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Cardinal von Webber enters the Lateran and almost dances through the halls.
Comming before the Papal throne he begins his speech.
"Holy Father I bring joyous news. Albert the light of Austria is free!! He has returned to the Diet and all of Austria rejoices in his release. However I have more serious matters to raise before you Holy Father.
I have been sent two letters containing most serious matters.
The First declares that the King of the Germans is illegally holding office. As Albert was dethroned for the crime of killing Jean, the French finding of not guilty clears that charge. Therefore Albert did not kill Jean and therefore should not have been removed from office. This letter calls for the reinstatement of Albert von
Hapsburg as the true master of the Empire.
The old Cardinal tries to see if Victor is surprised at this news
The second letter charges that Victor von Blommenstein through his envoy has attempted to restrict the ancient freedoms of the Princes of the Empire. His poor leadership is allowing a relatively minor matter to strangle the Diet. The greatest gathering in Christendom is consumed by petty matters as the Emperor elect cannot provide leadership. The letter also states that several nations outside the Empire do not have faith in Victor's word. It is felt that Victor is more comfortable dealing with matters of faith or law then affairs of state and war.
I therefore ask the Holy Father to delay the coronation of the King of the Germans as his poor standing would result in the shortest Imperial reign in history.
Turning to face the King of the Germans
You sir are a mockery of an Emperor. When all of Europe was convulsed by the plague I have letters which show you were more concerned with what colour attire you should wear for your appearances at mass. I also have word that your envoy is consumed by paranoia, jealousy and greed. Albert gave you a united and mighty Empire you have turned it into a fish mongers stall at market. You should be ashamed of yourself for your cowardice, your poor leadership and your lack of virtue.
I would urge you to return to Cologne and continue your battle to wrest control of the city from its Governor. You have not the mind, the might or the wit to lead the Empire. I call you a coward sir, a dullard and a wimp."
With that the Austrian plants his cane firmly and squares his shoulders. Those who know the Cardinal can feel the storm brewing, young Victor would face the rough side of the Cardinal's tongue.
Comming before the Papal throne he begins his speech.
"Holy Father I bring joyous news. Albert the light of Austria is free!! He has returned to the Diet and all of Austria rejoices in his release. However I have more serious matters to raise before you Holy Father.
I have been sent two letters containing most serious matters.
The First declares that the King of the Germans is illegally holding office. As Albert was dethroned for the crime of killing Jean, the French finding of not guilty clears that charge. Therefore Albert did not kill Jean and therefore should not have been removed from office. This letter calls for the reinstatement of Albert von
Hapsburg as the true master of the Empire.
The old Cardinal tries to see if Victor is surprised at this news
The second letter charges that Victor von Blommenstein through his envoy has attempted to restrict the ancient freedoms of the Princes of the Empire. His poor leadership is allowing a relatively minor matter to strangle the Diet. The greatest gathering in Christendom is consumed by petty matters as the Emperor elect cannot provide leadership. The letter also states that several nations outside the Empire do not have faith in Victor's word. It is felt that Victor is more comfortable dealing with matters of faith or law then affairs of state and war.
I therefore ask the Holy Father to delay the coronation of the King of the Germans as his poor standing would result in the shortest Imperial reign in history.
Turning to face the King of the Germans
You sir are a mockery of an Emperor. When all of Europe was convulsed by the plague I have letters which show you were more concerned with what colour attire you should wear for your appearances at mass. I also have word that your envoy is consumed by paranoia, jealousy and greed. Albert gave you a united and mighty Empire you have turned it into a fish mongers stall at market. You should be ashamed of yourself for your cowardice, your poor leadership and your lack of virtue.
I would urge you to return to Cologne and continue your battle to wrest control of the city from its Governor. You have not the mind, the might or the wit to lead the Empire. I call you a coward sir, a dullard and a wimp."
With that the Austrian plants his cane firmly and squares his shoulders. Those who know the Cardinal can feel the storm brewing, young Victor would face the rough side of the Cardinal's tongue.
Victor rises.
This, Your Holiness, is the plot I spoke of.
With a slight smile towards the Austrian, he continues.
As you can hopefuly see, Your Holiness, my attempts to prevent this plot that the Austrian denied so many times to be happening from happening were all in line - the plot they called non-existant was there all along, and they lied to the King of the Romans, to the Diet, and now to the Papacy. I hope that you will take this into consideration.
As for Albert's dethroning, I believe that Jean of Arc has little to do with the matter. Albert was removed because of his circumstances - he was being held in a prison, the fate of his life looked grim, and some thought him to be an enemy of the Church. We in the Empire cared little for Jean of Arc, some of us even thought her a Heritic, so this obviousaly wasn't the reason.
But even if it was, Albert's reign is through. He was removed legaly from his position as King of the Romans and I assumed it legaly. I do not appreciete these insults to my thoughts, my character, or the legality of my office, Your Holiness, and I humbly request that you put an end to them.
This, Your Holiness, is the plot I spoke of.
With a slight smile towards the Austrian, he continues.
As you can hopefuly see, Your Holiness, my attempts to prevent this plot that the Austrian denied so many times to be happening from happening were all in line - the plot they called non-existant was there all along, and they lied to the King of the Romans, to the Diet, and now to the Papacy. I hope that you will take this into consideration.
As for Albert's dethroning, I believe that Jean of Arc has little to do with the matter. Albert was removed because of his circumstances - he was being held in a prison, the fate of his life looked grim, and some thought him to be an enemy of the Church. We in the Empire cared little for Jean of Arc, some of us even thought her a Heritic, so this obviousaly wasn't the reason.
But even if it was, Albert's reign is through. He was removed legaly from his position as King of the Romans and I assumed it legaly. I do not appreciete these insults to my thoughts, my character, or the legality of my office, Your Holiness, and I humbly request that you put an end to them.
After hearing Cardinal von Webber words great sadness is visable on Klaus-Dieter Kreplinberger face. However, this sadness soon changes into determination. He leaves the chamber for half an hour and returns with rolls of parchment.
He approaches von Webber slowly, bows and kneels, than he starts to speak quietly with modesty and respect.
"Your excelency,
Here is the register of the Holy Conclave. It is clearly stated that Emp... errr... Archduke Albert von Habsburg was deposed."
He approaches von Webber slowly, bows and kneels, than he starts to speak quietly with modesty and respect.
"Your excelency,
Here is the register of the Holy Conclave. It is clearly stated that Emp... errr... Archduke Albert von Habsburg was deposed."
The Pope gnaws at his lip nervously as he gazes out of one of the Throne Room’s great, stained glass windows. A cloud has passed over the great palace at the moment, and the colours in the arched frames are dark and murky. The mood in the Pontiff’s head is similar, for he has asked of one of his most trusted advisors, Cardinal Alesci, to leave on a diplomatic mission into the lands of the Mongols. Joseph fears that should the Cardinal fail, it should cost the churchman his very life and in an unthinkable fashion.
Holy Father, forgive me if I was wrong to send him… Joseph offers the prayer before turning to the Congregation.
And now to these squabbling idiots who bark and sneer at each other, safe in the knowledge that they have nothing to fear for in the night but that their pillow should lose it’s shape.
“Two emperors, none with crown.” Joseph says, leaning back in the throne, turning his gaze to Emperor Victor, and inclining his head formally in greeting, “Your Highness,”
And then Joseph turns to scowl at Cardinal von Webber, the Pontiff holding up a small scrap of parchment, onto which he had been making a set of brief notes,
“Your Eminence, I should thank you kindly to remember where you are; what your station is; that you are a man of the Church; and finally, that the man against whom you throw these insults is the current Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, as decided by it’s electors. Such insults as…” he holds up the parchment, “that he ‘should be ashamed of himself for his cowardice, his poor leadership and lack of virtue’…that he is a ‘mockery of an Emperor’…
“The list goes on, Eminence, and that you, a man of the Church, should stoop so far as to make a point of personally call Victor ‘a coward, a dullard and a wimp’ demonstrates your contempt of the red that you wear, and the Most Holy institution that dressed you in it.”
“I am tempted to derive you of your cardinal’s hat and deliver you unto His Highness’ custody to answer for the slurs you have put against his name. The protection granted to you by your ecclesiastical office does not give you the privilege to cast aspersions as you please and I wonder if you would be so quick to do so without the protection of the Lateran.”
His Holiness pauses and realises his own voice has risen to an accusatory crescendo.
Do not be drawn into the same quagmire of mud-slinging, Joseph, he mentally reprimands himself. He forces himself to calm down and is glad for a brief moment of peace as he seeks out the face of Cardinal de Montpetit,
“Eminence, it would appear that the predictions in your letter, for which I never gave thanks, have at least in part, come true. I confess that I initially doubted your council and now regret doing so, for it has been proven worthy… I should hope that your further predictions not come to be…” the Pope gives the Burgundian cardinal a knowing look.
“It is high-time that your efforts are rewarded, Cardinal Edoard de Montpetit, Head of the Holy Inquisition, and I hope you will do me the honour of accepting the Order of the Golden Spur.”
“Eminence, are the members of the College of Inquisitors that you sent to France still at Paris? If so, I wonder if you would be so good as to request a copy of the minutes of the trial of Emperor Albert for the benefit of the Papal Curia. This is the first I have heard of the Archduke’s being found innocent of all the charges laid against him and I should wish to examine the proceedings before making further comment on the matter.”
“Now, Your Highness,” the Pope turns to Emperor Victor,
“I apologise for the rude welcome with which you have been received, I hope your journeys to Rome were otherwise uneventful.”
“It would appear that the arrests of the Ambassador of Hessen and Lord Georg have both become fractious issues within the halls of the Diet…” Joseph pauses and grins briefly as he remembers the boisterous, ever so German verbal cut-and-thrust of the Imperial meeting place from his earlier years.
“However, I should ask that you at least consult the Holy See before you send either man to the scaffold for the crimes that they have been accused and imprisoned for, if you see such punishment fit. In fact, I should take it as a courtesy if you would deign to have your clerical staff provide the Lateran with copies of both trials’ minutes.”
Holy Father, forgive me if I was wrong to send him… Joseph offers the prayer before turning to the Congregation.
And now to these squabbling idiots who bark and sneer at each other, safe in the knowledge that they have nothing to fear for in the night but that their pillow should lose it’s shape.
“Two emperors, none with crown.” Joseph says, leaning back in the throne, turning his gaze to Emperor Victor, and inclining his head formally in greeting, “Your Highness,”
And then Joseph turns to scowl at Cardinal von Webber, the Pontiff holding up a small scrap of parchment, onto which he had been making a set of brief notes,
“Your Eminence, I should thank you kindly to remember where you are; what your station is; that you are a man of the Church; and finally, that the man against whom you throw these insults is the current Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, as decided by it’s electors. Such insults as…” he holds up the parchment, “that he ‘should be ashamed of himself for his cowardice, his poor leadership and lack of virtue’…that he is a ‘mockery of an Emperor’…
“The list goes on, Eminence, and that you, a man of the Church, should stoop so far as to make a point of personally call Victor ‘a coward, a dullard and a wimp’ demonstrates your contempt of the red that you wear, and the Most Holy institution that dressed you in it.”
“I am tempted to derive you of your cardinal’s hat and deliver you unto His Highness’ custody to answer for the slurs you have put against his name. The protection granted to you by your ecclesiastical office does not give you the privilege to cast aspersions as you please and I wonder if you would be so quick to do so without the protection of the Lateran.”
His Holiness pauses and realises his own voice has risen to an accusatory crescendo.
Do not be drawn into the same quagmire of mud-slinging, Joseph, he mentally reprimands himself. He forces himself to calm down and is glad for a brief moment of peace as he seeks out the face of Cardinal de Montpetit,
“Eminence, it would appear that the predictions in your letter, for which I never gave thanks, have at least in part, come true. I confess that I initially doubted your council and now regret doing so, for it has been proven worthy… I should hope that your further predictions not come to be…” the Pope gives the Burgundian cardinal a knowing look.
“It is high-time that your efforts are rewarded, Cardinal Edoard de Montpetit, Head of the Holy Inquisition, and I hope you will do me the honour of accepting the Order of the Golden Spur.”
“Eminence, are the members of the College of Inquisitors that you sent to France still at Paris? If so, I wonder if you would be so good as to request a copy of the minutes of the trial of Emperor Albert for the benefit of the Papal Curia. This is the first I have heard of the Archduke’s being found innocent of all the charges laid against him and I should wish to examine the proceedings before making further comment on the matter.”
“Now, Your Highness,” the Pope turns to Emperor Victor,
“I apologise for the rude welcome with which you have been received, I hope your journeys to Rome were otherwise uneventful.”
“It would appear that the arrests of the Ambassador of Hessen and Lord Georg have both become fractious issues within the halls of the Diet…” Joseph pauses and grins briefly as he remembers the boisterous, ever so German verbal cut-and-thrust of the Imperial meeting place from his earlier years.
“However, I should ask that you at least consult the Holy See before you send either man to the scaffold for the crimes that they have been accused and imprisoned for, if you see such punishment fit. In fact, I should take it as a courtesy if you would deign to have your clerical staff provide the Lateran with copies of both trials’ minutes.”
Cardinal Édouard de Montpetit waves at one of his assistant, to ask him to come near him with a document in hand. He waves quite rapidly.
"Your Holiness,
You honor me of your enligthment every day, and now decorate me of one of the most prestigious award of Catholicism. You make an old pious man very honoured. I will gladly accept it."
He bows. His assistant arrives and gives him his document.
"This took place in Tours, since Ile-De-France and Paris are no longer in French hands. It is the trial of Albert von Hapsburg.
Albert was taken from Nivernais to the French city of Tours, where the trials would take place. Already, a few French nobles had been tried and some even sentenced to death. Constable Richemont overlooked the trials with a ruthlessness equaling Charles'. AS Albert was brought in, Richemont's attitude changed. Here before him was a man accused of many petty crimes. Richemont had killed many a person and was hailed a hero by the French people and many others, Albert kills but one and now stands on trial. This would be interesting indeed.
"Stand forward and declare your name and such."
Albert did so, and Richemont continued.
"You stand on trial today for the murder of a maiden, a peasant. Supposedly, she was blessed by God, and should she have lived, she would have brought victory to France. What have you to say?"
Albert merely responded with his normal answer, refusing to admit that he committed the crime. Richemont smiled at the man's stubborness.
"Well, I for one, believe you. My armies waited for the reinforcements that you promised, and I have spoken with the French who went to the Diet and heard how you supported the French against the English. I know that the armies of the Empire would have been pounding at the English doors should it not have been for that papal edict, and I will not hold it against you.
Now, the only thing you stand on trial here today is for the murder of a maiden. I have seen worse. When the Federation soldies marched through, their sieges alone caused many a death. Not a one of them stands on trial and nor shall they. Many a peasant is killed throughout life and the only thing that bother me about it is one less person to pay taxes. This maiden may have rallyied many soldiers, but I personnally believe she was a heretic. She wore the clothes of a man, and she fought on the battlefields like a man. She rallyed the soldiers of France with her witchcraft and Charles VII listened to her. He was just as foolish, which is why he is no longer on the throne.
Let me ask you a question. What would happen to France's image if a mongol were to come to France and rally our armies? We may win the war, but lose our souls. Is that what we want to do?"
Albert shook his head no and Richemont continued.
"If this maiden was blessed by God, she would not have died. The only thing you are guilty of, if you even had a hand in her death, was to save France from the fires of hell. God knew that she worshipped the devil and had her killed. Nearly all of France knows this, save for the few loyal supporters of the witch, who now hide in their caves. They supported her and the moment she died, they fled like cowards. The reason, she had them under her spell and they lost all courage after she was gone, cause the spell was gone. So, even if you did kill her, I can find nothing in the legal system to condemn you of."
Albert looks at Richemont with wonder, while Richemont plucks at his small goatee.
"So, I hereby declare you guilty for wasting my time. This trial was unneeded. Your presence in France is unneeded. As to why the Catholic world sent you here is unknown to me. So, you are free."
Richemont rose and exited the courtroom. Albert stood stunned for a moment as the guards released him from his chains. An escort arrived to return him to Austria.
I hope this gives you a good image of the trial itself."
Bouchiers jaw drops.
He indignantly steps forward.
"Holy father. Forgive me for interupting."
"We know of the holy light of truth that is the inquisition under Cardinal de Montpetit and this transcript must therfore be word perfect."
"I am shocked."
"If this was a trial. It was a farce."
"The inital suggestion of mine that was not taken up by the curia was to have the trial here. It seems i may have been right."
"As it was decided that this mater was temperal. If I remember correctly."
"I propose a re trial."
"I am in possetion of documents, as yet un official until next month that set up the Justice system of Gallia."
"The Palace de Justice will be at the louvre, and will be held every six months to pass judgement on matters of justice in Gallia."
"As you know Good King john will preside, but fortunatly not as some might fear."
"This is why i might make this suggestion"
"He will apoint Magistrates from England, Burgundy, Normandy, Brittany, France, Aquatain, Provence, Borbonaise,and Auvergne to give fair international justice to all"
"The decicition of the nine magistrates and the Lord High Justice will be the law. Not that of just one man. And as it was a decree that Albert should be "Properly tried" in France I will extend the invitation in antisipation of this Justice system coming into effect."
"I wish to cast no dispertions but i strongly feel that this trial of Grand Duke Albert is flawed."
He steps back and crosses himself.
He indignantly steps forward.
"Holy father. Forgive me for interupting."
"We know of the holy light of truth that is the inquisition under Cardinal de Montpetit and this transcript must therfore be word perfect."
"I am shocked."
"If this was a trial. It was a farce."
"The inital suggestion of mine that was not taken up by the curia was to have the trial here. It seems i may have been right."
"As it was decided that this mater was temperal. If I remember correctly."
"I propose a re trial."
"I am in possetion of documents, as yet un official until next month that set up the Justice system of Gallia."
"The Palace de Justice will be at the louvre, and will be held every six months to pass judgement on matters of justice in Gallia."
"As you know Good King john will preside, but fortunatly not as some might fear."
"This is why i might make this suggestion"
"He will apoint Magistrates from England, Burgundy, Normandy, Brittany, France, Aquatain, Provence, Borbonaise,and Auvergne to give fair international justice to all"
"The decicition of the nine magistrates and the Lord High Justice will be the law. Not that of just one man. And as it was a decree that Albert should be "Properly tried" in France I will extend the invitation in antisipation of this Justice system coming into effect."
"I wish to cast no dispertions but i strongly feel that this trial of Grand Duke Albert is flawed."
He steps back and crosses himself.
Charles I, who was still in Rome responds quickly to the English Cardinal and to the Pope.
"I was not aware that France had to declare Albert guilty. If that is the case, then why was Albert sent to France for a trial. We should have just sentenced him to death for the death of a peasant.
Constable Richemont declared Albert innocent. Joan was a witch. Did she not wear the clothes of a man? Did she not fight on the battlefield as a man does? Why is it that the church protects her then? Is a woman acting like a man not heretical? If Albert did execute her, then he executed a heretic and a witch, something which France owes him for.
I am quite appalled by the actions of the catholic world as of late. France declares war, and the whole of this world acts as if war is foreign and evil. France's honour is tarnished, her reputation smashed. All of France is considered unable to rule in any way or form. Her vassals are handed to the Pope for protection. Why is it that everyone, even the Pope, fears France so much? We are nothing anymore. We have lost everything, and you only seek to force us to lose more. France will rebuild, whether you want her to or not. France will be powerful once again and will stand a proud bastion of Catholicism, as it always has. You may all pull us down, but we shall stand tall.
France declared Albert innocent, and our decision stands. I will not tolerate this court that England plans. This trial was not a farce, but a fair trial. If you do not like the decisions of my nobles, too bad. You are not ruler of France, nor shall you ever be. Our decisions are our decisions, and nothing shall change that.
Also, I am King of France now, and Louis shall remain in France with me, as my own son. By the time he is of age, I shall be gone from this world. I will not have a future French ruler living as a hostage in English lands, like you did to the Scottish ruler. He will be raised as a Frenchman, and he will live in France. This is my will, so let it be done."
Charles turns on his heel and storms out of the Holy Court, leaving Cardinal Frontenac completely flustered and confused, alone to deal with the retribution.
"I was not aware that France had to declare Albert guilty. If that is the case, then why was Albert sent to France for a trial. We should have just sentenced him to death for the death of a peasant.
Constable Richemont declared Albert innocent. Joan was a witch. Did she not wear the clothes of a man? Did she not fight on the battlefield as a man does? Why is it that the church protects her then? Is a woman acting like a man not heretical? If Albert did execute her, then he executed a heretic and a witch, something which France owes him for.
I am quite appalled by the actions of the catholic world as of late. France declares war, and the whole of this world acts as if war is foreign and evil. France's honour is tarnished, her reputation smashed. All of France is considered unable to rule in any way or form. Her vassals are handed to the Pope for protection. Why is it that everyone, even the Pope, fears France so much? We are nothing anymore. We have lost everything, and you only seek to force us to lose more. France will rebuild, whether you want her to or not. France will be powerful once again and will stand a proud bastion of Catholicism, as it always has. You may all pull us down, but we shall stand tall.
France declared Albert innocent, and our decision stands. I will not tolerate this court that England plans. This trial was not a farce, but a fair trial. If you do not like the decisions of my nobles, too bad. You are not ruler of France, nor shall you ever be. Our decisions are our decisions, and nothing shall change that.
Also, I am King of France now, and Louis shall remain in France with me, as my own son. By the time he is of age, I shall be gone from this world. I will not have a future French ruler living as a hostage in English lands, like you did to the Scottish ruler. He will be raised as a Frenchman, and he will live in France. This is my will, so let it be done."
Charles turns on his heel and storms out of the Holy Court, leaving Cardinal Frontenac completely flustered and confused, alone to deal with the retribution.
Cardinal de Montpetit looks confused.
"Hmmm, this is interesting. I was in Rome the other day, and saw a play, by an Italian author whose name eludes me at the moment. One of the man was wearing women's clothing. This should be brought to the attention of the Church since it is obviously witchcraft."
He laughs a bit and continues:
"You have said to have fought the English on the fields of your land, Regent of France. You have said to have watched this Maiden of France. You have fought alongside her, as well as many more of your nobles, and even Marie de Berry, the current ruler of Bourgogne, has done so. Are you accusing YOURSELF, as well, as the rulers of Auvergne, Bourbonnais and Provence, to have followed a WITCH! NONSENSE! This woman was declared by the Church in France to be trully sent by God to deliver France. But you, Regent of France, spit on our decision."
He looks at the Pope.
"Your Holiness, our decisions are invalid to France. And the Church is misguided, in France's opinion....
Do you want us to call the help of other countries to reestablish Catholicism in this country?"
"Hmmm, this is interesting. I was in Rome the other day, and saw a play, by an Italian author whose name eludes me at the moment. One of the man was wearing women's clothing. This should be brought to the attention of the Church since it is obviously witchcraft."
He laughs a bit and continues:
"You have said to have fought the English on the fields of your land, Regent of France. You have said to have watched this Maiden of France. You have fought alongside her, as well as many more of your nobles, and even Marie de Berry, the current ruler of Bourgogne, has done so. Are you accusing YOURSELF, as well, as the rulers of Auvergne, Bourbonnais and Provence, to have followed a WITCH! NONSENSE! This woman was declared by the Church in France to be trully sent by God to deliver France. But you, Regent of France, spit on our decision."
He looks at the Pope.
"Your Holiness, our decisions are invalid to France. And the Church is misguided, in France's opinion....
Do you want us to call the help of other countries to reestablish Catholicism in this country?"
Cardinal Frontenac rises.
"Forgive me if I am mistaken, but this maiden never fought a battle. If I am correct, she arrived to the Dauphin with a private army, she claimed to be sent by God. Before she could prove her divine mission, she was killed and her supporters dispersed. I do not believe anyone in France can say they fought beside her."
Cardinal Frontenac steps back and speaks in a barely audible voice.
"And I am sure Burgundy would love to 'cleanse' France and walk away with a bit of land."
"Forgive me if I am mistaken, but this maiden never fought a battle. If I am correct, she arrived to the Dauphin with a private army, she claimed to be sent by God. Before she could prove her divine mission, she was killed and her supporters dispersed. I do not believe anyone in France can say they fought beside her."
Cardinal Frontenac steps back and speaks in a barely audible voice.
"And I am sure Burgundy would love to 'cleanse' France and walk away with a bit of land."
Cardinal de Montpetit speaks up:
"What you THINK of Burgundy, or its plans, is irrelevant to me, or the Duchy of Burgundy. You're a mere regent."
He laughs a little.
"Well, your memory seems to be yet again defective. In September of 1423, the French troops, aided by the monies and troops of many other vassals, were lead by Jeanne d'Arc to free the province of Normandie from Queen Giovannia. And a fine victory it was. All of you current officers were there, the nobility approved of it... all of France as with Jeanne d'Arc."
"What you THINK of Burgundy, or its plans, is irrelevant to me, or the Duchy of Burgundy. You're a mere regent."
He laughs a little.
"Well, your memory seems to be yet again defective. In September of 1423, the French troops, aided by the monies and troops of many other vassals, were lead by Jeanne d'Arc to free the province of Normandie from Queen Giovannia. And a fine victory it was. All of you current officers were there, the nobility approved of it... all of France as with Jeanne d'Arc."
"Your Holiness," the young Benedictine speaks "Our Senate is in need of Holy advice, as we speak our faithful orthodox vassal, the Duchy of Athens is being attacked by the Byzantine and Albanian snakes, we, as their loyal overlord, would ofcourse like to help them, but our soldiers fear being excommunicated for helping an orthodox nation against an Unholy alliance of a catholic and an orthodox one, therefore we ask His Most Benevolent Holiness, to allow us to send a small Expeditionary Force to aid our vassal, this force would only be there to aid our vassal in defending their realm and never for attacking another catholic nation." then Fra Bartolomeo kneels, anxiously awaiting the response of the Holy Father.
The Albainian ambassitor began to speak
"Albainia did no wrong, we did not target Athens or declare war on Athens, we went to war with the Turks to save Constatinople our country is a catholic one and we showed support aginist atrocities before they happened, Athens gave up it's faith it is not catholic or orthodox it is nothing, we were in the right our fight is not with the lands of Tuscany..."
Bursting in the doors came King Gjon I Kastrioti the King of Albania who was touring Italy after signing a trade agreement in Napoli.
"Your holiness I have acted only in the best intrest of the holy faith and now the lands of Tuscany are blind to the faith, this is to be dealt with here and now, who is standing for faith and holiness Albainia who acted against the Muslum mence striking Mongol supporters protecting the Byzintine Empire and then Athens declared war as part of an allience with the Turks and now who should be punished the me or Athens. As for an unholy allience Albainia and Byzintine or Athens and the Ottomans, I acted in my peoples best intrest Albainia has a large orthodox and Greek population unlike Athens I protected people of similer culture. Is this a rant for a minor defeat no for many that died were dead anyways plague bearers. I have always worked for cathlosisum I only acted on behalf of half my population who would have attacked on their own seein g such a city of might fall had it been Rome attacked, an Albainian army of unimaginable strength would be in these walls holding the invaders at bay. Look at his timing asking to help only after a defeat only acting to secure more land and money for himself. Upon sucessfully cleansing the baslkens I was planning to make a request to Byzantium to convert, and with conquered lands a new powerful cathlolic entity in the balkens was to grow. Your holiness went to a great deal of trouble over the Calais Armastice but the Blakens be closer and well if the Turks or the Demonic Athenians get Albainia well it'll be a stepping stone to Italy and then this holy city will fall too. We also ask for a loan of 2000 gold coins to finace a larger army to quash infedials and merit from Rome. Do we want another muslim loving Austria."
"Albainia did no wrong, we did not target Athens or declare war on Athens, we went to war with the Turks to save Constatinople our country is a catholic one and we showed support aginist atrocities before they happened, Athens gave up it's faith it is not catholic or orthodox it is nothing, we were in the right our fight is not with the lands of Tuscany..."
Bursting in the doors came King Gjon I Kastrioti the King of Albania who was touring Italy after signing a trade agreement in Napoli.
"Your holiness I have acted only in the best intrest of the holy faith and now the lands of Tuscany are blind to the faith, this is to be dealt with here and now, who is standing for faith and holiness Albainia who acted against the Muslum mence striking Mongol supporters protecting the Byzintine Empire and then Athens declared war as part of an allience with the Turks and now who should be punished the me or Athens. As for an unholy allience Albainia and Byzintine or Athens and the Ottomans, I acted in my peoples best intrest Albainia has a large orthodox and Greek population unlike Athens I protected people of similer culture. Is this a rant for a minor defeat no for many that died were dead anyways plague bearers. I have always worked for cathlosisum I only acted on behalf of half my population who would have attacked on their own seein g such a city of might fall had it been Rome attacked, an Albainian army of unimaginable strength would be in these walls holding the invaders at bay. Look at his timing asking to help only after a defeat only acting to secure more land and money for himself. Upon sucessfully cleansing the baslkens I was planning to make a request to Byzantium to convert, and with conquered lands a new powerful cathlolic entity in the balkens was to grow. Your holiness went to a great deal of trouble over the Calais Armastice but the Blakens be closer and well if the Turks or the Demonic Athenians get Albainia well it'll be a stepping stone to Italy and then this holy city will fall too. We also ask for a loan of 2000 gold coins to finace a larger army to quash infedials and merit from Rome. Do we want another muslim loving Austria."
The young Benedictine rises and speaks calmly in a reasonable manner:"Excuse me, Your Holiness, I am but a mere Benedectine, here to represent my nation's interests, therefore I would like to make clear we have no feelings of angryness or hatred against the Kingdom of Albania, our catholic cousins,whatsoever, but they must see that by warring with our faithful, altough heretic, vassal they have also hurt our own nation as it is an overlord's duty to protect it's vassals. However we will NEVER attack our catholic cousins of Albania, our only wish is to make sure our vassal stays our vassal and will not be overtaken or, even worse, annexed, by another nation. If that is not the will of the Albanians then God bless them and their king is invited to Florence. Florence's only wish is that the situation stays as it is, if the war is just for keeping them out of the Turk's alliance then we can only support that and Florence will not send military or economical aid, however, we must have a guarantee, sworn on the Holy Book and with His Holiness as our spectator, that Athens will not be annexed nor vassalized by any other nation, may it be Albania, Savoie or Byzantium."then he makes a gracious bow before kneeling again.
Majid Bey, commander of the small Turkish guard in Constantinople, seeks out Cardinal Alesci. He finds him enjoying the sea breezes on the fine spring morning. In very halting Latin, almost indecipherable through the thick Greek accent, he attempts to speak to the Cardinal.
"Honor big greatest churchman," he says gruffly, "of great best church dad Rome in, story of the write is being necessary to you be gived by the me."
When the Cardinal, swishing the wine in his cheeks, stared at him without the slightest comprehension, the sweating warrior growled in frustration and thrust a formal letter, now crumpled and sweaty from being gripped in his hand, at the amused prelate.
"HEALTHY!!" he said by way of farewell.
The letter, however, is written in florid Latin.
Good Cardinal Alesci,
I hope that your stay is proving pleasant. It is sad that you could only see the Ornament of the World after such destruction, but certainly the City has not been what it once was in at least three centuries now.
Although I do not know the exact purpose of your visit, I assume it is a mission of peace. Therefore, rather than jeopardize that mission, I would like to establish open and honest communications with you, on behalf of your master.
You must be aware of the many wars flaring in the Balkans. On the one hand, the mad king of the Albanians declared war on me because the Mongols attacked and sacked Constantinople. I, however, am not, or was not, at war with the late emperor.
My faithful ally, the Duke of Athens, supported me against the unwarranted and bizarre act of aggression by declaring war on Albania and, in a fit of zeal, Byzantium. Yet the Emperor welcomed this, for he saw a chance to gobble up the Tuscan vassal which Venice had denied him only a few years ago.
Now the sad game approarches its inevitable end, and I advise you not to waste any money prolonging a conflict that will only take more lives. You may give Albania all the money King Djon wishes, but his armies are broken and without morale. Even should he kill every Ottoman Turk in Europe, he will not even have declared war on the power which owns Constantinople.
May the light of God illumine your path,
Murad, Second of that Name, of the House of Osman, Slave of God, Sultan, Son of a Sultan, Grandson of a Sultan, First among the Ghazi
"Honor big greatest churchman," he says gruffly, "of great best church dad Rome in, story of the write is being necessary to you be gived by the me."
When the Cardinal, swishing the wine in his cheeks, stared at him without the slightest comprehension, the sweating warrior growled in frustration and thrust a formal letter, now crumpled and sweaty from being gripped in his hand, at the amused prelate.
"HEALTHY!!" he said by way of farewell.
The letter, however, is written in florid Latin.
Good Cardinal Alesci,
I hope that your stay is proving pleasant. It is sad that you could only see the Ornament of the World after such destruction, but certainly the City has not been what it once was in at least three centuries now.
Although I do not know the exact purpose of your visit, I assume it is a mission of peace. Therefore, rather than jeopardize that mission, I would like to establish open and honest communications with you, on behalf of your master.
You must be aware of the many wars flaring in the Balkans. On the one hand, the mad king of the Albanians declared war on me because the Mongols attacked and sacked Constantinople. I, however, am not, or was not, at war with the late emperor.
My faithful ally, the Duke of Athens, supported me against the unwarranted and bizarre act of aggression by declaring war on Albania and, in a fit of zeal, Byzantium. Yet the Emperor welcomed this, for he saw a chance to gobble up the Tuscan vassal which Venice had denied him only a few years ago.
Now the sad game approarches its inevitable end, and I advise you not to waste any money prolonging a conflict that will only take more lives. You may give Albania all the money King Djon wishes, but his armies are broken and without morale. Even should he kill every Ottoman Turk in Europe, he will not even have declared war on the power which owns Constantinople.
May the light of God illumine your path,
Murad, Second of that Name, of the House of Osman, Slave of God, Sultan, Son of a Sultan, Grandson of a Sultan, First among the Ghazi
The doors of the Papal Court opened and an important contingent of soldiers entered the hall. A letter was given to an announcer. He then spoke up and shouted:
"Your Holiness, may I present her Grace Marie de Berry, duchesse de Bourgogne, heiress to the Crown of Lotharingia, countess of Burgundy, the Lower Countries, Lorraine, Franche-Comté, overlord of Brabant and Savoie and Richter of the Imperial Justice Court."
The gards distanced themselves and Marie entered the court. She saluted rapidly Cardinal de Montpetit and went on straight to the Pope. She kneeled and began to speak:
"Your Holiness, you have asked me to do my homework, and I have done them. You have asked me to present you the Charter of Burgundy, which would establish the new Kingdom of Burgundy, under the crown of Lotharingia."
A scribe comes forward, a kneels:
"Your Holiness, here is the document you requested."
The Creation of the Kingdom of Burgundy and the Re-establishment of the Crown of Lotharingia.
In this year of the Lord 1426, the Kingdom of Burgundy is created, under the approval of the Kingdom of France and the Kingdom of England, the Holy Roman Emperor, and the Holy See.
Capitula 1: The Crown of Lotharingia is hereby given and linked to the creation and ruling of the Kingdom of Burgundy.
Capitula 2: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be sovereing of its lands in the regions outside the Holy Roman Empire. In the Holy Roman Empire, the Kingdom will be the subject of the Emperor.
Capitula 3: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as the following Imperial counties and duchies:
-The County of Holland and Lower Countries: provinces of Zeeland, Frandern, Holland and Artois.
-The Duchy of Alsace: province of Alsace
-The Duchy of Lorraine: province of Lorraine
-The County of Franche-Comté: provinces of France Comté and Bern
These lands are considered as Imperial lands and will pay respect to the Crown of Lotharingia under the guidance of the Emperor of the Holy Roman Emperor.
Capitula 4: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as the following non-Imperial counties and duchies:
-The County of Burgundy: province of Burgundy
These lands are considered as free lands and will pay respect to the Crown of Lotharingia only.
Capitula 5: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as the Overlord of the following Imperial duchies and counties:
-The Duchy of Brabant: Province of Brabant
-The Duchy of Savoie: Provinces of Savoie and Piemonte.
These lands are considered as Imperial lands and will pays respect to the Crown of Lotharingia and the Imperor of the Holy Roman Empire.
Capitula 6: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as a a status of Kingdom within the Holy Roman Empire but will not be considered an elector.
Capitula 7: Salic Law will not prevail in the Kingdom of Burgundy.
Capitula 8: The House of Berry is recognised as the owner of the Crown of Lotharingia, and so, as the ruler of the Kingdom of Burgundy.
Capitula 9: The Kingdom of Burgundy is forever a member of the Catholic Church."
Marie, still bowing to the Pope, speaks rapidly and nervously:
"Your Holiness, as soon as the new Emperor Victor von Blommenstein is appointed, I have asked to be given the Crown of Lotharingia.
I have the approbation of the Emperor.
I have the approbation of my nobles.
I have the approbation of the King of England and the King of France.
I am now only missing the approbation and Crown from you, Your Holiness. "
She remains still, looking to the ground.
"Your Holiness, may I present her Grace Marie de Berry, duchesse de Bourgogne, heiress to the Crown of Lotharingia, countess of Burgundy, the Lower Countries, Lorraine, Franche-Comté, overlord of Brabant and Savoie and Richter of the Imperial Justice Court."
The gards distanced themselves and Marie entered the court. She saluted rapidly Cardinal de Montpetit and went on straight to the Pope. She kneeled and began to speak:
"Your Holiness, you have asked me to do my homework, and I have done them. You have asked me to present you the Charter of Burgundy, which would establish the new Kingdom of Burgundy, under the crown of Lotharingia."
A scribe comes forward, a kneels:
"Your Holiness, here is the document you requested."
The Creation of the Kingdom of Burgundy and the Re-establishment of the Crown of Lotharingia.
In this year of the Lord 1426, the Kingdom of Burgundy is created, under the approval of the Kingdom of France and the Kingdom of England, the Holy Roman Emperor, and the Holy See.
Capitula 1: The Crown of Lotharingia is hereby given and linked to the creation and ruling of the Kingdom of Burgundy.
Capitula 2: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be sovereing of its lands in the regions outside the Holy Roman Empire. In the Holy Roman Empire, the Kingdom will be the subject of the Emperor.
Capitula 3: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as the following Imperial counties and duchies:
-The County of Holland and Lower Countries: provinces of Zeeland, Frandern, Holland and Artois.
-The Duchy of Alsace: province of Alsace
-The Duchy of Lorraine: province of Lorraine
-The County of Franche-Comté: provinces of France Comté and Bern
These lands are considered as Imperial lands and will pay respect to the Crown of Lotharingia under the guidance of the Emperor of the Holy Roman Emperor.
Capitula 4: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as the following non-Imperial counties and duchies:
-The County of Burgundy: province of Burgundy
These lands are considered as free lands and will pay respect to the Crown of Lotharingia only.
Capitula 5: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as the Overlord of the following Imperial duchies and counties:
-The Duchy of Brabant: Province of Brabant
-The Duchy of Savoie: Provinces of Savoie and Piemonte.
These lands are considered as Imperial lands and will pays respect to the Crown of Lotharingia and the Imperor of the Holy Roman Empire.
Capitula 6: The Kingdom of Burgundy will be recognised as a a status of Kingdom within the Holy Roman Empire but will not be considered an elector.
Capitula 7: Salic Law will not prevail in the Kingdom of Burgundy.
Capitula 8: The House of Berry is recognised as the owner of the Crown of Lotharingia, and so, as the ruler of the Kingdom of Burgundy.
Capitula 9: The Kingdom of Burgundy is forever a member of the Catholic Church."
Marie, still bowing to the Pope, speaks rapidly and nervously:
"Your Holiness, as soon as the new Emperor Victor von Blommenstein is appointed, I have asked to be given the Crown of Lotharingia.
I have the approbation of the Emperor.
I have the approbation of my nobles.
I have the approbation of the King of England and the King of France.
I am now only missing the approbation and Crown from you, Your Holiness. "
She remains still, looking to the ground.
His Holiness listens to Cardinal de Montpetit’s account of the Trial of Archduke Albert. When the Burgundian Cardinal finishes, Joseph grins and wags his finger at him playfully, believing the summary to be a practical joke. Then the realisation that the Inquisitor is deadly serious hits the Pontiff, and a variety of conflicting emotions flicker over Joseph’s face.
He turns to Cardinal de Frontenac, the poor soul left behind by the fiery Charles to explain France’s position,
“Your Eminence, you are a man of reason, what on earth has happened here?”
“I cannot possibly accept the findings of this charade of a trial. After all, in one of the bulles I issued following the Papal Conclave, I stated that you were to preside over the trial yourself. Why, if I were to acknowledge the judiciary of this Constable… ehh… Richemont, it would be in contravention of one of my own ex cathedra decisions.”
“My goodness, Your Eminence, surely you are aware of the massive flaws in the whole proceeding, can you not talk some sense into the Regent?”
“’She rallyed the soldiers of France with her witchcraft’, was one of the highlights of Richemont’s monologue. The Conclave decided that Jeanne d’Arc was not a witch, Eminence. Whilst I would not want to influence the outcome of the Archduke’s trial from Rome, such a statement… well, need I spell out what contradicting a Papal Bulle is tantamount to?”
“And the constable goes on, ‘If this maiden was blessed by God, she would not have died.’ Your Eminence!” Joseph lowers the transcript of the trial, his facial expression pleading with the French Cardinal, “I think you might need to take the constable to one side and remind him that the very Son of God sacrificed his temporal life.”
“Now, I am sorry to belabour the point, Cardinal de Frontenac, but Richemont continues to compound his faux pas: ‘So, I hereby declare you guilty for wasting my time. This trial was unneeded.’ Unneeded! Unneeded, except by the Holy See, and requested at the behest of a Papal Conclave, Eminence!”
“And whilst I have no wish to embarrass the constable any further, Cardinal de Montpetit reminds us that Jeanne d’Arc’s army fought at the battle of Normandy in the September of the Year of Our Lord, 1423.”
“Now, Eminence, I understand that these are trying times for all Frenchmen and whilst I do not fully understand what is going on in the Louvre or in the Kingdom of France at all, for that matter, please know that I have always welcomed your council and trust you to be a beacon of reason in a troubled realm.”
“It is unfortunate that Regent Charles has left, and that I must ask you to convey my replies to their recipients. However, could you tell His Grace that it is due to the questions that surround the validity of his claim to the Duchy of Orleans that I have requested he cede overlordship of the vassals of the Kingdom of France to the Holy See.
“I have no fear or suspicions of the Kingdom of France, for which I feel a profound fondness, but whilst Charles is prepared to give his approval to mockeries of justice such as we have just been subjected to, I fear for the proper governance of that realm.”
His Holiness turns briefly to Cardinal Bouchier,
“Your Eminence, thank you for your suggestions, I shall… bear them in mind…
“I shall have to seek guidance in prayer over the next few days before I shall know how to proceed in this matter.”
To Cardinal de Montpetit,
“Your Eminence, whilst Constable Richemont confuses Jeanne d’Arc’s true nature and mistakenly declares her work to be witchcraft, it would appear that you have temporarily forgotten the findings of the conclave. Allow me, if you will, to refresh your memory… Ahh, thank you, Angelo…”
The junior churchman, having heard the talk of the Conclave, has taken the initiative of rooting out the recordings of the Papal Bulles that were issued shorly after. Angelo now stands at the side of the Papal Throne, positively beaming that he pre-empted the Pontiff’s needs.
Joseph chuckles, “Ahh yes, here I go…”
“So, Cardinal de Montpetit, I hope that clears that matter up.” He smiles amiably.
“Now…” His Holiness turns to the Florentine Benedictine and King Gjon I Kastrioti,
“My son… and Your Majesty, I am afraid I find it very hard to understand what either of you are saying. Your words come streaming out and you barely give yourselves enough time to breathe. Now, could you both speak a little more slowly and clearly so that this old man can have a chance of understanding your pleas a little better?”
He turns to Cardinal de Frontenac, the poor soul left behind by the fiery Charles to explain France’s position,
“Your Eminence, you are a man of reason, what on earth has happened here?”
“I cannot possibly accept the findings of this charade of a trial. After all, in one of the bulles I issued following the Papal Conclave, I stated that you were to preside over the trial yourself. Why, if I were to acknowledge the judiciary of this Constable… ehh… Richemont, it would be in contravention of one of my own ex cathedra decisions.”
“My goodness, Your Eminence, surely you are aware of the massive flaws in the whole proceeding, can you not talk some sense into the Regent?”
“’She rallyed the soldiers of France with her witchcraft’, was one of the highlights of Richemont’s monologue. The Conclave decided that Jeanne d’Arc was not a witch, Eminence. Whilst I would not want to influence the outcome of the Archduke’s trial from Rome, such a statement… well, need I spell out what contradicting a Papal Bulle is tantamount to?”
“And the constable goes on, ‘If this maiden was blessed by God, she would not have died.’ Your Eminence!” Joseph lowers the transcript of the trial, his facial expression pleading with the French Cardinal, “I think you might need to take the constable to one side and remind him that the very Son of God sacrificed his temporal life.”
“Now, I am sorry to belabour the point, Cardinal de Frontenac, but Richemont continues to compound his faux pas: ‘So, I hereby declare you guilty for wasting my time. This trial was unneeded.’ Unneeded! Unneeded, except by the Holy See, and requested at the behest of a Papal Conclave, Eminence!”
“And whilst I have no wish to embarrass the constable any further, Cardinal de Montpetit reminds us that Jeanne d’Arc’s army fought at the battle of Normandy in the September of the Year of Our Lord, 1423.”
“Now, Eminence, I understand that these are trying times for all Frenchmen and whilst I do not fully understand what is going on in the Louvre or in the Kingdom of France at all, for that matter, please know that I have always welcomed your council and trust you to be a beacon of reason in a troubled realm.”
“It is unfortunate that Regent Charles has left, and that I must ask you to convey my replies to their recipients. However, could you tell His Grace that it is due to the questions that surround the validity of his claim to the Duchy of Orleans that I have requested he cede overlordship of the vassals of the Kingdom of France to the Holy See.
“I have no fear or suspicions of the Kingdom of France, for which I feel a profound fondness, but whilst Charles is prepared to give his approval to mockeries of justice such as we have just been subjected to, I fear for the proper governance of that realm.”
His Holiness turns briefly to Cardinal Bouchier,
“Your Eminence, thank you for your suggestions, I shall… bear them in mind…
“I shall have to seek guidance in prayer over the next few days before I shall know how to proceed in this matter.”
To Cardinal de Montpetit,
“Your Eminence, whilst Constable Richemont confuses Jeanne d’Arc’s true nature and mistakenly declares her work to be witchcraft, it would appear that you have temporarily forgotten the findings of the conclave. Allow me, if you will, to refresh your memory… Ahh, thank you, Angelo…”
The junior churchman, having heard the talk of the Conclave, has taken the initiative of rooting out the recordings of the Papal Bulles that were issued shorly after. Angelo now stands at the side of the Papal Throne, positively beaming that he pre-empted the Pontiff’s needs.
Joseph chuckles, “Ahh yes, here I go…”
Good Lord, do I really talk in such a pretentious fashion? The Pope thinks.
“So, Cardinal de Montpetit, I hope that clears that matter up.” He smiles amiably.
“Now…” His Holiness turns to the Florentine Benedictine and King Gjon I Kastrioti,
“My son… and Your Majesty, I am afraid I find it very hard to understand what either of you are saying. Your words come streaming out and you barely give yourselves enough time to breathe. Now, could you both speak a little more slowly and clearly so that this old man can have a chance of understanding your pleas a little better?”
Cardinal de Montpetit answers the Pope:
"Your Holiness, I said this:
I didn't mean that the Church as whole decided this, only that the FRENCH members of the Catholic Church had declared, at the time, that she was sent by God. I do not imply a difference between the Holy Church and the members of this same Holy Church in France, only that, at the TIME, she was considered trully blessed by us, French Cardinals. Since then.... much water has passed under the bridge, and she was, indeed, found to be a normal, yet gifted girl.
On a different, unrelated matter, I agree with my Duchesse request."
"Your Holiness, I said this:
I didn't mean that the Church as whole decided this, only that the FRENCH members of the Catholic Church had declared, at the time, that she was sent by God. I do not imply a difference between the Holy Church and the members of this same Holy Church in France, only that, at the TIME, she was considered trully blessed by us, French Cardinals. Since then.... much water has passed under the bridge, and she was, indeed, found to be a normal, yet gifted girl.
On a different, unrelated matter, I agree with my Duchesse request."
A delicte cough indicates Bouchiers desire to speak again. His face is deeply lined with concern.
"Papa..... I don't know what to say..... We must excuse the French Regent briefly i feal for he has evidently lost his sense of reason."
"Did I just hear him say that Louis would be educated in France no mater what others thought?"
"I believe i did."
"Article three of the Armistice, only just signed by that same Regent clearly states. And I quote....."
"And along whith the other maters i am deeply concerned."
"Are we to be thrown back into war again, already?"
"I beg you....... Before King John hears of this; PLEASE intervene as your signiture entitles you to and sort out this madness before it esculates"
"Papa..... I don't know what to say..... We must excuse the French Regent briefly i feal for he has evidently lost his sense of reason."
"Did I just hear him say that Louis would be educated in France no mater what others thought?"
"I believe i did."
"Article three of the Armistice, only just signed by that same Regent clearly states. And I quote....."
"And along whith the other maters i am deeply concerned."
"Are we to be thrown back into war again, already?"
"I beg you....... Before King John hears of this; PLEASE intervene as your signiture entitles you to and sort out this madness before it esculates"
Cardinal Alvaro shows himself before the Pope, and bows on his knee once more, and kisses his holy hands. Then he rises at the Pope's signal, and speaks.
Oh most Holy Pontiff, I am very sad that you have not responded to me. You must forgive my lack of patience and for interupting such pressing matters of the Empire and Gallia, however, I beg of you, your Holiness, not to forget Portugal and me. The King in Portugal awaits for your permission to allow his son to enter Roma and sign the treaty. Also, your Holiness, I still await to be accpeted as Portugal's Church Representative here in Roma. Please, forgive me, I am not worthy, my Holy Father.
He remains bowing, and pleaing as he feels awful for interrupting and being impatient.
- Status