Eu3: Dynasty- An Irish AAR

Prologue-

Éire is in a very sorry state of affairs. Internal Fractions have allowed the English the establish a foothold in Meath for 400 years. It will be soon that these people will no longer consider themselves to be Irish, one and the same of the native population. The Reformation has become rife across Europe, The English have converted their people to follow the wicked desires of Martin Luther. In Meath, the traditional way of live is threatened not only Culturally, but Religiously.

As for the Rest of the Island, in-bickering has rendered each of the factions left petty warlords. There has not been a High King of Ireland since Brian O'Neill, around 300 years previous. We will be following the story of the O'Neill as they fight to overthrow the bonds of feudalism and strike into the heart of the British Establishment in Ireland.

A New Age-

Shane O'Neill's Father Conn Bacach had bowed to the English expansion of the late 1530s. He traded his native title of Over-king for that of Earl of Tyrone. He also had converted to Protestantism, and elected his illegitimate son Matthew to become his heir. This did not bode well with Shane who wished to be elected as ruler based on the Brehon system, rather than the British one of primogeniture. As a result Shane slew his brother, and his title pased to Matthew's son Brian, whom Shane also had murdered. Now the title belonged to Matthew's youngest son Hugh or Aedh O'Neill, who fled to the pale for protection.

Having Eliminated his immediate rivals for the leadership, Shane had himself elected The O'Neill or the O'Neill Mor. Queen Elizabeth upon coming to the throne had decided to come to terms with Shane, now the de Facto leader of the O'Neill Clan. At a meeting in the Pale, Elizabeth Recognised Shane as the O'Neill and laid plans for him to become the second Earl of Tyrone. This was not good news for Aedh, who was in hiding after Shane's tániste or successor Turlough had Brian murdered.

After several Failed expeditions by the English Deputy Sussex, hostilities ceased and Shane recieved practically all his Demands. He now consolidated his power among the Scottish settlers, capturing Sorley Boy MacDonnell as Prisoner.

Here I will begin the point of divergance

Instead of destroying the good relations established with the English and ravaging the pale, Instead Shane decided to focus on strengthening his position at home. This would quell all hopes of ascension of Turlough or Aedh for at least the time being.



Shane now realised that a politically united Ireland was the only way to defend against the English, in the long term. The Expansion by King Henry was a wake up call in the fact that it showed the Irish petty kingdoms would rather be vassals of England than unify against this outside threat. Shane believed that he should be the driving force behind this unification as the British had at least acknowledged his sovereignty without him having to pay them homage, Basically the only King showing outward resistance to the threat.



It was apparent that if driven enough, with no distractions that the English could easily steam roll Ireland. The Native Kingdoms could only put up a token resistance of max, 8 regiments of professional soldiers. As a way the combat this Shane used the Discovery of the new world to his advantage. Whilst the other European powers were squabbling still, Tyrone had started to Colonise the a northern part of the Continent dubbed "America". This colony could be used as a last resort to escape from the English, help fund the war effort and if successful enough start an Age of Irish Colonise.



All the while however Shane looked towards the former Celtic nations, in particular Brittany. Brittany had been conquered years beforehand by the French, but nationalist sentiment was still high. Shane could use this to his advantage, but he knew however this would put him into conflict. The French would make an excellent ally against the English, the two were mortal foes. This would come at the price of many wars and possible French betrayal to the British. It was obvious that Shane needed to exploit a French alliance to his benefit, and when they were weakest, rise up the Britons in revolt.



As for an Economy, to be expected there was not much established. Tyrone was losing money fast, and at the cost of inflation and low research Shane had to increase the circulation to stop his nation going under.



Immediately as a way to gain money, Shane sent out his 2 merchants to the merchant leagues of Genoa and the Hansa



Taking advantage of Religious strife to fuel the treasury, Shane pocketed a cool 40 ducats.



Like in financial terms, Ireland had little to offer in Statesmen.



To further his plans with his recent income of ducats Shane recruited a regiment of mercenaries. Connacht, although in monarchical trouble refused his royal marriage offer. They would be first to fall.



Already within a month Shane's reforms had caused the general populace to gain an admirable respect for his abilities as a leader.



Shane began to plot the downfall of the Connacht. His army was double that of Connachts and they had no allies, Ripe for the taking



Tale of the Tape: Shane gallantly lead the army which decimated those of the O'Connor. Historians question his involvement in the battle, but many are certain that Shane led the charge against O'Conner, his free shooters pushed back the enemy lines, and the mercenary cavalry cut down the routing forces.

Over the course of the conquest O'Conner raised many regiments, all were swiftly defeated by O'Neill.



More success came, in the form of successful establishment of the Irish colony in the west Atlantic.



In a risky opportunity the O'Neill Decides to support English rebels. Some historians consider this a minor matter however, in light of future diplomatic agreements between the two powers. This hits the Irish treasury hard, and is considered one of the Great O'Neill's more obvious blunders.



As a result the treasury goes into considerable debt for such a small country. Support seriously wanes for Shane, those in the Royal Court begin to question the rule of Shane. Some of the lesser Nobles begin to question their support of Shane.



Shane is forced to take a loan of 30 ducats to cover his debt. This puts him in an awkward position if he cannot raise the funds required to pay it pay, and possibly be stuck in a cycle of borrowing.

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Troubles begin in the Colony. Without the necessary funds to make an agreement, and risking losing face if allowing the natives to live in peace, Shane must make a huge moral decision and at the bequest of his nobles massacres the natives. Natives of what is now Canada recall this incident as an infamous attack on their liberty and this sets the stage for later native troubles in the region. Contemporary support for these actions quote Shane saying "Our lord directed me to conquer these lands" but modern day historians know that Shane was not a very spiritual man, and confided in his wife Catherine MacDonnell that this decision haunted him for years, particularly as it resonated with him as a reversal of his own situation.

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The O'Neill's situation changed when Tyrone experienced a revival in its economic prosperity. However there were still issues over the conquest of Connacht which had began nearly half a year earlier, and when it would end. Ireland's warriors were more suited to petty warfare rather than full out conquest, this drove a wedge between those in the Clan who believed Shane should simply receive the traditional tribute and leave, and his supporters who believed the end was in sight. O'Connor did his best to increase these tensions from afar, hoping to instil enough support in Aedh's claim to secure his ascension, and then when least expected to turn Shane's plan against him with his own invasion.

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The Bureaucracy was expanded in what was a lauded move nationally for Shane.

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Shane's Diplomat from the English Court, Edmund Fitzwilliam reported that Queen Elizabeth had entered a royal marriage with Munster. Upon here death a personal union between the two countries would be lead by the O'Brien family. Realising an opportunity for to further himself, Shane sent Fitzwilliam back to the English court with a marriage proposal from himself.

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In a complete twist of Fate England accepted Shane's offer. If Elizabeth died without a heir, Shane himself would become king of one of the most powerful nations in the western world. He knew however, even if it did come to pass, it would not last long. Even with him being in far more prestige than the O'Brien family, England would not long accept a king from what they viewed as a backwards and savage nation. Shane, having thought carefully knew his plan. First he would finish with the O'Connor, and then the O'Brien family. The combined prestige would beat off any lesser nobles who tried to gain the throne themselves, from another nation. If he became the head of the English nation, even for a short while, he could simply grant himself back Meath, his ancestral seat of kingship, allowing his to become the High King of Ireland. However Shane knew these plans would be unlikely to come to fruition.

After the success over Connacht, much of the court of Tyrone had now focused on expanding the fledgling colonies in North America.



There was a un-eventful start to a new period in Shane's rule. Envoys on 7th June revealed that a new Pope had been elected, Clemens VIII. Tyrone had also began to recover from a recent stability hit.



In a completely shocking move, the Hiberno-Norman Aristocracy in Ulster moved to support Protestantism. Shane now had the added responsibility for dealing with religious unrest in his own homeland, along with what no seemed apparent, more English interference. Weknow know the English and Scottish settlements instilled by Henry were now being expanded upon by Elizabeth. However, Shane was not going to take this lying down.



A quick luck at the British Isles is shocking. (Catholic yellow, Protestant blue, Reformed light blue). Wales, Northern England and Cornwall were still Catholic. Meath still held out against the protestants, but Ulster had fallen. Shane knew that he could subdue the dissenters through active missionary work, but now was excited at the prospect of religious liberty being another footing for a campaign against the English.



Shane had now obliterated any remnant of Connacht as a political state.



In an attempt to cull the attempts of the Reformation spreading, Shane chooses to embrace the counter-reformation. This will allow him to more easily dispel the growth of protestantism in Tyrone, at the cost of relations with heretic nations.



The discovery of even more provinces in the new world reaches Shane's ears. This is good news for the planned expansion of Ireland.



Ireland's statesmen are somewhat more appealing when Shane decided to change his advisers. Shane elects to follow the advice of his court and picks a master of mint to deal with his rising inflation; A colonial advisor to deal with his expansion; and finally a better Artist to make the country more stable and better his choice of advisers in the future.



A hostile situation with the merchant class leads to Shane deciding to move more toward free trade. This avoids a confrontation with peasantry regiments rising.



Hearing of possible Danish expansion near his north Atlantic settlements, Shane increases colonisation in that immediate area. Modern Reports from Dane ships reveal indeed, they were scouting the area.



In a minor issue, Ulster's tax rate drops, but Shane manages to arrange a payment of ducats.



Historians question Shane's motives in establishing a Colony so close to Spanish Interests in the South Americas. Here-say from that time period seems to indicate the Court of Tyrone pressured Shane to try contain the Spanish into their loose boundaries by establishing a frontier.



This report of successful colonisation strengthens Tyrone's hold over the area.



Another modernising move for Tyrone sees the Liberal Classes gain a hold in the Royal Court.



Tyrone's Colonisation in the mid Atlantic succeeds to the joy of many.

More English interference in Tyrone becomes dominant, when Sussex tries to convince the Scottish Settlers to rise up against Shane. Shane resolves the situation after heated exchanges with the settlers, and Sussex but loses some domestic stability for refusing to act against England. He manages to restrain the nobility for at least the time-being from taking arms against the English. However, this interference gives Ireland a viable Casus Beli against England if the opportunity soon arises to strike.



Shane sells some minor offices in the court in exchange for vital funding.



An opportunity to repent for his previous actions in the North Atlantic, Shane acts immediately to help the Natives of his newest Colony. However this comes at a rather large price. This move is lauded as a show of compassion by what is viewed as an otherwise Ruthless Leader.



In a minor matter on the Content, the Holy Roman Empire moves closer to unity.



Tyrone manages to pay off its debt, and things seem to look well for the immediate future economically.

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In a massive show of luck, Tyrone hits a gold rush, resulting in a massive increase in treasury funds.



Military research reveals the advantages of newer cannons. Shane's Military grows further on the road to domination.

I do believe the mod I am using Death and Taxes (5.1) does this for you. It prompts you beforehand however. For instance, check the earlier screen shots, Ulster becomes Ulaidh. However from what I remember the Irish list may not have been finished, but more prominent ones such as Britian, Portugal, Spain, France etc all have been done. Also, this mod adds in a Roman Empire which is formable, and it can have its own colonies which are renamed to suit Roman style!

I'm wary on what style to use, does the narrative of the country as a whole, or being tied in with the monarchy sit with you better? I chose Shane as he is my namesake, and as quoted by Sussex "had more pride than the devil himself". A more personal tone would involve different advisers and such.

Il try get at least 1 update down a day, unless Im very bogged down. These are all stuff I did last night, so its pretty much happening as I tell it. As its in construction and so few replies, Im worried it will not be at all successful.

Did I not mention, Elizabeth has a heir. Silly me. Im just hoping Britian and Frabce get dragged into some war so i can sent patriots and such in. Previous attempts to do so in France make Breton nationalism unlikely. Wait to the colonies start rakin in the money, i hope to establish virginia and massechustats soon. Denmark is the first power i hope to come into direct conflict with. Portugal is set to inherit Spain!

As Shane expands both domestically and overseas, revolts begin to spread from neighbouring provinces to his own lands. England continues to enforce its will in Ireland, and Spanish and Portuguese Colonial interests come into conflict with Tyrone.



Shane takes another step towards a United Ireland. The siege of Leinster is won. England practically begs for a conflict when it embargos Tyrone, however Shane must resolve domestic issues before this can be taken further, when O'Connor starts to siege Connacht.



Shane gains another Casus Beli against England. Leinster is incorporated as a province of Tyrone. The revolt of O'Connor continues. The first army marches to bring down this resurgent threat.



Tyrone gains a national bank, this reduces some inflation, and increases loan size. Financial difficulty is cooled for now.

in a bit ahead in my game, and things are looking like Tyrone will be dominating the North American Continent. There has been some French and Swedish boats sailing about canada and the northern usa, which Im sorta wary about.

Main thing Im worried about is beating this rebbellion in Connacht! and I really am praying the colonies will pick up some time soon as my treasury is literally flatlining.

Having reached the coast between His two largest settlements, Shane decides everything is in place to deal with the Swedish threat. Shane is quite confident that he has boxed them into "New Sweden" and victory will be swift.



The war looks very much in the favour of Tyrone. Scotland have came through on the alliance, unlike the habsburgs. The only real power on Sweden's side is Brandenburg. Their alliance is also Fighting in Russia and the Baltic.



The coast has been found and Shane orders more settler to colonise it.



Shane's scout force sets out the crush the swedish before they can respond.



Tale of the Tape: Shanes armies meet little resistance, the tribals fall quickly. The settlers didn't revolt. Shane looks to have pocketed 3 new colonies, especially with the swedish homeland being overun by the scottish and peasent revolts.


(My keyboard is broken so it may be a while before i can update)

As Sweden's position strengthens, that of Shane's weakens. No longer was Sweden focusing on the Baltic, they and their allies were getting ready for war. Shane knew that he had to strengthen his own position to survive and began plotting. It seemed as if a pre-emptive strike would be needed before the Swedish could launch their own assault.



Another blow comes for Shane when the nation of Russia enters the conflict on the side of Sweden. Russia's huge power will have a massive effect on the outcome of the war, and as a result become the leaders of the opposing alliance. Shane strengthens ties in Northern Italy with Ferrera and Mantuna




After months of negotiations, Shane manages to get the Portuguese court to formally declare themselves an Ally of Tyrone.



Meanwhile in the low countries, Gelre has arisen as a nation once again, due to Spanish weakness. They gain much of the Netherlands and the Spanish pose no real resistance. In a very strange occurance, Two different Belgium's have emerged in the area. Seriously. The flags are just inverted



A plea to the Portuguese crown is placed by Shane for Military intervention. Tyrone stands tensely in wait for a agreement. The nobility are uneasy and call out the idea as ridiculous



Portugal enters the War on the Side of Tyrone. With a major colonial power on his side, Shane has undoubtedly increased his odds of victory. The Portuguese navy will no doubt offer a large barrier against an invasion from the Baltic alliance.



Brandenburg sends Shane a pitiful peace deal, no doubt to cause unrest among the court.



In a very fortunate occurrence, the printing press is adopted b y Tyrone, and as a result the research of the state increases dramatically




In a very sudden twist of fate, Sweden is offering very acceptable peace terms to Shane. However, Shane was not in conflict for money, the colonial land was his goal. Ethiopia is called into the war by Russia in a nominal but symbolic gesture of opposition.



Scotland conquers another province in Sweden. They go into open conflict with the Swedish military forces seiging a Scottish occupied fort on the cost.

Tale of the Tape: The Swedish forces completely rout the numerically superior Scots and drive them further inland to the next occupied province of Varmland.



Shane holds favourable terms against the Swedish, but decides to hold out for the best deal he can get



He manages to get a reluctant white peace from Brandenburg which is a major blow to the security of the Swedish and their other German allies.



This peace deal cuts Saxony off from any outside help, meaning Palatinate reconquest of Franken is quiet likely. Lunberg although a minor threat also loses its protector.



Although at a slight lose against Saxony, Shane sends a white peace offer in hopes that war exhaustion will force the Saxons to contemplate surrender, which in the end they accept.



The leader of the Baltic alliance, Russia makes peace with the Palatinate. This is worrisome for Shane, but only a minor matter.



The Swedish continue to seige, whilst the Scottish manage to escape complete defeat. In a strange blunder the Scots force suffers miscommunication with their leader and march back to face the Swedish. As a result, the Scots are mercilessly slaughtered and lose their presence in the Baltic

After the end of the Baltic War, a long awaited peace falls across Shane's dominions for a short while. This is not long lived, as the Navy moves to secure victory in Hainut. The Ottoman wars continue in the Balklands and Persia, it looks like they will be losing a lot of their recent gains. The House of Von Habsburg has struck at the ideal time to save their brethren in Croatia and Hungary.




As he is dragged into a small regional conflict, Shane orders the navy to return home as to transport a token force to the Low Countries. However half of his transport ships are lost to the sea



With little of a navy remaining, Shane orders the Ships to harbour in Connacht, it seems that Tyrone will have to sit this war out.



The court of Hainut makes a terrible peace offer and sends it to Shane. The envoy is executed quickly. Belgium slowly seiges the province with a force of 10 regiments, having wiped out any opposition they received.



Good news reveals that Poland has consolidated the Commonwealth through its personal union. This will act as a strong buffer to the Baltic States and upward expansion by Austria.



Shane is called to support rebels against the Von Habsburgs in Spain. He takes a stability hit at the cost of maintaining relations with the icy power. A war with Spain would beggar the country.

In recent developments, Shane has largely stayed out of military affairs. Still he plots for territorial gain through diplomatic and colonial means. Belgian forces destroy Hainut whose Royal family beg for peace. The Ottoman wars still rage in the East, which what appears to be heading to a Russian Victory. Closer to Home, France stumbles madly through Italy and south Germany.



Shane moves the focus of the nation to the Mid Altantic Colonies. This will increase trade and prestige in the area.



In the spirit of the times, the colony is renamed Tyrsean (Tír Séan) or Land of Sean. The mid atlantic will seemingly be the focus of development for Tyrone for the foreseeable future.



The peninsula at Florida is renamed Tirmhacha after the Irish Goddess.

(I NOW REALISE MY OVERSIGHT! I WILL FIX THESE MISTAKES OF NAMING)



Hainut begs for mercy from Shane. Seeing as he has had little effect on the war, Shane makes white peace. Although the Belgian Crown are unhappy, they realise Shane's position in the conflict and pass on the issue.



The colonial force is directed to the northern bays of America. They find vast un-colonised lands, ripe for the taking.



Shane sends settlers to establish control of the area before another situation akin to the Swedish war can arise.



The court makes positive gestures to several Italian states to try ease relations. Corsica is beseiged by rebels but will not grant access. Siena gladly enters a royal marriage



The old ruler of Ferrara takes a turn for the worse and dies without a heir. This lucky event puts Shane on the throne. To sweeten the deal, the throne of Ferrara had inherited Modena upon its kings death.



In Aachen, Ludwig Philipp O'Neill comes to the throne of the Heir-less monarchy. Take that Von Habsburgs!



As another Advisor dies, Shane reshuffles his advisers in the court, gaining the great skill of 2 men.



A quick look at America reveals a Startling area which Tyrone covers. In 50 years this will become cores and then the fun will truly begin.



Belgium finally takes Hainut from their cousins. Shane hosts a huge feast for his Flemish allies. A quick look reveals the Spanish have nearly been driven from the Netherlands, as Gelre occupies their remaining provinces.



The court receives a huge surge in discoveries of foreign lands, however they neither have the manpower of money to utilise them.



Shane decides it is time to unify the Gaelic clans. He orders his armies to prepare for war and sends his envoys to inform the O'Brien clan. Munster will fall to the Red Hand. Shane's force in Ireland nearly triples O'Brien in infantry alone, it will not be a hardly contested war.



As Shane sends a overwhelming force to take Munster itself, O'Brien's armies strike into Connacht, hoping to rise up separatist sentiments among the clans. However after O'Connor's botched rebellions, they gain little support. Shane sends a secondary force back to Leinster to help secure its peasantry against O'Brien.

Haven't gotten them yet. I don't plan on Shane dieing anytime soon either. Expect another update very soon! And today I will have enough material for a few more.

After the heir of the Spanish Habsburg Empire died, Henri Valois of France was set to succeed Felipe in Spain. However, this did not bode well with the Habsburgs, both within Spain and abroad. Immediately, Felipe searched for a way out of this crisis and as he was growing older, desperately tried to conceive another heir.

Back in Tyrone, Shane has high prestige among the nations of Europe, and seeks to plant himself further up the line for the Spanish throne. Spain itself only has 2 marriages with foreign nobility, so doing so may be easy. Currently, however Shane knows he is now-where near prepared should any military action be required, thus he will need to take a diplomatic route until he needs to strike.



Spain's domestic problems worsen when the Habsburg heir dies. Shane seeks to use this as an opportunity to gain from their weak position.



The feudal lords of Ireland are struck a blow by Shane when he brings in National organisations. This takes considerable power away from the Feudal caste as Shane seeks to consolidate the position of his immediate family in the Sept of O'Neill even further.



As expected, Spain acts under the guise of Saving Navarre. An ill-equipped Spain makes war against France. Although France is busy in the East, they will likely beat the declining Empire in a slug fest.



One of Shane's more reliable allies, Portugal calls him to enter conflict in Africa. Although he is unlikely to act on it, he makes a gesture of support by signing the declaration, as it will likely scare the frightened natives.



As to take immediate advantage of the French problem, Shane sends substantial funding to Breton patriots. Under the guise of Cultural unification, Shane hopes to profit with gain of a rebellious and ignored Brittany.



Here-say from Holland reveals the Crown is without a heir. As before, Shane pimps out another member of the O'Neill court.



Shane's marriage with Holland seems to be proving successful is terms of improving chances of succession. However Gelre aggressively starts to war with the Dutch and is very likely to win.



The Protestants have achieved success with their aggressive and brutal campaign of conversion in England. Only Wales remains faithful to the one and only true faith.



Shane's spies in England reveal potentially great news. England has only a moderately sized garrison in both ends of the nation. Although he is focused on another goal at the minute, in future he may be able to avail of this military weakness.



The Breton Patriots gain control of Finístere. If the French continue to ignore their revolt they may be able to defect without Shane having to raise a sword.



Widespread rebellions and French invasion have unhinged Spain. Without outside aid, it is unlikely they will survive through much more of this war.



With no other choice, Shane intervenes in France. Though he is losing a powerful ally against England, he cannot miss the opportunity to strike whilst France is so pre-occupied.



With Portugal in the War, Shane should be able to easily defeat the French Fleet. Belgium should keep them occupied in the Paris area.



This has obvious frightened France. They begin to aggressively finish their Italian campaign. Corsica is annexed.



Savoy is badly humiliated by France. They lose Parma, Genoa as a Vassalalso have to release Milan.

As the war weary French barter down their opponents from battle, Shane is yet to receive more than a pathetic white peace offer. England's navy pulverises their French Counterparts in the Channel, and Austria finally gains access to the French Homeland.



Austrian forces have finally made way to aid the Irish Second Army. Although they are only allied in War, the von Habsburgs receive a large donation from Shane for their help. France is unlikely to break through the Habsburg line, and even more unlikely now to reach the Irish occupied provinces.



In a complete twist of fate, now the French are falling to the hands revolt and foreign occupation. The Palatinate and Belgium have missed out on huge prospects next to their doorsteps by their earlier surrenders. The Austrians have seemingly broken the French Resolve. Now Shane knows he must siege until the treaty comes his way.



Already, the provinces held by the Breton patriots have began to officially defect to Shane's control. This shows the complete loss of Valois power in the Breton Peninsula.



A threatened Commonwealth sends a completely un-provoked embargo at Shane. This sends confusion throughout the court and many come to the conclusion that French influence was the driving force.



The peasantry are in no way used to conflict on this scale and some of the better off begin to actively question the legitimacy of the war. Shane, knowing he is near victory is forced to have them executed to avoid their views causing fevor among the public. But this just adds to the feeling of weariness.

I was getting frustrated that they never would, as the British began to siege one of their occupied provinces. Luckily they upped and left.

[Note] The Diplomatics have basically been wiped for all countries. I remade the basic alliances between some countries, however all vassals are now independent nations.

As the war wages on with France, Shane's hold over Brittany grows. However Bavaria has ideas on gaining Franken from their Palatine cousins which provides a distraction for Shane's allies in Germany.



Bavaria springs war in Central Germany on the Palatinate. Luckily they do not gain any Allies immediately. Shane rushes to the Defence of his allies, but due to the disorganised nature of Germany and the ongoing war it is unlikely that he will provide anything other than moral support. Franken proves to be little more than a war causer for the Palatinate at this stage, but as a core they keep hold of it.



Shane moves the government again to Centralisation, in that he institutes a more European form of Law by removing the more questionable aspects of Brehon. Whilst the country is still relatively stable, the Feudal Nobility are non-the less surprised especially among the clan chiefs which fear that Primogeniture will soon be institutionalised as well.



Again Shane is thrown into conflict with Brandenburg. If Brandenburg gains access to the Palatinate, it will spell its end. However it is extremely unlikely that they will attack Tyrone itself, as they have no navy. This news drastically increases the chances of Bavaria winning Franken.



Brandenburg raises Particulartists in Tyrmhaca. This throws the colonies into dis-array as Shane's expeditionary force is in the Northern Wastes. Shane knows the revolt will be easily put down when his military returns, it still strikes him at the lengths his enemies will go to undermine his position, and the fact that support for such a revolt was present in the first place.



The Spanish guarantee the Independence of Tyrone. Shane is unsure whether to take this as a mockery, given the recent Spanish break of alliance, or a genuine effort to reach out. He decided to believe the latter, as it will be useful in the future. Shane manages to regain the alliance of the Austrian Von Habsburgs, which will prove a good help in France



Belgium and Munster decide to wage war on the Palatinate. Shane is return declares war on them, believing that it will aid his Flanders allies interest in Belgium itself.



Whilst the expeditionary force makes its way to crush the revolt, they have gained a considerable hold in the mid Atlantic area, with others following its example.



Tyrone loses its economic prosperity to the shock of many. Unemployment rises and import costs are increasing. Some blame this on the reform of Brehon as Tyrone seems to be heading toward a slump.



After Austrian Intervention and a heavy bout between them and Brandenburg, Shane manages to get matters in Franken back to the status-quo.



France continues with its insulting white peace offers whilst Shane's alliance besieges half their nation.



At the cost of Liege's sovereignty Austria makes peace with France. Shane knows they were not to be relied upon as much of an Ally but is surprised they did not barter for more.



Shane's forces have almost secured all Breton land, and taken quite a lot of the west coast of France



Within the Month all of North Western France is under Shane's control, however terrible peace offers continue.



The expeditionary force, now headed by Shane himself reaches Tyrmhacha. News reaches Shane with a shocking revelation - it is the grandson of The O'Brien Mór, commanding a force of 4,000 men overall.



Another shock arrives to the Royal court in August when a Royal Marriage invitation arrives from the Newly independent Kingdom of Cataluyna. Shane accepts, to the horror of Felipe II von Habsburg.

As Shane's allies leave with their individual winnings, Shane continues to strike inland to the heart of the Kingdom of France. Being involved with many continental wars, relations with many States seem uneasy. The Aachen Line of the O'Neill clan seems to have finally splintered off into its own legitimate O'Neill-Aachen line with its continual succession. In America, the particularist revolt is being put down brutally by Shane himself upon the discovery of Dissent among the Nobility, particularly the O'Brein line with Turlough McArdle's leadership of the revolters. Einri is given Stuart ship supervised by Tirlough Brassileagh O'Neill (Shane's nephew) whilst Shane is gone.



Tale of the Tape: Part McArdle's forces are being besieged by a group of Natives when Shane arrives. The natives quickly disperse and he begins the siege of the simple wooden fort which has the Revolts leaders inside. Shane's force gets dug in and starts to burn into different sections whilst recieves arquebus fire from above. A scout force belonging to the revolters of 2,000 cavalry returns to the fort and take Shane by surprise. In the panic McArdle and his men escape through the back of the fort. Although Shane's force prevails he himself is badly wounded through the chest with a Sabre by a cavalryman.



France start to budge with their terms, showing that they now are considering Shane a large threat. A delirious Shane has to make the decision to place Tirlough as the regent of Tyrone, as Einri is to young to assume leadership of the Clan.



Unsettling news reveals that the Palatinate has made peace with France at the cost of one province. Tirlough decides to step up the raids on inner French provinces and even sends a force of 17 men to occupy Ill-de-France. Shane makes his way back to Tyrone in a Flyte guarded by two Barques, he starts to make signs of recovery from his recent injury to the Chest.



Reports are given to Tirlough which reveal that Breton Nationalists have risen up in Finistere, undoubtedly the Work of French spys.



In light of this uprising, Tirlough bribes the remaining resistance in Moribhan to put away their arms and accept annexation. This is a blow to France as they lose even more land to Tyrone.



Tale of the Tape: The Fifth army makes quick work of the rebels which mainly comprise of Polish Mercenaries, in the end the General Niall O'Daomhin manages to secure the quarter and transport of the Polish into the neutral lands of Liege to find their way home.



The Lowland Alliance of Belgium and Munster continues to press Tirlough with peace offers, following the example of Shane, he refuses and decides to wait to Flanders makes their peace first. Shane returns in a Stable condition to Tyrconnel but is not in any condition to resume Kingship so Tirlough continues in the name of Einri.



France makes a favourable peace offer. However on the directive of Shane, Tirlough is to make a peace deal which 1)secures Brittany, Maine, Anjou and Normandy as Provinces or Tyrone. 2) releases Guyenne as a soveirgn nation.



Mysteriously Poland ends it's embargo of Tyrone. Shane is making signs of improvement and privately confirms to Tirlough he will return to the throne within the next few months. Einri recieves valuable adminstrative experience within the role of Rí Ruirech of America.



Even more mysterious is when Poland starts the embargo again. Shane sends for a diplomat to investigate the situation and he returns with the news that Poland and England are Allied. Shane warns Tirlough that a possible English Invasion could be on the Horizon.



Flanders makes peace with France at the Cost of Picardie and Caux, a perplexed Tirlough sends an envoy to find out the circumstances for surrender, and it seems that Flanders has lost her entire army fighting Belgium in the Lowlands. The Belgian army sieges their own fortress for months to get it back from Flemish control.



Einri oversees the defeat of the Last Particularist Revolters in Caddo. This is an important milestone for the Tániste and proves his military prowess for the title of Ard Rí.



Flanders hastily makes peace with Belgium, and Tirlough seeing no point to continue the war does the same.



Tirlough heads a scout force to Southern France to investigate the disappearance of any major French Resistance. When it arrives he discovers the English are sieging many of the provinces and that Shane's earlier spies have been particularly effective in creating havoc.



On the eve of his re-ascension to the throne, Shane is found dead in his private quarters in his fortress of Dungannon. Although details are sketchy, many are certain of the fact that foul play was involved. Stories around the time blame Tirlough whom defenders argue was occupied in France. Others argue the French themselves had Shane assassinated, others the British. The court physician declared that poison was the cause of death, but whomever committed the act is unknown.

Shane's death is quickly dealt with in February. Einri is proclaimed the new Taoiseach. However due to his young age, Tirlough is made his protector as head of the ruling O'Neill Roydammna. Tirlough follows the last instructions given to him by Shane in the French Campaign. February is declared a month of Mourning.



England makes peace with France leaving Einri enraged due to their general lack of involvement in the war. This loses occupied land from the Portugese in south western France. Elizabeth gains Corsica and a Indian colony. Armagnac is released as a nation, hurts Shane's plan for a strong Guyenne to keep France in Check.



Tirlough raises Burgandian Nationalists, Pretender Rebels, and Occitian patriots in South Eastern France to destroy any war effort in the area, and increase French desperation. A bonus is the fact that they will continue to operate long after the war.



The Second army wipes out French funded Particularists in Santee. The First army continues to siege Ill-de-France and wipe out local resistance.



Einri is formally inducted with the white rod at Tullhogue. Tirlough remains in his service as an O'Neill Fliath, and his chief advisor. Shane's youngest son Art is made Tániste with the support of his mother's family, the O'Donnell clan of Tyrconnell.



Naples finally secures the re-unification of the Kingdom of Sicily. Hopefully this will provide a powerful barrier to Papal expansion in Italy.



Valois spies raise revolters in Maine. Einri must return a raiding party to deal with them.



A tutor hired for young Art seems to think the child will make for an excellent leader for his nation, to the joy of many.



The first army finally ends the siege of Paris, with the French capital, surrender will soon follow, to the benefit of Tyrone.



Tirlough's revolters make huge trouble for France by occupying an increasing amount of territory, this only increases the odds of a very favourable surrender deal.



As unexpected as the Death of Shane, a huge fire breaks out in Dungannon the capital of Tyrone. 1000 people die in what will be remembered as the Great Burning of 1589.



Einri finally makes peace will France and the partition begins. 1) Tyrone will gain Normandy, Vendée, Anjou, Maine and Poitou. Guyene is also released in the South as a sovereign nation under the guidance of the O'Neill court. 2) Alencon and Armor will be discussed at a later date. 3) France will make no treaties will Guyenne or Armagnac.



On Tirlough's suggestion the court of Guyenne immediately makes war with Armagnac as to increase their rightful territory. (They have cores on all their provinces)



A look at France reveals a drastically weakened state, all over the now defunct issue of Spanish Succession which ruined both nations

I will try to have another done tonight. I have screenshots ready from last week, but any time I went to type them up, my keyboard wouldn't work right.

It really looks like in the next few weeks I will definately not be doing updates during the week. Due to exams. I may be able to do some at the weekend, but I won't promise anything.

If I am inactive for a period of time, I will be back.

After His father's success in gaining the thrones of Modena and Firenze, Éinri decided it best to try Diplomatically strengthen ties with Nations with a weak succession.



To this end, he is able to raise many obscure documents in his favour, alleged to prove his claim to foreign thrones. He could gain a foothold in Germany, the Low countries or far beyond. However Éinri decides to continue and pressure the Italian states.



With an O'Neill on the throne of Mantua, without any legitimate heir - The throne is ripe for the taking. However extremely high infamy after the French war stops Éinri in his tracks. The court Bishop warns Éinri if he proceeds with military action he will be labelled a War Monger; or Dishonourable scum.



Éinri enters into a marriage with the powerful regional power of Savoy. An alliance offer from Cataluyna will undoubtedly secure its independence from Spain for now.



Seeing as war with the English is unlikely for the next few years, Éinri gains permission from the Pope to declare himself the King of Ireland. The protestant English are in uproar however, and this is likely to provide a contentious issue for years to come. Previously the Gaelic lords could easily be divided and conquered, but now unified the English authority faced a significantly larger threat.



In a completely shocking move, Elizabeth grants Áed lordship of Míde, on the grounds of conversion to Protestantism. Whilst once again a member of the Ui Neill holds the crown of Rí of Míde, the proclamation of a "True Tyrone"
sends shockwaves through the Nobility as Éinri's opponents flock to the new kingdom. This is likely a tit for tat response by the English to undermine the O'Neill's authority in Ireland.



Remaining Breton provinces defect to Ireland. French rebels continue to ruin the ravaged nation. Éinri presses demands over Alencon to the French.



Éinri acts to put the small state of Parma under the Authority of the O'Neill. Milan intervenes on Parma's side. However with their own monarchy weakened, Éinri is able to claim on the Lombards also.



Guyenne continues to beat down Armagnac in Aquitane. English funded Rebels reak havoc in the East. Tirlough leads a force to destroy the revolt and in the act strengthen local ties.



A humongous Provence is Freed from the French in the South. Burgundy flies its flag free from foreign dominance in decades. Demands with the French are hugely enhanced after the pretender Duke of Auvergne that Shane Funded actually succeeds to the French throne. Alencon will soon be bartered by the Grateful new King.



Quite unexpectedly, the King of Savoy dies, leaving Éinri as his Heir. A second personal union is formed in a great day for the new King. With Savoy to enforce his local claims, the subjugation of Italy will be swift.



Infrastructure in the Colonies is greatly increased to enhance their output. Forts are build along the cost but the court has made it clear that Shipping routes are to be maintained.



Meanwhile, Flanders has been following the colonisation path of Ireland by colonising the south of Africa. Whilst this is no issue now, the Portuguese may be threatened to the point of action by this in the future.



Guyenne completes its conquest of Armagnac. Tirlough remains as an emissary to the local King and influences him to look eastwards to Provence for success.