Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor

"Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I's warfare experience has taught him the weaknesses of relying on foreign mercenary armies. We believe we have found a way to bribe him, to turn him against any allies he may have in Roma. Perhaps we can further divide the attention of our enemies."

―The Assassins, regarding Maximilian I.

Maximilian I (22 March 1459 – 12 January 1519), born Maximilian von Habsburg, was the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire from 1493 until his death.

Members of the Assassin Order (disguised as condottieri) sent by Ezio Auditore da Firenze, brought Maximilian proof regarding Rodrigo Borgia's hiring of Swiss commanders to form his Papal Guard. In light of this development, Maximilian became irate, as he was defeated by the Swiss in the Swabian War of 1499. The emperor then used Swiss mercenaries, elite soldiers and several Assassins to form his own mercenary force, the Landsknechte.

Reference

• Assassin's Creed: Project Legacy - Contracts