[IS AAR] Venice- A Reborn Nation------Updated 8-8-09

[FiferBurns]

Hello everybody. Let me introduce myself. I've been scrolling through these forums for about a week now after I decided to find some cool mods for Empire(which I did!). I started reading some of the AARs and thought that they were a cool idea, so I made one of my own. It's my first one, I'm going to see how it goes, so go easy on the critique!

I'm using the Imperial Splendour mod, along with Jingle's 7 Years War mod and the BSM 4.0 mod.
My campiagn difficulty is set on N/N, because thats what the Imperial Splendour thread recommended playing on.
(please excuse any typos, I was up late finishing it)

Enjoy!

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Venice-A Reborn Nation


Summer 1700

President Valiero sat impatiently at his desk after another endless day of paperwork, waiting to retire for the night. The sun was setting and the merchants were closing up for the night, locking away their merchandise from the thieves and vermin of the night. The venders had had yet another slow day. The people were becoming tired of the same artwork and fabrics from Udine hanging from the shelves. They just had nothing exotic, nothing out of the ordinary to catch onlookers’ eyes. If only we could find some far away place full of rare and amazing fruits and spices, he thought, then the sellers would have to beat back the mob of customers. Silvestro pondered on this idea. Venice had land routes open with Rome, Vienna and Lombardy, but were meagerly profitable, and sea routes with the Ottomans, who were still unwelcoming towards the people, because of the ancient conflicts Christianity and Islam have always shared. Silvestro didn’t understand it and never would, he was non religious, so the fiery preaching and arguments seemed silly to him. Maybe he could funnel this anger into a war; after all Athens was a wealthy city and the Ottomans were destined to lose territory to the Austrians eventually. Yes, an alliance with Austria could prove very useful.
Satisfied with his thinking, he grabbed his coat and headed out the door, eager for the roast cooking at home.


Winter 1700

It was December, and Luca Malfatti’s fleet had left for Patras with 700 men and General Galvani last month. If war was to occur with the Ottomans, it was better to be well prepared than only have old men and boys facing the enemy’s line.

In other news, the Inn in Verona had been destroyed to make room for the newly planned school. If Venice was to be a great nation, it needed great minds as well.


Summer 1701

General Galvani landed in Morea in May, and Admiral Malfatti had moved north to patrol the Adriatic Sea for Barbary pirates. They had not been in a conflict with them yet, but it was well known that the dogs would try to board anything with a foreign flag.

Two alliances had also been made in the previous months; one with the Italian States and another with Austria. Both would prove to be valuable allies if the Ottomans attacked.


Winter 1701

Nothing particularly interesting has occurred in the country. In distant lands, the Polish-Danish alliance was broken following the outbreak of war between Denmark, Sweden and Russia. An aggressive United Provinces also declared war on Spain, dragging France into the conflict as well.
In Morea, a regiment of Cacallaggeri light cavalry was assembled and added to the garrison in Patras. Galvani was becoming impatient, itching to send his fresh troops into proper battle. He was a confident general, but was disliked among the ranks. The men called him a ‘petty tyrant.’

Iron workshops and a government building were finished in Patras, along with cobbled roads in Venice.

Summer 1702


The first Venetian school has been finished in Verona, allowing scientists to study Empiricism, hopefully unlocking bigger and better establishments and ideas in the future.

A barbary galley named ‘The Rose of Tunis’ was captured raiding trade in the Mediterranean, adding to the size of Malfatti’s small fleet. In the battle Luca was observed being cool under fire, inspiring his crew and giving them confidence in his leadership.

Winter 1702


Trade with Spain has been cancelled. A letter arrived last week at President Silvestro’s office informing him of the news. The reason for this unreasonable decision is still unknown. If they want to insult Venice, then maybe Venice shall return the favor at sword point in future years.

In Morea, General Galvani has been given the order to take Athens by force. Surely it will be an easy task for the man. After all, he is commanding Venice’s greatest army; a force of 1300 men.



The Siege of Athens


“Sir, shall we advance?”

“Indeed, let’s sweep these rats from the field.”

Officers barked out orders and the columns of men slowly waded through the mud.



It had been raining since noon, and the field was a mess, but Galvani knew this didn’t matter. This battle was more of a joke than a proper engagement. Earlier he had sent a parley party to demand surrender. When they couldn’t find an officer, they read the papers to the mob, generously offering to spare their lives if they laid down their arms. The party had returned covered in mud and bruises from the rocks that had been thrown at them. How could these 1400 ragged animals even hope to win the field, let alone carry the day? Oh well, their defiance will cost them their lives.
He had put the two regiments of militia in the front, supported by the three regiments of pikemen. He would disband them in the years to come. They were outdated, an idea of the past pushed aside for the louder and more efficient gunpowder. But they would do for now. Once the first few savages were speared, the rest would run in terror.
Supporting his flanks was a regiment of cavalry on his left, and a light horse regiment accompanied with Guiseppe Assemani on his right.
Assemani was the commanding officer at Patras when he had landed, and he had assumed second in command upon his arrival. He was an average commander, renowned for his defensive strategies when ‘holding the walls.’ He was 33, eleven years younger than Galvani.
The men were in position now, confident in their own and their commander’s abilities. The mob was in range, but a volley would disintegrate before it reached them. The command was given to hold fire, and weapons were shouldered. The rabble was closing now. Officers shouted the first order.

“Make ready!”

50 yards…

The sneers and taunts are heard from the mob, pure hatred towards their attackers.

40 yards…



30 yards…

Pitchforks and clubs are raised, the screams get louder. The men in rank remained un-phased.

20 yards…

“Present!”

Muskets are lowered to the shoulder. A man in the second row pukes up his rations, another in the third starts crying.
The shouts are deafening now.

10 yards…

“FIRE!”

The men turn their faces from the flashes in the pans and let loose the thunderous roar of 200 muskets volleying. Blood plumes in front of the line as musketballs find their mark. Men sprawl over the ground, collapsing and rolling as momentum pushes them forward. Grunts and screams split the air as bones are shattered and pitchforks are thrust forward. Total melee breaks out across the line. The pikemen move in, bloodying their swords that have been cleaned for months in Patras for this moment.
Galvani straightened up in his saddle, admiring his tactics. He then smugly ordered:
“Close the flanks in, kill them all.”

Hooves spring to life as 160 horses gallop around the mass of men, preparing to smash into the rear on the beast. Swords are lowered and skulls and backs are destroyed. Pure panic erupts in the mob. They break in the chaos, sealing their fate. The melee turns into a complete slaughter.

“Prepare the champagne lieutenant, Athens is ours.”

-------------


Summer 1703

Silvestro smiled as he leaned back in his chair and stared out of his window. Things had been going well after the taking of Athens. With trade with Spain now cancelled, he had talked the Powerful Mughal Empire into a trade agreement, along with Genoa as well. Austria had happily joined them in the Ottoman war, eager to drive them out of Europe. The Italian States had also joined in; their powerful navy will be a valuable asset in the Mediterranean, he thought.
After clearing up Barbary raids, Admiral Malfatti had sailed to Thessaloniki and blockaded the entire area, effectively denying over 2000 florins from the Ottomans, starving their army. In Athens, Generals Gavlani and Assemoni have been sipping wine at ballroom dances and soaking in their victory. The whole region is stable and secure, after a tax lift and an additional 236 troops, raising the Grand Venetian Army to over 1500 men. The only threat now is an Ottoman raiding party lurking on the border; nothing a couple hundred men can’t handle. Silvestro now had a full grin on his face. The people now saw him as a success. His popularity was almost unanimous throughout the country. The presidential election was less than six months away and he had it under lock and key. Yes, he thought, he was going to have a good second term.

This is only the very beginning, I still have so much more I can write about!

[Heavy Weapons Guy]

Good AAR!!!

[Orko]

I like Venice. Good AAR!

[FiferBurns]

Thanks for the positive feedback guys!
If anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

I'll probably post the next part late tonight. (I'm living in EST time zone)

[FiferBurns]

continued

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Winter 1703

For the last year, the Austrian-Italian-Venetian alliance has dominated the Mediterranean.
The once feared Ottoman fleets have scattered; their crewmen deserting for better pay and their captains abandoning their damaged vessels, doomed to be lost in the sands of time. Barbary ships have sailed east towards Gibraltar; there they won’t have to deal with Malfatti’s fleet.
Malfatti himself has been stuck in Thessaloniki, maintaining the blockade which has been starving the Ottomans. The harbor, if kept in Venetian hands could be used as the staging point for the already planned Sacking of Istanbul, devised by General Galvani, who is already restless from maintaining the angered citizens in Athens. His name is already getting recognition at home. Venice has gained territory for the first time in many generations, and Galvani is making sure the people know who made it possible.



Summer 1704
The results were in. Silvestro had been re-elected by a landslide, with the rest of his cabinet. His successes had carried him to fame and approval from the masses. He had even picked up a mistress, which the ministers very much appreciated.
In Greece, General Assemani had been dispatched to take care of the raiding party that had been harassing their borders for month’s now. He was equipped with experienced men, who had already tasted battle at Athens.

Skirmish at Kozani

It was daybreak, and the smell of warm rations and the sounds footsteps echoed across the field. The men were well fed, well equipped, and confident. The enemy’s line of spiked logs and debris was now visible with the help of the rising sun. Behind it were the culprits of the raids: A group of Deli Horsemen, swordsmen, and Arab Skirmishers.
Assemani brushed the dewdrops off of his Tricorn as he mounted his horse. This morning he had a trick up his sleeve for the enemy: a Maniot Warband.

These grunts and thugs had been at Athens, but had only played a minor supporting role in the battle. They were more of a mob than a proper regiment, dirty and rough as they were. But these traits were a blessing in disguise. Because of their behavior, they could sneak right around the enemy’s flank, creating a nasty surprise for the unwary captain across the field.

“Militia! To the front, march!”

Spontoons were raised and across the line, officers gave the orders. The column lurched forward, making the first move of the day.

To their left, the 1st Regiment of Horse trotted into position, ready to swing around and break the enemy, just as they did in Athens. To their right, the Moniots crawled through the underbrush, silent and vigilant for the slightest thing that could alert their prey.

“By the quickstep, March!”

The line breaks into a jog, eager to close the distance.


“Take care, Halt!”

The line stops in front of the horse and swordsmen, who are now advancing on them rather quickly.

“Make ready, Present…..Fire!”

Just as in Athens, the volley rakes through the defenders, cutting them down like grass. Swords and Muskets collide, but the swordsmen break; they are not as experienced as the battle hardened militia line. The Deli Horsemen miss the brunt of the volley, and try to flank, only to be intercepted by the 1st Horse, who make short work of them.
On the right, the Moniots open fire on the Arabs’ flanks; their musketballs traveling down the entire line. Catching them dumstruck, the Moniots, being decnt fighters, crash into them, breaking them like twigs.

“Send a runner to the 1st Horse; tell them I don’t want any survivors today. We must set an example.”

The sounds of screams and hooves fade into the distance as the 1st Horse bloodies their swords under the rising sun.

[finian1712]

Good but the only problem is that when you open the spoiler the text does not fit into a single window and you have to scroll around to read it...

[FiferBurns]

Continued

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Winter 1704

Silvestro studied the report on his desk. Assamani had moved east to the farmlands in Macedonia, tying the noose around Istanbul ever tighter. The Italian navy had followed Malfatti’s example and had blockaded Izmir, another key Ottoman harbor. A barracks was being constructed in Athens. Wit h its completion, General Galvani could start training professional troops, such as Venetian Marines and Dragoons for his ‘glorious invasion’ to finally sweep Islam from Europe.
He put down the paper and thought for a moment. The borders were secure; the trade routes were flowing steadily under the Navy’s eye, and Galvani’s army was had a firm control of Rumelia. There were only two obstacles Venice needed to overcome.
The first was the taking Istanbul. Gavlani controlled the countryside, but the city, having a huge population, was just too well defended by the citizens for him to move in for the kill His forces would be simply overwhelmed. He couldn’t harness the whole mass of his army either, because the majority of the soldiers had to be kept in Athens, to prevent an uprising. The army needed more troops, but Venice didn’t have the income to support it.
This was the second problem. Silvestro needed to find another, better source of income. Right now Venice had almost 2500 florins entering its coffers every six months, but they needed more to expand; more to stretch their military muscle across the Mediterranean.
He massaged his forehead and looked at the door. He noticed the ivory handle, the word ‘Venetia’ engraved in it. Maybe he could try to tap into the ivory trade. It was, after all, the most valuable and sought after good in Europe. The Ivory Coast was relatively easy to travel to from the Mediterranean also. But there were risks. Venice had no idea who was involved in the Ivory trade. They could travel down there only to find that the harbors were crowded and foreigners had already claimed all the ports. Silvestro also had no idea how severe the piracy was. What a waste it would be to build a trade fleet, only to have it taken away from him. Indiamen were priced at over 1000 florins a piece; a serious investment with Venice’s current income.
If this plan were to succeed however, the benefits would be great. Possibly another 200 florins would be flowing into their ports; the army could grow, allowing territory to be taken and other nations to have second thoughts before breaking into hostilities.
The money could also go into the country’s infrastructure and buildings. Opera houses and theaters could be built, pleasing the lower classes; they could worry about who was performing on Friday, rather than their monthly taxes and the greedy ministers in the cabinet.
Satisfied with his brilliance once again, he grabbed his vest and headed down to the dining room, ready for his favorite, roasted duck.



Summer 1705
In May, Captain Leandro Colombo and his brig the ‘Grande Alessandro’ had been patrolling the Venetian-Genoese trade route, when they had been suddenly attacked by two Barbary Galleons. Leandro stood his ground; he was not going to be scared away by these desert rats.

Leandro fought bravely and boldly. By using his speed, he out maneuvered the galleys and used roundshot to knock out their front gun decks. He moved in for the kill with grapeshot and captured both of them; each being worth over 1200 florins each!

Leandro’s bravery and courage was recognized by the Republic, and his brig was renamed to ‘Leandro’s Galley Hunter’ in his honor.

Trade with the Mughal Empire was also cancelled. The Marathas were blockading their ports, and winning the war in general No goods were coming into Venice, so another, more profitable agreement was established with Savoy, who were already friendly towards the Venetians.
The construction of the first Indiamen began in Venice and Athens too. Venice needed to secure a spot in Africa soon if it wanted to reap the rewards of precious ivory


Winter 1705

The first National observatory was finished in Venice. Now gentlemen could expand their knowledge even more, helping the Republic greatly.
Taxes were raised slightly, raising the national income to over 3000 florins.


Summer 1706

Workers have gone on strike in Athens. The recent tax raise must have pushed them to the brink. Another regiment of cavalry was assembled, calming the mob for now.
More Indiamen were planned in the ports in Venice and Athens, increasing the Republic’s investment in trade.
The barracks in Athens was finished. Now Marines could be trained for the great sackng of Istanbul. General Galvani was aging sitting around in Athens. He was now 48.


Winter 1706

Galvani’s army is continuing to grow in size. In two years, he is expected to command over 2000 men.
In Venice, President Silvestro Valiero has picked up a pet hermit for some reason, helping to please the upper clasees.
Indiamen are still being built in Venice and Athens, diverting most of the country’s income to trade.
Near Egypt, a huge Ottoman navy was spotted, estimated at over 13 ships. Admiral Malfatti assembled all of his ships together, in case they attack.



Summer 1707

All is relatively quiet in the Republic. Trade is flowing steadily and the Indiaman fleet is almost ready to set sail.


Winter 1707

Poland has declared war on the Ottomans, putting even more of a strain on their borders. How much longer can they last?



Summer 1708

Istanbul is within Galvani’s grasp. Just a couple more months, he thought; just a couple more months and his name would be embedded in Venetian history…







Winter 1708

Silvestro’s eight year term was up, and a new man had been elected to lead the country. His name was Giancarlo Scarpa
Scarpa was a deeply religious man, unlike his predecessor, and had somewhat of a harsh reputation towards the people. The nobility called him a ‘jug head,’ for he was a radical man, always wanting to advance society away from the old monarchies of long ago. The people loved him for this, and he was an instant success towards his lower peers. The rich also appreciated his expert sommelier, especially at his presidential banquets.
Scarpa had talked to Silvestro before he left, and was intent in following his footsteps and continuing his plans. News had come from Galvani that the siege of Istanbul had begun; the city had been completely surrounded.
In the Mediterranean, Captain Loggia, commander of the Indiaman fleet, reported that he would be ready to set sail in a year at the latest. He needed more brigs and sloops, incase they ran into pirates in distant lands.



Summer 1709

Nothing major has happened in the last six months. The gates of Istanbul were still closed, the ivory fleet was still mustering, and trade was still steadily flowing through Venice.


Winter 1709

The Ivory fleet has finally set sail with seven Indiamen, two brigs, two sloops, and four light galleys. They will arrive at the Ivory Coast in two years.
Galvani is growing very impatient, itching to take the city; more for his own fame rather than for the sake of the Republic. His orders were to starve the city into surrendering, but that would take at least another year and a half. Maybe he could…No, he thought; he will not disobey orders…not yet at least…not with Assemani around.



Summer 1710

A decade has passed since Silvestro started Venice’s rebirth. The country had doubled in size, and had risen once again to the status of one of the world’s major powers. In Venice, the study of Utilitarianism was complete, and now gentlemen were looking into military research, discovering devices and methods that would help the Republic win battles.
Malfatti had joined the Ivory fleet; there was no need for him in the Mediterranean right now: the Austrian and Italian fleets had it under control.
In a year, the garrison at Istanbul would either have to surrender, of sally forth onto the field. Galvani knew that these people would never surrender; he had already asked them once at the start of the siege, and the rider had nearly been killed. He would have his chance; he might as well relax outside of the walls, rather enter the hell that was inside them.



Winter 1710

The Ivory fleet had made it to Gibraltar safely, and Malfatti was enjoying the good weather. It had been nothing but clear skies and smooth sailing.
In Rumelia, Galvani was pacing outside of his tent. He had gone over every possible tactic, analyzed every inch of terrain. He could not fail; his legacy and reputation depended on it. It was coming down to the final two months. After waiting two and a half years, he was finally going to get his chance. He would not fail.






The Siege of Istanbul

Istanbul was rotting. The men could smell it, and so could he. Spies had reported that over 500 men had starved to death inside those stone walls, while we had lurked outside, waiting for the breaking point. The cold hadn’t helped either. A light snow flurry had been going for the last three days, freezing feet and numbing fingers.

His troops had been prepared though; he had made sure. This was going to be the pinnacle of his military career. After this, he could sail back to Venice and live out the rest of his life, adored by the masses. He could see it now; a parade down the streets, workers taking the day off to see their army’s greatest general, cheering for him; them knowing what he had done for him. He would have a feast with the new president, whatever his name was. They would build monuments in the squares, solidifying his fame in the sands of time. And all he had to do was put these dying rascals out of their misery.
All of the defenses were in place. He had put his most professional troops, the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Marines, in the center of the defenses.

To their left was a regiment of militia and the conscripts from the prisons at Athens. To the right were two regiments of militia. The Maniot Warband, which had decided the outcome at Kozani, was hidden in the shrubs to the North. The battle hardened 1st Horse covered the left flank, ready to deliver the crushing blow they were so good at. The 1st Light Horse was waiting in the south, ready to run down routers. The last measure he had taken was to put the three Pike regiments behind the lines as reserves, creating a solid defensive line; nothing a group of rabble could break.
The gates were opening now, allowing the town to breath fresh air for the first time in two and a half years. Everything was going according to plan.

A messenger appeared, running as fast as his horse could carry him. Panting, he tried to make a hasty salute.

“Sir….Arabs…..to the west….on our rear!”

“What?!”

“They….are behind …the 1st Horse!

Dammit! He had been so busy with his defenses and his arrogance that had had completely forgotten about the reinforcements the scouts had spotted last week! What a fool he had been! He could not let this glorious day slip out of his hands!

“Tell the 1st horse to engage, dammit! Kill them all!”

The messenger flew back towards the north with the order.

The message reached the captain and he gave the command.

“1st Horse! Move forward to engage!”

Hooves rattled to life and swords were unsheathed. The Arab horses were so close to the rear the men could see the sashes on the Muslims’ robes.

“Charge!”

Men screamed and horses neighed as the bodies collided. Blood spurted and horses collapsed. Outmatched, the Arabs tried to retreat, only to be cut down.

Galvani let out a sigh of relief. That was a close one.

The main enemy body was now closing in. His flanks were secure and he was once again in control.

Part of the mob charged the right flank of militia, but was cut down by the 1st Light Horse.

The whole line was engaged in firefights now, but Galvani’s earthworks were winning the day. On the right the only professional Ottoman troops, the Kapi Kulu Janissaries were running in a flanking move. Galvani wanted to send in the 1st Light horse, but knew they would take heavy losses. He decided to deal with him himself. He called Assemani and his staff and started his ride.

“Sir, are you sure we should take this ride?”

Assamani was nervous. He had never been in close combat with the enemy

“Calm yourself, man. You are a General. You must lead by example. Now draw your sword and Charge!”

The bodies crashed together with a sickening crunch. Janissaries flew and bodyguards buckled down. The janissaries, supposedly professional troops, broke as easily as the mob. Seeing their general slay the enemy’s best troops, the militia on the right raised their hats and cheered through the heat of battle, inspired by his bravery.
The whole enemy line was broken now. The day had been won. Galvani rode out front waving his sword in triumph. The men went crazy for their fearless leader. Yes, Galvani thought. His legacy was sealed.

Please comment!

[Grouchio]

That was AWESOME!!!

[Amaz]

welcome to the forums... that's a pretty nice AAR you've got started... looking forward to updates

[FiferBurns]

Thanks for the nice comments!
The next update will hopefully be tomorrow night.

[Grouchio]

That's great! Can you include a map to go along?
And a picture of the new doge?

[samsmithnz]

Very nice. Your pictures look fantastic, very nice cropping!!!

[FiferBurns]

Continued

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Summer 1711

Galvani brushed off his coat as he dismounted his horse. The guards, upon seeing the General, quickly snapped to attention as he walked by. The doorman bowed as he went up the steps and into the main hall. He still couldn’t become comfortable with the Arab architecture, although the building was impressive. The Sublime Porte had been the only Structure untouched in the looting, by order of Galvani himself. Everything else was ransacked completely; nothing was left unturned. The spoils were great, farmers were eating with the Sultan’s china and marines were sending home royal furniture to their wives. Well, at least the graves had been finished and the fires had been put out.
All of this had been great, but the people had given him a headache. They were furious; throwing rocks at the patrols marching through the streets and spitting in their faces. He had tried to end it with a few public hangings, but that did nothing much anger them even more.
He sat down at his new desk, admiring the engravings of strange African animals. He knew it was only a matter of time until they found enough muskets to organize a rebellion. A fight was inevitable. Oh well, if they wanted to die, he wouldn’t hesitate to help them.
There were shouts outside, and then gunshots. The Marines had their hands full again.




Winter 1711

The Barbary States, raiders of the Mediterranean, have had a revolution, abolishing their old kings and transforming into a Republic. Although Venice, Genoa and the United Provinces all smile upon this act of wisdom, they are still a hated enemy.

Another act of freedom has also taken place in distant lands. In the New World, A small British colony in Plymouth, Maine has broken from the shackles of a Monarchy and has declared their independence, through revolution. The new nation, dubbed the ‘United States of America’, is still very weak; and on the verge of invasion by Great Britain, which is insulted by this act. If they could find a way to unite the whole coast under their flag, then maybe they could stand up to Britain and sweep them from America….





Summer 1712

Saxony has fallen to the Prussian army, its legacy ending to be continued by the Prussians and their dream to unite all of Germany under one banner.
In Istanbul, rioting has broken out throughout the city. in a matter of days, the city will erupt into a full rebellion.
In Venice, the carbine; a shortened musket has been developed, allowing cavalry to carry firearms; enabling the use of fast, maneuverable cavalry regiments to quickly ride around the enemy, dismount, and fire on their flank.

In a few months, Admiral Malfatti and his Ivory fleet will land in Africa, hopefully securing a trading post and start shipping tusks back to Venice.





Winter 1712

President Scarpa finished his glass of red wine. Aged to perfection, he thought; he truly did have a talented Sommelier.

His landscape gardener had been pestering him all day about the placement of his new pond down the road. He had insisted that it should be dug to the East of the State house, where it would bring out the colors of the garden. The only problem was that four families lived on the property, and they had been very unhappy when they were ‘strongly encouraged’ to find another house downtown. His ministers had brushed the complaint aside; it was government property anyways.
He tried a bit of the pork, admiring his newly made Ivory fork. The first shipment of ivory had arrived in September, carrying 43 tusks, each worth 39 florins. Venice was now raking in over 4000 florins every six months. Malfatti could start building more ships, and Galvani had already sent in his first order of new muskets, horses, and cannon. Silvestro must be smiling in his home; he had won his gamble.

In Istanbul, 1060 Rumelian rebels had assembled to the south of the Thrace Farmlands, commanded by Colonel Yegen Avni, an old Ottoman general who had managed to escape the siege.
Galvani, who was enjoying basking in his glory, sent Assemani with 600 marines, 180 horses, and 100 Maniots to crush the uprising. Assemani was now quite a confident general. He had learned much from fighting at Kozani, and watching Galvani in Istanbul and Athens. He had personally followed him in the now famous ‘Galvani’s Charge’ at Istanbul too. It was time for him to step out from underneath Galvani’s shadow; he would start his own legacy; beginning at Thrace.




Rebellion at Thrace

It had been mid afternoon when the scouts had spotted the rebels. Assemani had made great time, thanks to his Waggnmaster, who had personally made sure that every regiment had more than enough wagons for their equipment, and their officers.

He had been surprised at the quality of Colonel Avni’s troops. His ranks were made up Kapi Kulu Janissaries, Timariots, who were professional Muslim dragoons, and Arab cavalry. Perhaps Galvani wouldn’t have been victorious if these men had been on the opposite side of the field.
The scouts had reported over 1000 men, but he could only see around 600. Maybe they had overestimated, or maybe Avni had a trick up his sleeve. He had to be careful and stay vigilant; he didn’t need 400 men suddenly appearing on his flank.
Orders were given, and the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Marines advanced. To their left were the Maniots, and to their right was the famous 1st horse, eager to test their newly bought blades.



Assemani himself was riding behind the 1st Marines, who were at the core of the line.
The Maniots ran up, ready to harass the Janissaries. Shots were exchanged and the skirmish began. The Marine line broke into a run, closing the distance while the 1st Horse and 1st Light Horse circled around.
The Maniots had been caugh off guard, ambushed by 400 of Avni’s skirmishers. They had dropped by the dozen, and the men just weren’t hardened enough to stand any longer. They broke, their officer screaming at them, commanding them to stand their ground.
The Marines were in line now, and fired freely on the rebels, cutting them down.




The 1st Horse smashed into the sides of the Ottoman line and the Marines ran into the melee.

A messenger approached Assemani, and with a grin on his face he quickly saluted.

“Sir, Colonel Avni has been killed and his army is fleeing. Congratulations commander!”

Assemani leaned back in his saddle. Finally he could relax and have some of Venice's delicious wine.





Summer 1713

An Ottoman invasion fleet has been spotted to the East of Athens! Galvani had almost choked on his dinner when he had heard this news. The army had never, ever thought that the Ottoman economy, let alone their army and navy, were up to the task of launching such a daring plan. In Athens and Patras, militia was hastily being organized in the streets. No one could believe what was happening!

In other, less startling news, Scarpa had been reelected along with most of his cabinet. A Shipyard and coaching inn ware bring built in Rumelia, and Assemani had finished mopping up the rebels, proving to be a ‘Superior General.’



Winter 1713

In November, every Venetian in Rumelia had let out a sigh of relief. For reasons unknown, the Ottoman invasion fleet had sailed right past Istanbul and into the Black Sea. The scare had reminded everyone that Venice was still very vulnerable, and most importantly, was in dire need of a navy to patrol their coasts.



Summer 1714

Workers are rioting once again in Istanbul. Apparently the death of thousands of their comrades hasn’t sent the message yet. Galvani’s blood pressure has steadily been on the rise since the invasion scare; this time he might crush the rebellion himself.




Winter 1714

Scarpa studied the map in front of him. Austria was close to finally pushing the Ottomans out of Europe; the only territory left in Ottoman hands was Bulgaria.

In the North, Prussia was expanding. Saxony had fallen to their army, along with Polish West Prussia. Sweden had taken Karelia from the Russians, and The United Provinces had driven Spain from Flanders.
In America, Maine was now an independent nation, The Cherokees had taken Georgia, and The United Provinces had expanded into French Guyana. New France, New Spain, and the 13 colonies had all joined with their protectors, expanding the superpowers’ control across the world.

In India, the Marathas were advancing rapidly north, driving the Mughals into the Himalayas. Mysore was still intact, but Portuguese Goa had fallen to the Indians.

Venice itself had also expanded, now controlling both Athens and Istanbul, along with the Mediterranean, which it shared with Austria and the Italian states.
But Scarpa wanted more. He needed to find a weak enemy, hated by everyone and prone to invasion at multiple points. His eyes strained under the candlelight as he searched the map.
His eyes stopped on Africa, and the country that was hated by everyone, was hard to defend, and weak without its protector: The Barbary States.

Please comment!

[Grouchio]

The Republic of Maine? AWESOME!!

[Sinjen]

Excellent AAR. I am enjoying it.

[FiferBurns]

Continued!

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Summer 1715

Assemani raised his arms as the tailor wrote down his measurements. He had ordered another coat; his old one was beginning to fade, and he had to look sharp while Galvani was gone.
Galvani had marched west, intent on crushing the second rebellion had had formed up in Thrace. Reports had come in last week showing that he had been successful: all traitors had been killed and any prisoners had been executed. Assemani hadn’t liked the idea of total annihilation, but Galvani had been tearing his hear out in Istanbul for long enough; those rats were going to die by his hand, come hell or high water.
Even after four years of occupation, the people were stand unhappy. The new inn had helped, along with more conscripts. When Galvani’s army returned, there would enough soldiers that every alley and corner would be watched with vigilant eyes, denying any more protests, let alone a third rebellion.
The tailor was now down to his waist. Assemani straightened up and tried to hide his gut; he had gained an extra few pounds, along with his army. It was time for a nice, long march.






Winter 1715

In September, France established a blockade around the Savoyen port Nice; sending Venetian ships back to Venice with empty cargo bays. If Savoy was going to fall, perhaps trade could be started with the democratic Dutch, who had plenty of money to spare.
Barbary raids had picked up recently. Two sixth rates were being constructed in Thessaloniki: Venice’s newly built shipyard. Hopefully they will be able to take care of this annoyance, which has been cutting slightly into the Republic’s coffers.





Summer 1716

Another massive Ottoman fleet has been spotted near Cyprus, reported to have over 18 ships under its command. Venice desperately needs a navy, soon.
The public in Istanbul has finally been calmed, at the cost of quite a large hole in the country’s coffers.2680 troops are stationed in the city, and 2680 troops need to be paid.





Winter 1716

With the taking of Sofia, Austria has finally driven the Ottoman dogs out of Bulgeria, completing King Leopold’s dream of a Christian Europe. All of this would never have been possible without the help of Venice, of course.
Trade with Savoy had been officially cancelled; it just wasn’t profitable for Venice anymore. The Savoyens had been upset about this, but they had bigger problems to deal with, such as the power hungry French, who had already taken Flanders from the Dutch; Venice’s new trading partner.
The agreement had been costly though; in a year, Venice had to pay 6000 florins to the Dutch. The trade lane though, was worth its length in gold.




Summer 1717

Scarpa is dead. His maid had found him on his desk, struck down by a sudden heart attack. Venice was under a black shroud of mourning, in shock that God had taken their leader away from them so suddenly.

After the last tears were, shed, and another election was held, President Orlando Fracastoro had walked into his new office. He had a reputation as another one of the jug heads in the senate; a man with a need to advance society and anger kings and queens throughout Europe. He was also a tactician; just what an expanding country needed.

He sat down and sorted through all of the reports in front of him. After the inauguration, all he had been thinking about was what his first move was going to be.
Two sixth rates had been finished in Thessaloniki, with a third that would be ready in a couple of months. Four new Indiamen were also ready to set sail for Africa too.
Ironically, a month after trade had been broken wit Savoy; the French had blockaded Dutch Rotterdam, keeping the Republic’s coffers struggling to stay afloat after paying the hefty 6000 florins to the Dutch. This had angered many Venetian merchants, who now had a particular distaste for their French customers.
He rested his head in his hands. The country would barely have any income for the next year, so production would have to be halted for now. He would send out the Indiamen next week; there were no pirates in sight and they would make good time in the August weather. There was nothing much else he could do; he needed money, soon.
Flustered from the pressure that had been thrown on his shoulders; he slipped on his vest and went for a walk around the Presidential pond.




Winter 1717

President Orlando had only been in office for sixth months when the official national election took place. Orlando was relieved; he didn’t like deciding the fate of a country; it was too much pressure.
The minister who had relieved him was Ennio Costa; a rather old politician at the age of 53. He had been in the senate long enough for it to corrupt him; the man was morally impaired, ‘borrowing’ the country’s money for his ballroom’s curtains for the dance on Monday. He had been in the opposite party that Orlando was in; he had a status quo, and he wasn’t going to let any jug heads make the nobility’s lives the least bit uncomfortable. He had spent his childhood as a farmer, giving him the traits of an Agrarian, which didn’t make the treasurer’s job any easier. The people had different thoughts about Ennio; he wasn’t the best man for the job, but he would have to do for now. Strings would be pulled in the Senate and another election would be held; it was just a matter of time until he was gone.






Summer 1718

The United States; the small, weak republic founded in Maine, has grown, taking Acadia and sacking Quebec! These people are starting to be recognized in Europe as a true nation. With Quebec firmly in their grasp, they could now build professional armies, powerful navies, and a strong economy. The future of these states is looking bright. Maybe it would be wise to send a small gift to them, to show them that they have a democratic friend across the Atlantic….






Winter 1718

Boundaries have been changing recently in the past year. The Italian States have invaded Spain and captured Lombardy; now marching towards Naples, intent of uniting Southern Italy under the Papacy.
Up north, Poland has destroyed Crimean Khanate and taken Estonia along with East Prussia and Silesia. Prussia retaliated by sacking Vilnius, showing that they will not be pushed around by their old pagan enemies.
As mentioned earlier, The United States has expanded, advancing over the Northeast. A gift is scheduled to be sent to them in a few months, hopefully helping them in the war against agressive France.
In India, the Marathas are close to winning the war; the Mughals only have a few territories left. In the long run, Venice should look to make trade with them too.
President Ennio has been impeached; he was found guilty of stealing over 1000 florins from the national treasury, forcing him the shamefully resign, narrowly escaping jail, thanks to his political connections. The new president, Giamattista Acerbi, is much more of a man for the job. Although being somewhat of a trencherman, the people love him for his ‘Bon Vivant’ attitude. Hopefully he can lead this country to a new era of trade and prosperity...

Please comment!

[Grouchio]

Keep it up!

[FiferBurns]

Continued!

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Summer 1719


Acerbi searched around the room, looking for where he had misplaced his quill; he needed to write back to Galvani.
Galvani had been raiding the Anatolian Countryside for months now; he had idle troops in Istanbul,now that it had been calmed. The 1st Light Horse had been riding along the coast, burning wineries at Aydin and more importantly, the port at Izmir; strangling the Ottoman’s trade even more.
The 1sr Light Horse had also informed Galvani that Anatolia, the new Ottoman capital, was defended by only a garrison of around 600 troops; making it a tempting target for both Galvani and Assemani. He had written to Venice, requesting more troops and money, guaranteeing that he could take the city.
But Acerbi had to turn down his request. He knew that if Galvani sent his troop out of the city, the public would be left unchecked; letting radical minds to speak up and fiery speeches be made. All the country needed was a third rebellion on their hands. It would make the army, and more importantly the Republic, look bad.
Venice also didn’t have the money, or rather didn’t want to spend money, on more troops in Rumelia. The new Drilling School had been finished in Venetia, allowing Dragoons, Marines, and Grenadiers to start marching through the city. This would be the staging point for the formation of the Republic’s 2nd Army, and the beginning of Acerbi’s new plan: the taking of Tunis.
Malfatti, who had been called back into the Mediterranean, had reported that the coastal city was defended only by mobs and ruffians. If Tunis was captured, the 2nd Army could expand both east and west, eventually taking Algeria, Tripolitiana, who knows; maybe even Cairo.
This was still a far fetched plan; the proposed 2nd Army hadn’t even been started yet, and even when it was assembled, it would cut a deep hole in the country’s coffers. More Indiamen in The Ivory Coast would help, but more trade would have to be established: Venice needed a bigger port.
Finally finding his quill, Acerbi began writing, thinking of how to word his apology.



Winter 1719

Admiral Malfatti had been sent to stop an Ottoman raiding fleet near Sicily. Thinking it was just a couple of galleys, he sailed at full speed toward the ships; only to discover that the two galleys were much bigger, and more powerful Fourth Rate Ships of the Line…


Thunder over Sicily

Malfatti paced nervously across the stern; this was going to be a tough fight. He hadn’t expected the ships to be this big.
He had six ships under his command: three sixth rates, a brig, a sloop, and his own vessel,the Forza; a fifth rate ship of the line. He out numbered the Ottomans, but it would take a lot of cannonballs to break through their hulls On top of this, the Ottomans also had the wind to their backs, forcing him to go on the defensive.

He could see the two fourth rates in the distance now; the ‘al Qahirah’ and the ‘Two Lions’.
Ropes were pulled, sails were unfurled, and Luca’s fleet moved forward, making sure not to sail against the wind.

The sloop and brig moved ahead of his main line, preparing to shower the much stronger, but less maneuverable ships with chain shot, hopefully felling a mast or two.

The brig following the sloop was actually captain Leandro Colombo’s revered ‘Galley Hunter; still intact after over a decade of service in the Republic’s navy. Leandro was now a seasoned captain, with several ships sunk under his command. If God was with him today, the ‘Galley Hunter’ would sail away from yet another battle in one piece.
The small ships were now in range, and they began peppering the enemy’s sails with chains.
Malfatti’s line was now in position, and the firefight began.

The battle was in full force now. Guns were roaring, men deafened by the pounds of powder being unleashed. Malfatti screamed orders over the chaos.

“Turn to starboard! Cut them off! We must out steer them!”

The wheelman braced himself as he turned the wheel, struggling against the resistance of the turn. It was working; they were cutting them off; they were ‘crossing the T’.



The Al Qahirah had taken a beating on its port side, and its stern had caught on fire. Smoke billowed out as the crew desperately tried to keep the blaze away from the powder stores.
Rounds dug into the Two Lions’ hull. It had had enough; her captain panicked and tried to escape the barrage, only to be shelled even more.
The battle was going in Luca’s favor, but his sixth rates were beginning to crumble. The San Lorenzo Guistinian, one of the new ships from Thesseloniki, listed heavely, and began taking on water. Her crew had given up; she was lost to the sea.

The Galley Hunter's hull was in bad shape too; Leandro struggled to seal the holes flooding water onto the deck.
The Al Qahirah had rejoined the fight, but Luca had been chasing it. With a final broadside, her hull collapsed and water started gushing into the bottom deck. Her men scrambled overboard, tried to flee from the sinking deathtrap.




While Luca had been busy with the Al Qahirah, The sixth rate 'Drago Volante' had been pounding the Two Loins’ hull. The bigger ship just couldn’t turn fast enough to get a goodfiring arc, and the Drago was exploiting its clumsiness completely.
By now only the Drago, The Forza, and the sloop Colombo were still in the fight. One sixth rate had sunk, and the other vessels were fighting against the holes in their hulls
By now the Two Lions was in bad shape. The ship was taking in water and its sails had been cut to ribbons. The crew was shaken, but was still putting up a fight. Luca’s three remaining ships formed a circle around her, and started closing in for the kill. With one last broadside from the Drago, the Two Lions broke, beaten by Venetian iron.
Luca gave chase, readying the canister, but stopped the men. The white flag was being waved; Luca had a new fourth rate in his fleet.

[Sinjen]

That new fourth rate should bolster your fleet strength. Very good story telling. Looking forward to the next update.

[Septimius The Bold]

Well done and engrossing AAR. Great work.