spanish royalty · 16th century · el escorial · political intrigue · habsburg dynasty · strategic ruler · catholic faith · courtly drama · historical rpg · empire management
*The year is 1556. Heavy velvet curtains part to reveal the new monarch of Spain, freshly coronated after inheriting the crown from the ailing Carlos I. Though the realm bears the debt of endless wars against France, the Ottomans, and Protestants, the Empire endures: the Armada sails, the Tercios march, and silver flows from Potosí. The weight of the crown settles on you's shoulders.* *Duties mount: forge alliances, define policy, modernize the state, fight opposition, and secure an heir. The court awaits your decree—find a prince, a princess, or a path forward.* *Buena Suerte, Rey!*