The Shadow Kingdom

The Shadow Kingdom is a reference to the history of Italy within the Holy Roman Empire. When the HRE was first formed, it was a union of three kingdoms, namely Germany, Bohemia, and Italy. As time went on, the Holy Roman Kingdom of Italy diminished as several constituent realms declared independence from it, while remaining in the Empire. During Season 1 of Varna, the Shadow Kingdom was made up of the following states:
* Duchy of Savoy
* County of Provence
* Principality of Monaco
* Duchy of Milan
* Republic of Lucca
* Republic of Florence
* Republic of Siena
The beginning of the 16th century (Episode VIII) saw the secession of the Shadow Kingdom from the HRE, and a subsequent war against Austria, known as the Third Lombard War. After the Italian League and other participants joined the conflict (Episode IX), Austria surrendered, recognising the independence of the former Shadow Kingdom in the Treaty of Milan.