So, I'm trying to do a run as the Chief of Thufider(the Jewish vassal of Alaniain the "Old Gods" start). I keep getting about 30 years before I get Holy Warred out of existence. Any suggestions for getting to the point where I can turn in to a merchant republic? My most recent run involved getting holy warred by the Muslim Khanate of Kazaria. After the Holy War, the King decided to revoke my title. I suppose I should have been quicker about the whole false conversion thing. Maybe I should play with secret cults and see if that helps.