Padovese History: Book 2 - Decline and End

## Part 1: Who After I?

### Aftermath of Calamity

In the kingdom of Padavium, tragedy struck when Marcus Lecipius, a beloved ruler, was brutally murdered by his own mother. The people were consumed by grief and anger, and a wave of revolt swept through the land. Determined to wipe out the entire bloodline responsible for this heinous act, the people embarked on a mission to cleanse their kingdom and establish a new order.

### Shift In Governance

In their pursuit of justice, the people ousted the aristocrats from Padavium. These once-influential figures were discovered to be complicit in the plot to kill Marcus Lecipius. With the nobles removed from power, the people sought to establish a system that would ensure their voices were heard and their interests protected.

In a bold move, the citizens of Padavium selected 60 individuals from various professions, including lawyers, doctors, bakers, and blacksmiths, to form a senate known as the Peoples' Senate. This assembly represented the will of the people and became the cornerstone of the new governance structure.

To further safeguard their interests, the Peoples' Senate elected 12 esteemed citizens to serve as the King's Men. This council comprised military generals, religious figures, and bankers renowned for their integrity and humble origins. The King's Men were entrusted with the responsibility of selecting a new king, who would lead Padavium with the approval of the Peoples' Senate.

### PAX PADAVIUM

After careful deliberation, the King's Men unanimously chose Forletto Valetti, a noble banker of impeccable character. Forletto Valetti had never harmed or cheated anyone, nor had he betrayed the people for personal gain. Respected for his fairness and compassion, he was seen as an ideal choice to steer the kingdom toward prosperity.

As the king, Forletto Valetti dedicated himself to improving the lives of the poor and marginalized. He facilitated easier commerce, relaxed burdensome taxes, and invested the kingdom's resources into vital infrastructure. Under his reign, Padavium witnessed the construction of well-maintained roads, proper street lamps illuminating the city, enhanced sewer systems, and the establishment of accessible schools for all.

Forletto Valetti valued peace and sought to establish harmonious relations with neighboring nations. He diligently pursued peace treaties with surrounding powers such as Noctria to the south, Sollas to the east, and the vast and powerful empire of Athomo to the north and northwest of Padavium. However, the nation of Karthadasht, situated across the Aerondite Sea, rejected the peace treaty due to Padavium's amicable relations with Athomo, a land power that could pose a threat to Karthadasht's naval dominance.

Tragically, Forletto Valetti's health deteriorated, and at the age of 49, he passed away. Before his demise, he ensured the smooth transition of power by adopting his heir, Alesso Macetti, a highly accomplished general.

Padavium mourned the loss of Forletto Valetti for 40 days and 40 nights, paying tribute to his legacy and unwavering dedication to the people. When the mourning period concluded, Alesso Macetti ascended to the throne as the new king.

### Calamity Anew

However, the kingdom's newfound stability was short-lived. News arrived that the empire of Athomo descended into chaos following the death of its emperor, who had promised the throne to six different prominent individuals within the realm.

Seizing this opportunity, Karthadasht, eager to expand its influence, approached the fractured factions of Athomo and swiftly secured peace treaties with all who had been promised the throne. Fearing the plundering might of Karthadasht, the neighboring nations accepted the unfavorable terms except for Padavium.

King Alesso Macetti, insulted by the treaty and unwilling to compromise his kingdom's sovereignty, rejected the proposed terms. This act of defiance positioned Padavium as the sole nation standing against Karthadasht's growing dominance in the region. The entire sea braced for the impending conflict, but fate had another twist in store.

Just as tensions reached their peak, Athomo lost its coastal claims, rendering Karthadasht's funding of the factions futile. The civil war within Athomo continued, distracting Karthadasht from its aggressive designs on Padavium.

And so, Padavium, under the leadership of King Alesso Macetti, remained resolute in the face of impending war. The kingdom stood as a beacon of defiance, ready to defend its sovereignty against the relentless ambitions of Karthadasht. The battle for Padavium's future had only just begun.

## Part 2: No Roads Lead to Sollas

### Inevitable Occurrence

Once a land of peace, Padavium found itself surrounded by hostile neighbors with whom it had once signed treaties. To the east, the emerging sea power of Sollas coveted a slice of Padavium, as it lacked access to the western Aerondite Sea. Noctria, on the other hand, harbored jealousy toward Padavium, witnessing their talented youth flocking to the city for a better and safer future. Noctria desired to conquer Padavium or witness its demise, but their cavalry faced a significant obstacle—the impassable mountains that separated them from their target. Desperate, they sought assistance from Karthadasht, a naval trading empire seeking to maintain its supremacy and expand its influence.

### Pre-emptive Invasion

Alesso, an experienced general, understood that defeating a naval power with an army alone would prove futile. Instead, he devised a clever plan to defend Padavium's western coast along the Aerondite Sea. He constructed walls and forts, burning the shores to make it difficult for enemy ships to land.

Realizing the importance of intelligence, Alesso dispatched spies disguised as defectors from Padavium's army to infiltrate Sollas. These spies served a dual purpose: gathering vital information for Alesso and spreading propaganda within Sollas's royal court, fueling suspicions of a bloody conspiracy that could financially benefit the ambitious kingdom known for its master blacksmiths.

While Sollas became embroiled in internal turmoil, Alesso seized the opportunity. His forces managed to capture the general of a fort stationed near the border with Padavium. Alesso coerced the captive general to write a letter, expressing fear of an imminent invasion by Padavium. The letter emphasized the urgency of reinforcements due to visible campfires and the need for immediate assistance.

Once the letter was sealed and sent to Sollas's royal court, panic ensued. The decision was made to dispatch all available men to the border, leaving Sollas vulnerable. Alesso formulated a plan to ambush the reinforcements. Utilizing the cover of a vast forest near the fort, Alesso's men disguised themselves in the captured uniforms of the fort's soldiers, while the remaining captives were hidden in the cellars. They simulated a retreat into the woods, enticing the unsuspecting reinforcements to follow.

As the reinforcements pursued the mock army, the hidden forces of Padavium lay in wait among the trees. Alesso's plan unfolded flawlessly. Fallen trees blocked the path of the unsuspecting reinforcements, crushing them mercilessly. The deafening sound of the falling timber echoed all the way to Eponith, the capital of Sollas. To further impede any additional reinforcements, the fallen trees were set ablaze, creating a chaotic distraction. Only one survivor remained, who was swiftly mounted on a fast horse and dispatched to Eponith to relay the devastating turn of events.

### The City Has Fallen

Panic gripped the city as news of a foreign army from a minor power decimating one of the region's mightiest forces spread. Alesso and his victorious army raced to Eponith, where the city gates swung open, granting them access to the royal court. Within the court, Alesso found the people ready to take matters into their own hands. They drowned the weakened court as a symbolic gesture, signifying the end of the old dynasty and the rise of a new court selected by the shared god of Solara. Alesso ensured that his chosen officials were deeply devoted to the Solara cult and fiercely loyal to him.

With Sollas weakened and its court overthrown, the once-proud nation was absorbed into the expanding Empire of Padavium, solidifying Alesso's triumph. The people of Sollas were content with Alesso, he introduced the many changes Padavium has made under Forletto Valletti, hence forth the two nations merged into one under Alesso Macetti and the war of the continents continue.

## Part 3: Had I known

### Reformer King

Once the victorious conqueror of Sollas and the revered "Reformer King" of Sollas, Alesso Macetti wasted no time in implementing sweeping changes to facilitate the smooth transition of Sollas into Padavium's realm of influence. Determined to foster unity and prosperity, he initiated a series of transformative actions that garnered admiration and praise from the citizens of Sollas.

### Change Once Again

First and foremost, Alesso abolished all tariffs between the two city-states, fostering free trade and economic cooperation. In a nod to the successful policies of his Predecessor, Forletto Valetti, he lowered taxes, easing the burden on the people and stimulating economic growth. Alesso also introduced the Florin, Padavium's currency, as the official currency of Sollas, streamlining financial transactions and promoting monetary stability.

Displaying his benevolence, Alesso forgave all the loans Sollas had taken from Padavium, alleviating the financial strain on the citizens and fostering goodwill between the two nations. Furthermore, he made the bold decision to sell off Sollas' overseas territories in the east, utilizing the proceeds to invest in the betterment of Sollas itself. Recognizing the importance of honoring the fallen, Alesso tripled the blood money compensation for those who had perished in the forest, ensuring that justice was served.

The citizens of Sollas hailed Alesso Macetti as "The Reformer King," appreciating his visionary leadership and compassionate reforms. Emboldened by their admiration and support, Alesso set his sights on his next conquest in the war: Noctria.

### Best of Planners

With the approval of Sollas and an increased number of men in his army, Alesso strategized with his closest advisors on how to proceed towards Noctria. The mountain range that separated Noctria from Padavium and Sollas posed a formidable challenge, leaving only the option of a sea route. While Noctria had access to the Aerondite Sea, Padavium now controlled the Sonnas Sea to the west. However, a narrow corridor in the mountains offered a passage for an army to traverse, igniting a spark of inspiration in Alesso's mind.

Alesso devised a cunning plan to gain a foothold in Noctria by exploiting their beliefs and employing strategic maneuvers. He ensured that his soldiers learned the art of mass boat production and rowing, while misleading Karthadasht, the ruler of Noctria, into believing that Sollas' ships would be deployed in the upcoming battle. Meanwhile, a small battalion was dispatched to the mountain corridor to construct a fort, effectively blocking the passage on Padavium's side.

The plan was set into motion. Karthadasht, preoccupied by the activities on Padavium's shores, was lured into a false sense of security as makeshift docks and boats were constructed. Noctria, unable to reach Padavium by sea, was compelled to attempt passage through the tight corridor. Padavium, seizing the opportunity, dispatched its army from Sollas' Sonnas shores in the east, strategically positioning them in the exposed flanks of Noctria's eastern hills and remote villages.

### The Time is Nigh

As the pivotal moment arrived, Alesso positioned himself at Noctria's end of the corridor, forming a formidable defensive wall with his soldiers' shields. The tension in the air was palpable as the sound of trumpets pierced the silence, signaling the impending doom for Noctria's cavalry and its ferocious warriors who fought in the name of Noctiluca , their patron god and lead by the warrior King of Noctria, Kuli Omnun.

The hearts of Kuli Omnun's men raced, their spirits faltering upon hearing the haunting sound of the trumpets. Panic spread among the ranks as the cavalry desperately tried to turn back, but chaos ensued, leading to a stampede. The cavalry, racing back towards Noctria's end of the corridor in a bid to escape, found themselves confronted by the disciplined shield wall of Alesso's soldiers. The ensuing clash claimed the lives of many, including Kuli Omnun himself, lost in the aftermath of the stampede.

In the wake of the chaos, the Senate of Noctria's capital, Naksos, recognizing the futility of resistance, sent a carrier to deliver a message to Alesso, expressing gratitude for the demise of their king and pledging allegiance to him. The people, weary of their traitorous Senate, embraced Alesso as their new leader, seeking fair terms for a peace treaty.

Alesso, aware of Nocturia's reputation for cunning and deceitfulness, devised a plan to send a powerful message to the rest of the region. Upon reaching the gates of Naksos, he offered an offering to Noctiluca, the beloved goddess of Noctria, in the form of a spider statue crafted from the blood of the Senate. Surprisingly, the people welcomed the removal of their treacherous leaders and eagerly accepted Alesso as their new ruler.

Under Alesso's leadership, Noctria underwent a period of significant transformation. Drawing inspiration from Padavium's governance model, he implemented reforms to strengthen the economy, improve infrastructure, and enhance the well-being of the citizens. Alesso established trade agreements with neighboring regions, fostering economic growth and prosperity for Noctria. He also invested in public works projects, such as the construction of roads, bridges, and irrigation systems, to improve transportation and agriculture.

Recognizing the importance of education, Alesso established schools and academies throughout Noctria, making knowledge accessible to all. He encouraged the arts, literature, and scientific advancements, promoting a culture of innovation and intellectual pursuit. Alesso also focused on social welfare, implementing policies to address poverty, inequality, and healthcare.

To solidify his rule and maintain stability, Alesso established a council composed of representatives from different regions and social groups within Noctria. This council served as an advisory body, ensuring that the voices of the people were heard and considered in decision-making processes. With the integration of Noctria into the realm of Padavium and Sollas, Alesso worked towards fostering unity among the three city-states. He encouraged cultural exchanges, organized festivals, and promoted cooperation between the regions. Alesso's vision of a united realm brought together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of shared identity and purpose.

As Alesso brought Noctria under his rule, he implemented a clause to ensure its freedom as a city-state, with the condition that Noctria would not act in a hostile manner towards Padavium. This clause aimed to maintain stability and prevent Noctria from becoming a volatile force against Padavium. This strategic move showcased Alesso's foresight and desire for a peaceful and cooperative region.

With this new development, Alesso earned the title "Generous and Just," further solidifying his reputation as a fair and benevolent leader. The people admired his ability to conquer without unnecessary bloodshed and his willingness to grant freedom to conquered territories.

However, not everyone was content with Alesso's growing fame and accolades. Some of his generals grew envious of the praises he received and became frustrated that Alesso seemed to prioritize the nobility of Sollas and Noctria over his own in Padavium. They questioned his choices and the direction in which he was taking the realm.

### Shift In Power

Meanwhile, Alesso faced a significant decision regarding the naval power of Karthadasht. With Athomo already lost and the remaining factions vying for power, Alesso realized that both he and Karthadasht had become dominant forces in the sea they bordered. It was inevitable that a confrontation would arise, as the sea was not big enough for both of them.

Alesso, however, did not wish to engage in unnecessary conflict with Karthadasht. He understood the potential consequences and sought a diplomatic solution. He convened a council of his trusted advisors and military strategists to discuss the best course of action.

While celebrating the recent victories with his men, Alesso emphasized the importance of maintaining a clear head. He discouraged excessive drinking, ensuring that his soldiers would be sober-minded the next day to make critical decisions about their next move.

The following day, Alesso gathered his advisors and generals. Aware of the increasing tensions and the potential threat posed by the naval power of Karthadasht, he weighed his options carefully. Alesso recognized that defeating Karthadasht would elevate Padavium to a major regional power and reshape the balance of the entire region. Alesso must come out on top, Alesso must Succeed.

## Part 4: Sea and Land I am in Pursue

### War Preparations

The day after Alesso collected his generals to discuss the upcoming campaign, one of his generals named Antinigo made a recommendation. Antinigo suggested that they march westwards across a narrow channel to reach Karthadasht, as the city was known for its naval power rather than land power.

Another general, Sollecus, proposed a different course of action. He advised Alesso to move the army from Noctria to the north of Padavium, where it bordered Athomo. By doing so, they could potentially win over the vast resources of the once-great empire, becoming even more powerful in the process.

Yet another general named Tolemaius brought forward an alternative idea. He asked Alesso if it would be worth considering taking boats to the shores of Athomo, north of Padavium, and seizing Karthadasht's newest footholds in Athomo.

After listening to their ideas, Alesso addressed each general in turn. He acknowledged Antinigo's suggestion but pointed out that crossing the narrow channel would expose them to difficult terrain, with dense forests and hills. Alesso mentioned that scouts were already deployed to keep a watchful eye on the hills for any intruders. He emphasized that their cavalry would be ineffective in such challenging terrain, making it unwise to proceed.

Regarding Sollecus' proposal to move the army north of Padavium, Alesso expressed concern about the logistical and security issues it would pose. Opening a new front in the war and involving another enemy would create a nightmare for Padavium. Alesso explained that it would be difficult to sustain and defend the newly acquired territories, therefore deeming the plan impractical.

As for Tolemaius' suggestion to sail the entire army to Karthadasht's newest holdings in Athomo, Alesso deemed it too risky. He argued that even if Padavium managed to capture those lands, they wouldn't be able to supply the forts by sea, thereby rendering the conquest unsustainable.

### New Flags on Sea

Alesso then presented his own plan to destroy Karthadasht in under five days. He highlighted the importance of the Aerondite Sea, which served as a vital trading route for the naval empire. Alesso revealed that by capturing the two exits of the Aerondite Sea, they could choke Karthadasht economically. Padavium could then open the exits for free trade with other realms.

The generals were initially perplexed by the idea, recognizing that it would require a stronger navy than Karthadasht's. However, Alesso explained his strategy to turn the enemy's naval supremacy against them. He proposed fitting every Padavium ship with a giant hook attached to a swivel at the front. When Karthadasht's ships attempted to ram them, the Padavium ships would latch onto the enemy vessels, transforming the naval battle into a land battle.

The generals were astounded by Alesso's ingenious plan and cheered his great insight in turning every disadvantage into an advantage. The next day, mass production began, and the shores of the Aerondite Sea bordering Padavium were quickly rebuilt. Artillery was stationed on the fort towers to repel any of Karthadasht's ships from the docks of Padavium.

Once the 200 ships were ready, they set sail to test Karthadasht's naval power. Karthadasht, overconfident, rowed towards Padavium's ships. Unaware of Alesso's plan, they believed the swivels were meant to repel them. However, the swivels dug into Karthadasht's navy, turning the Aerondite Sea from blue to dark red that day. Alesso spared one of Karthadasht's ships to send a message back to the capital, warning of the impending bloodshed and the rivers of blood that would flow through the city.

### Decline

In response, the Aristocratic Senate of Karthadasht urgently called upon their empire's forces to defend the city. Days went by without any of Alesso's ships arriving, leading Hamilbar Pulchi, the temporary leader of Karthadasht, to assume that Padavium was not yet ready for war. He sent some ships to the exits of the sea to raise funds for the city's defense.

To their surprise, when Karthadasht's ships reached the exits, they found Padavium's black and white banner flying. Their attempts to recapture the exits were in vain, as Alesso had executed a cunning move that left Karthadasht stunned and insulted.

As Karthadasht's citizens grew increasingly desperate and the costs of the war continued to rise, Hamilbar Pulchi, the temporary leader of Karthadasht, decided it was time to seek a favorable treaty with Padavium. Realizing that further suffering would only lead to more losses, he dispatched a ship bearing a white flag to Padavium, signaling their desire for peace.

Upon receiving the message, Alesso swiftly sent emissaries to Karthadasht, inviting the entire senate and Hamilbar Pulchi to Padavium for peace talks. Although hesitant due to Alesso's reputation for dealing harshly with other royal courts, the senate of Karthadasht had no other choice but to accept the invitation.

When the senate arrived in Padavium, Alesso greeted them as equals, aiming to ease tensions and foster a sense of mutual respect. He understood the importance of replacing the ruling elite of Karthadasht with leaders who would be loved by the citizens and could ensure a lasting peace. However, the senate of Karthadasht remained arrogant and entitled, still clinging to their belief in their superiority over other races and nations in the Aerondite Sea.

Alesso's patience wore thin when Hamilbar Pulchi dared to spit in his eye, a disrespectful act after witnessing the fair treaty Alesso had proposed, which would make Karthadasht equal to not only Padavium but also Noctria and Sollas. Filled with anger, Alesso impulsively murdered Hamilbar in front of the senate of Karthadasht.

Turning to the senate, Alesso asked if they approved of Hamilbar's actions, to which they responded with grins and laughter, further infuriating Alesso. In a fit of rage, Alesso executed each senate member in unique and gruesome ways, sparing none. Their deaths were a stark reminder of the consequences of underestimating and mocking Alesso's power.

After eliminating the senate, Alesso set sail for Karthadasht. However, he had no intention of inflicting the same brutality on innocent civilians. Instead, he offered them a chance to evacuate the city and seek refuge in different parts of the world, including Padavium. Although the citizens had profited immensely from the war, their fear of what might happen to them in Padavium prevented them from accepting the offer. Only a few who had demonstrated their loyalty and devotion to Alesso were permitted to come to Padavium.

With the city emptied, Alesso ensured the complete destruction of Karthadasht. He ordered the land to be sowed with salt, rendering it barren and preventing anything from growing again. The city was thoroughly plundered, filling the coffers of the new naval and land power of the Aerondite Sea.

### End

In a tragic twist of fate, it was revealed that Hamilbar, who had spat in Alesso's eye, carried a disease unknown to anyone. Alesso fell gravely ill at the young age of 37. On his deathbed, he was questioned about his successor. In his final moments, Alesso requested a scribe to document his final wishes:

* Treat neighboring nations fairly and avoid oppressing their rights.
* Protect the values of multiculturalism.
* Promote good and discourage evil.
* Ensure that the government serves the people rather than the other way around.
* Grant freedom to the conquered neighbors.
* Leave Athomo undisturbed and focus on the betterment of the city-state.

Alesso declared that he would leave no successor but entrusted the task to the People's Senate and the King's men, who would elect a new leader after him. However, they would no longer be referred to as kings but instead as Gonfalons and the 12 to elect them are to be called The Gonfalon's Men.

With Alesso's last words spoken, King Alesso Macetti was mourned for 40 days and 40 nights. As a symbol of mourning, all men in the realm shaved their heads, and women donned black attire until the 40th day after his passing.