Republic of Vizle

Summary
Vizle is a prosperous trading nation in the center of the Vizlean Sea. Vizle is known for its fine wines and furs, as well as its productive factory system. The capital of the Republic is Vizle



History
In 1250, the Romli League formed, uniting the cities of the island of Vizle (then called Romani). These cities were independent after the fall of the Empire of Colonia in 1212, as a result of the plague of 1200. The Romli League initially had a unicameral parliament with one representative from each major city. However, Vizle introduced reforms to adjust representation by GDP in 1312. Afterwards, Vizle's power grew continuously. The Du Vizle family grew in wealth as they monopolized key resources and bought up smaller states. By 1500, the Du Vizle family controlled over half of the Romli League's delegates, and a third of the population.

In 1512, Vizle called a vote to establish Vizle as the capital of the Romli League. This vote passed by a small margin. Vizle then called for a measure to increase delegates by a city's proximity to the capital. This measure led to controversy, and a debate which went against Vizle. However, a Vizlean agent assassinated a delegate from Bronrei, leading to a civil war within the Romli League. Vizle declared its independence and rallied its allies.

By 1517, the war was clearly in the favor of Bronrei. Despite Vizle's slightly superior wealth, Bronrei's allies held a quorum of the population. In a desperate act, Vizle broke through with a fleet to the Vizlean Sea and recruited a massive army of mercenaries from Fadita. With this new force, Vizle decisively defeated Bronrei in 1518 at the battle of Redsford, securing Vizlean control of the southeastern waterway. By 1522, Vizle had united the island of Romani, which was renamed Vizle.

Following its unification, Vizle worked to expand its trading power throughout the Vizlean Sea basin. Vizle invaded Kodon, and established trading hubs including Cretia, Sardia, and Modia. Vizle made trade deals with the League of Cities and the Bartimean Empire designed to ensure Vizle's luxuries reached a large population.

In 1540, Vizle supported the small fledgling city-state of Oakhewn in the War for the Gulf. Vizle used this as a springboard for expanding power in the region, participating in the Great Inquisition against Golcash. Vizle also attacked Golcash to secure better trading rights and the city of Breby in 1603. In 1690, Vizle attacked Glawel in a successful naval incursion. They used this leverage to secure their control of the cities of Jerry and Flaccaster from Golcash.

Government
Vizle is ruled chiefly by the Doge, an elected official who serves a one year term. The Doge is chosen from among the members of the Council of Vizle, a select group of Vizle's richest and most influential figures. The Council can expand or shrink its membership, removing or adding a member by a two thirds vote. The Doge also chooses a cabinet from among the Councilors, which he uses to gather support and expertise. For example, the Doge may choose a Chief General, Chief Admiral, Foreign Policy Expert, etc. He can imbue this person with authority over a specific area. The Doge must formally propose all declarations of war, alliances, and new laws or treaties, but they must be confirmed by a majority of the Council. By a two thirds vote, the Council can remove a Doge from office and temporarily rule as a Council until a new election is held.

Republic Title
Despite its title as a Republic, Vizle's Council does not directly represent the people of Vizle. Instead, some have argued that Vizle's government comprises an Oligarchy, or perhaps an Aristocracy. Typically, the Council titles are passed down among influential families. However, it is not uncommon for individual popular figures to be granted non-hereditary titles on the Council to please the public. The Council does often represent Vizle's colonies, as these can be among the easiest areas for a Vizlean noble to gain wealth. For example, Bellimag Colonia left his wealth behind in Colonia to make a name for himself in Meim, where he became a mining tycoon. Eventually, he succeeded to the Dogeship.

Military
Rise of Vizle is due to their emphasis on trade and their system of Trade Protection. For this purpose, Vizle instituted the Vizlean Trade Protectors, experienced pikemen used for defense. Vizlean trade protectors use 10 foot long pikes and massive shields, in tight formations. They are expert at defense against cavalry and can deploy into testudo formation to dampen the effects of projectiles. They are powerful but brittle, and outflanking or isolating Trade Protectors devastates them. Additionally, Trade Protectors are ineffective on the offensive and struggle with difficult terrain.