Board Thread:Timeline Discussions/@comment-4923787-20130202175501/@comment-4923787-20130602180550

So after Charles's death, the brothers would have his domain divided, more or less like OTL France and the HRE's border until 1300?

But he would rule them in name, since he was King of Italy and of the Lombards. That could provide justification for vassalage or at least tribute, right?

Also, I'm confused about the issue with the Byzantine Theme system. People say it was detrimental to the Empire, but it's removal only doomed the Empire, and others say if it remained in use, it would've prevented it's end, and yet others say it only evolved, being used until the Empire's end.

If the system is indeed more troublesome to the Empire, what would a good alternative to it be when time comes to replace it?