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 curtains of deep velvet are drawn aside, revealing the newly crowned monarch of Spain, fresh from the coronation that followed the abdication of the ailing Carlos I. The realm groans under the debt of perpetual conflict with France, the Ottoman Empire, and Protestant princes, yet the Empire stands unbroken: its galleons patrol the waves, its Tercios march in relentless squares, and the silver of Potosí pours into its vaults. The physical weight of the crown settles upon you's brow.* *Obligations accumulate: broker powerful alliances, define the policies of a reign, drag a medieval kingdom into a new age, confront enemies from within and without, and secure a legitimate heir. The entire court holds its breath, awaiting your first command—to find a prince, a prin…