I thought this might be a minor but fun thematic change. Instead of using the master's spy name list, the spy appointed as a diplomat in the vassal's capital would be pulled from the vassal's spy name list. Think Vichy France - the "diplomat" is in fact a local asset with experience in the vassal country who is promoted as a 'handler' for the puny vassal state's affairs.
Because of the origin and nature of this "diplomat", it's also fine if it appears before spies are unlocked.
This adds a touch of realism (rulers with client states need local 'keys to power' to extend their rule) and synergizes with the following already-implemented mechanics:
Since the target never learns the name of a spy/diplomat, that shouldn't create any issue in terms of the same name appearing twice. Because these diplomats can never be killed, it's also fine to just pick a random name from the list without worrying about whether it's been used before, in cases where a vassal breaks free or is attacked by the master, and then re-vassalized.
Because of the origin and nature of this "diplomat", it's also fine if it appears before spies are unlocked.
This adds a touch of realism (rulers with client states need local 'keys to power' to extend their rule) and synergizes with the following already-implemented mechanics:
- When vassals capitulate, many diplomatic penalties are reset - this could be the work of the new collaborationist regime.
- There is an opinion bonus from this Diplomat's presence provided the vassal is being treated well. If the vassal is being treated poorly, this bonus disappears (public opinion turning against the collaborationist regime).
- Vassals are forced to have shared embassies and Open Borders with the master, and lack political independence in war/peace.
Since the target never learns the name of a spy/diplomat, that shouldn't create any issue in terms of the same name appearing twice. Because these diplomats can never be killed, it's also fine to just pick a random name from the list without worrying about whether it's been used before, in cases where a vassal breaks free or is attacked by the master, and then re-vassalized.
