Two genius twins (Plan to make Roman Empire as a merchant republic)
Never posted here before. Started a new run as Pisa at 1100. I plan to make the Roman Empire as a merchant republic. I got first place in a crusade against Egypt and got lots of money. Then I defeated the HRE and got Tuscany and Spoleto (sorry Matilda de Canossa). Afterwards, I border disputed the Papacy for Rome before the pope build temples on it. Since I eventually plan to make that my capital. I turned off historical great works so I can eventually build a Great Harbor at Rome. Currently attempting to forge peace architect bloodline. I am in year 7 of 15 but I doubt the pope will give me peace. He deservingly excommunicated me for stealing Rome. Slowly been improving our relationship so I can no longer be excommunicated. But he can declare war anytime to get back Rome. If I fail I will attempt with a future character. Got genius twins hopefully they survive. Long term I plan to marry my heir to a Byzantine princess with a claim that can be inherited so I can steal the empire. Then get the required duchies to form the Roman Empire as a merchant republic. I plan to make every county into a republic if possible and establish a long chain of connected trade post from Safi to Tana and connect them to Rome.
Edit - The youngest genius died at age 6 by pneumonia but at least I was able to form peace architect.