The Republic Reborn

[Polycarp]

The deadline for submitting your vote is Friday, June 1st.

Also, I made some changes to the unit descriptions on the first page to clarify a few things and reflect research I've done since they were originally written.  With the Emperor coming, I hope to soon have a few more to share with you. :D

[Magnus Pym]

I'm very busy this week. I was thinking perhaps I'd work on my RR things on Saturday since I've got nothing planned.
Besides, this election turn is extremely important. I don't know what the consiliarii are planning, but things are about to get hotter in Rome.

I'll try to free up my Thursday, but I can't promise I'll get much done.

[Magnus Pym]

[ic=Private Letter to Fortis Calafatus]Of course, signore. My few, but well armed men are at your disposal for the purpose of restoring peace to Civitavecchia. When I deem it is done deed, they will return under my command.
In addition to this, I will be contributing [denomination equaling 1 WP] for the security of Civitavecchia. Alas, it is all I can muster, for the coming of King Frederick also brings its own uncertainties.

On another note, I always thought you and Basile made a great pair as Consuls of Rome, but I noticed there is a lack of support for the reelection of Consul Basile. He did manifest an apparent fatigue, also. It's highly probable that the DeRosa case taxed him immensely, both politically and personally.
That said, I did give this a little bit of thought. I'm investigating whether I should present myself as a candidate for Consulship. If Basile was to leave his seat, would you be comfortable in working with me to make Rome more prosperous than it ever was?[/ic]

[ic=Private Letter to Vittorio Manzinni]Manzinni, my friend.
I wish to express my most sincere apologies for not having had the possibility to host my grand fete this summer. As you have noticed, surely, my palazzo was in the final stage of its construction. It is now completed though. Truly, it's magnificent.
I plan on inviting King Frederick to my humble abode when he gets here. I would very much like it if you joined and took part in this prestigious gathering, should it take place.

The coming of Frederick at this time means alot of things for Rome. In general; change. Consul Basile, with all due respect, might be seen by some as a weak choice to represent the city of Rome during the German's King visit, considering many things. Personally I'm not of this opinion, but I know the more radical wing of the Senate will probably not be voting for him, and they are numerous and have a certain amount of influence that is not to be underestimated.
I am investigating whether or not I should take up the candidacy. I think we can agree to say that reinstating the rule of Law is a priority for the consiliarii, but it will amount to no good if radicals are given a chief role in this matter. I haven't expelled the Pope, I haven't declared war on neighbors, I've had friendly contacts with the outside, I've helped the people of Rome and I've made myself a friend of my fellow Romans. I hardly see any other candidate better suited to represent Rome in these trying times.
Would you feel comfortable with having me run for Consulship?[/ic]

[ic=Private Letter to Romelo Vanetti]Vanetti, friend.
The construction of my palazzo is completed, and I hope to host a reception for the King of Germany, Frederick, when he gets here. Since I didn't host my usual fete this summer, perhaps you would like to join us should it ever take place?

There's a matter which I find important we should discuss. One of the Consuls has been strained by recent events, both politically and personally. It's likely, though not entirely sure, that he will be replaced by another in these elections.
No finger pointing, but it's in the best interest of Rome that radicals not be appointed to such an important role.
So, I'm investigating whether I should, or not, propose myself as a candidate for Consulship. I never judged controversial cases, have made many friends and haven't openly declared war against neighbors. I think it's a great start for a new Consul of Rome.

What do you think?[/ic]

[ic=Private Letter to Arrigus Sismondii]
Signore Sismondii,
Our views have largely been the same all along. We've had our... difficulties, but as responsible leaders we set aside our quarrels and made peace for the better of all. This is commendable.

These times are trying ones for Rome, with the impending arrival of Frederick and all. It is becoming more and more apparent one of the Consuls is under pressure to leave his post. Should that happen, radicals must not be allowed to take over such important roles.
Because of this, I've pondered whether I would appeal to the Senate, compared to the other possible candidates. Considering everything, my take on this would be yes; I would. But clarification from my closer colleagues on if they'd be comfortable with this begs me to ask you; what do you think?[/ic]

[Polycarp]

[ooc=Voting Update]Several players have requested an extension of the voting; in addition, there is some discussion going on about the voting system right now.  As a result, the voting deadline is delayed to a not-yet-decided date.  If you have already posted your vote, that's fine; if you haven't, you may wish to hold off for a little while, but I highly recommend continuing to discuss your vote IC so you are ready when I post a new due date for voting.  Thanks![/ooc]

[LD]

[ic=Private to DeRosa]

Relay this letter to me to DeRosa:

Interesting news. What do you make of this friend. It comes from DaVinti, of whom we have spoken before. It appears he is not pleased with Basile's leadership these times and that he wishes to have good relations with the Emperor.

"Manzinni, my friend.
I wish to express my most sincere apologies for not having had the possibility to host my grand fete this summer. As you have noticed, surely, my palazzo was in the final stage of its construction. It is now completed though. Truly, it's magnificent.
I plan on inviting King Frederick to my humble abode when he gets here. I would very much like it if you joined and took part in this prestigious gathering, should it take place.

The coming of Frederick at this time means alot of things for Rome. In general; change. Consul Basile, with all due respect, might be seen by some as a weak choice to represent the city of Rome during the German's King visit, considering many things. Personally I'm not of this opinion, but I know the more radical wing of the Senate will probably not be voting for him, and they are numerous and have a certain amount of influence that is not to be underestimated.
I am investigating whether or not I should take up the candidacy. I think we can agree to say that reinstating the rule of Law is a priority for the consiliarii, but it will amount to no good if radicals are given a chief role in this matter. I haven't expelled the Pope, I haven't declared war on neighbors, I've had friendly contacts with the outside, I've helped the people of Rome and I've made myself a friend of my fellow Romans. I hardly see any other candidate better suited to represent Rome in these trying times.
Would you feel comfortable with having me run for Consulship?
"

[/ic]

[Túrin]

[ic=Reply to Manzinni]Esteemed Senator Manzinni,

Thank you for your letter. The peace and prosperity of Rome is indeed a wish close to my heart. It is with this goal that I was elected to the Senate and it is this goal I have tried to work towards.

Thoughts on the leadership of Rome are indeed on my mind these days, although I must say I find it hard to reach conclusions. I have made it my only goal to support for the Consulate a God-fearing Senator who does not place his own interests above those of our fair city, but it seems hard to find such Senators these days.

One could perhaps support Consul Calafatus, but given his popularity with both the populace and the senate it seems that he requires no support to secure his re-election.

Consul Basile, on the other hand, seems to be less popular with the populace, and as you point out has a history that may make him less suitable to lead Rome at this juncture, with the Emperor on our doorstep.

If, indeed, new leadership is needed, the question is, who will it be? Are you proposing yourself as a candidate? If so, I might support you, although I would like to know first how you plan to approach the Pope and the Emperor. It is no secret that you are not a great friend of the Pope. Do you mean to change this? It is hardly my desire to hand control of Rome back to the cloth.

I would have you know that my friend Senator De Vinti approached me with a similar question, in fact explicitly asking for my opinion on his potential candidacy for the Consulate. I will ask him the same questions: how shall we deal with the Emperor and the Pope? But I would also like to hear your opinion on this matter. If we both decided to support De Vinti, or if we could convince De Vinti to agree to support yourself, I believe we would stand a great chance to get our candidate elected.

Senator Romolo Vannetti[/ic]

[ic=Reply to De Vinti]Esteemed Senator and friend,

It is good to hear from you in these troubling times, when a man needs any advice he can get to make the right choices in this vital election for the peace and prosperity of our beloved city.

It is, perhaps, an even greater delight to hear that your palazzo is finished, congratulations!, and to be invited to a reception in honor of King Frederick. Your legendary feasts are known to tickle all of the senses in the most exquisite manner, and I can only imagine how joyous an occasion it will be in your new residence and in the company of such a distinguished guest. I will await the formal invitation with great anticipation.

Now, on to the matter of the Consular election. I cannot but agree with you that, at least for the time being, re-electing Consul Basile would seem a less than optimal choice. I say this with no disrespect to his person or his efforts for our grand city.

The question remains who we would propose to replace him. For me, it would have to be someone who can and will place the interest of Rome above his own, a trait that seems hard to find in the current crop of Senators. I would welcome your candidacy, and I would strongly consider supporting it. Before I make any promises though, let me ask you how you plan to deal with the Pope and the would-be Emperor. It seems dangerous to anger King Frederick, but I hardly desire to hand control of Rome back to the cloth. I am eager to learn how you would walk this tightrope.

I will let you know that I have also received word from Senator Manzinni, asking who I would support in the upcoming election. I asked him how he wants to deal with the Pope and the King as well. It is my hope that we can come to an agreement and all support the same candidate. Such a candidate would stand a great chance to be elected.

Senator Romolo Vannetti[/ic]

[Magnus Pym]

[ic=Private Letter to Romolo Vannetti]Thank you for your kind words, Romolo.

As my friend, you know that I don't hide my preference for the views of Arnold de Brescia. Nonetheless, the respect the Pope commands is undeniable. Where people see heresy in Arnold, they see goodwill and benevolence in the Pope.
Though one must not forget that a considerable part of the Roman populace leans greatly on Arnold's side. That is why he is still here among us, preaching the true ways of God.
If I would have the last word on the matter of the Pope reinstating himself in his palace, I would agree. Though he would be denied any say in matters of state. Of course, as is his duty he can preach and cajole, but shall never direct under my guard.
Frederick, it is widely known, is good friends with the Pope. As you said, he is also a man of great means that is not to be underestimated.
Not allying ourselves with the Pope would probably spell doom on Rome.

In the end, I would advocate a rapprochement with the papacy, and welcome Frederick with open arms, though hoping he would quickly take his leave. Having him in the Eternal City for too long is just not a good idea. I must be honest that I would attempt this more out of necessity than out of sincerity. The Romans are well off without the Pope, but the pressure is extreme from all sides. We must reunite once again or face the possible dire consequences.

The passage of Frederick in our beloved city is only temporary, though. As a Consul, I would have to work towards long term goals. The unity of Rome is indeed, for me, a priority. As it is now, things are far too chaotic. There needs to be order.[/ic]

[Elemental_Elf]

[ic=Private to Manzini]

Dear friend, that is stupendous news for our cause! We could easily use the extra weight of such a fresh and upstanding citizen. Though you know I would prefer you over any other candidate, if the politics of the moment deem that we support another, then politics be praised. I suppose the question now becomes, how heavily do we support the good Senator? Should we enact our plan and support him unquestioningly or allow the chips to fall as they may? DaVinti is not a completely known quantity. He is upstanding, for sure, but can we trust the fate of Rome to his hand?

As always, I defer to your wise judgment,

Senator DeRosa. [/ic]

[Polycarp]

[ooc=June 5th]The new deadline for the 1154 election is Tuesday, June 5th.  Please get your votes in by then.[/occ]

[Magnus Pym]

[ic=Speech at the Senate during a full house]
Senators,
Today I come to you as someone filled with hope.
It has come to my attention that many wish to see new blood steering the wheel of our magnificent Rome.
While I am of the opinion that Consul Basile and Consul Calafatus make a great pair, I agree that someone new might give Rome some relief in these terribly difficult times.

The politics instated by our great Consul Basile in regards to the law are good, there is no doubt about that. But it has been said before and I shall repeat it; it could use some improvement.
The defenses of Rome are looking sharp, in contrast to about four years ago. And Rome is more united now than it was then.
That only scratches the surface. In reality, their work is much greater, and Rome today is a force to be reckoned with; whatever our neighbors and foreigners say.

Today, I come forward and present my candidacy for Consulship. The advantages for my being elected Consul this year are many.
I did not have altercations with high profile personages, at least in a bad way.
I did not declare war on close neighbors or even far foreign civilizations.
And the people of Rome, and farther, like me for the most part.

I am a benevolent visage in this cloud of turmoil.
Today my friends, I open up to you with promises of a better Rome; more prosperous and on which others take example.
I will do anything in my power to elevate Rome to the state of most prestigious city in the world.

*Bows politely to the crowd*[/ic]

[ooc=Autumn Elections]
Vote: 5 Votes for Hugo De Vinti[/ooc]

[Elemental_Elf]

[ooc=Fall Election]VOTE: 6 Votes for HUGO DE VINTI[/ooc]

[Polycarp]

[ooc=Election of 1154]Current Tally

Votes Cast: 30
Votes Remaining: 5
Total Votes: 35

Hugo De Vinti will receive 16 votes.
Fortis Calafatus will receive 15 votes.

Total Votes includes only currently active players.  All players are free to change their votes until midnight of June 5th CDT, when all results become final.  You may PM bribery orders to me until this same deadline.

There's only one more day left to vote - if you haven't voted yet, do it now (or PM me if you need more time for some reason).[/ooc]

Edited to reflect the votes below.

[Nomadic]

[ooc=Election]
4 votes to Fortis
1 votes to Hugo De Vinti
[/ooc]

[Túrin]

[ooc=Election of 1154]4 votes to Hugo de Vinti
1 vote to Fortis Calafatus[/ooc]

[LD]

[ooc]3 da Vinti
2 Fortis[/ooc]

Sorry that I've been out.