant.

I send greetings from Stettin. My master is happy that Pflatz finnaly found himself in the Empire torn apart by factions and various groups seeking their own business not good and glory of Empire of Charlemagne ***...and better join us you bloody old fox.***"

With your permision I would like to be a part of your court for now. I heard that you sought advisors in those troubled times and Joachim err... I am willing to gelp... help. When the election comes to an end I will serve... again with your permission... as Pommern ambassadr in Pflatzzz.

Now if you have some time I would like to speak in private, I also have a love lett... errr... private letter from my Lord to you."

[Bagricula]

The young Count looks the man over with clear lucid brown eyes, his face impassive as the wouldbe ambassador speaks. Taking in a deep breath, he inclines his head in gracious recognition, gesturing with his arm down the hallway in the comfortable manner of one familiar with command,

"Herr Wittgenstein-Kafka, I have read much of the trials of the Pommeranian people, I hope that the suffering of the Northern War has not broken the noble Pommern spirit. How is Lord Joachim doing? I trust God has remained kind to him and his family. Perhaps you could luncheon with me and we could discuss your journey and the Regent's thoughts on the Imperial election?"

Leading the Pommeranian down the hallway, Erich effortlessly accepts the newcomer as a close friend trying to put him entirely at ease.

[BzAli]

A letter arrives from Bremen.

Good Christine von Wittelsbach.

I thank you for your kind letter, and I am most pleased on behalf of my father, the duke of Bremen Johann II, to welcome herr Hannes von Kleinberg as your ambassador to Bremen.

Unfortunately, my father is currently in Stettin, and thus unable to appoint a governor to your fine nation.
I am sure that he will do so immideatly after his return, but untill then, I rule Bremen in his name, as you rule the Rhineland Palatinate in your brothers.
However, my father has left my clear instructions concerning the Imperial elections, and I kindly ask you to make sure your brother receives the letter adressed for him, that I have sent with this one.

By his own hand
Heinrich Küster
Acting duke of Bremen

With the letter is a sealed envelope, adressed to Erich von Wittelsbach.
It reads

Honorable Erich von Wittelsbach, Prince-Elector of the Empire.

I write this letter on behalf of and after close instructions by my father, the duke of Bremen Johann II, who is currently in Stettin, and thus haven't received your kind wishes for advice on the Imperial elections.

Let it be known that both my father, the people of Bremen and I support herr von Blommenstein of Köln.
von Blommenstein is a educated man, who has a deep knowledge of the Empire. In addition to this, he is without any connections to the former Emperor, Albert of Austria, and although Albert was a great and wise Emperor, his actions during the last year of his realm angered members of the Northern Alliance to the point of war.
If the Empire is ever to unite, it is of the greatest importance that all states within, and the most powerfull christian states outside, can agree with or at least respect the chosen Emperor, and it is my fathers deepest belief that sch acceptance can never be obtained for any man, who worked to close with Emperor Albert.

The visions and dreams for the Empire that herr von Blommenstein has shared with my father seems both wise, ambitious, and above all, possible to achieve.
What good is great dreams, if they are unattainable?

Some might question Bremens motives for supporting herr von Blommenstein, and mention that both Cologne and Bremen used to be members of the Liga von Nurnberg, and such objections are valid and should be considered, but please remember that also Brandenburg belonged to this alliance.
Bremen proved in both Hungary and Bohemia that we only wishes the best for the Holy Mother Chruch and her faithfull supporther, the Holy Roman Empire, and fought in both these wars without receiving any rewards.
It is for the same reasons Bremen supports herr von Blommenstein, because we wish the greater good for the Holy Roman Empire.

On behalf of the Duke of Bremen
Heinrich Küster
Acting duke of Bremen
Johann IIs son.

[Karamazov]

Ulrich von Darmstadt approaches Herr von Adler. He smiles and speaks

I have letter from my master concerning the upcoming Imperial election, as you asked for our opinion in the matter. I'm sure you can send it to where it needs to go.

He hands over the letter and bows.

The letter reads:

Honorable Erich von Wittelsbach, Prince-Elector of the Empire.

The state of Hessen has suffered much in the past months, and we have been in debate as to the cause of the Empire's troubles. We believe an Emperor must be able to understand and appreciate all Imperial nations, so stability can be maintained.

Therefore, we support the honorable herr von Blommenstein of Koln.

We believe that he is most intelligent, and at the same time humble and wise. We feel that we can trust a fellow German, and that he will not betray the Empire's honor, and we hope you understand our views on this matter.

We also believe that a southerner should not be elected, as we fear the ambition that runs through the Italian minds.

We wish you luck in Frankfort, and hope we will be glad to pay homage to our new Emperor.

By his own hand,

Count Phillip of Hessen

[Euro-Maniac]

A Russian Diplomat covered in Russian Furs, brings with him a large carriage of food and gifts...

Your higness the great Duke of the Rhineland and of wisdom. We in Moskva have accepted your fair proposal. We celebrate your help. For this good will of your grace will be heard throughout Rus'. We are very pleased at our friendship with you. More importantly you are trully a ruler under God. You defend your religion as a good pious man, and in turn, Moskva will be glad to accept missionaries from the Pflaz. Please send your ducats quickly, for it is in most urgent need...

The envoy bows and drops the carriage in the court.He passes out, pork, chicken, fur, and fine Vodka.

[Warspite]

(A merchant from Venice enters the court)

Greetings exalted Prince, I have come from Venezia to extend the hand of prosperous trade with your nation. I am on my way back to Venice so any info you would wish me to give to my Doge I can give to him. Most of all, any trade you wish to open with Venice would be very pleasing

[Bagricula]

As the Venetian merchant enters the chamber, Francisco Caravello and Lady Ilse are discussing the final rehearsals of "Joan la Pucelle" the new chamber opera being produced at the Conservatory. Herr von Adler is looking over some papers with Sir Gunther and Lady Christine speaks softly with the Archbishop.

Despite not understanding a word of the merchant's Italian, von Adler continues to listen dutifully. When he finishes, Herr Caravello being a Venetian by birth translates easily for the Pfalzians, adding, "I'd like to...endorse this offer. I've seen small rustic hamlets transformed by the benefits of trade into cosmopolitan cities. This is surely the best path for Heidelburg."

"I don't like it. I've heard of how the Venetians built themselves an empire through these 'trade agreements'. I don't often listen to rumors, but I also don't listen to foreigners, especially ones that have my best interest at hand," grumbles, Sir Gunther his eyes staring steelily through the merchant.

von Adler looks around the room at the others, before standing up, "It would be a disservice to judge their offer so swiftly and finally. Master Caravello, please convey our welcome to the Venetian envoy and request of him further details concerning the nature of these trade agreements." With that the First Minister returns to his desk, going about his work.

The Chancellor of St. Cecilia's translates for the benefit of the merchant, "Il Primo Ministro dice che sarebbe un disservice giudicare la sua offerta cosí rapidamente e finalmente e che dovrei trasportare il nostro benvenuto a te stesso e domando dei dettagli ulteriori riguardanti la natura di questi commercia gli accordi."