ARCHIVE - Court of His Holiness in Rome

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As Cardinal Corleone berates Duke Henry and Emperor Constantine, Cardinal Alan Banastre, Cardinal Archbishop of Canturbury digests His Holiness' words.

Although he is a pious and, indeed, a fundamentally good man, Cardinal Banastre has not been left untainted by earthly politicking. He finds it hard to mask the disappointment he feels at Pope Nicholas' response, which he knows will not please the King of England. That the Archbishop has performed the most dutiful displays of homage expected of the English Archbishopric will be bitter consolation.

"His advice transcends the war in England, and there is wisdom in it, but is it the true wisdom of Christ or a sermon designed to prevent the Church from getting it's hands dirty?" These are Banastre's thoughts, although he dare not voice them!

Cardinal Banastre kisses Nicholas' ring finger once more, thanks him for His words of council, and stands. He walks past the escalating arguement without looking at the protagonists, but nods in greeting to his peer, Cardinal Corleone.

Then Banastre does a double take and turns back to the Papal Throne,

"Oh. Please forgive me, Holiness. Did you mention there was a letter that I should take back to England?"

 

[Fireblade]

Duke Henry smiles slightly and nods in deference to the Cardinal.

"I meant no offense, your Eminence. It only angers me to see the good name of King René, a pious King dedicated only to the Mother Church, to be so openly and cruelly mocked in front of the very presence of his Holiness.

As for these new charges brought against his Majesty, we did not find it in our interests to fight for the gain of Venice, who has done some very.. ah.. 'interesting' things as of late. After all, was it not Venice that provoked His Majesty Ladislav to war? Hardly a 'holy struggle' against 'heretical forces' invading Italy, if I say so myself. Additionally, King René has not been summoned to Rome, so I do not see any reason why he should not go to Nurenburg instead of Rome.

Again, your Eminence, I do not mean to mock the dignity of the Patrimonium Petri, I only wish to defend the dignity of His Majesty René from this verbal assassination.

I must also bring up the point again that the Caesar Constantine has not addressed the irregularities of his coronation as King of Aragon, which, for all intents and purposes, is the real reason we're here. His Holiness, instead of hearing the Caesar's defense of my allegation that he is a pretender and usurper to the throne of Aragon, has only heard profanity and empty words."

 

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Rome, Pontifical States

Constantine stared at the Neapolitan.

"You misunderstand, Cardinal Corleone.. We have lost many popes as of late, and as the Defender of the Faith, I feel it my responsibility to protect from even the slightest threat to the Pontiff's health... As for my status as King of Aragon, it is none of the concern of the, Duke of Calabria... I find it interesting that Renatus of Anjou was not summoned to Rome.. I was summoned, it sounds only reasonable that the man who is sent to be my detractor be the man with actual authority in Naples... Then again, the Pontiff has not spoken, only listened. the fact that your King broke a treaty he signed in good faith before God means that the treaty in mention has been nullified. In doing so, he signed his own fate, Duke Henry.. as the forces of Apulia control half of his realm and threaten to move northward... But all of this discussion could have been addressed by a letter. Why are we discussing this amongst ourselves? We were summoned before the Pope.. we should be speaking directly to him..."

Constantine bowed.

"Your Holiness, My claims to Naples are simple. Renatus was given the Neapolitan throne with provisions... He swore before God that he would send monetary or military aid any conflicts where my Greek claims were an issue. He did nothing of the sort. Therefore the abdication of claims by Alfonso V is no longer valid, as Renatus of Anjou has besmirched the documents he has signed. My claims on the throne of Naples are twofold. I am acknowledged by the Matriarch of the House of Trastamara as a member of said house, inheriting all claims of the house of Barcelona and Kings of Aragon past. Sicily and Naples had been one realm for centuries when they first revolted from Angevin rule. the House of Barcelona had a claim through Hohenstaufen lineage, and they took Sicily with no objection from the Pope. Naples, too, was part of this claim, as it was ruled by the Imperial house of Hohenstaufen... And as such, Naples became ruled by the Aragonese King... until Renatus marched on Naples. The Anjou were removed from Sicily by the Sicilians because of their terrible policies, and now they face the same problem with the Neapolitans. This is the Sicilian Vespers all over again. the Neapolitans feel he does not have a legitimate claim to rule without tribute to me..."

Winded, Constantine paused, and took a short break.

"I apologize, Holiness. If I may continue... Naples was part of the Roman Empire for centuries. Recaptured by Emperor Justinian of the East in the Sixth century, and they held it until the Eleventh Century, where it was taken by the House of Hauteville, later considered unlawful by the Papacy and the Pope asked the Hautevilles to be removed. Clearly, the Empire had the strongest claim, but as they were not of the true faith, the Pope gave it to the only Catholic emperor, the King of Germany... of the same Hohenstaufen dynasty. The Empire is now Catholic, Father. the Claims of the Empire, as well as the claim of the throne of Aragon of claims once held by the House of Hohenstaufen make it legally clear that if the King of Naples refuses to keep his oaths before God, to keep such promises, then it may be brought to a conclusion that none of us assembled here would look forward to. The event in which he broke tribute can be considered nothing less than a revolt. He waited until my armies were far away in Greece, then he attempted to make an alliance with the Throne of France as he schemed and plotted. the Duke of Calabria only states the verses of the treaties that are beneficial to his claim, however, if one line of the treaty is broken, then the entire treaty is henceforth null and void. Renatus of Anjou broke the treaty, Your Holiness, and any claims dropped by Alfonso V have no impact on that of Constantine I's Roman claims.. and now that the treaty has been broken, the claims of the Houses of Trastamara, Hohenstaufen, and Barcelona are no longer legally dropped. Father, you are a man of God. I know it was only recent that you were given the throne of St. Peter, but I have faith in both you and the Lord above that this can be resolved peacefully. That is why I came myself, instead of sending a lowly Duke. Tell me, Duke Henry, is Calabria not under the banner of so-called Rebels loyal to my banner as we speak?"

 

[Fireblade]

Duke Henry meets secretly with Cardinal Corleone later that night.

"Your Eminence.. surely you have seen the lies that Constantine has uttered to his Holiness. He did not issue any sort of defense for his false claims to Aragon, but instead, rambled on and on about how the Roman Empire is reviving and will annex Naples, or some foolishness to that effect.

Ah, your Eminence.. you are a man of great power and prestige in the Church. King René wants to be sure that the Pope rules in his favor, for even though Constantine is a charlatan, usurper, and possible heretic, his ill-gotten Kingdom is very powerful, and poses a threat to the Kingdom of Naples. King René will do or give anything.. anything, to make sure the Pope will rule in his favor.

Perhaps your Eminence would assist the King of Naples in this matter..? The rewards could be very great indeed.."

 

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A Time to Tear and A Time to (M)end​

For three days he had stood vigil, hoping and praying that it would not come to this. For three days, like Jesus in his tomb, he had stood in agony hoping that his cousin might recognize him. Three days he had watched as various minor functionaries and courtiers went about their business, recognized by the Pope, while family languished, ignored and spurned by all. Like Jesus his soul had died, but could he now hope to resurrect it? Or perhaps only a Messiah could grant such healing.

No longer. Let us end this.

“Cousin!”

“Do you not recognize me, Rainmund? Do you not know the one who you spurned as traitor, who all he cared most deeply for turned their backs on him? Why do you not know me, you who have risen so high? Does the high seat blind your eyes from the needs that were once so close to home? I called to you and you did not come. You summoned me yet you did not call me forth. Am I forever to be tossed about by demands and imperious oaths and orders? What must I do to redeem myself, Nicholas, Rainmund, Wittelsbach?”

His voice growing more and more intense, even approaching a maddened shriek, Albrecht the Third of his name, Duke of Bavaria, Prince of Empire, honorable soldier, von Wittelsbach, approaches the throne. In one smooth, swift motion he tears into the thick, soiled cloak and pulls a dagger from a hidden pocket. Lifting it unsteadily, the point weaving through the air in a complex dance that had more to do with insanity than training, the voice resumes its monologue, seemingly detached from the body issuing the words forth.

“I have done all I could, cousin, all I could. What would you have of me that has not already been taken? What would you have of me?"

Tears begin falling from bloodshot eyes, too heavy with pain to express anything else.

"No greater love hath a man then he lay down his life for another. Shall I bleed for you, cousin?”

With a sudden gesture, red blossoms in the dirty white of the traveling tunic. The blood that had so cursed him these past years dripped onto the white marble, pooling on the pure and holy ground.

“Shall I die for you, cousin?”

In another swift motion, red blossoms from the Duke’s chest. The wool soaked in much of the liquid, forming a bloody crimson cross on white. Falling to his knees several yards before the throne of Peter, simple Albrecht stared intently into the eyes that represented so much of the pain inflicted upon his tortured mind.

“Is it thus that all Judases must find their redemption before the world?”

The room began spinning around; the dagger was a distant clatter as it bounced on the floor. Crying for everything he had ever done, the pious knight collapsed into a pitiful heap as darkness claimed his vision.

 

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" SACRILEGE ! "​

Corleone leaps to his feet, even before the Swiss guard react to the wildly flailing dagger of the maddened Duke. Leaping between the pontiff and the duke to shield the Holy father he calls to the guards.

As the drama unfolds and the madman strikes at himself Cardinal Dom Corleone checks the Holy Father is not threatened and moves to the possessed man to try to stem the blood flow in the holy precincts.

"Send for a healer ! We cant let this blasphemer complete his evil intent ! We can have no suicideds in the Holy see ! Aid me !"

It was much later when he secretly met with Duke Henry



* Event due. Subject to events miester.

 

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- EVENT -

The Bloodied Knife

​

Albrecht the Third of his name, Duke of Bavaria, Prince of Empire, honorable soldier, von Wittelsbach, approaches the throne. In one smooth, swift motion he tears into the thick, soiled cloak and pulls a dagger from a hidden pocket.

"Shall I die for you, cousin?"

In another swift motion, red blossoms from the Duke’s chest. The wool soaked in much of the liquid, forming a bloody crimson cross on white. Falling to his knees several yards before the throne of Peter, simple Albrecht stared intently into the eyes that represented so much of the pain inflicted upon his tortured mind.

"Is it thus that all Judases must find their redemption before the world?"

The room began spinning around; the dagger was a distant clatter as it bounced on the floor. Crying for everything he had ever done, the pious knight collapsed into a pitiful heap as darkness claimed his vision.




TABLE:

1.Despite the fast reactions of, among others, Cardinal Corleone and several Swiss guardsmen on guard, the wounds inclicted are to grave. Duke Albrect dies later tha evening, and an entire duchy is left without leader, and fearing for their previous dukes immortal soul[/color]
(Albrect III of Bavaria is dead, -2 morale to Bavaria for half a year/2 turns)

2.Though healers work hard throughout the night, and priests pray, the selfinflicted wounds are just to deep. It is later said that even as Albrect was carried away, he was dead.
The duchy of Bavaria is left wondering why their duke would commit suicide, and fear for their future.[/color]
(Albrect III of Bavaria is dead, -1 morale to Bavaria for for half a year/2 turns)[/color]

3
The wounds are deep, and even though moans can be heard as the duke is hurried away, proving that he was at least alive as he was carried out, the Bavarian duke dies of his wounds during the night. (no effect) (Albrect III of Bavaria is dead)

4
Pure luck saves the duke. Even though the knife cuts deep wounds in both chest and stomach, it does miss important organs. After three days, healers declare the duke save, allthough he is recommended to keep to bed for at least an additional week.
Back in Bavaria, the nobility wonder what could have caused such an desperate act, and as news reach them that the duke survives, they fear that a madman shall rule them for years to come.
(Albrect III of Bavaria survives., -1 morale to Bavaria for for half a year/2 turns)

5-6.
Tiredness saves the dukes life. His long wait have weakened his arm, and the dagger does not penetrate his ribs to cause any real damage. Within a few days, the duke can stand and walk again, ready to answer for his actions. (Albrect III of Bavaria survives.)

ROLL:4

RESULT:(Albrect III of Bavaria survives., -1 morale to Bavaria for for half a year/2 turns)

 

[Blinky]

Carlos' Petitions

Still kneeling before the Pope of the Catholic Church, King Carlos of Navarra, clad in the simplest of cloth, looks up for the first time to meet the gaze of the holy father.

"Your Holiness, you do me and my household great honor by your calls of praise. I shall indeed share my stories with you and your scribes, including the individually unique petitions of villages and saints across the lands of Christendom."

Before continuining in his story, Carlos again pauses as before and sighs.

"The man who has accompanied my journey but does not appear before you, sits, I'm certain, in the heavenly city this very moment. Shortly before the battle of Ugo's Demise as it has become known here, Friar Bernardo and I found passage through the Alps that were free from the gathering arms and soldiers of kings and dukes across the land. Shaking the very earth's foundations, the yeomen and nobility passed across the very fields where we intened to make camp." Carlos' eyes lose their focus on the pope while he remembers these specific memories.

"Whether they were brigands of the land or abject mercenaries bent on wrecking havoc, a group of men overtook us late in the night. Demanding whatever goods we carried, all we could point to were the clothes that we wore. With no treasure to be sought, these men sought different recompense. Seeking to do harm to us both, I must inform Your Holiness that Friar Bernardo fought on behalf of my defense.

He knew and prayed for this day when he might be tested worthy of our Lord. As I sought to join in the struggle, a slash of sword and spear intended for my skin caught Bernardo as he took the wounds on my behalf. I shan't go into further detail of the carnage and inhumanity of my tormentors, but the nearby patrols of one army were heard and these hoods fled leaving my battered soul and my companion."

Carlos stopped briefly, wondering how to phrase the remainder of his journey and how he managed to make the rest of his pilgrimage.

"I buried and did homage on his behalf. My only comfort during the rest of the journey were the memories of conversation I held with Bernardo and I realize now the purpose of these prayers I have been commanded to learn. They have shown the light of God in the darkness of the devilish night. To gather all these stars together shall illuminate your path once again.

It is on Bernardo's behalf, that my personal petition of you would be to honor him as the a faithful servant of the Church.

As for the stories and petitions I hold within my chest, I warn Your Holiness of the stark nature of some stories. My journeys have taken me from the depths of despair and sin back to blessedness. Steel yourself for what I am to tell you."

For the remainder of the day, Carlos regaled the tales of his pilgrimage from the shores of Normandy all the way to Rome. In the midst of these stories, Carlos calmly tells of how some peasants were denied access to shrines on account of greed, the generosity of he poorest of the poor sharing a single slice of bread with their fellow companions, and the different peoples Carlos met on the roads of pilgrimage, both good and bad. Most evident across the story is the tale of conversion of Carlos himself as he chafed under the strictures of the pilgrimage only to find solace and joy in this lifestyle over the past two years.

By the end of the day, Carlos' voice was ragged, but he spoke always on a focus to what he saw and how God revealed a new truth to him upon his further reflection. With the sun down, Carlos speaks of the nding days leading to Rome.

"As Your Holiness knows, a great mass of pilgrims awaited your election and I joined in their company here in Rome to await your ascension. And by the grace of God, I have met you at last and for this day, I am grateful. However, I have reacquainted myself with men loyal to me sent here by my steward of the kingdom. Their tales of intrigue, war, and new alliance have not yet been heard by my ear.

As much as I regret to do so, I must give up the pilgrim life. I have been given the burden of ruling, to be as the Church's protector and representative of the Kingdom. A task, now, that I wholeheartedly take up and ask for your blessing and contrition for my soul.

I imagine I shall stay here in Rome before I return to my home, so should you have any further will of me, I am but an obedient servant."

Finally arising from this day-long vigil kneeling before the Pope, Carlos rises to his feet and bows to the Pope. Departing the hall, Carlos spends the next few days with his fellow countrymen sent to ensure his protection on his return to Navarra. True to his word, Carlos stays in the company of the Pope while allowing the many others to speak as he had done on his day. With growing knowledge of the Neapolitan conflict, Carlos consents to meet with Duke Henry.

"You have my ear, Your Grace, of what are we to discuss?"

The arrival of Constantine himself provides a shock to Carlos. Sending conciliatory letters of apology, Carlos explains his absence that he wishes all people, even Constantine, to petition the Holy Father to pray for forgiveness for their sins.

 

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Cardinal Archbishop Peder Ulfeld of Lund, Metropolitan of Denmark, requested an audience with the Pope quietly. His stature was hunched over, and his eyes set deep in his head. One could tell he was tired and weary, and the last thing he welcomed was conflict. Perhaps this was because his home was a Kingdom that for years knew nothing but conflict.

As he stood hoping for an audience, he heard of the arguments between the Neapolitan and the Greek. He rubbed his temples to keep from getting a headache from the incessent ramblings and romours that were flying about because of it. But it was the news of the dagger incident, which he did not witness, that reminded him why he didnt like to venture outside of his residence anymore.

He could only hope that he would be given a private audience with the Holy Father.

 

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After making sure that the mad Duke Albrecht was placed under "open" guard and close medical attendance, in a secluded room in the west wing ,so the Holy father could take him in hand to answer for his crimes and he could make no further attempts on his own life. He went to a meeting with Duke Henry.

It was a pleasant evening so the walk in the gardens with a screen of "secret" praetorian order men at arms was not to unpleasant. It was just that there was a girl waiting and her friend. It had better be a good reason for this secret meeting.

He was already well disposed toward the duke due to his obvious influence on his cardinal, but he knew many that were helpful in the hope of favours with one such as he.

The duke was let through the security screen and began to speak.

"Your Eminence.. surely you have seen the lies that Constantine has uttered to his Holiness. He did not issue any sort of defence for his false claims to Aragon, but instead, rambled on and on about how the Roman Empire is reviving and will annex Naples, or some foolishness to that effect.

Ah, your Eminence.. you are a man of great power and prestige in the Church. King René wants to be sure that the Pope rules in his favor, for even though Constantine is a charlatan, usurper, and possible heretic, his ill-gotten Kingdom is very powerful, and poses a threat to the Kingdom of Naples. King René will do or give anything.. anything, to make sure the Pope will rule in his favor.

Perhaps your Eminence would assist the King of Naples in this matter..? The rewards could be very great indeed.."

Corleone listens and decides not to insult the Duke with acting innocently.

"Your Grace. You flatter me to think I hold that much sway with his holiness "

A depreciating bow.

"I can make no such claim.... But.... His Holiness has an open ear to ANY of his Cardinals. Perhaps I will consider your comments in good favour and "look into" the situation."

* Not that it matters who's in the right * He thinks. * I can twist anything to be seen in the right light *

"I have a small chapel that will shortly be consecrated to a saint. It is in dire need of renovation....." He looks meaningfully at the Duke. "Do you know anyone that might donate significant finance to help me in this holy mission?"

He thinks a moment

"Has your king considered putting himself under Papal protection? A few years of being a vassal might be presented in the right light if handled by one "In the know" ? "


.

 

[Fireblade]

"Your Grace. You flatter me to think I hold that much sway with his holiness "

A depreciating bow.

"I can make no such claim.... But.... His Holiness has an open ear to ANY of his Cardinals. Perhaps I will consider your comments in good favour and "look into" the situation."

* Not that it matters who's in the right * He thinks. * I can twist anything to be seen in the right light *

"I have a small chapel that will shortly be consecrated to a saint. It is in dire need of renovation....." He looks meaningfully at the Duke. "Do you know anyone that might donate significant finance to help me in this holy mission?"

He thinks a moment

"Has your king considered putting himself under Papal protection? A few years of being a vassal might be presented in the right light if handled by one "In the know" ? "

Duke Henry ponders for a moment, and replies in English, a language he knows that Cardinal Corleone understands, and that any Aragonese spy would more than likely not know.. just to be sure.

"Yes, King René has considered placing himself under Papal protection.. however, we both know the ways of this world. Once a Prince gains something, he loathes to return it or lose it, no matter what the circumstances are. It is a last resort, if it appears Constantine will strike.

Of course, your Eminence. King René has given me command of an account with a prominent Jew banker here in Rome, should any.. difficulties arise. I would be most happy to transfer enough coin to your accounts, to cover the cost of repairs to this chapel. I admit, your Eminence, that I have fallen a bit behind on my tithes as well, and I feel I must donate some of my own money for the repairs of this chapel. After all, one of God's saints deserves the best."

Duke Henry kisses the Cardinals ring, and bows.

"The hour is late, and I fear that in the morning I'll have to argue with the Greek again, for he does not shut up with his insane ramblings about his failed 'Empire'. I trust that you'll speak to the Pope, and put in a good word for King René.."

Duke Henry bows again, and leaves. In the morning, a messenger leaves a letter at the Cardinal's apartment, which he reads after his wild threesome with the two young girls. The letter is a notice from a local banker, informing him that 300,000 Venetian ducats, a vast sum, had been transferred to Corleone's private account, with a handwritten note at the bottom:

"For the Chapel.

-Duke Henry"

Finally arising from this day-long vigil kneeling before the Pope, Carlos rises to his feet and bows to the Pope. Departing the hall, Carlos spends the next few days with his fellow countrymen sent to ensure his protection on his return to Navarra. True to his word, Carlos stays in the company of the Pope while allowing the many others to speak as he had done on his day. With growing knowledge of the Neapolitan conflict, Carlos consents to meet with Duke Henry.

"You have my ear, Your Grace, of what are we to discuss?"

Duke Henry glances around, and makes absolutely sure noone is around. Noone was. Duke Henry bowed, and began speaking.

"King Carlos, King René has a proposal for you. Both your Majesty and King René have undeniable claims to the Crown of Aragon, stronger in any case than the mad Constantine. Both your Majesty and the King of Naples are directly threatened by Constantine, for he would love to gobble up both Navarra and Naples, and have your Majesty, King René, and myself slain in the brutal Greek manner.

King René proposes that an alliance be made between the Crowns of Navarra and Naples to counter Constantine, and put the usurper out of his misery.. for good. Even now, King René is at the court of the Emperor Joachim, negotiating the support of the most powerful Prince in Christendom to come to his aid in destroying Constantine. After Emperor Joachim, then he shall bargain for the support of King Louis of Burgundy and King Louis of France, his cousins, both of whom have vested interests in making sure that the Kingdom of Aragon is in the hands of someone who is in full command of his faculties.

Therefore, your Majesty, King René offers his hand in alliance against Constantine, and the hand of his daughter, Yolanda, to your Majesty.. uniting the Houses of Trastamara and Anjou, and putting an end to this succession crisis that would be the barrier for any alliance between Navarra and Naples. As a dowry for Princess Yolanda, King René offers his claims to the Crown of Aragon, and a solemn vow that he shall fight until the usurper breathes no more. In return, King René only asks that he be acknowledged by your Majesty as King of Naples and Sicily, with, of course, the traditional attachments of Corfu and Malta.

If your Majesty agrees, then King René shall travel to Rome from Nuremberg the moment that Emperor Joachim and his Majesty come to an agreement, so that he may give his daughter's hand in marriage to the rightful King of Aragon and Navarra."

 

[Blinky]

King Carlos in receiving Duke Henry in a private garden remains silent during the duke's offer. During the whole of the conversation, Carlos keeps his gaze focused on the various plants and animals as the two men pace through the garden. When Henry made his final offer, Carlos finally pauses and looks back to Henry.

"Your Grace, I can see that you have been invested with a most pressing mission. To fail in your master's designs will result most undoubtedly in your removal. Adding further danger to your stance, your personal defiance of the Greek himself would most definitely place your life at risk rather than a new swearing of loyalties should the tides of war flow against you.

Secondly, I see an impasse between the two of us. As a traveler amongst pilgrims, I must admit that my tongue for intrigue and politics is not as sharp as my peers, but the blessings of God shall suffice where my own self shall not.

Foremost, from what I heard of your presentation before His Holiness, blessed be his name, you have now claimed Aragon for your lord. A most interesting tactic, but not one that bears fruit in my eyes nor that of our opponent. The very critique of the Greek's succession to Aragon through the line of a woman is the same issue that makes your lord's claim problematic.

Nevertheless, I do see a common foe between the two of us. The Greek's constant abuse of my father's kingdom is a blight to God's eyes, one which I care not for the continuation thereof. And as much as I hold out for the aid of allies, I would be cautious so as to jump openly in your bandwagon without greater assurance of these negotiations with the true Emperor and Kings of the West.

Plus, I am advised that I have been betrothed already to the daughter of Elinor of Castille. Although I have not seen the agreements personally, I would trust the fruitful negotiations that have transpired."

Carlos pauses as he thinks of what is to be said next. He looks up briefly into the sky and shields his eyes as he gazes into the upper branches of a nearby tree.

"Perhaps if we were to dangle a more tantalizing prize before the pride of the Greek. He claims to be an emperor, yes? A cunning strategy may put the Greek at war against the infidels rather than our own persons. His claim to Aragon is pathetic at best thus he bolsters himself by saying he is an emperor. Deny him his 'empire', mock his position, and challenge him to prove his status if he were to rule over kings."

Carlos looks back to Henry to receive his reaction to the proposed ideas.

 

[Fireblade]

Duke Henry smiles, and walks further in the garden.

"Ah, the claiming of Aragon? A mere tactic to make the Greek look even more pathetic in front of his Holiness. Allow me to be frank, King Carlos. You and I both know, that King René's claim is very tenuous.. it is a valid claim, to be sure, but the nobility of the Kingdom of Aragon did confirm the House of Trastamara to be the successor to the Barcelona line."

Duke Henry shrugs, and waves his hand dismissively.

"But, that is a matter that can be decided in due time."

Duke Henry pauses for a moment, and continues.

"The marriage to Eleanore's daughter.. if I might be so bold, your Majesty, I would dare suggest that the marriage to King René's daughter should be more worthy of your Majesty. Not only is Eleanore's daughter still a mere infant, but she is a quite sick and weakly baby, unlikely to live long. Eleanore's son lies dead in some forsaken prison in England, and her position is vastly eroded in France, Burgundy, and Aragon. But, again, this is another matter that can be decided later, for the threat to both our Kingdoms is far more pressing."

Duke Henry and King Carlos walk in silence for a few seconds more, and then Duke Henry speaks again.

"Your Majesty, the hour grows late, and I shall not trouble you any more for the night with politics, when you have just finished a pilgrimage. Tomorrow, I shall expose the Greek fraud in front of his Holiness, and dare him to claim his birthright. If your Majesty agrees, I shall meet with you again later, to discuss a more.. formal agreement, if your Majesty agrees."

Duke Henry bows and departs. In the morning, he stops by a rich Jewish banker named Abraham, and transfers the riches to Cardinal Corleone.

 

[unmerged(23474)]

Rome, Pontifical States

Constantine stood up and made made a proclaimation.

"As it seems the Pontiff has taken ill, and has not been able to grace us with his wise words for the duration of this summit, I will take my leave now, and return home to Barcelona. With the exception of Cardinal Corleone, I am surrounded by enemies, here. both Duke Henry and King Carlos are threats to my realm, on top of that, the latter of the two is currently in a state of war against me. Therefore, I will leave the eternal city, I will pray for the Lord's guidance, and for the quick healing of the Pontiff, but I will not remain here to suffer verbal abuse from pitiful Dukes who are noble in title only, as their realms are under control of Rebels..."

And with that, he bowed his head, prayed, and left, on his flagship, bound for Iberia.

 

[Fireblade]

As Constantine leaves, Duke Henry smirks and says,

"Noble in title eh? I am not the Emperor without an Empire and a King without a Kingdom.

I believe this proves that the Greek is not only incapable of ruling Aragon, but by his refusal to answer the charges, not a King either.

Therefore, the Kingdom of Naples has no choice but to do this:

The Kingdom of Naples recognizes Carlos, King of Navarra, to be the true, just, and rightful King of Aragon. As Constantine's succession to the throne of Aragon has been proved to be grossly illegal, this is the only thing we can do.

God save King Carlos."

 

[Bagricula]

Screaching voices reverberate off of the marble hall of the audience chamber in Nicholas's head. His head felt heavy, as after that night when he was a seminarian when he'd drank too much apple brandy. He tries to see the debating figures, but he can't focus on anything more than a few spans from him. Enough is enough. I'll show these children the pettiness of their squabble. He reaches for the straight crucifix topped staff, preparing to rise, but as he begins to rise out of his chair he feels his legs waver. He falls back into his throne with a slight thump, hardly noticable over the arguments, calling out softly:

"Audiuva--""

He stops speaking as he feel vomit near the back of his throat. A wave of heat washes over the Supreme Pontiff of the Unviersal Church and he leans against the gilded arm of the Throne of Saint Peter.

"Audiuva. AUDIUVA!"

His closes his eyes trying to cut out the senses, trying to calm his headache. He feels a hand on his shoulder. Nicholas reaches for the Pontifical Staff and swings it towards the red robed figure beside him.

"I need--take care of her."

Nicholas's visions shifts in and out of blurriness, and he catches sight of the circle of cardinals, like vultures surrounding him, lifting him, helpfing him into another chair. The chair rocks and shakes and he feels himself moving forward.

Confused and ready to retch, His Holiness is carried away in the Sedia Gestatoria flanked by the venerable blood-robed Principes Ecclesiae. A great commotion ensues through the crowd, which takes on the character of a sea raging against a stormy sky. Standing above the turmoil, on the Petrine Dais, Cardinal Dominic Corleone holds the Petrine Staff given to him by the Pope's own hand.

~*^*~​

Nicholas lies in a sedan chair, wrapped in heavy red wools. The expensive Tyrian dye had run, not really suited for the soft English wool. He watches from under the shade of a canopy as servants load his river ship with luggage for his journey. He smiles a little. Disgorging his stomach had done wonders to the Pontiff's complexion and mood. He had been too weak to stop the servants from cleaning it up immediately. No telling whether it was poison now.

Prospero Vivarelli approaches him now, coming from checking Nicholas's cabin. The former Inquisitor and now Papal Secretary kneels at the Pontiff's side.

"Your cabin is prepared, Sanctissimo. We will leave within the hour."

"I will leave within the hour, Prospero."

Nicholas coughs and Prospero shows no disturbance though he feels it.

"Sanctissimo?"

"You would not be much use to me in Capri, my son. No, you must stay here. In Rome. Find out what designs have been hatched against our Church. This illness is unnatural, and I will be free of it in a day or two, for it is only a bad meal--I think. I will enjoy my time on the Isle of Capri, and there I can be humble in God's creation."

He coughs again, and smiles speaking softly:

"They will use this opportunity. They will think I am gone or too weakened to act. Let them expose themselves, Prospero. Do not draw danger to yourself. Ah, Dominic comes. Go from me, my son, and defend the Mother Church."

Prospero Vivarelli kisses the Fisherman's Ring and leaves to attend to the business of the Church, just as Cardinal Dominic Corleone approaches. The Bishop of Ostia kneels and kisses the Fisherman's Ring. Nicholas smiles wryly, noting the Petrine Staff offered by Corleone.

"Keep it for now, Dominic. To you I entrust the shepherding of the Church and the Patrimonium Sancti Petri until my recovery. Although, you cannot loose and bind the laws of Heaven and Earth as I can, you are by far capable enough of clearing up the petty messes my children the Crowns of Christendom have made."

He takes a document from his lap and hands it to Cardinal Corleone.

"You see it holds the Fisherman's Seal, and is the Law of Heaven and the Law of Earth. Only myself, or He for Whom I am a mere vicar, may loose this law. Pax tecum, meus filius."

 

[unmerged(3110)]

Standing above the turmoil, on the Petrine Dais, Cardinal Dominic Corleone holds the Petrine Staff given to him by the Pope's own hand

Corleone was quite honestly dumbfounded. He had worked to get back into a position of power again since the election of this new pope. He had kissed places he would prefer not. He had threatened and he had bribed. All just to get to a trusted position again. Not one as close as he had achieved with that fool Jean-Luke but as close as he could to it. A "position", like Legate, as he had managed with the last fool to sit on the throne of Saint Peter, certainly; But never should he be so lucky as to get the power he had with the "Fisherman" pope; as he regularly slipped poison into his mushroom soup.

This matter of a possible poisoning of his new master concerned him a lot. Someone else was out there. A wild card. He had to look into the possible threats ........

The pope had just been carried out and he was just about to follow, before the weight of his duties crashed down on his shoulders. A "Back hander" from his subconscious. He turns to the gathered cardinals and nobles just as Constantine is leaving and speaks.

"Honoured nobles and clergymen. We need must have a recession of audience."

"His Holiness has been struck down by a slight fever. Fear not. He will return as soon as our lord god permits. .... By the consent of the curia and divine precedence of our blessed Holy father I shall hold this staff of office and perform the duties of the church for our beloved father, until he recovers."

He heard his own words as if from behind a wall. Muffled and detached. But there it was. The Petrine Staff given to him by the Pope's own hand. He stepped off the dais and headed for the antechamber where the pope had been carried.

Corleone places his hand into his pocket and digs his nails into the vegatable/herb he has in his pocket. Garlic was common and everyone smelled of it if they ate well, but it's other properties were needed now. As he walked into the room he removed his garlic soaked fingertips from his pocket and prodded the corner of his eyes with thumb and finger as if in tired concern. Immediately his eyes began to water as he walked up to the prostrate pontiff.

As he walks in Prospero Vivarelli leaves the Holy father. Dominic notices and makes a note to appease the man later.

Tears flowing down his face Corleone kisses the papal ring and offers the Petrine Staff back to his holiness in the knowledge it was given for a reason and more time than 2 minutes.

"Keep it for now, Dominic. To you I entrust the shepherding of the Church and the Patrimonium Sancti Petri until my recovery. Although, you cannot loose and bind the laws of Heaven and Earth as I can, you are by far capable enough of clearing up the petty messes my children the Crowns of Christendom have made."

He takes a document from his lap and hands it to Cardinal Corleone.

"You see it holds the Fisherman's Seal, and is the Law of Heaven and the Law of Earth. Only myself, or He for Whom I am a mere vicar, may loose this law. Pax tecum, meus filius."

Corleone sniffs dramatically.

"Papa. I will do as you direct and seek to stave off the vultures until you can grace us with your presence once again"

"Your flock is as mine and I will strive for the excellence that would be but half of the blessing that is you."

"May the Blessed Jean-Luke aid your recovery... Err... Sorry Papa. I forgot you had not beatified him yet...... May the blessed saint Francis aid your recovery."

With this he kisses the papal ring and places his forehead on the back of the pontiffs hand.

"I pray that I may be worthy"

He rises, leaving the pontiff in the healers hands and returns to the audience chamber. With a wry grin he walks to the throne of saint Peter. Brushes it off with his sleeve and sits. One leg over the arm and slouching over the other side.

"Now then...... Where were we?"

With document and The Petrine Staff in hand he sits regal but slovenly in audience.



.

 

[Blinky]

In the final words in their private discussion, King Carlos nods.

"I shall appreciate further words between the two of us, but I advise you to tread softly."

The next day, a page brings word of Constantine's declaration immediately followed by Duke Henry's proclamation of Carlos' kingship over Aragon. Making haste back to the Papal chambers, Carlos, no longer clothed in sackcloth but in finer dress fit for a merchant, returns to find that the pope has taken ill leaving Cardinal Corleone in charge.

Upon being recognized, Carlos walks solemnly to the center of the chamber and kneels before the Cardinal while crossing himself.

"Your Eminence, I have come as quickly as I heard of His Holiness' illness. On behalf of his health, I have taught the servants at my current household the prayer of St. Leon, a local saint in a small village in Burgundy. It is a direct petition for health for all holy men, so that they may continue to do God's will.

If not for His Holiness' leave, I would have stated my utter shock of hearing the parting words of Constantine and also the words of His Grace, Henry."

Carlos pauses briefly to look over at Henry before continuing.

"As much as the noble blood within me stirs me to seek crowns and thrones, I must submit to the will of God's Church to do justice to our long-standing dispute. I urge Your Eminence to send a speedy ship and fetch Constantine to return. My steward of the realm, Francois de Foix, has done much to repair the relations between the two of us, and to give away now to the dogs of war would be an utter blemish to the sight of God.

If Constantine seeks not peace, then I pray for his behalf. At the very least, urge him to return to live up to his only title as Defender of the Church. As sharp-tongued as he was in defending His Holiness in rhetoric with Duke Henry, Constantine, as faith dictates, stay and pray for the good will of our Holy Father.

If Constantine chooses not to return...then I agree and submit to the judgement of the Holy See as to what shall be done with him."

 

[unmerged(3110)]

Cardinal Dominic Corleone, Head of the First Congregation of Rome, was a massively jubilant man. It was hard for him not to let out a whoop of elation. Composing himself as King Carlos speaks he reflects on the fact that the funds from Naples had arrived this morning and work had begun on the roof of the new shrine. After renovation and decoration there should still be a substantial sum for his pocket. Things were very cheery. All he had to do was take advantage of the situation he found himself in without leaving himself open to attack.

He replies to Carlos in a dry tone.

"Your piety is outstanding your majesty. I hope it extends to a little patience unlike Caesar Constantine"

"I will send a missive immediately. His Holiness said unto me... " Dominic.... you are by far capable enough of clearing up the petty messes my children the Crowns of Christendom have made." "

"I take it as a solemn duty to perform his will. All three nations and any other directly involved will be required to attend the "Arras suit" in the west wing to address these weighty matters. We will sit in session at the end of each day until we can agree on a way forward without bloodshed."

"Duke Henry is still present I hope?"

"Caesar Constantine may be a while in returning as he is on his way to Barcelona. I beg your indulgence. I must say though. It does not bode well for him that rather than showing concern at the suicide attempt which could have been a threat to our holy father and the ensuing suspicious illness of our Papa, he leaves hastily."

"This raises my suspicions somewhat"

"Let us pray it is mere circumstance."

"We need to make an agenda. Paying of tribute, irregularities of accession to the throne of Aragon, Sovereignty Et Cetera... Whatever else is relevant. So we can approach it all in some kind of order rather than a shouting match. Would you and Duke Henry compile it for me please?"



He gets a scribe to write two letters and send them immediately out.

Joachim of the Greif, King of the Romans, King of Italy, King of Germany, Sword of Christ, Right Hand of the Church, Caesar Augustus, King of Sweden, Duke of Pommerania and Fürst of the House of the Greif, Duke of Braunschweig-Lüneburg, Grubenhagen and Wolfenbüttel, Duke of Poznan, Margrave of Danzig, Prince-Protector of Sweden, Overlord of Ingermanland, Kexholm, Memel and Gotland, Master of the Imperial Hunt, Master of the Knights of the Cross of the Red Star.

Greetings from the Holy see. Acting on behalf of the ailing Pontiff it is my sombre duty to inform you that Duke Albrecht of Bavaria, Prince of Empire is under close arrest in Rome. His sins and crimes are profound, but I feel it is my duty to inform you, as he is an Imperial prince. Could you send a representative to monitor the proceedings at your earliest convenience.

By his own hand

Cardinal Legate, Dominic Corleone, Head of the First Congregation of Rome

Constantinus Rex Caesarque,

Greetings from the Holy see. Acting on behalf of the ailing Pontiff it is my sombre duty to ask you to return to the holy see. Debate will be held in the Arras suit that should clear up all points of contention between you and your opponents. Please bring a list of issues you wish addressed.

By his own hand

Cardinal Legate, Dominic Corleone, Head of the First Congregation of Rome

 

[unmerged(5630)]

Elisabeth von Wittelsbach, Dowager Duchess and Regent of Bavaria on behalf of his Grace Ulrich I von Wittelsbach, by the Grace of God Duke of Bavaria to his Eminence Cardinal Corleone, Head of the First Congregation of Rome.

Your Eminence,

We have received word that you seek to place Albrecht von Wittelsbach, former Duke of Bavaria, on trial for ecclesiastical crimes and further seek a representative from the Imperium since you say he is an Imperial Prince. It is my duty to inform you that such will no longer be necessary, as Albrecht has been formally deposed of his position for the reason that he is no longer mentally fit to carry them out, an action we are certain you and his Holiness the Pope would agree with. Our son, Ulrich von Wittelsbach, now holds the Ducal coronet.

If you would consent to it, I shall dispatch a family member to attend the trial you seek. However, involving his Imperial Majesty in this will not be strictly necessary.

God bless you in your duties,
Elisabeth von Wittelsbach