tight fiber
This is just my opinion. But this is dumb. I understand his passive is to get around the relationship requirements, but I think there should be something that limits him from declaring on an ally specifically. Then Machiavelli would actually have to strategize their alliances.
I was thinking something like a surprise war penalty if you were allied within the last 10 turns. This way, it only punishes you for allying with somebody you want to go to war with. Being able to declare without penalty at Unfriendly, Neutral, Friendly, and Helpful would still be very strong, and most of the time your relationships will be in one of those categories anyways. So this change wouldn't have a major effect, but still forces Machiavelli to consider alliances more carefully.
An alliance is supposed to be a special agreement of peace and teamwork. Imagine a real world example. if the US and UK broke out into war. We have an alliance. But just because one dude is convincing enough, we aren't allowed to sanction or punish them for it? we can only go through normal tariff and social media denouncement channels? This was an agreement that was broken, not just a relationship requirement by sending more trade routes.
I just think alliances should feel more special. Maybe my complaint is coming from that. If alliances were stronger, denying them from Machiavelli could be an effective counter. Or if there was a special "Alliance Destroyer" sanction or something that could be used when allies declare on you (machiavelli or not). I believe there is room to make this concept more interesting and fun
hearty pilot