French King's Court - SS6.2 Hotseat Council Thread

[The Lemongate]

The Palais de la Cité is a sprawling complex of structures straddling the Île de la Cité on the Seine in the middle of Paris. First built in Roman times to house a military garrison, it has been upgraded ever since to suit the needs of the various rulers of Paris. Fortified to resist the attacks of Frankish and Norman raiders in the early Middle Ages, the Palais now serves as the seat of power of the Capetian dynasty. The King of the Franks holds hist court in the Grande Salle. Here he receives the grand barons of France, the prelates of the Church and the burghers of various chartered cities. Recently, embassadors from all over the world have been gathering in Paris to form a great council of nations at the call of King Philippe de France.

Dressed in fine silks from the best artisans of Sicily and sporting various rings and other jewels, King Philippe greets them personally in his throne room.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

PLEASE REFRAIN FROM POSTING OOC IN THIS THREAD.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

A emissary of the Normans arrives, he is a small man dressed in somber cloths, his face is thin and angry looking and he walks with his back almost painfully rigid.

King William sends his regard to King Philip. I am John Kenneth, King Williams chosen representative in the court of his FORMER king. (it is glaringly obvious the representative is trying to point out the Normans very recent split with the Franks) However, my king still respects king Philip, and I am also here to see if we can discuss terms for an alliance, and a Military treaty. In private preferably.
The representative waits for the Franks response.

[Merlox]

A diplomat and two escorts would follow him from the Fatamid Caliphate would arrive shortly after the Norman one. His face on the other had is rather excitidly and so would be the escorts.

Caliph Al-Munstansir sends the diplomat posted in Rome, to now Paris. We are excited, As I and my escorts are fond of western culture. Though we doubt any diplomacy here can deal with our Caliph in Cairo. We will be ready to listen.

[The Lemongate]

King Philippe observe the Norman emissary's entrance with a calm expression and the hint of a smile. His eyes betray the slightest twitch at the man's barb, but he courteously sends a squire to fetch a chair for his guest, a rare honour in the Court of France. His stare hardens when he sees the Saracens and waves a servant away to take care of the exotic guests.

The King lifts a white-gloved hand to silence the Court.

We are grateful for your presence mes seigneurs. Sieur John Kenneth, I shall have my chancellor, Monseigneur Étienne de Reims, take care of the administrative details regarding an entente between Our Majesty and the Duke of Normandy but we are inclined to agree to the principle of an alliance. In the meantime gentlemen, welcome to the Kingdom of the Franks.

The King lowers his hand and nods to an elderly man of imposing stature standing besides him whose red and white flowing robes clearly identifies him as a cardinal of the Holy Catholic Church. At the clap of the clergyman's hands, young men bring in additional chairs for the expected arrivals. Tables are pulled to the sides of the room were a rich banquet is being served.

[Ignoramus]

An Aragonese nobleman arrives, attended by two tall knights, clad in full mail armour.

We salute you, Philippe, King of the Franks!

Your highness, my name is Garcia de Hierro, I come representing Sancho, King of Aragon.

Our king has sent us to negotiate an alliance between your fair realm and our fledgling kingdom. We are particularly concerned with the continued Moorish presence in Andalusia, and seek to strengthen ties with your kingdom.

I believe negotiations about claims upon neighbouring lands should also be discussed.

[The Lemongate]

A simple flexion of the wrist from the King has servants scurrying in ten different directions. Two men pull in a large oak table that they set in the center of the room, between the King and the assembling diplomats, while another unfolds a large map of Europe, North Africa, the Baltic and the Middle East. On it are represented the various nations and the lands that they currently claim.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

A young woman clothed in a loose fitting dress poses a smaller map next to it. And remains by the tableside.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

Philippe gestures towards the second map.

Welcome to Paris, Sieur Garcia de Hierro. You are indeed right, We have called this Council of Nations to discuss of exactly such matters and it is high time we started.

We plan to push the borders of the royal demesne from the English Channel to the Mediterranean. These lands are already under Our de jure jurisdiction and with the help of God, the rebellious nobles who oppose Our will shall be dealt with in a fair and swift fashion. We require the assistance of no outside sovereign in this enterprise and wish your Majesties the best of fortune in establishing your authority on your respective lands.

The young woman smiles mischeviously as Philippe speaks. When he is done, she turns invitingly towards the assembled emissaries and gives them a radiant smile.

[rouroux]

"We have finally arrived master, though we are a bit late."

Do not worry Andreas. The secret of Diplomacy lies in how you present yourself. Being late is a way to tell that you are willing to come and negociate, but that you will not let yourself be confined by other's rule.

"I see" says the servant.

The Emissary, his servant and 2 cohorts enters the grand palace of the French King and walk along his unending hallways. As they arrive at massive iron twin-doors, the emissary raises his chin high and speaks to the soldiers guarding the door.

I am Gabrielus Angelus. I have come in the name of my sole Emperor, Alexius Comnenus, at the request of the Grand King Philippe.

Silence, followed by a loud grinding. A stream of light falls upon Gabrielus's face as the twin-doors open before him.

[Merlox]

The Fatamid Diplomat bows to thank the French court and servants for their kindness.

We thank the French King for treating the Caliph's Servants well. Once the French gain back their losses in Southern France, Please talk to us to start recieving our trade shipments, as all should know, the Nile River is the greatest output of Grain. As for all other nations, We offer Trade to all nations, Though. We are not so eager to call out alliances. As we are not able to rightfully support an ally if needed. We wish peace for all members in the court. May Allah pr...

He Just realizes that this is not an islamic court.

May our gods protect us for days to come, The Caliph and his subjects praise the King of France for his judgement to call this Diplomatic Court into effect.

He would sit down, Trying to see if any food would be served shortly.

[Ramses II CP]

A beautiful young man, whipcord thin with perfect skin the color of the finest calf leather, enters the court. He is dressed in exceptional finery, fingers bedecked in rings, and bears himself proudly as he strides to within an appropriate distance of the King. With a deep bow the representative addresses the King in nearly flawless French,

"It is my very great pleasure to be the representative of Caliph Tahir to the court of King Phillipe. I am instructed to make it known that the highest aims of my people are peace, an end to petty rebellion, a blossoming of trade, and the free spread of knowledge to all the many varieties of the children of Allah, his will be done.

In response to the comments from the emissary of Aragorn let me say simply that my people are not at all concerned with the continued presence of Christians in Andalusia, or indeed in all of Iberia. Not in the slightest.

Indeed, variety is one of the many blessings of Allah most merciful and it pleases the princes of my land to no end that their subjects follow their hearts to the worship of Allah each in their own way. All men of good conscience and true intent will be welcome within the borders of the (A deliberate pause and slight look of discomfort add emphasis to the words) Moorish Empire, may it endure forever.

To all who intend peace we throw open our arms with joy! To all who wish trade we heartily wish the same!

To all others, let there be a simple warning; what Allah has given to his chosen will remain with them.

The Caliph has no territorial claims to present at this time, but rebels that border his lands should stand warned; their time is near an end. As for the claims of our very great host, we see them as good, just, and inevitable and encourage all present to support them by popular acclaim.

With a carefully bland glance around the chamber the diplomat then seeks his nation's place.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

John watches the moor and Spanish diplomats, as if trying to decide something. He looks Garcia de Hierro.
If Argon ever needs assistance in their reconquista, they need but ask, England is quite willing to join their Cristian brothers on a holy crusade.
England would also like to make it known that any nation which chooses to ally itself with Ireland or Scotland shall soon enough find themselves on the wrong end of a English spear.
The Diplomats from both Scotland and Ireland shift at this, especially considering England had not even declared war on them yet. It was a bold claim.

[The Lemongate]

At the mention of the mohammedan god, King Philippe exchanges a glance with the Archbishop of Reims. There seems to be a mute understanding between them. After but a short moment, Étienne de Reims bows his head and takes his leave from the court. Philippe's expression remains calm and unchanged when he fixes the Fatimid envoy anew.

Religion is the bread and water of the soul. We endeavour to have it guide our every decision and live a life as is prescribed by the Holy Scriptures and invite every man to do so as well for the salvation of his eternal soul. However, for the purpose of this Council, we understand the need for the mohammedan saracens to call upon the name of their god. Do not worry Saracen, in this place, no harm will come to you over this.

He takes a pause, as if choosing his next words.

And we thank you for your offer to establish commercial relations with our Crown. We must however decline for now.

Philippe's gaze then fixes intently the moorish diplomat, as if trying to see through his thoughts. The saracen returns a respectful gaze. Turning to the other people of the court, his eyes linger for a second on the girl by the map before moving on. He gives a small nod to acknowledge the presence of Roman Emperor's ambassador. Upon hearing John Kenneth, the Anglo-Norman emissary, he signals for a scribe to read a small document bearing his official seal:



His Majesty Philippe pledges to respect the territorial claims of the Duke of Normandy both in England and on the continent and the Duke swears never to claim any additional land in continental Europe as long as His Majesty Philippe sits on the throne of the Franks.

These conditions having been found fair by both parties His Majesty Philippe swears by Saint Denis and Saint Martin to be a friend of Lord William and of the Normans, to bring them succour in battle and to send prayers to God for their continued good health and good fortunes.


Philippe I de France,
Roi des Francs par la Grace de Dieu

[barcamartin]

A dusty man, dressed in expensive capes above light mail, enters the room.

' I am Abdhul, and I will be the Seljuk Sultan's voice in this chamber. First off, he wishes to thank the Frankish king for the invitation. Secondly, he extends hands of trade and prosperity to all nations. He especially wishes close friendship with his muslim brethren in the glorious Fatimid Caliphate and in the endless lands of the Moors. Lastly, should the representative from Constantinople show up, we have things to discuss. '

With this he puts a note on his seat, and leaves the court room with the same elegant haste with which he entered.

[Merlox]

The Fatamid Diplomat would cough and look at Gabrielus Angelus

I know he doesn't look like a roman... Ahhh well...

He would try not to laugh.

[rouroux]

Gabrielus is sitting at the table eating very little, more glancing at the other diplomats. Andreas, his servant, stands behind him with a bunch of scrolls in his hands, nervous.

"Sir..."

I know. Dot not let yourself stray from our true purpose. This is not a time for bickering but for negociations.

The servant standing behind his master shifts uneasely. Gabrielus places his eblows on the table, crosses his hands in front of him, lay his head on top of his newly joined hands and whispers:

But shall they wish to look at us from above, then let them be. It will only get them to underestimate us and by the time they find out, it will be too late.

The servant let slip a bit of a smile and regains his composure. Gabrielus then rises from his seat.

Now, I believe the Seljuk ambassador wishes to see us. Let us go then.

Gabrielus and his servant salute the members of the court politely and leave after the embassador.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

John laughs, not a jolly laugh but a mocking one, his blue eyes taking in all the other diplomats escorts.
I did not realize we were expected to bring an armed guard with us, I had assumed this was to be a place of peace! perhaps having groups of armed men in a place where debates can be quite heated is not the best idea!

John nods at king Philip in agreement to his declaration, and runs his hand through his black hair, he walks out of the room for a moment, perhaps to tell a messenger of the good news. when he returns he seems to be in a very good mood

We are all glad that the franks are willing to see the value of peace. John say, a look of respect on his face. May this be the beginning of a long age of prosperity for the Franks and Normans.

[Merlox]

The Fatamid would scratch is beard that looks like it has never been cut or shaved before. Then makes a side comment to John.

I do not know many excuses of other nations who bring full "Knights" when they are only a short ways away. The weapons were only needed just incase of any thing going bad on the long way from Gaza to Paris, As you can predict, It is a very long journy. These Escorts are used for not only personal protection, but also carrying supplies. The Caliph means no alarms to any one by bringing escorts.

He would look around at the Roman and Aragon's Escorts.

I would rather say though, It is rather funny to see some nations bringing full armed escorts in full heavy armour and such, for only a short journy. As you can see though...

He would point at his escort's, and his own empty sheaths

A sign that we trust the Frankish King of our protection, and a sign of peace. We have left our swords in our rooms, as they were only be used for the journey, not the destination.

He would smile at the court... and still look around for any food...

We would like to openly propose for a defensive alliance to be set up with the Seljuk Sultanate, As well as a Trade Alliance and Map Information.

He would sit down... Eagerly awaiting food.

[phonicsmonkey]

The doors of the Court are flung open wide with a crash, and in bursts a huge, barrel-chested, dark-haired, ruddy-cheeked man with an enormous moustache.

He is wearing brand new clothes in all the latest fashions, but looks as though he got dressed just before dawn, which is probably when he had his first drink of the day.

He strides with a sailor's gait to the centre of the Courtroom floor, where he bows theatrically to the French King. He is followed by a thin priest in Benedictine robes, wearing a long-suffering expression on his gaunt, pale face.

It is I, Jozsef of the Arpad Kingdom of Hungary!

He looks around at the assembled diplomats and courtiers, smiling broadly and quite failing to focus on them individually.

Our great King Laszlo has sent me here to parlay with you fine fellows! And to offer our great respect and honour to the most noble King of France, whose hospitality is legendary!

We Magyar are a peaceful folk, and seek only to be left alone to do the things we enjoy most: riding our swift horses, drinking our fine ale, enjoying the company of our beautiful women, dancing, singing..

The Priest places a hand on his shoulder and whispers in his ear for a moment.

...ah yes, and of course, to pray and worship our Lord Jesus!

So, you fine fellows of all the lands, your merchants are welcome in our markets, and your armies have nothing to fear from us...as long as they stay at home!

He laughs loudly, clapping a leather-clad thigh with one massive palm.

To this end, we offer trade rights and map information to all.

Also, our immediate neighbours have already been contacted in private by our great King Lazslo himself, to discuss the finer points of diplomacy.

He sinks back into a cushioned chair and looks around for a drink.

[The Lemongate]

King Philippe allows himself a short grin as the Magyar ambassador, Jozsef, reaches his seat. His expression soon returns to its noble and passionless complexion.

He signals again for a scribe to read from a small document bearing the seal of the Franks.



The Kingdom of the Franks pledges full support to the Crown of Aragon and all Christian rulers of Spain in their ongoing struggle to return their lands in the forgiving arms of the Church.

Furthermore, the Kingdom of the Franks recongises Aragonese suzerainty over the Kingdom of Navarra and the Emirate of Valencia, which includes the Balearic Isles.


Philippe I de France,
Roi des Francs par la Grace de Dieu

[rouroux]

The massive twin-doors open once more to let the Roman Ambassador into the Grande Salle. Swift and silent, he walks to the middle of the room, his servant in tow. Then after a small gesture of the ambassador, the servant opens a large scroll and shows it around the room for everyone to see...

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

As of now, in the name of my Basileos, these lands are Roman Territory. We do not seek to expand beyond these borders nor are we eager for a fight, but anyone who tries to capture these provinces will be met with swords and spears. Already one kingdom has seen wisdom and submitted to our will. My Basileos hopes you others will do the same.


With another small gesture, the servant folds the scroll back and follows his master back to a table where the Roman Ambassador sits anew and takes possession of the food placed in front of him.

[Merlox]

The Saracen diplomat's brow would raise when they would hear of the land claims that the Romans have made.

As you do "Claim" 10 provinces... You are either Brave, or Foolish. As you have claims for Lands all desired by the Crusaders, The Turks, The Fatamids, The Hungarians, and the Venice Republic...

As the Armenians rebelled against your empire, Which is located in Cillcia. You, on the other hand send your forces to Antioch where the Templar order which is a Catholic force would march as we speak. You go for foolish targets rather than the areas that have just rebelled against your rule not too long ago.

With these such foolish proposals, I only do wonder if the newest Roman Emperor is as mad as his father, and leaders before him as well. As their empire is falling due to their madness. I guess the Romans have not found a sane leader yet...

The diplomat would quickly write something down and hand's it off.

[rouroux]

Ambassador Angelus slowly rises up from his seat and leans foward on the table, staring straight at the Fatimid emissary.


I believe that none of the Fatimid lands were touched, and no offense were made against your Caliph. And STILL you are here insulting my Basileos himself with your filthy words. As I still will treat your Caliph will respect whatever happens with you, since I cannot possibly think that a wise Leader could be represented by a pure blood cretin like you. But if you ever again talk trash to my Basileos, me or m people, I will make sure your Caliph know who was responsible for the war that will ensue.


As those words echoes in the Grande Salle, the roman sits back down, grabs a knife, and plunge it fiercly in a plate of red meat. Then, after taking a deep breath, cuts a slice of the meat to place it on his own plate before reaching for more food.

[Merlox]

The Fatamid Diplomat would only smirk at him.

Starting wars due to a few pety insults? Now now, It is just free as I can say my opinion on how mad or drunk the emperor was at this time when he made these greedy requests. He might as well demanded Rome from the Pope. As the number of lands he requested more than doubles his already large empire and with out any consideration of his neighbors...

The Fatamid would go back to writing more things down.

[Nightbringer]

A tall broad chested man dresses in simple but dignified robes enters through the doors. He stops and surveys the room briefly before bowing to the assembled diplomats.
I am Rurik Sviatoslav of the great nation of Kieven Rus, here on behalf of the Great Prince Veliky Knyaz Vsevolad. I apologize for my late arrival but it is a long journey and we received out invitation late. (he says these last words with a hint of bitterness in his voice.)

First of all, I am here to lay claim to those lands that are rightfully ours. The lands of the Steppes are rightfully ours and must merely be brought under control; I trust that none shall find this problematic for it borders none of your great nations.

Secondly, we wish to establish good relations with our Orthodox brothers the Romans. We have great respect for your empires long history and hope we will become fast friends. In this vein, I propose trade between our peoples, as well as an exchange of map information, and, if it is in the interest of the Romans, a defensive alliance.

To the Hungarians we also extend our warm greetings, and hope that we to may be friends. I offer trade rights between our peoples, and wish to negotiate over where our border shall fall, as soon as the rebels are brought into line that is.
Sitting down, he calmly serves himself a plate of food as he waits for the replies of his fellow diplomats.

[phonicsmonkey]

The big Magyar stands, somewhat unsteadily, and grins broadly at the Rus, raising his flagon of ale.

We Magyar are pleased to announce that we have formed an alliance with the Rus, and also with each of our other neighbours: the German Romans, the Greek Romans, and the Venetian money men. Although they are not, as we understand it, allied to each other...

He looks a little confused before shrugging and continuing.

In each case we have successfully negotiated our proposed borders and the equal division of the lands that lie between us.

Long may this grand example of friendly and peaceful diplomacy shine a light over our Eastern lands!

Long Live King Laszlo the Diplomat!

He drains his tankard in one long draught before slamming it down on the table in front of him, wiping the froth from his prodigious moustache with the back of his leather-gloved hand, and sinking back into his chair with a contented expression on his ruddy face.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

then we all hope none of them choose to go to war with each other, for what would Hungary do then?
John laughs

[Merlox]

The Fatamid Diplomat would yawn after hearing every one get along, and stand up.

News from the Caliph has been recieved. A full military alliance will be started with the Seljuk turks for the moment due to the rebellious Tribes and self proclaimed Sultans. Also that the Caliph rejects any claims made into the holy lands besides ones who are already there. As it is Mostly Islamic. As Antioch is almost fully Islam. There is no logical term that the Roman Empire would want to own such a city. As it is just a provoke to hostilities by both of it's bigger and thriving neighbors to the north and south of the city.... What do we expect from, the emperor of rome is rather not in our same world, but he still lives in the world where he owns Rome itself. Ofcourse, We will leave the imbredding emperor alone for now...

The diplomat laughing under his breath wold turn to the newly arived diplomat from the Rus.

Greetings to the newest diplomat here, We are glad to have almost a full table here. Though, Your land claims almost seem as bad as the imbredded emperor..., not as bad though. You must not know the full area that well, We will correct.
The Area from Sarkel and the Caspian sea trade port have been heavily influenced by the Seljuk Turks and the Persian Empire's trade. Though still alot are pegan, I am sad to say that there are almost 3 times more islamic population than there is of an Orthodox population.

The Fatamid Caliph refuses to claim any lands. There for we Ignore all land claims until they are rightfully claimed by force. Not by words.

Before he sits down, he realizes something and just says it.

Oh before I forget, I will be giving a few letters, of more greetings... and maybe 1 to the roman asking if he has 6 fingers from the imbredding... Rumors from my town say his mother was with his older brother. Could explain the 6 fingers...

The Diplomat would sit down grinning.

[barcamartin]

Feeling the urge to clarify a few things, Abhdul stands.

' I must push the fact that our alliance with the Fatamids is, as my friend noted, a full alliance, but at this time purely defensive and aimed at securing our nations current and future independency. We will however stand as one against oppressors and self-proclaimed rulers of lands rightfully ours.

Although the lands north of the Caucasus mountains may be heavily influenced by my peoples culture and religion, my Sultan has no claims to those lands. '

Content with his contribution, he sits back into his chair.

[rouroux]

I heartly greet the emissary of Prince Veliky Knyaz Vsevolad. It is with great pleasure that we accept to exchange trade rights and maps. I hope this this new "friendship" lasts long and prosper.

As for our Claims to Antiochia ad Orontem, if you would take the time to search into older archives, you will find that this Grand City once belonged to The Great Roman Empire, long before you were even born. The City was named after Antiochus, son of Seleucus I Nicator, who founded city. The city was stolen from us by the al-Rashidun Caliphate. We only with it to be returned to us, though we are not in a hurry. We are a patient nation. Eventually, the city will come back to us. In the mean-time, we wish to consolidate our rightfull lands and relationships with our neighbors.


As he finishes his sentence, Gabrielus Angelus turns towards the King of the Franks.


Oh great king of the Franks. As you can surely observe, one of us here has taken in himself the mission to force madness into our minds. I believe this to be an ultimatly disrespectfull action towards the true goal of this court and similarly towards your grand self. The decision is yours in the end, but if no actions are taken against this, then I will have to excuse myself and ask my two armed escorts who are eager to repair our Basileos's reputation to do so. I understand that the Fatimids would have no swords to defend themselves since they seemed to have misplaced them. And I would urge all others, with all due respect, to let me give them punishment, for I truely believe they deserve it. Honestly, this is not a declaration of war against the Caliphate, but simply the punishment of one individual who have wronged me and my Basileos.
And if by sad unfortunate circumptances, I am not allowed to do so, then I shall respectfully return to Konstantinopolis.

What say you to this King Philippe?

[Merlox]

The Fatamid Diplomat would only laugh

Please, Do not go say that the city of Antioch used to be roman...
You could easily say that Rome, Sicily, Venice, Every on used to be roman. Things have changed for the best.
These cities have all revolted against your kingdom, and now your "Empire" is a smile pathetic dream of what it once used to be. To claim a city that has no Orthodox religion, is just an insult to the caliph. The City revolted against your king almost 400 of years. That city is all Islam with a tiny bit of Catholic, but no Orthodox.

It is quite simple that "claiming" something of this, has sparked my Caliph. And if you wish to do your "Punishment" then it is war. Words are one thing, even your peasents say how inbreded your emperor is, any physical actions against the Caliph's property is a treaty of war. Nor would we ever physically fight inside of a western king's palace of which he invited us to.

This wouldn't of started if your inbredded emperor made such mad request to claim islamic cities. If your emperor has any since at all he would know that would only provoke the islamic neighbors. We grant who ever is on these lands stay on these lands, considering if it is Catholic or Islam, but the Eastern Roman Empire has been removed some 400 years ago, And they will stay removed.

The French king has aloud every nation to give their opinion on matters, and this is the opinion of the Fatamids, We spit on you for even trying to "Claim" a city with none of your religion. As our courts go, Diplomats use words. We are using words to describe how wrong your inbred emperor is. If my reasoning skills are too harmful to your ears, enough so you have to ask a king of another nation to physically punish another diplomat. Then you are no diplomat. You are simply a fool. If the King wishes for me to hold myself. He can do that, and we, the Fatamid's humble servants, will listen to the Frankish King due to we respect him. but that may only be a tiny cloth over the snake's head of how much we despise of you and your inbreded emperor.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

John turns towards the roman diplomat a scowl on his face.

already we have talk of punishment.... again I say this is a house of PEACE! and you would have blood shed for the sake of a small slight... this is EXACTLY the reason arms should not be permitted in this hall. if we are allowed to start butchering each other with no regard for diplomacy then what is the point of this place? I have no authority to stop you, but I urge Philip to keep the peace. The fatamids may be acting in poor tastes,
John throws a bitter glance at the Fatamids as well but that does not give you the right to punish him in any way. your laws have no authority here, none of ours do. this is Philips court and we should all remember that.