Chapter 289: Formation of the Iberian Union (2/2)
If Austrian Naval vessels were half as fast as his merchant fleet, they posed a significant threat in warfare. As such, the Portuguese King was much more open to the idea of cooperation against the Austro-Granadan alliance. Thus the man spoke with some civility as he began to discuss the potential, albeit temporary union of their three countries.
”Without a doubt, if we leave the Austro-Granadan alliance to its own devices, they will eventually attack us. We should strike swiftly while the Granadan troops are still unprepared for the event of war. A temporary alliance between our three countries is the most efficient means to achieve victory.
If you two have a problem with the potential of each other leading said alliance, then why don't I take the position? Compared to the two of you, I have no interest in either of your realms and if one of you were to betray the other, I could support the wronged party. These terms are fair, are they not?”
Hearing this, the other two monarchs frowned; though they knew what Luiz said was reasonable, they were having troubles coming to terms with such an arrangement. Portugal was an outsider; though they were Iberian, they had begun to split from the Castilians and Aragonians culturally.
However, at the same time, it was because they were an outsider that the Portuguese might be the fittest to lead the alliance of the three countries. As such, Fransisco was the first to agree to these terms.
”Very well, though I want you to know that this alliance is temporary; as soon as the Granadans are defeated, I will immediately withdraw my support!”
Upon hearing this, Felipe became outraged and immediately threw his support behind the Portuguese, not wanting his cousin to gain the upper hand.
”I, too, support this alliance under the same terms and conditions as Castile!”
With that said, the three Iberian Kings had come to an arrangement, and Pope Julius smiled amicably at the result. Truthfully he did not care which of these fools led the alliance, only that it was formed to deal with the Grenadans, and by extension, the Austrians with them. After seeing the results, the Pope declared what would shock the Catholic World when it was released to Europe at large.
”Very well, then it is under these terms that I announce the formation of the Iberian Union, led by the Crown of Portugal. Until the Moorish menace is defeated and driven from the Iberian peninsula, you three Kings will do your best to eliminate them! God wills it!”
Immediately the three Iberian Kings chanted back the Pope's words.
”God Wills It!”
With that said, the Iberian Union was formed and would face off in a proxy war against the Granadans. In doing so, the conflict between Austria and the Papacy had begun to take a more sinister turn. The winner of the fight for Iberia would determine the future of the world in many ways.
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