- ARCHIVE - Royal Court of Portugal

[Mettermrck]

The Factions of the Portuguese Court​

------------------------------------------​

King Reginald​

'The Royals'​

As King of Portugal, Reginald has been decisive in his impact on the governance of the kingdom. With his marriage to Adalia Duarte and the subsequent Ordinance of Succession, his claim to the crown was confirmed and he has ruled with ability and firmness. Followers of the Royals faction believe in the supremacy of the King, particularly his being male, and favor his preeminence over the nobles and even the Queen.

The Royal faction holds GREAT influence at court.

The Imperial stance on the issues:

- favors Castille
- neutral towards Aragon
- neutral towards Navarre
- zealously supports Atlantic Exploration
- strongly supports African trade
- favors the maintenance of a Strong Church and Inquisition
- zealously supports Involvement in the Mediterranean

Queen Adalia​

'The Iberians'​

The daughter of the late King Joao Duarte, Queen Adalia holds the strongest position in Portugal, according to the tradtionalists. It is she who has the direct link to the throne, and her voice holds great weight in the governance of the kingdom. With her quiet, secluded upbringing, Adalia has been initially shy and reserved as Queen, though her assertion of her proper power will no doubt unsettle things in Portugal. The Iberians support the preeminence of the Queen in royal government, and are very closely linked to her policies and opinions. They do favor the suppression of the nobility, but are not above using them if it becomes necessary to counter the King’s will.

The Iberian faction holds SOME influence at court.

The Iberian stance on the issues:

- zealously supports Castille
- dislikes Aragon
- favors Navarre
- strongly supports Atlantic Exploration
- zealously supports African trade
- strongly favors the maintenance of a Strong Church and Inquisition
- favors Involvement in the Mediterranean

Duke Pedro of Coimbra​

'The Nobles'​

Duke Pedro is one of the strongest nobles in Portugal, holder of vast estates, and a leading member of the Privy Council. His opposition to King Reginald’s ascension is well known and despite his eventual acceptance, is still a strong opponent of royal power. Most discontented nobles naturally gravitate to his lead. Follows of the Nobles seek to curb the power of the Portuguese monarchs, King and Queen. If they had a choice, they prefer the Queen because of his Iberian bloodline.

The Noble faction holds VERY LITTLE influence at court.

The Noble stance on the issues:

- dislikes Castille
- favors Aragon
- neutral towards Navarre
- strongly supports Atlantic Exploration
- favors African trade
- neutral towards the maintenance of a Strong Church and Inquisition
- opposes Involvement in the Mediterranean

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Enzo Agostino is seen speaking to the Castillian representative and the King. Enzo Agostino returns to the King later with documents and speaks on some final issues.

• "Oh your majesty I have some questions regarding, exactly what you plan to do in regards with the French, for they have planned to assist me in the future, and I the Doge under no circumstance will reneg on his word to such loyal friends. They have been marvelous and our friendship truly prospers. I think a League of St. Marks or something of the same should be instituted. Our four nations bound in friendship, and together we may prosper greatly.
  
  Then there is also Genoa to deal with. How shall Venice deal with the current situation of paying for the upgrading of trade routes when we must forge new ships in our arsenale. Possibly a joint effort of my friends in Germany, and those in the Mediterannean would make a quick job of the Genovese, clearing a tabala rasa for us all, allowing us to focus on trade. I amsure Venice in a similar situation would do such a thing for Castille or Portugal if they wished to deal with an opposing nation. In fact if Venezia joins it would join with its full heart and soul, loyal to the core. That is what we believe shall win us victories."
  
  Enzo bows again and awaits a response.

 

[Mettermrck]

Queen Adalia listens to the Venetian proposals with interest. There are certainly possibilities here. Reginald was in Lagos, so it was for here to consider these treaties. Finally, she sat up and replied.

"Has the Republic of Venice sounded out the views of Castille in this matter? She is our ally and certainly we would not want to take any serious decisions without consulting her? If Castille favors your plans, then I have no objections. In the meantime, would you be able to sign our economic agreement before we moved on to negotiating a more political arrangement?"

 

[unmerged(945)]

A letter arrived from Crete.

Honorable Reginald of the house of Witau, King of Portugal,

I have heard great things about portoguese innovations in everything maritime. My naval advisor speaks of ships capable of travelling great distances, even far down the african coast and into the atlantic ocean.

As you know Genoa has long maritime traditions as well. Perhaps it could be possible to capitalize on this and learn from each other. An exchange of naval experts that could both advice and learn from the other. I hope you find this proposal interesting and that you will consider it.

Andrea Doria,
Doge of Genoa

 

[unmerged(17500)]

​

Scene 1
With cold fleeting steps, the beast layers its movements around the building. Stopping to drop to one knee, it peers around to see if any man dares to hinder its destined path. Its eyes, adjusted at this point to the darkness of night, have homed in on a window. The early morning dew has laden this window with sweat, while the curtains feather out of its cage, flailing for an escape and at the same time welcoming this stranger into the house. "Careful" it thought, knowing that the silence of the window hinges could most certainly buckle under the strength of such a determined creature. The days of white tulips, and sailing have long passed, for the days of lust, spite, hatred for ones fellow man have now marked the daily schedule. Plotting, planning it has reached this point of no return. With cunning and stealth it moves through the window carefully checking the residence for any warm blood that it can poison and devour. A feast of revenge, fit for the cruel bestial craving that must be satisfied. Carefully placing both palms onto the window sill, it feels for the point of contact that will allow it for the easiest maneuvering into the building. Once stabilized it throws itself into the room, and quickly, quietly, premeditatively it finds the perfect spot for camouflage, blending into the darkness.

One eye peers into the room. Constantly returning its focus on the drape, its glare is somehow leashed to this only moving object in the room. Its nails rub down the side of its hip feeling for its leather covered scorpion tip. A dagger of pure malice, ready to be used for only one purpose. This beast has entered the house with the intention of exploring hate, and means to settle the score quickly. Passing through the room, it scopes the hallways for any annoying servants that could possibly be lurking before dawn. Passing down the hall, it slides carefully not to make a sound. Up the stairs and into the confines of the now dissolved sanctuary of sleep. Every movement so calculated, well placed, and knowing where the creeks are, and where to avoid them. Looking for the its final destination it goes from room to room, guaranteeing its safety, with every step further contributing to their peril. Its fingers scrape the walls for an emorphous spot to cling to. Some place where gravity would not even absolve its positioning.

Rushing into the room, it slides into the groove that is the space between the bed and the cold wood floor. As if lightning hit the room, the spot marked "X" awakes from its slumber. Cold chills fluster the animal, clouding its head, infusing a slight amount of fear. The victim, still unsuspecting, goes to the table, and pours some water. Then after hoggishly finishing the brim tall glass of water, the moment to strike presents itself. The victims ring clangs against the iron water dish. The gold and red ruby glisten in the recently lit candle light, strait into the eyes of the beast. Creeping in haste, it stumbles onto its victim. The dagger in one clean swipe turns the water pot into a mess. The red drops fall through the night air, into the water where they sperate and diffuse into the pool. Then collecting it saturates the clean, crisp refreshment of its victim. A first feast has come too quickly. The blood has engulfed the room and the smell of death leaks from the corpse. A quick slit of the neck guaranteed silence, but the continued stabbings, are what truly fed the beast. Revenge, hate, redemption, and the unmasking of a murder all came together to bring out the animal that grew in the past months.

Taking a lock of bloody hair, the manifestation of evil, escaped through the window, and into the dew. On its way leaving droplets and smears of warmth across the house, telling the reverse story to all who came to the house. The wind still continues to wisp the white drapes through the window, but now anchored down by the red crumb stains left behind in quick flight.

 

[Mettermrck]

Narration:

How the mighty fall, and in such a manner. Evil slips unnoticed in the night, and the rings and indeed, the water dishes, are no protection at all. The dagger was swift to bring an end to all discussion. But what of the servant’s role in these proceedings? Did he not see? Was he asleep? Perchance was some other game in play?

Ah, but I fear I get ahead of myself, which is the tendency of my sort. Perhaps, dear reader, you would be better prepared if I were to indulge your curiosity for a moment? For the story which ended in this nighttime tragedy did have its beginnings, and in a very different manner than this. Now your questions mount, I see. As the good philosopher once said, patience bears its own rewards. And that is a good place to start this unhappy tale, I fear. With patience.

It is the mark of a good servant to be patient. Unnoticed and patient. For such is their duty to see to the whims of their employers, their masters. Were they to stand out?....well, you will find out for yourselves. And that is only a part of the tale. Yet I feel I must bestow upon you at least some token of wisdom, some useful words before I begin. Simply this – do not judge too early, too closely. For those who do, meet the dagger in the night.

 

[Mettermrck]

The Genoese message arrives at the court in Lisbon. The Steward presents it to Queen Adalia.

"Your Majesty, a message from the Doge of Rhodes to His Majesty the King. I wanted to bring it to your attention before I sent it on to Lagos."

Adalia smiled benignly and took the letter.

"That won't be necessary, Senor Ortiz. I will handle the matter."

The Steward looked a little unsettled at the change in protocol. The Queen never used to read royal correspondence addressed to the King! Most irregular! His mouth opened.

"B-but, Your Majesty. The King-------"

Adalia smiled firmly, a sign that she was becoming annoyed.

"----is not here, Senor Ortiz. I will handle the matter. You are dismissed."

Ortiz nodded, filing the incident away for future reference. Most irregular.

Adalia sighed and opened the letter. Was something wrong if she was starting to read her husband's letters? No! Queen Elinor was quite right. Adalia was Queen and she needed to assert her part in Portugal's governance. She read the Genoese letter, which brought no reaction to her face. Folding it, she summoned a page to draw up a quick reply.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Enzo Agostino quickly speaks to Adalia, quietly.

• "Your grace if I may, I think a final document needs to be presented, the current documents in my Doge's hands are very interesting, however they are certainly not final. The Doge would like to quickly ratify such agreements that we have discussed in private. The issues of a League, the issue of Africa, the issue of Castille joining the Algarve treaty should be dealt with. Why do we not discuss the terms privately."
  
  Enzo bows again and awaits a response.

 

[Mettermrck]

Act I
Narration:​

Capri! Thou art as the new day's sun
which brings warmth to all who behold it.
The gentlemen come to wallow and play,
for ladies and fortune, to find them.
Thou doth cast your shimmering glow -
on both the seekers and the sought.​

Yes, it all starts with an island. A simple, small island, yet one which contains the entirety of this most fascinating tale. Its rocks and beaches are only the foundation for that which I impart to you. For it is the human element, present in its most passionate and tempestuous form, that drives this drama of mine. All the major players are here, waiting for you to experience their stories - the seekers and the sought. Ah yes, I remember. It started with two of them.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Enzo Agostino quickly speaks to Adalia and hands her the final revision of the trade agreement.

• "Your grace here are the documents as promised."
  
  Enzo hands them over and then bows.

Algarve Trade and Loan Pact​

Part I - Purpose: To reaffrim Venetian, Castillian and Portugese ties as well as create a trade foundation to profit all parties.

• 
  Article I - The parties involved are the great and pious nations of Portugal, Castille and Venezia.
  Article II - The parties have joined together to strengthen their friendship and thusly do.

Part II - Trade: Venice, Castille and Portugal shall join in a trade.

• 
  Article I - Venice shall supply the materials for the building of a custom house in Lagos for the purpose of Portugese-Castillian-Venetian trade.
  Article II - Portuguese, and Castillian trade in the Mediterranean shall be handled via Venetian vessels and traders. Venetian merchants shall be permitted to purchase Portuguese, and Castillian commodities in the port of Lagos not exceeding 20% of the total volume available for purchase.
  Article III - Venezia shall ensure a permanent, sufficient and cheap flow of Eastern goods to the realm of Portugal and Castille. Venice shall not make more than a 10% profit on the sale of these goods, ensuring the best possible prices for the people of Portugal and Castille.
  Article IV - Venice shall use its vast resources to find the highest prices for Portugese and Castillian goods and thusly guarantee an increase in their profits.

Part III - Loan and aid agreement

• 
  Article I - All parties shall do everything in its power to loan the other members with monies in the case of need.
  Article II - All parties shall join in the purpose of mutual assistance.

Part IV - Western Mediterranean Trading Concern

• Article I - That the Kingdoms of Castille and Portugal, and the Serene Republic of Venice, sharing common ties of economics and geography, do hereby undertake to invest in trading routes from Timbuktu and Taoudenni northward via Sijilmasa to Marrakesh and Fez.
  
  Article II - Each country shall invest 10,000 florin (1 eco) in order to revive the previously established caravan routes as such funds are available.
  
  Article III - Each country shall agree to divide the profits from these routes in equal proportion.
  
  Article IV - It is agreed that none of the signatories may station royal troops exceeding fifty men in Morocco without consulting the others. Troops may be used solely for the purpose of caravan protection.
  
  Article V - Castillian and Venetian vessels shall be permitted to resupply at the port of Madeira.
  
  Article VI - Portuguese and Venetian vessels shall be permitted to resupply at the ports of the Canary Islands.
  
  Article VII - Portuguese and Castillian vessels shall be permitted to resupply at Venetian port of Crete.
  
  Article VIII - Part IV of the agreement shall take effect upon signature and investment of all monarchs, and shall last in perpetuity.

[x] Doge Francesco Foscari, Doge of Venezia, Duke of Dalmatia, OVerlord of Bulgaria, Serbia, Crete
[ ] Queen Elinor de Trastamara of Castille-Leon, Queen of Granada, Dowager Queen of England, Dowager Queen of Scotland
[ ] Adalia Duarte, Queen of Portugal and Reginald of Witau, King of Portugal, Prince of Jerusalem, Steward of the Holy Sepulchre

 

[Mettermrck]

Adalia flipped through the pages of the proposed treaty and read with some interest. It was essentially the same text she discussed with Queen Elinor and with the Venetian ambassador, so she had no objections. Reginald had favored deals with Castille and Venice, so he would certainly not object to this one. How glad she was he was still in Lagos. She was starting to enjoy engaging in foreign policy herself.

"This draft is acceptable. Senor Agostino."

 

[Mettermrck]

Motioning for the Portugese amassador she continued to speak:

Send word to your rulers upon this idea and find out their ideas upon this matter. And to you the Ambassador from Portugal please pass along the note to Adalia that I belive this to be in the best interest for Portugal and our friendship. That will be all come back to me when you have word and I will perhaps have written my ideas up.

Queen Adalia read the letter from the Castilian court.

"Knossos? I haven't heard of that city since when I was young, and Barnabus, my tutor, used to tell us stories about the labryinth and the Minoans. I wonder what Elinor intends to do with the property. It must be ruins by now. Senor Alvarez? Do we have any books on Crete and its past? I think I need to study the subject more."

"Draft a reply to Queen Elinor. Tell her of course I'm fascinated with her proposal, as I admire her daring thinking. I hope to be of any assistance with the project. Oh, and remind her that the Maritime competition begins soon, and I thought perhaps Castille might wish to back one of their captains? Might be a nice show of unity between our kingdoms. I hear rumors that Reginald is allowing a Genoese captain. We can't afford to be biased."

 

[Mettermrck]

For the last month, Adalia had been rereading several ancient texts that Senor Alvarez had provided for her, which covered the island of Crete, the Minoan civilization, and the ancient city of Knossos. She had been surprised that the terms of the alliance included the provisions dealing with Crete, yet the more she studied it, the more delighted she was with the charm and elegance of it. Should this be done, I would dearly love to travel to Crete again, to see our new city. She laughed a little, to herself, a little surprised at how happy she was with the notion.

The doors opened and horns blew. ”His Majesty the King!” a nearby herald bellowed.

Adalia turned to see her husband, King Reginald, enter the chambers. But this was not the person she was used to. There was no expectation, no affection on his face. It was a face marked with fatigue, concentration and....was that anger? He spotted her and began walking towards her with a clipped pace.

Smiling, she went to him quickly, happy and delighted at his return, though wondering why she felt such a secret sense of foreboding.

”Dear husband, welcome home! I am so happy to see you, though I confess to some surprise. Why did you leave Lagos so soon? Surely the Challenge hasn’t been launched already?”

Reginald stopped, and shook his head firmly. He studied her for a moment, taking several deep breaths. Finally he pointed to the pile of parchments near her throne. ”The treaty. Give it to me.”

She was shocked at his tone. So peremptory. So........harsh. She said nothing and complied, retrieving the copy of the Minoan Confederation agreement and handing it to him.

He snatched it from her and began to read it. Walking away from her, he began to pace, reading its terms. Finally, he spun around to face her, holding the document in front of him.

”You signed this, my dear?” he snapped. The last word was not used with the affection Adalia was used to. No, this was different. It was thrown at her, lashed at her.

She flushed but remained calm. ”Naturally. We had agreed to the alliance with Castile and Venice so I thought it best to conclude matters quickly. Her Majesty, Queen Elinor, had sent the treaty far quicker than I had expected, and I wanted to make sure we took care of things as swiftly as possible.”

Reginald frowned and grimaced. ”I’m not talking about the alliance. I’m talking about these other terms. Did you read the entire document, my dear?” The same lashing words.

”Of course.” Now she’d had enough of this. ”What is it? What’s wrong, Reginald? Why are you shouting like this?”

Reginald lost it. ”This nonsense! This utter, useless, expensive bloated mockery of a treaty!” He grasped the treaty tightly, crumpling the parchment. Adalia silently thanked herself for making several copies already.

The King paced again, and now a sarcastic smile broke over his face. This was not the man she was used to. What had happened? What had changed him in Sparta?

”A Confederation Capital?!? In Knossos? Oh, how nice. A great hall, with Senators even! 200,000 ducats?!? Adalia are you MAD?!?”

This time she did not remain silent. ”Reginald, control yourself. Stop acting like a pompous fool. Queen Elinor thought it best to tie together our kingdoms with a link to the past. What’s so wrong about Crete? You told me once yourself how strategic an island it was? So what if we cap our alliance with the trappings of ancient times? You even receive an ancient respected title.”

Reginald scowled. ”Ah, yes, a title. triumviri rei publicae constituendae! How quaint. Well, my dear, you can have it! 200,000 ducats for a ruined city and a title? My dear.” He held up his hands in front of him, and looked as if he was trying to control his emotions.

”You simply have to see my point. The nations of Europe will laugh at our effrontery and our dreaming. This whole Knossos business only makes the alliance a show. A dramatic theater performance, not the political calculation I wanted. Adalia, please. You have to see.”

Now she was mad. ”No! YOU do not see! Elinor has a vision, a strong alliance backed by ancient rites to bring us together. You reject it because you didn’t think of it. And I am sorry if you’ve squandered the treasury on some monstrosity to Pius, or some fruitless boat race! I finally find a real achievement for Portugal, and you throw it in my face?”

Reginald smiled again, sarcastically. ”Just Elinor, is it? No Queen? No Her Majesty? My my, Adalia. The two women ganging up on me? She’s tricked you, hasn’t you? Duped you?”

Adalia scowled. ”Do not speak of the Queen that way. She’s been more of a friend to me these past months then you’ve been. Running off to Sparta, carousing in Rome.” Adalia hoped to finally calm Reginald down and draw him out, find out what had happened to him in Greece.

She failed. ”DAMN ELINOR!” Reginald raged. ”I am the ruler of Portugal, not she! I will not have Castile dictating Portuguese policy!”

Adalia grew real quiet, and drew herself up. ”You are a King by virtue of marriage, husband. Don’t you ever forget who is the Heir of Duarte here.”

Reginald too grew real quiet. The room got real cold. Most of the eavesdroppers, gossips, and lookers-on took slow steps backwards, hoping to escape the royal anger.

Finally, Reginald stepped back, and bowed. ”Of course. Your Majesty.” Those clipped tones again. ”Be careful, Adalia. This is a dangerous game to play.” And with that, he left the room.

The adrenaline rushed out of her, and she hastened to her throne, collapsing in it. Wracked with sobs, she struggled to keep herself under control. Secretly, however, she was proud of herself. Whatever was bothering Reginald, she would not let it interfere with her reign or the alliance.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

A letter arrives bordered in goldleaf and stamped with the Foscari brand.

• "Your eminense, Queen Adalia, Queen of Portugal, and close friend of La Serennisima.
  
  I write you today to inform you that there seems to be one probelm with our Minoan Confederacy. It seems that the Genovese pirates, labeled by the Holy Roman Emperor himself; labeled heathen by the church, has taken Crete, and declared war on Venezia. I am sure you are asking yourself why would a Doria do such a thing. Well it seems that youth, the loss of his father, and the workings of the Dark Prince have driven Andrea Doria to madness. He has claimed that Venezia has somehow threatened Genovese trade, he has claimed that Venezia has been too aggressive at gaining trade alliances. We both know that these are not proper reasons for war, and so it is time that we teach the young and ignorant a well disserved lesson. I hope that together we may join together and regain the land that shall stand for the regained power in the Mediterannean. The Minoan Confederacy without a doubt shall stand for strength under God, and forever bid these pirates out of the Mediterannean.
  
  If you look for any other reason then look for this. The pirates led by Doria have attacked Venetian trade ships. Luckily I had prepared for such an event and fortified my ships well. The war gallies that accompanied my trade vessels did their job, however I can not guarantee the safety of our trade goods, and thusly our trade pact becomes endangered. I proclaim that we bond together and stop this Genoan from loosing anymore of our profits.
  
  I also call the section of the Algarve trade agreement which states that we look postitively to each nation for mutual assistance. I hope that we can come together and cursh our enemy for the prosperity of our three nations; Portugal, Castille-Leon, and Venezia.
  
  I hope to see you someday on the isle of Crete, with the warm air streaming off the water and into our faces. I hope to bring happier news soon.
  
  ~Doge Francesco Foscari, Doge di Venezia, Duke of Dalmatia, Overlord of Serbia, Crete, Bulgaria"

 

[Fireblade]

A letter arrives from Mistra.

"To Her Majesty, Queen Adalia, Queen of Portugal,

Today is a most glorious day for Christiandom indeed. The news has just reached my ear that the Christians of Constantinople and Trebizond have revolted against the Turk, and wish once again for rule by their rightful Emperor. Already, the Christians of Thrace and Trebizond have begun expelling and executing any infidel they find, and I fully expect these revolts to spread to the islands of Ionia, the coast of Anatolia, and Armenia, who are also discontent with the Turk. The Sultanate is crumbling, and I believe now is the time for Christiandom to make a united strike against our enemies, and reclaim the Holy Places once more.

Queen Adalia, I come before you now with a request. I request that Portugal come to the aid of Christ, who groans once more on the cruel tree of persecution, and provide men and money to drive back these creatures of Satan back to the Hell they were spawned from. Yes, now is the opportunate moment, a moment that may never come to pass again. Even now, the armies of the Roman Empire and Sicily assemble, and prepare to march on Thrace, where they shall be recieved with open arms. I ask that the Kingdom of Portugal also join in this war, either through a loan or direct military aid. I'm sure that your Kingdom will be most generously compensated for any aid rendered at the bargaining table..

Please, consider this offer, fair Queen. Together, we may drive back the Turk, and reclaim for Christ what is rightfully his.

In Christ,

Theodore III Paleologus, Basileus kai Autokrator ton Rhomaion, Isos Apostolon"

 

[unmerged(9313)]

In Rome...

Pius once more spoke with Montais.

"Right, my good cardinal, it seems we didn't understand each other in our last conversation. Now, listen very carefully, for what I am about to ask of you is of the utmost importance to the church. I want you to convince king Reginald, that Portugal should join the League of Christ, to secure the future of both the church and the continued cooperation between Rome and Lisbon. This is a most important task, Montais, and your first one of importance. I hope you wont let me down."

 

[Fireblade]

Another letter from Mistra arrives.

"King Reginald of Portugal,

Even as I write this letter, the infidel marches on the Christian Empire of Rome and the Catholic Queen of Sicily. I, Emperor Theodore, am personally taking the field against the Turk, and shall fight to my utmost to defend the Empire. While my armies are strong, and my will to resist even stronger, I fear that the sheer numbers of the Turk will overwhelm the Empire.

This must not be allowed to happen. King Reginald, you are the King of Jerusalem, which suffered a terrible fate at the hands of the infidel. Will you allow the same fate to happen to the Roman Empire and the Kingdom of Sicily? Will you turn your back on us, while we fight for our very survival? Portugal fought a long war against the infidel, the reconquista. I request that you send your reconquistadores to my defense, for your intervention will be the thing that saves the Balkans from the Turk.

I shall be in the field, King Reginald. My messenger shall deliver any reply back to me, for I am no longer in Mistra.

May God Grant Me Victory.

-Emperor Theodore III Paleologus"

 

[unmerged(6719)]

A letter arrives bearing the seal of the Queen of Castile-Leon:



Adalia,

How pleased I was to hear of your agreement to enter into the Minoan Confederation, and I write to you to tell you how pleased I will be if you join me in signing a joint declaration of war against Genoa.

Our Confederation member Venice was unjustly placed into a state of war when Andrea Doria led his warlike nation against the Republic of St. Mark. While this declaration of war was made before our entering into the Minoan Confederation I consider it a just and wise move to show support to our new ally. A joint declaration of war by yourself and I would do our alliance much justice and show the world our unity and strength.

As well the future capital of our Minoan Confederation lies on the island of Crete, which now lies in the evil hands of Genoa. We must help liberate not only Venice’s province, but our own capital.

You have also written to me upon the subject of King Reginald’s boat race. While I thank you for the kind invitation I must decline for two reasons. First I have the feeling that your husband cares not for me. Through his cold demeanor as I left Lisbon I gathered this opinion, is this true my friend?

Secondly the reason why I must decline entering a Castilian vessel into his race is out of loyalty to you, my newest and dearest friend. Recently I received a letter from my sister Queen Maria of Sicily that caused me much Anguish. During the tournament in Sparta she personally informed me that your husband entered into an consorting with women of base upbringing. The entire Imperial Court of Byzantium knows of your husband’s infidelities, and they have been a burden upon my shoulders. I do not know if I should have written to you upon this matter, but if I were in your place I would like to know of my husband’s vile actions. In order to save you from hearing it from other sources I felt it was my place as your dear friend to tell you. Remember Adalia you are the Duarte, and you have the full support of Castile-Leon behind all your positions and rulings.

My shoulder is here for you to cry on dear girl, and I offer you the solace of Castile should you need to leave Reginald and the hectic day-to-day doings of Portugal. But I advise you to stay and assert your power should you confront Reginald upon this matter. The throne of Portugal is yours before all else.

Adalia please issue this joint declaration of war for I put my faith in you dear girl. And I await your response. Alongside with this letter and the joint declaration of war I put a copy of my own sister’s words so that you have the full picture of Reginald’s deed

Your closest friend,
Elionor R.

Originally posted by Fireblade
A letter arrives for the Queen, and it is read by her eyes only.

"My Dear Sister,

I thank you deeply for your congratulations on gaining the crown our brother gave to me. It was a long battle, but His Holiness accepted my claims, and crowned me himself. I am still in Rome, as you know, and the birth of my child is due any day now.

I realize that Constantine still seeks to seize my rightful Crown. I do not intend to recognize Aragon as Sicily's overlord, as our brother said that the Crown shall be subject to no one but God and it's rightful ruler. I hope sincerely that Aragon will not look east again to trouble me, but if he does, I rest assured that Castile is there to protect me. For that, I am forever in your debt.

Now, on to lighter things, as these political matters must be touched as little as possible when are with child. As a token of my gratitude for your assistance in helping me gain my throne, you will find attached to this letter a deed. On this deed, you are recognized as the Duchess of Messina, a very rich title indeed. It isn't much, but I know you might appreciate it.

But sister, did you hear of the King of Portugal at the tournament my husband held? It was rumored he went into a tent with a beautiful virgin. Rumored, nay, it was witnessed by one of my own ladies in waiting! It troubles me that a Catholic King would do such a thing, but men are men, I suppose. I only hope that Emperor Theodore.. he has reclaimed his rightful title, by the way, does not do those dreadful things while I am away in Italia. I pray that he doesn't, but..

Well. I just had a thought, dear sister. Women rule three of the most powerful Kingdoms in Europe, and hopefully my Kingdom shall join the ranks. What would you say to a meeting between the Queens of Castile, Sicily, Portugal, and Burgundy? I'm sure all four of us have many things we could discuss, things of great importance. Oh dear.. am I going into political matters? Against doctor's orders? Ah well, he won't read this letter anyway.. I hope. Perhaps the four of us could meet in Provence, I hear it is simply marvelous there in the summer. So sunny, and the landscape it just beautiful.. maybe sometime I will take a trip there for pleasure, but for now, we may have to settle on Provence for work.

I must stop writing now, sister. The Pope's men are at the door, and they have business. Land, or some such. Such a greedy man sitting on the throne of Saint Peter. Ah, well. Write back soon, Elionor.

Your loving sister,

Queen Maria of Sicily

Portugese-Castilian Joint Declaration of War against Genoa

Upon this day in the year of our Lord 1441 the two pious god fearing kingdoms of Portugal and Castile-Leon do hereby declare war upon the Republic of Genoa. In accordance with the newly signed Minoan Confederacy Portugal and Castile-Leon come to the aid of their eternal ally and friend the Republic of Venice. For the unjust declaration of war against Venice by the vile Genoans and their seizure of Crete the armies of Portugal and Castile-Leon rally behind the Minoan Confederation’s banner and declare war. Through Genoa’s actions they have awoken a giant who will seek victory of this warmongering nation.


[x]Elionor, Queen of Castile-Leon, Queen of Granada, Dowager Queen Regent of England, Dowager Queen Regent of Scotland, Dowager Queen Regent of Wales, Princess Royal of Aragon, Duchess of Messina, triumviri rei publicae constituendae.

 

[Mettermrck]

Tears. It was only a couple, but they were all she could manage for the moment as she sat down upon her throne, stunned. Even as she did so, her mind was at war.

Why do you cry, Adalia? Surely no King has foregone the temptations of a consort, particularly amongst the vigors of tournament? Why are you so surprised?

She shook her head. It wasn't the same. Reginald loved her, or used to, so she thought. They had shared everything together - they were one - Witau and Duarte. She had opened her heart, given him the throne to share, and had even borne him a fine son. Yes, and the expected girl. He still does not know of her. But that was before Sparta. Before this. She looked at the letter.

Oh, how she wished Queen Elinor was still there. She was a woman who had suffered her own travails, and had dealt with unruly husbands and children. She desparately needed a shoulder to cry on, but Elinor asked her to stay in Lisbon and assert herself - and so she would. She would not let her dear friend down.

And what of Reginald? Is he no longer worthy of your love over such indiscretions?

Her mind reacted. With a virgin! And an infidel woman, no less! No, this was no meager dalliance. And he had kept it from her, the guilt of the betrayer. Then he dared upbraid her for sharing the power in Portugal. The power she gave him!

Well...she would demonstrate power. Looking at the letter, she read over the joint declaration of war. Yes, I will show him power. If he's too timid to take Portugal's place in the affairs of Europe, then I will do so for us. I, the Duarte, the sovereign of Portugal. With a flourish, she snatched her pen and signed the instrument.

Then she thought she should write a reply to Elinor. A smile crept to her mouth as she thought of her friend in Castile. I wish you were here, dear Queen, to talk to. But you're right. I must be strong...for Portugal and for Castile.

"Dearest Elinor,

I would be lying if I would say that your news did not shock me - for it did, right to the core of my being. I judged Reginald lapsing in mind and consideration, but never like this. I might deem him momentarily lost in sin if I have not observed him of late. He is not the man I have loved these past years. Sparta changed him - he's distant, hard, and cruel. I fear you are right in that Reginald dislikes you.

But fear not, my dear friend. Whilst I am Queen, Portugal will never forsake its obligation to its allies, though my husband may make noise to the contrary. In the end, your words ring true, and I will maintain my place on the throne. As for Reginald, he is welcome to return to the East, and wage this war I now thrust upon his shoulders.

I am pleased to confide in you that I am with child. I found out shortly after Reginald's departure for Sparta, and I am quite sure this one will be a girl. Our Lord will not deny me a royal princess to be a sister to young Alfonso. As we both know the blessings of motherhood, I share this joyous news with you, though I am reluctant to tell this to Reginald just yet. He will know, in time, of course, but at a moment of my choosing.

I gladly sign your instrument of war against Genoa and our kingdom will protect yours against their renegade aggression. I look forward to the day when I once more enjoy your company and we have only happy things to talk about. Until then, I shall be strong as you ask, and thank God for your friendship and your counsel.

Adalia Duarte, Queen of Portugal"

 

[Mettermrck]

This time Adalia knew perfectly well what was on Reginald's mind when he stormed into the throne chamber. She opened her mouth to forestall him but failed miserably.

"FOOL!" He bellowed. Reginald walked towards her with a harsh step, his feet banging hard on the floor. Then he began walking in odd directions, as if he was struggling to control an inner pressure that threatened to explode. Finally he stopped, lifted his arms to the sky, and yelled.

"AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"

Adalia visibly backed away, and stumbled back into her throne. She had never seen him like this. When he turned towards her, she saw the first glimpses of hatred in his eyes, and she almost sobbed to see it. Almost.

Reginald began walking slowly towards her.

"My lord, oh God in Heaven. Why have you blessed me with such a FOOL for a wife! A CARELESS QUEEN!" His gaze switched from Adalia to the ceiling as he argued with both her and with God, it seemed.

After what seemed an eternity, she regained her ability to speak.

"We signed an alliance. Genoa attacked Venice. Castille honored the treaty and so have we. I thought------"

Reginald scoffed and lifted his arms skyward once more. "Oh! Of course, how could I have forgotten? Castille! At the very center of this once again. That devil of a woman is meddling once again! Can't you see, Adalia?!? She's got you hooked, bent to her will. She's manipulated you into doing her bidding. And now you've cast this kingdom into the maelstrom. A war?!? Against Genoa?!? Oh, you poor.......FOOL!"

Again she shook at the verbal assault. She forced herself to remain calm. "I will not be spoken to in such a manner. I----"

"You ARE and you WILL! Fool, fool, fool of a woman. The nobles won't rally to this cause. It's a poorly veiled attempt to help Castile and Venice gain power in the Mediterranean. And the army and navy for sure won't be enthusastic. This is no crusade, Adalia. This is thinly disguised aggression."

"But Genoa declared----"

"Open your eyes, woman!", he shouted. Adalia was coming to hate being called such. "Don't see what is happening? Genoa will be dismembered and the spoils will be divided. Where's the honor in that? The dignity, the pride? You've made us guilty in the eyes of Europe, whatever scrap of paper you claim to honor."

Adalia stood very still, carefully considering his words. "Nevertheless, we are at war, Reginald. We cannot afford to divert our course now. Elinor is in need-----"

"Elinor?!?" Another shout. "I detest that woman! And don't you mean Castile, Adalia? Castille is in need. Surely you didn't commit us to war to help out a correspondent of yours?"

Adalia was flustered now. "Elinor is more than a correspondent-----" but Reginald had waved away her response. He was beyond reason, she judged.

"I think you've made your feelings clear, Reginald. Now the time comes for decision. Will you accompany our army to war? Or will you stay behind and abandon them?" It was a struggle for her to say such harsh things to him. Only months ago, she was still a young girl in love. Yet events had happened so rapidly, and she felt changed as much as he was. She was harder.

Reginald winced. "Do not speak to me of abandonment."

Adalia decided it was time to strike for the heart. "Abandonment has never been in question since Sparta, has it? Husband?"

The shaft struck home. He turned and looked at her for a moment, and knew that she knew. For a brief instance, his eyes lightened and she thought he might finally break down and explain. But too much had been said. Too many fortifications had been thrown up between them. He merely stared stonily at her.

Trying again, Adalia brought out her most powerful weapon. "To say nothing of our coming child." And this one smote.

Reginald's mind reeled. Sparta..........child.......Adalia.........war...
Elinor........Crete. It was too much. Too much to bear. His
face tightened, as hatred deepened into loathing. What should
have been happy tidings had been used as words of spite.

"God damn you, Adalia. And God damn Elinor." With that, he
left, and she knew he would go to war. For himself and for the
child, but nothing else. She wondered if she had seen him as husband for the last time. And found that she didn't quite
care as much as she should.

Were feelings so easily lost?