Conseil du Royaume

[Braden]

Indeed any English holding whether on the Isle or on the continent will be fair game.

As to our own lands, if Ducs Hugues and their men stand watch over our eastern border, and the Order watches our northern one, I'm sure we can deal a heavy blow to the English Louis, Alain and I.

But we must act quickly or the Pope's favour may swing back on us...

My King, we are in equal accord. It is unfortunate that we must strike fast but I hold with your concerns so a hasty strike is needed.

[econ21]

My King, my Prince,

I humbly petition that members of the Order be permitted to ride with you in any crusade the Pope authorises against the English. We are an order dedicated to the cause of chivalry - it would be a great honour to us if you would grant us this chance to ride in such a noble endeavour. I realise that the Eastern frontier must be defended, but Baron Thomas has taken up command of Frankfurt and I am sure that arrangements can be made to provide him with sufficient men to hold it.

[OOC: Whichever generals are in the stack capturing the crusade target get really nice chivalry-oriented boosts to their traits. In KotR we arranged things so as to maximise the number of generals who wanted to join a crusade could get those traits. Please can we do that this time?]

[TinCow]

Finally, it is good to see that this body is at last coming to its senses. Now you must excuse me, I have Englishmen to kill.

Christophe rises and leaves the chamber.

[Ituralde]

Mon Roi!

As you can see many of the Order wish to join should a Crusade against the English be called. As a chivalrous Order I see it as our duty to defend the Christian faith and it would be a pleasure to personally support you in bringing your disgraced cousin to heel. In fact I believe that when the Pope calls every Noble should be given the chance to take up arms on this Holy Mission. So I would ask every Noble of France who is willing to partake in this stand up now and make himself known.

I can only speak for the Order and their burning desire to purge these heretics!

Simon raises a cautionary finger.

But we can not slacken in the defense against the Germans. Too bad they won't accept an amiable peace treaty. Which is why it's even more important that we all make our intentions clear and coordinate ourselves within these chambers. Who will fight and who will defend? Who will save the damned souls and who will protect our subjects? Who will slay the English and who will crush the Germans?!

[OverKnight]

The Seneschal belches loudly and begins working on a second wineskin, a wry look on his face.

[Ramses II CP]

Louis, having sped from the chamber with de Perrone when he heard the announcement of the excommunication, returns now with his own announcement,

Ahh, at long last! Mon Roi my men and I have ridden to the walls of Bordeaux and we await only your official word to begin the siege! Valencia could be retaken within days, so I am assured by my vassal de Xaintrailles. Simply say the word war and the reclamation of France will be launched instantly!

I told you all God favored our cause! And despite being played false by the Seneschal I and House Aquitaine are still ready! Give us our head and we'll wipe these bastards out of France in no time!

Louis is so excited he takes no notice of the page pushing a copy of the latest notes at him.

:egypt:

[_Tristan_]

Louis, Louis... Tsk, Tsk... Why do you always have to act so rashly ? Your actions these past season have been made in violation of Edict 2.8, which still stands until war is declared. We're not yet sure the Pope will call for a crusade on England and already you're at their walls...

In what kind of light do you think it casts us in the eyes of the Pope ? I'm tempted to ask the Senechal to enforce the Edict, just to teach you manners...

[Ramses II CP]

My King! Surely we cannot bandy words of a truce with an apostate! The Pope has signed off, has asked all good Catholic peoples to turn their backs on William and his crew of criminals! We have only to stretch out our hands and all of France will fall back into them.

The light in Louis' eyes is undimmed as he goes on speaking,

It is bad enough that we've sent them money and lands, let us not delay in taking them back! War is inevitable, all here know it. We need only your permission!

Mon pere I beg you, most humbly, give me the word and let the reclamation begin... Let I and my men, and I assure you there are no more devoted servants to the throne in all this land, let us launch this war for you. If His Holiness takes umbrage, and I cannot imagine he will, you may blame my infamous lack of caution and I will bear the laughter of all Europe if only I can teach the English the lesson they so desperately need!

A note of caution finally enters Louis' voice,

Before God I meant no offense to the throne or your word, I only acted as I expected must be done eventually anyway. I was the most staunch supporter of this edict, in a way I even proposed it to you, but it's time has passed. Declare the war and let this truce be ended, please!

:egypt:

[GeneralHankerchief]

Raynaud de Xaintrailles:

*The Baron rises, the emotion palpable in his voice.*

My... my lords...

*He takes a moment, collects himself, and then begins again.*

My Lords,

This unexpected chain of events has...

...has...

*Shaking violently, Raynaud sits down, trying to gather himself before he rises again.*

[Braden]

Father, I cannot imagine the Pope will look unkindly upon us for doing just exactly as he has asked ALL Catholic nations to do? Namely teach the English what it means to go against God's word.

I humbly also beg you to speak the words so many of us wish to hear.

[_Tristan_]

My sons,

You bring back fond memories of my youthful years when I was as impatient as you are now... But need I remind you that the fate that the Pope has decreed upon England is a threat that hangs upon our heads also... Don't you se that a single misstep could mean eternal damnation for us all ? For excommunication is not to be taken lightly... It is in the afterlife that we would pay for having gone against God's will...

That thought I cannot bear... So this war will not be waged unless we have Papal sanction, a thing which I am assured we can have (Philippe smiles a knowing smile)...

It will be a holy Crusade to regain our prestige and our lands, or it will not be.

[OverKnight]

Hugues lurches to his feet. He stands swaying a bit, taking in the room with is eyes.

Tell me my Lords, think, perhaps in all this you have forgotten something? Now, what could it be? It seems we have already divided Albion and her continental possessions up. We've lined up our armies. We've made vows of protection and honor. What could we have forgotten?

We'll I tell you what you all have forgotten, you proud soldiers of France. You've forgotten your compatriots, your brothers: Alexandre Le Sueur and Thierry de Rochefort!

They slipped your mind? The two gentlemen still in Wales? The ass end of the Island with their escape cut off because Duc Alain's fleet is blockaded?! Hmmm? By the Germans, it seems, the massive enemy we're already at War with?! Ring a bell?

We declare war on England now and they'll be butchered like pigs!

But I'm sure the Dauphin considered that before he violated an edict and moved his men to the walls of Bordeaux. I'm sure the King considered that before he set this Conseil afire with his calls for a Crusade. I'm sure the Order remembered them before they asked for a piece of the action!

Will you abandon these men to a terrible fight, to die alone and outnumbered!? Just so we don't waste a precious year or two actually planning this!?

Hugues shakes his head.

This is a disgusting spectacle.

He tromps out.

[AussieGiant]

Alain glances at Hugues, his face clouded with a grimance for one moment. He addresses the chamber with a even voice.

"My King, as a Duchy zat was intrimental in enabling ze most recent deal wiz see English, Bretagne and 'er nobles stand ready to join ze conflict against England.

Ze partial reunifcation of Bretagne wiz ze rest of ze Kingdom and our endeavours in Wales is proof enough zat zis war must include us."

Alain stares hard at ze Dauphin and the nobles from the Order.

"While others seem intent on furthering zeir aims by crawling and throwing themselves at you My King, I would first ask zat ze nobles of Bretagne are reunited wiz us before we declare our intentions so obviously."

[GeneralHankerchief]

*At the end of the King's speech, Raynaud finally finds the words, and rises.*

NO!!!

The uniqueness and holiness and all that a most noble Crusade represents must not be allowed to be sullied because of political machinations!

We do not need the Pope's blessing to continue our conflict with the English! We already have it! He excommunicated them!! We are free to do what we wish to them now! We may march upon their lands and blockade their ports and whatever else my lords so desire.

I ask you then: what is the difference between our current state and a Crusade against them?!

I'll tell you what. It is the dirtying of one of the most selfless and holy endeavors of our or anyone else's time. It is war, supposedly waged under the Cross, but every single one of us in this room know that it is mostly for a land grab and to exercise greater dominance over Western Europe.

Not while a threat that has been heretical for all time, and not just recently because of one man's decision, still lurks to the south. And now, we know even less about what lurks in Iberia because the land which I have labored over, overseen, and built watchtowers with my own bare hands to monitor their menace has fallen in the hands of those whom we now seek to destroy; the enemy of the hour!

The Moors still preach to their false prophet Mohammed. Tell me, Chevaliers, is this truly a lesser crime than political maneuvering that backfired?

Save the Crusade for when it matters! Leave political wars for what they are.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe looks at the back of Hugues tromping out and turns to Alain.

Pray tell us what better way to ensure the safe return of Bretagne's men than to bring forth to England mighty armies to purge that land of Saxon and Norman presence ? Surely if we could take London, Le Sueur and Rochefort could find their way back there... They must have gathered a few words of the English tongue by now and should be able to ask their way from the local peasantry ?

And let's not forget by whose fault these men are in the quandary they are... Our intention to give Caernavon back to Guillaume has been known for countless years now... Why didn't Alain take his vassals on board when he sailed out ? Why didn't he leave some mercenaries there rather ? Men we could have forsaken without thinking twice on the matter...

I maintain we must grab our chance to strike back while it is there for us. We must not delay our assault.

Duc Alain, you're of course welcome to join in the fray... Angers would be a fine addition to your Duchy, as my son has his signts set on Bordeaux.

[TinCow]

Christophe, having returned to the hall with the Prince, look on as the Duc de Champagne departs.

I know Thierry de Rochefort, the man is tenacious and skilled in combat. Wales has always been in opposition to England, and I do not doubt that it would be easy for him to find mercenaries willing to aid his escape from perfidious Albion. With the main English armies distracted with the war in Scotland, I doubt he would find great opposition if he rode south towards the sea with a stout band of Welsh at his back. If you are so greatly concerned for his safety, you could even authorize the release of sufficient funds to allow him to build forts everywhere he encamps for the night.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe nods amiably to de Perrone.

Exactly my own view, de Perronne.

He then turns to Xaintrailles.

I have had enough of your religious fanaticism, de Xaintrailles !!

While I do not relish the prospect of having Moors for neighbours in the South should the Iberian powers fail to contain them, yet I do not see an immediate need to launch a Crusade against them.

Their existence is a thorn in our faith, I'll concede that to you but we will have to live with it for the time being and ignore the pain it brings us. Moreover it is an affront to God, for France is the beloved daughter of the Church..

What pain I cannot ignore is the pain of French people living under English rule in lands that should be ours... There is one solution to that pain and that is going to war with England but on such terms that the whole Christendom will see our exercice in power to be justified by God's will...

And to ensure this, we need to have Papal sanction : we must ask the Holy Father to call for a Crusade on the heathen Guillaume and his ilk. If we cannot sway the Pope, there will be no war against England. Guillaume will find his punishment for his sins in the afterlife and God save the obdurate Scots.

[AussieGiant]

Alain turns to the King.

"Zey were left in Wales because someone need to rule the place. Had I known when ze exhange was to take place zen zis would 'ave never 'appened. As it stands ze agreement was made after I left Wales.

I can not read minds!!"

Addressing the council further.

"Ser Christophe maybe correct about de Rochefort and Le Sueur but I believe Ser Raynaud has outlined what I tried to imply before."

Gaining some intensity Alain continues.

"We are using zis excommunication for our own secular gains if we declare a crusade against ze English. Ze rest of Europe will clearly see us as nozing more zan opportunistic devils.

I find it incredible that Ze Order, while saying zey stand for chivalry and honour are simply following zere old custom of following ze King where ever goes and 'oping to gain fuzer favour.

I find it incredible zat a crusade would be used against any ozer nation except ze heathens by an Order wiz such a Charter."

Pausing he strides to the chamber centre.

Do not mistake my words gentlemen, I believe we should use zis opportunity against ze English, but only to make war against zem. We need to take Anger and Bordeaux now!!"

Alain nods at Ser Raynaud and leans against the Bretagne bench.

[GeneralHankerchief]

Raynaud de Xaintrailles:

Sovereign or not, I refuse to be addressed that way by a man who does not see the value of the Word. God save us all if this course pursues.

*Raynaud storms out of the Conseil and closes the door with a resonating slam.*

[Ituralde]

The Order has been and always will be dedicated to Chivalry. It stands written in the Oath, that every member of the Order has taken, that all the Dukes of France and the King himself have taken. It stands written as first point to fear and maintain Gods Church! Well, Gods Church has been sullied by William of England. He has slandered in his unprovoked attacks on fellow Catholics and God has decided to punish him for it. Through his wisdom and guidance from God His Holyness the Pope has spoken and excommunicated William. It is our duty as Christians to put heed to those words and see that William is taught to fear the Church!

It also further states in the Oath to protect the weak and defenseless. We must rise up to protect the subjects of William for he has put them dangerously close to purgatory or worse. They are all in danger because their Lord, who is supposed to protect them, has forsaken them the embrace of the Mother Church. They are stranded and alone and it is our duty to help them!

There is no political machination! There is only our duty to God and His Church! We must strike under the cross at William to show Christendom what happens to those that forsake it. We must strike at William quickly and decisively! We must march on London and kill him!

Simon has talked himself into a form of frenzy. Slowly taking deep breaths he calms himself.

The Order seeks nothing more than to fulfill its duty to the Church. I never advocated a land grab! I did not march with my army into English territory in violation of an Edict! I do not intend to opportunize on this terrible situation.

William has to be punished and the English saved and all Christendom will be a witness to this! To remedy any doubts I suggest we kill William as quicky as possible by Crusading on London. Once William is killed, the Pope will surely reconcile with his successor and so will we. A fair trade of London against our Continental possessions will show Christendom that we are not opportunists but defenders of the Faith!

[Braden]

What is this my Lords, this bickering?

I ask, those obviously more pious than I…erm…who are still present…is it dishonourable to wish our lands free of fiefdom to an English King?

Our noble King calls for a Crusade against the English BECAUSE of their violations of the word of Gods messenger on Earth….the Pope. He will not permit us to reclaim French lands except by agreement of the Pope.

I am sure that the details of the request to the Pope to grant permission for a Holy Crusade was explicit in its details about wishing to reclaim our own lands from those who have been deemed heretic.

The Pope does NOT grant such requests out of hand I am certain. Can any of you who claim righteous piety say now that the Pope would grant us such a Holy Mission without first considering the ecumenical considerations of the request from our King?

Do you deem to second guess the Pope, Our Lord Gods voice on Earth?

No. The Pope is no Fool, though it appears some here may try to make us believe he is…if our cause is UNJUST…then his Holiness will not grant our Crusade request and if we have no Crusade then we do NOT reclaim our lost lands.

This is a simple matter…do we obey the word of God…or do we fall from grace, squabbling like the whores of Gomorra for the fallen coins on the floor?

A sanctioned Crusade grants us the Most Holy task to not only show the English King the errors of his ways and see him fittingly punished but also to free our lands from that VERY SAME oppression!

[AussieGiant]

Alain slowly tilts his head from one side to the other, each side cracking loudly. He then pushes off the bench and pointing directly at Simon de Montpierre.

"I getting sick and tired of ze Order crawling up ze Kings arse preaching chivalry and honour while zey endager ze lives of zeir fellow nobles in Wales, in fact one of zose nobles is your own Lieutenant and now Baron of Rennes, Alexandre Le Sueur, a noble of Bretagne!!

You 'ave a task in defending ze northern border yet all zought seems to be about abandoning zat task and joining in a crusade to London.

Let be clear de Montpierre, ze English will not be forever excommunicated, will your zeal and frenzy magically fade when zat 'appens!?

Ze King speaks of religious fanaticism against Xaintrailles, I see very similar behaviour before my eyes 'ere and now!"

[KnightnDay]

I had hoped that Guillaume would fall from the grace of God, but this sudden turn of events has surprised even me. Angers and Bordeaux must be set free at once. For too long have our people suffered under their miserable rule. If crusade be the instrument of their salvation, let it be so.

But let us remain vigilant in the east. I cannot hold Frankfurt with two spear militia companies against a still formidable Reich. If the Seneschal will recruit two more this season and a prospect of assistance from my lords should I be besieged, I will hold Frankfurt just as I held on the Meuse with mon duc these years past.

[Braden]

My lords,

I apologise, my youth has allowed me to be caught up in the fervour.

Whilst I still stand by what I have said…that a Crusade is needed as our Lord and King demands one before he acts against the English at any level…there are several significant issues to be considered still

Firstly and perhaps foremost are our nobles stranded in Wales. It will be right to say that they will be able to hire aid to allow their escape but we must be CERTAIN such funds are available to them from the coffers.

I would like it stated in clear terms how much can be found for them. I would not like a brother stranded and cut down by a heretics blade.

The next question is the Crusade and its ultimate purpose. If a Crusade is granted by his Holiness then I am certain the Papacy has considered our position, our racial need to free our historic lands as well as punish the arch heretic himself…King William.

Likewise, we are all taught that, ultimately, forgiveness is a holy state so the proposal from the Captain of the Order now has given us the option of both being an instrument of the Papacy, reclaiming our lost lands AND granting forgiveness to the English who have not transgressed.

I wholly support this idea and further, once the heretic has been dealt with and our lands returned I will be asking for us to re-open negotiations directly with the English for trade and alliances.

To my Lord Alain de Rohan, would it please you for the Order to remain in the East? Would this appease you sir?

[OverKnight]

Reeves reenters the chamber.

My lord apologizes for his quick exit.

There are many matters that he views must be sorted out before a Crusade may be called.

1. Finance: Nobles have called for the recruiting of mercenaries for Seignuers Rochefort and le Sueur to fight their way out of Wales. There will also most likely be calls for further mercenaries and prioritized companies to help create armies to take the Cross. Once these armies have taken the Cross, a rush of volunteers will come forth to join, however once the Crusade is completed, they will expect pay like any common soldier. Individual Generals will be loath to cashier men under their command and the Seneschal won't have the authority to do it himself. Left uncheck, this will bankrupt the realm.

Also, can our yearly income meet the needs of newly acquired territories when it comes to building and garrisons?

2. Organization: As we have seen participation in the Crusade will be popular. But the main beneficiares of an instant and quick Crusade will be the King and the Dauphin. All others will be left out in the cold. Does the Conseil think this is fair? Who should go and how should they be organized? When should the Crusade start? Do we wait for the safe return of those in Wales?

Who will stay behind to defend against the Germans? How will they be compensated if the Crusaders take all the spoils and glory while the defenders preserve a static but highly necessary front with depleted forces?

3. Goals: There have been many ideas thrown around, but concrete objectives need to be made clear. What would be the target of the Crusade? What do we take to keep, and what do we take to offer for peace? Do we seek the retrieval of England's French possesions? What of Valencia or Pamplona?

This is obviously a great deal to consider outside of a Conseil session. There are no edicts relevant to this situation besides 2.6. Nobles seem to react with great passion but with little consideration of the details.

For these reasons, my lord Hugues de Champagne calls for an Emergency Session. He asks that a fellow Duc second this. Or that the King call for one on his own authority.

[Ituralde]

My Lord de Rohan I do not know where your dislike from the Order stems from. We are not crawling up the Kings arse we are merely providing our assistance and aid. Not only to the King, but to the Royaume and also to the Church.

I am well aware that you left your vassals on the doorstep of England and I am concerned about their safety. Ideally we would wait until they are home, but this isn't an ideal world. It is in our hands whether excommunication is just a word or whether defying the Church has consequences. Likewise assembling men to bring swift judgement to William will take time. Enough time for your vassals to hire boats and leave Wales or make their way cross-country? I hope so. And if they do go across the English Realm why shouldn't we march on London to meet them that much earlier.

Also the defense of the Realm will not be neglected over this. The Order knows its duties and is well capable of handling two things at a time. You hear His Highness Henri is offering much but whether it pleases you or not the Order will fulfill its duties in the manner it sees fit!

And yes, the Church does teach forgiveness. If the unexpected happens and the God grants William reconciliation I will be the first to welcome him back amongst us fellow Christians and I will pray thanks that his subjects don't have to endure the rule of a heretic any longer.

[AussieGiant]

The neck cracks again

"Are you 'ard of 'earing de Montpierre?

I did not "leave" my vassals in Wales. Ze orderly withdrawal of forces began last term BEFORE any deal was struck and given ze space available in ze ships AND ze need for someone to govern Caernarvon until it was 'anded over, Le Seuer and de Rochefort remained!!

I do not dislike ze Order based on its principles de Montpierre, but observing consistent, obvious and transparent pandering for favour in the face of duty and ze safety of fellow nobles is where I draw ze line. Especially when zoses nobles are from Bretagne!!

It might become clear if you were to observe ze actions of the Duc's of zis realm in context to ze Orders own over ze last decade or so.

You have been granted Antwerp, which is realistically ze only place zat can support Frankfurt and defend our entire norzern border, but what seems to be ze aim of ze order is for all current serving members to pack zere bags and ride towards glory at ze expense of all ozer duty.

Ze Seneschal 'as outlined a list of extremely pertinent issues which seems to be tertiary considerations at best to various people in zis room."

[Ituralde]

Well obviously you haven't listened to everything that has been said by me or His Highness Henri or Brother Hermant for that matter... Frankfurt will not suffer from this Crusade and remain perfectly safe. Are we clear on this matter Duc de Rohan?

Because I am and I will not tolerate you suggesting the opposite time and again.

Concerning the fears of our Seneshal.

His first point is important. The zeal of a Crusade can often lead to many men joining such a cause. Men who would need pay once a Crusade is finished. The Seneshal has a better overview over the finances of the Kingdom so I would trust his judgement on this. If he deems it necessary we would need legislation that forces the disbandment of any Crusaders once our goal is reached.
To the increased cost of new provinces. Once again I do not know whether new tax income would outweigh the cost of garrisons. My plan does not propose any land grab other than those necessary to defeat King William.

The second point is equally important. I have asked in this chamber for those nobles who wish to join the Crusade to step forward. None did. Maybe more would be forthcoming now. I already said that the Order would join this endeavour. This does not mean every Noble of the Order. The exact number will have to be determined among our Brother Knights in regards to the safety of the German border.
The Seneshal voices his fear that staying behind will be unpopular. Should no one want to stay I will personally stay behind to ensure the Order can fulfill its duties.

The third point I have also adressed. Strike at London to depose William. Reconcile with his successor and make the most profit out of London should it fall in our hands.

Thos are my stances on the matters. What are yours? Besides complaining about my speech you have not been very forthcoming on how the House of Bretagne stands on these matters? I would be honoured to fight alongside you should we both find ourselves joining the Crusade.

[econ21]

My Lords, peace. This is a time for the country to rally around the flag, not to start feuds. The Order will not act without consideration of Bretagne or of its nobles in Wales. In fact, to date, the Order has never acted alone - to date, it has only followed the King's will. If such fealty is interpreted as pandering for favour, so be it.

Let us not rake over the past or stirr up flames of petty resentments, the issue before us is the crusade. Duc Hugue's man is right - it will require careful debate and skilful execution, because of the presence of our men in Wales and the other issues he raises. I confess I am somewhat surprised that he proposes to resolve these issues by calling an emergency session. There is a danger that by deferring these issues to the Conseil, we will make the crusade into a camel rather than a warhorse. But given the passions at work, I can see some virtue in an emergency session if it will allow us to reach a collective agreement.

What I would ultimately propose, emergency session or not, is that we empower the Seneschal to coordinate any crusade we call. We have elected a man to implement the will of the Conseil and to coordinate our activities - we should have the faith to allow him to do so. I would invite the Seneschal to propose a plan of action, rather than first endure listening to two dozen other plans, all vying for support.

[AussieGiant]

Bowing formally to de Montpierre and Mauvoisin, there is no crack of the neck.

Excellent de Montpierre, I am more zan 'appy wiz your reasoning now zat you 'ave stated it 'ere for ze record. You are ze Captain of ze Order so it is you and only you I will listen to regarding ze current policy of ze Order. Zat is fitting for your station and authority. What 'is Majesty, ze Prince or Hermant says is but an opinion amongst ze many ze Order 'as. My most sincere apologies if my mean was not clear before'and.

I am also 'appy to see Ser Hermant taking a more considered approach and I certainly agree zat ze Seneschal is ze man for ze job.

As for Bretagne zen ze stance is clear. We were instrumental in taking exactly what was given must certainly include nobles from ze Duchy.

I would still prefer zat we march a Crusade on ze Islamic horde and not on our own backyard where we can simply use a quick war to achieve our aims. Ze excommunication of ze English is but a passing phase, while ze heretical Moors are forever damned.

What are you zoughts on zis position de Montpierre?

Alain also leaves a questioning gaze on the King for a moment.

[Ituralde]

Unfortunately I was called away during the first Council Session where this Moorish Crusade was discussed at length so I'm not sure about the detail. In principle, and as a pious Christian I can understand a yearning to support the Christian Kingdoms in the South and bring salvation to the populace of Iberia. To that effect I have proposed the Edict that asks for our priests to convert in Cordoba. While being a far smaller step than a Crusade I see it as a good first one. Should other steps be necessary, well I think I have made my stance on religious matters quite clear.

But this is neither here nor there, we have more pressing matters which probably is the reason why the Edict of the first Council failed in the first place.

[econ21]

Hermant rises cautiously, holding a piece of paper with notes he has been scribbling, bowing to his Captain and Duc Alain.

Duc Alain, forgive me, but your logic could be inverted. Yes, there will forever be Moors - unless de Xaintrailles is given power to butcher them all - and the English excommunication is likely to be merely passing. But this contrast tells for a crusade on the English rather than the Moors. There is no urgency in declaring a crusade against the Moors now. Declaring a crusade against the English now need not prevent us declaring one against the Moors under the next Seneschal, if that is desired. By contrast, England's excommunication provides us an opportunity to turn the tables on the usurpers now. It it unlikely that we will have such an opportunity again in ten or twenty seasons.

My Lords, the King has made his intention clear - he intends to obtain the support of the Pope to crusade on England. It is also clear that there is strong support in this Conseil for declaring war on England, outcast as she is from the Church and usurper as she is of holdings in France. There are one or two voices calling for a crusade on the Moors instead of England, but I find it hard to believe they would carry the day in a vote of all the Conseil. I submit that we should focus instead on how to implement the King's wishes while considering the practical points raised by the office of the Seneschal.

I suggest an agreement along the following lines. The details and wording could be amended; it could be formally voted in an Emergency session or not; it matters little. But the Seneschal has asked for us to be practical, so here is a start. In broad terms, I would suggest:



1. The Conseil authorises the Seneschal to declare war on England and petition Rome for a crusade to be called on London.

2. All nobles wishing to go on crusade must declare that intention and march to Paris, where the Seneschal will organise them into crusading armies under the overall command of the King. [OOC: only the Seneschal puts armies into crusade mode; crusaders have to modify their standing orders to reflect the armies they are assigned to.]

3. The timing of the declaration of war and the crusade will be decided by the Seneschal, with a mind to the safety of our countrymen in Wales.

4. When the time comes to storm London, all crusading nobles will join the King in storming the settlement. [OOC: we create a stack that includes all crusading avatars so they all share the traits gained.]

5. All troops who rally to the crusade will be regarded as soldiers of France and after the crusade is successful will be either disbanded or gifted to specific army commands as the Seneschal sees fit.

I believe this kind of agreement would meet most of the concerns expressed at the Conseil and implement the King's wishes in an ordered, coordinated fashion.

It would give all men who wish to fight in this holy cause the freedom to do so, but give the Seneschal the authority to organise them into proper formations.

It would give the King his rightful place as commander of the crusade and of the final assault on the London, but it would alllow all who wished to be at his side the honour of such a position.

Given the exposed situation of our men in Wales, some care must be taken over the timing of the crusade and the above would allow the Seneschal, as the man best placed to do so, the power to coordinate this.

The fifth point would address the Seneschal's concerns about the financial legacy of the crusade and the reward given to those left behind by the crusade - men raised on the crusade could be disbanded or given to those who held the frontiers with depleted forces.

[AussieGiant]

There is no crack of the neck and Medoc is a brilliant shade of indigo today.

"Zat would seem in order Ser Hermant.

I would like to state zat while we are in good standing wiz ze Pope, it will seem entirely clear to ozer Kingdoms zat we are in fact using a Crusade for our own benefit. Somezing I am sure ozer Marshal Orders and Kingdoms will shove down our throats in future.

We are being opportunistic, let not drape it in too much religious zeal and chivalry, I do not zink I could stomach it any furzer."

Alain is handed a note by his retainer.

"I am 'appy to inform ze Council zat le Sueur and de Rochefort are now on zeir way to Bruges. So far wizout incident. In a few more seasons zey will be safely near French territory."

[econ21]

Hermant rises, almost sadly.

Duc Alain, each man has his own motives and he at least should be true to himself. But unless we can look into another's soul, I would not be quick to judge the motives of another.

For my part, I am a simple soldier and if the enemy of my people, of my God, provides me with an opportunity, I will take it.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

Yvon leans back in his seat, looking mildly bored.


crusade, war, as long as we are in agreement that we are kicking the English out of our land then I care very little what it is called. We should all realize however, that this is not a true holy war, even if called as such. We are not fighting heathens, we are fighting other Catholics who find themselves out of the popes favor. Something I must remind you all, we were very close to ourselves. Does this make me want to butcher them any less? Not in the slightest. In fact, I have a very big itch to butcher something after my long sits in Marseilles.

[TinCow]

Christophe grins and nods respectfully at Yvon.

[Ramses II CP]

I second the call for an Emergency session!

Also I propose Emergency Edict x.0 (OOC: Numbering for an emergency session?):

War shall be declared upon the Kingdom of England immediately. All provinces conquered in this war shall be considered ratified at the time of conquest.

Furthermore House Aquitaine will not request any mercenaries for this war. Our own recruitment capabilities are sufficient. Following the inevitable capture of Bordeaux I will also commit myself to a reassessment of the necessity of the two companies of mercenary spearmen I hold contract with currently.

I also petition the King to release the soldiers from Valencia to the command of Raynaud de Xaintrailles for the retaking of that castle.

This will be a glorious war either way. I personally care little whether we march under the banner of Christ to punish a heretical King or under the banner of Justice to reclaim our stolen land, so long as we MARCH TO WAR!

Louis shouts the last at the top of his lungs.

:egypt:

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

I propose the following.

Edict E1.1: All English holdings on the mainland must be conquered.

[econ21]

As previously discussed, I propose:


Emergency Edict 1.3

1. The Conseil authorises the Seneschal to declare war on England and petition Rome for a crusade to be called on London.

2. All nobles wishing to go on crusade must declare that intention and march to Paris, where the Seneschal will organise them into crusading armies under the overall command of the King. [OOC: only the Seneschal puts armies into crusade mode; crusaders have to modify their standing orders to reflect the armies they are assigned to.]

3. The timing of the declaration of war and the crusade will be decided by the Seneschal, with a mind to the safety of our countrymen in Wales.

4. When the time comes to storm London, all crusading nobles will join the King in storming the settlement. [OOC: we create a stack that includes all crusading avatars so they all share the traits gained.]

5. All troops who rally to the crusade will be regarded as soldiers of France and after the crusade is successful will be either disbanded or gifted to specific army commands as the Seneschal sees fit.

6. Where this edict contradicts others that are passed, this edict takes precedence.

I am willing to amend or withdraw this Edict if the Seneschal wishes to achieve similar goals with different details.

[Ramses II CP]

Sir Mauvoisin I object to provision 6 of your proposed edict on the grounds that it can result in utter nonsense. If your edict passes with such a provision in it then every edict proposed from this day forth will include that language, and then we'll have to start adding Provision 6a Where this edict contradicts others that are passed, this edict takes precedence, especially over other edicts that claim they take precendence.

Don't run down that legal road to nowhere. Alter your edict now and let's just have our edicts battle it out in the usual manner, yes?

[Ramses II CP]

I second edict 1.1 by the way.

:egypt:

[GeneralHankerchief]

An Aquitanian clerk rises, reading off a scrap of paper.

My lords, Raynaud de Xaintrailles seconds Edicts E1.0 and E1.1 in absentia.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

I also second Edict E1.0

[deguerra]

My Lords, despite the apparent utter uselessness of talking to a bunch of rabid dogs about vegetables, I would have history record my words on this occasion.

To begin yet another war at this junction is akin to madness.

To disguise it in the veil of a most holy Crusade is blasphemy.

To feign interest in the well-being of peasants rather than admitting to the ceaseless, dangerous and insane grabs for land that is implied and encouraged by your words, actions and edicts is insulting to even my intelligence.

To brush aside even the most basic and simple of suggestions and calls for temperance unveils your ignorance.

To think that this war can be easily and speedily won, even won at all, hints towards stupidity.

Mark my words, nobles of France, from the highest to the lowest of you. You will not heed them now, but perhaps you shall remember them one day.

We will be judged by our actions, and one day will surely judge ourselves, in this life or the next.

We will be praised for our good deeds, violent or peaceful, deliberate or unintended, cautious or rash.

We will be punished for our trespasses, our failings, our ignorance and putting our politics before our Lord's wish, or worse, using a twisted warp of His wish to further political aims.

Our high stations in life shall not prevent this. All our arms and armour and men shall not save us. All our lands and peasants and goods shall not keep that judgment at bay.

We will burn for this.

Now if you will excuse me, I shall return to Dijon, so that I may be excused from being witness to any more.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

A bit dramatic, but he has a point buried somewhere in there. If we choose to use our good grace with the pope to further such a petty land grab we may find some.... problems facing us in the future. No reason to risk it in my opinion, just declare a normal little war and grab what we want. All much more simple then dragging Our Lord into this.

Yvon nods his head slowly

yes, let us save the crusading for that which deserves it, and keep our own politics out of it.

[ULC]

I agree - leave the crusade for when it is truly needed. A Crusade is a representation of the struggle for our faith, and should not be sullied by the reclamations of the Royaume, none of which has anything to do with God, and everything to do with imaginary borders we draw upon the land that the Lord has granted us.

God judges us upon what each of us has done in life - our actions, our thoughts, our intentions. Veil it in whatever you wish, God knows what is in your heart, and he knows what is in mine. I will not, nay, I refuse to join a crusade upon the English - I will not slay an Englishman falsely in the name of God.

I second Edicts E1.0 and E1.1!

I also ask my Duc, Prince Louis, if he would allow me a single company of men to march either upon Angers or Pamplona, to prove my worth as a commander of men and soldier of the Royaume, and to prove my Oath has meaning.

[AussieGiant]

Alain smiles quickly and nods at the recent statements.

[Ituralde]

I strongly oppose Edicts E1.1 and 1.2. I don't see how you can criticize the opportunism of this venture while at the same time passing legislation that makes this clear for all to see. Is this Emergency Session about how best to rid the English of their land or is this Emergency Session about how to dispose of their heretic ruler?

It seems to be the former is the case and if that is truly your intention then I will have no part of it. God and the Pope have given us an opportunity to show our faith to the whole of Christendom and you slander it for personal gains. How can you even propose reconquering a settlement like Valencia that was just traded to the English one season ago. What picture will this give the world about the word of a Frenchman? That they will give you one thing now and take it back by force immediately thereafter? This is shameful!

I second E1.3 as it's the only one that deals with the issues we must face during this Session. I furthermore propose

Edict E1.4:
No land will be taken from the English unless it is needed to defeat King William. (i.e. conquering London to get him to fight). Any settlement taken in this manner will be offered in trade during the following peace negotiations.

[OverKnight]

Reeves posts a list (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2330511&postcount=2) of the Legislation.

Please be aware my lords that the numbering on the Edicts has been standardized, with Edicts starting at one not zero.


*Edict E1.1: War shall be declared upon the Kingdom of England immediately. All provinces conquered in this war shall be considered ratified at the time of conquest.
Proposed: Prince Louis
Seconded: Raynaud de Xaintrailles, Yvon Lacaze

*Edict E1.2: All English holdings on the mainland must be conquered.
Proposed: Yvon Lacaze
Seconded: Prince Louis, Raynaud de Xaintrailles

Edict E1.3:

1. The Conseil authorises the Seneschal to declare war on England and petition Rome for a crusade to be called on London.

2. All nobles wishing to go on crusade must declare that intention and march to Paris, where the Seneschal will organise them into crusading armies under the overall command of the King. [OOC: only the Seneschal puts armies into crusade mode; crusaders have to modify their standing orders to reflect the armies they are assigned to.]

3. The timing of the declaration of war and the crusade will be decided by the Seneschal, with a mind to the safety of our countrymen in Wales.

4. When the time comes to storm London, all crusading nobles will join the King in storming the settlement. [OOC: we create a stack that includes all crusading avatars so they all share the traits gained.]

5. All troops who rally to the crusade will be regarded as soldiers of France and after the crusade is successful will be either disbanded or gifted to specific army commands as the Seneschal sees fit.

6. Where this edict contradicts others that are passed, this edict takes precedence.
Proposed: Hermant Mauvoisin
Seconded: Simon de Montpierre

Edict E1.4: No land will be taken from the English unless it is needed to defeat King William. (i.e. conquering London to get him to fight). Any settlement taken in this manner will be offered in trade during the following peace negotiations.
Proposed: Simon de Montpierre
Seconded:

[ULC]

So de Montpierre, this is not about reclaiming lost lands of the Royaume? Do I have it on record that you said we would use London as leverage after the death of Duke William? Why on earth, if you are out on the redemption of the poor English people, looking for leverage in bargaining? What are you thinking of gaining good monsieur?

I would accept this idea of a "Crusade" to London, if - no Englishman who was not a heretic is killed, and London is left to the English to reclaim once William is dead.

[OverKnight]

Hugues reenters the Conseil.

So it seems some of our motives are now laid clear. There are some who wish to take up a Crusade to remove a King who has offended the Church, and there are some who wish to make war upon a vulnerable foe.

An immediate war will endanger the Nobles of Bretagne who remain in England. As Seneschal I ask for a delay in the war until they have safely returned to our lands, two seasons.

I second Edicts 1.3 and 1.4. I do not fully agree with 1.4, but it deserves a vote.

I also propose:

Edict E1.5: Since the entire Kingdom will bear the burden of this war and the German one, no House will recieve more than one province from any lands taken from the English.

The entire Kingdom, whether on the campaign or not, will contribute to this new war. Whether by taking up the Cross, by conquering the English, by holding off the Germans, or by contributing florins or men. As a collective effort, no one House should benefit too much from the sacrifices of all of them.

I already have a war to fight. Many of the nobles in the Conseil will not be able to fight against the English due to our continuing war against the Germans. Now, the Prince and the King have the luxury of engaging the Germans in a battle or two and then withdrawing to new pursuits, but for many of us, the war with the Empire is at our gates. If we take the Cross or fight in the west, our homes will be lost, and the Kingdom laid bare to the Germans.

It is now a war of neccessity rather than a war of choice, no matter how it began. I cannot help but remember the clarion calls of honor, God, conquest and glory that rang out when the King chose to war on the Germans. Now, as our King abandons that fight to move to another, the same calls ring out again. Some of the Nobles who swore to fight the Germans now move on as well to England. A familiar pattern, one I hope does not repeat again.

Wars of aggression, no matter the righteousness of their origin, start when we want them to, but rarely end in such a fashion. Remember that my King, my Dauphin and my fellow Nobles.

[Ituralde]

I apologize if the content of my Edict is not completely clear. But like our Seneshal points out to end wars can be far more difficult than to start wars. That's why my Edict already contains a passage where we would give the English back their capital in return for peace during the following peace negotiations. The only leverage I desire is to convince the English that peace is in their best interest.
I hope this makes the intentions of my Edict clear. I am no lawyer so I don't know how to put it better, but I'm open to suggestions.

[econ21]

My Lords, this display of collective hand wringing ventures on the absurd.

It is the settled will of all of us that we reclaim our lands from the English, is it not? Some of us have endeavoured to secure this by peaceful means, even going so far as proposing an alliance to achieve that. But, no, offering friendship with the English was going too far. The possibility of using war to reclaim what was rightfully ours was always there and never rejected by any one of you.

It is the settled will of all of us that we ally with Scotland, but now that that nation is being overrun by the English and the English have been excommunicated by the Pope, that sympathy is forgotten. We are members of a Catholic church. That church has rules. To wantonly kill fellow Christians in an war of aggression is a crime against God. The English were warned. They knew the consequences, but they persevered. If Scotland falls, where next will they turn? It takes little imagination to fathom. Obeying the will of the Holy Father is not a war of aggression - it is obedience, duty, piety.

In the east, we were attacked. We defended ourselves vigorously. A little too vigorously for the Pope and so now we must halt there. We will not abandon that frontier, nor lose homes if we turn against the outcast. The skill of our generals, the fortitude of our men have been proven season after season. Our King has demonstrated how much he can achieve with so little. As has our Dauphin and indeed our Seneschal. I am firm in my conviction that we can join a crusade while defending the east. Indeed, those opposing the English crusade seem of like mind, since they instead propose a crusade on the Moors.

It is simple. The Pope has excommunicated the English for their aggression against the Scots. If we do not march on them, our brother Catholics will. Do we abandon our duty and our lost lands? Our goal is clear and the King has stated it with no equivocation. We must petition the Pope for a crusade on England. All that remains is implementation and I humbly suggest that we trust our Seneschal with that responsibility, by passing Edict 1.3.

[i]Hermant bows before the Conseil and respectfully leaves the chamber. OOC: not a walkout, just got stuff to do.]

[AussieGiant]

There is a cracking sound, Alain speaks.

"Ze Pope 'as called for no Crusade.

'e 'as simply excommunicated ze English, zere is a difference my lords!!

We could 'ave asked for a crusade against ze Muslims at any time in ze last decade or two but we did not, likewise no ozer Cazolic kingdom or ze Pope 'imself 'as either.

If ze Pope 'imself wishes to take ze matter fuzer zen we should let 'im decide if zere is to be a crusade against ze English.

So I say again, if we are to be vaguely honourable and chivalrous we should make simple war against ze English for our lands on the continent. We should not parley ze Pope's displeasure for our own secular aims. If a crusade is to be called zen let ze Pope decide, if at all."

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

I strongly oppose Edicts E1.1 and 1.2. I don't see how you can criticize the opportunism of this venture while at the same time passing legislation that makes this clear for all to see. Is this Emergency Session about how best to rid the English of their land or is this Emergency Session about how to dispose of their heretic ruler?

It seems to be the former is the case and if that is truly your intention then I will have no part of it. God and the Pope have given us an opportunity to show our faith to the whole of Christendom and you slander it for personal gains. How can you even propose reconquering a settlement like Valencia that was just traded to the English one season ago. What picture will this give the world about the word of a Frenchman? That they will give you one thing now and take it back by force immediately thereafter? This is shameful!

I second E1.3 as it's the only one that deals with the issues we must face during this Session. I furthermore propose

Edict E1.4:
No land will be taken from the English unless it is needed to defeat King William. (i.e. conquering London to get him to fight). Any settlement taken in this manner will be offered in trade during the following peace negotiations.


We are not criticizing the opportunism of this venture. We are criticizing the fact you all seem to think this is some glorious holy war to set the english free. And if you believe that you are total FOOL!
Yvon gets extremely angry as he says this, rage evident on his face

Opportunism is exactly what this is! Do not slander the Lords name by assuming that this is what he wants us to do. This is what WE want to do! We can not call a holy crusade on a nation that has simply lost the popes favor, that is not a holy war! That is hypocrisy plain and simple! Need I remind you all how we gained the popes favor? WE BOUGHT IT! If you can buy a mans favor then you can never assume his will and Gods are as one!

This war is to take back what belongs to us. That is what it is, and to claim differently is idiocy. Need I remind you that the trade of Valencia is something many were against?

What this is is not a holy war, it is a fleeting chance to take back everything we had given up to these English dogs. If you want no part of that fine, take no part in it. But I doubt the English are going to see the difference between "freeing" them of there heathen king, and taking there land by force.

[Ramses II CP]

Edict 1.5 is a direct challenge to the authority of the King to distribute lands as he sees fit. It is extremely distasteful for anyone to propose such nonsense.

In addition, as Edict 1.3 has not been altered I must amend my own edict to counter the nonsense:

Edict 1.1a War shall be declared upon the Kingdom of England immediately. All provinces conquered in this war shall be considered ratified at the time of conquest.

Provision 6a (The Hermant Provision) Where this edict contradicts others that are passed, this edict takes precedence, especially over other edicts that claim they take precendence.

Now, let's stop acting like a bunch of bloody ninnies concentrated on our own vapid political machinations. I will join Gaetan de Rethel in refusing to take up the cross for merely territorial reasons, and I will also point out that no one has asked for a Moorish crusade in this emergency session! You embarass yourselves dragging out that old cow from decades ago. Yes, it is a future ambition to aid our allies in Iberia, but it is not on the table today as far as I am aware.

Furthermore it is not petty to reclaim our stolen lands from my father's former, traitorous vassal, William. Bordeaux is ours! Valencia was ours, conquered at great cost by my men, and paid for with no small quantity of my own blood! Pamplona certainly cannot be left to the English, although quite honestly I think the Spanish might need it more than we do.

Have any of you idiots actually spoken to the men from Caernarvon? I've sent Sir de Rochefort, the nominal commander there, a message and am awaiting a reply. Until we hear from him let's stop acting hysterical about the danger they're in. I think we can be fairly confident he'd laugh at you girls throwing your hands up and delaying our whole nation's plans on his account.

Now, Valencia currently stands with no garrison. We will be going to war with England, do any doubt it? If we delay the English will garrison Valencia and good Frenchmen will die to retake it.

Bordeaux currently stands with only one company of men inside. Bordeaux is a part of FRANCE! If we delay more men will be trained, and more Frenchmen will die to take it.

Anger, also a part of France, is lightly garrisoned as well, and could be taken in short order. If we delay.... well, you know the bloody story.

I am sometimes acclaimed the greatest general in France. This is my strategic advice: Declare war instantly, drive the English out of France, and go on crusade whenever you wish subsequently, then let the King distribute the lands afterward as is his right. If you're worried about my House getting too powerful man up and admit it, then petition the King openly for lands that Aquitaine will conquer without trying to tie the King's hands. Or you could stop being a pansy about it and just go out and conquer your own bloody lands. Trying to politic this war into some mad kind of fair, sweet, even handed affair is purely crazy.

French lands stand under occupation! Let's free our people FIRST, and punish the Pope's enemy SECOND, and go grasping after each other's hard won lands THIRD. Or perhaps not at all that last, hey?

The look of disgust on Louis' face is palpable.

:egypt:

[KnightnDay]

Crusade or no, Angers and Bordeaux should be set free and now is the time. I do not, as one put it, feign interest in the well being of peasants. Their suffering under English rule is true, and their excommunication only furthers their anguish. If any man here questions my integrity on the matter, let him accuse me directly, and I will have satisfaction. On my honor, I believe we have every reason to free our brothers and sisters under the English yoke in Angers and Bordeaux.

[ULC]

Although I do care for those laboring under English rule, Thomas, a point in which I will have to disagree with you, I do agree that the Royuame should be liberated first. I think this Council is laboring under some false perception of what is going on in English lands, but, since you are all educated men, this cannot be, can it?

Surely you would all know that excommunication is simply a proclamation? Giving voice to what has already happened? And that the intent with any excommunication is to force the offender to repent? That it is a medicinal penalty, not a vindictive one? That those excommunicated are still christian?

Surely you all realize that the Pope excommunicated William and his generals - not the English as a whole, not all of Albion? That to excommunicate the English people, it requires an Interdict? And that even under an Interdict, it is medicinal, a way to have those ousted from the sacrament to repent? That those under the Interdict are still christian?

But, obviously those asking for a Crusade must know of this, since they have such boundless knowledge of God and the Pope's will. They must know that when they kill the English in London or upon the field, that they kill fellow christian men in the name of God.

Surely I cannot be mistaken, and those calling for a crusade are ignorant of both the actions taken by the Pope, and the circumstances in lands under English rule, can I?

[woad&fangs]

Bertin enters the Conseil. He is visibly shaken by some recent event.

I second edict 1.4.

After taking several long gulps of wine to calm his nerves Bertin rises again.

I second edict 1.5..

[Ituralde]

It seems the Nobles of France have spoken. This is nothing but an opportunity to take English land without fear of the Pope interfering. It saddens me to hear this, I only hope that the voted legislation will show a different picture.

To the righteousness of a Crusade against the English, this would be entirely up to the Pope, who despite different opinions voiced here is the direct representative of God on earth! So I am not concerned about legal word-trading. If God wills it the Pope will let us know, if not then there is still time for William to repent while you ravish his lands.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

Yvon breaths deeply his face taking on a bored expression once again

Yes, yes, In Nomine Dei Patri. Good luck with that.

I am finding it more and more difficult to take part in this. Many of you seem so full of self-righteousness you can not see the course you are taking. May god save you all.

Yvon turns and leaves the council chamber

[OverKnight]

Hugues turns to the King.

Your Majesty, Nobles of the Realm. Prince Louis is in violation of Edict 2.8. The punishment is the immediate disbanding of the offending army.

Since the Prince has already violated the truce and will most likely, judging by his words, declare his own private war whatever the decision of the Conseil, I have little choice but to enforce the Edict.

[GeneralHankerchief]

An Aquitanian clerk rises immediately.

Seneschal, has the disbandment already taken place?

[AussieGiant]

Leaning forward Alain mouths.

:daisy: on a shovel, 'ow about zat!!"

[Cecil XIX]

Having been sitting passively observing up to this point, Duc Raymond suddenly grabs parchment and quill and starts scribbling furiously.

[GeneralHankerchief]

The Aquitanian clerk is handed a piece of paper. After skimming over it, he rises again to speak.

I have been informed that the Dauphin's army is currently intact, unless the Seneschal has decided to do so without providing the updated maps to us all. In light of new developments, as well as the very originator of the Edict that the Duc of Lorraine seems so determined to uphold no matter what openly discussing possible outcomes of a war with England, I believe that this is one of the times in which we can set aside an Edict in the name of common sense.

However, since the Seneschal is clearly not one of these people and will not wait for the will of the Conseil and its opinion on war with England, we are faced with one of our most potent armies disappearing overnight. Luckily, however, we do have the very same Seneschal to thank for allowing us to rectify this situation by calling for an Emergency Session. Therefore, in the name of Raynaud de Xaintrailles, I propose the following:

Edict E1.6: Should war be declared with England in this session, Edict 2.8 is hereby considered null and void and Prince Louis's army near Bordeaux is not to be disbanded in violation of the aforementioned Edict.

[ULC]

I second Edict E1.6!

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

A messanger from Marseilles Rises,

And I on the behalf of my lord, second Edict E1.6

[Marcus Agrippa]

I feel I should be the voice of chivalry for this counsel.
I believe we can wage a war with consience if we do it with the right objectives.

1. We only fight to weaken England and make France whole.
2. We create a stable alliance with Scotland by liberating Edinburgh so the Engilsh won't conquest against us as they have two rivals.
3. No unarmed civilians are killed only soldiers.
4. We Take london to have a prise worth selling for peace as they won't accept anything else.

I propose the following Edict E1.7: Upon hostilities with England turning to war this session the following cities become our objective: Bordaeux, Angers, London for negotiation for peace will England and Edinburgh to form an alliance with Scotland and weaken England. All should be occupied with out sacking or harm to the locals towns people.

If the senechal were to provid some forces to the coast Myself and de Rochfort could take london if no-one else was better able or willing as we are returning south of london.
I have no wish for glory my lords, but I believe a war would otherwise be abused, long and drain France. As the German campaign continues to.

[Ramses II CP]

Louis laughs,

Truly this is what we have come to, this band of brothers, this nobility of France. Bickering foolishly over legalities and lands not yet captured while we should be united in reclaiming our nation, making whole our people once more. It disgusts me.

Seneschal de Champagne you gave me your solemn word that you would support me in exchange for giving you my support in your campaign for Seneschal. That support has been absent, as Mon Roi warned me it likely would. This is certainly not support. If you attempt to disband my army in the face of our enemies, and I ask again if any doubt that we will be at war with England, then I cannot help but take that as a declaration of war against my House for it would leave us utterly defenseless and surrounded by English territory.

You cannot reasonably declare that you do this on account of the King's edict when the King himself does not wish it enforced. You are afraid of something. Afraid of your future King's own House? Afraid of war with England? I know not which, but if you act rashly to weaken France in the face of her enemies there will be a reckoning.

So stop cowering. Declare your true intent now and have done with it. We can settle it personally without placing France herself at risk by destroying one of her armies. If you so despise me, or so fear England, then let us duel until you are satisfied and relent.

What say you? I insist that you answer before the Emergency session ends or matters will grow worse.

:egypt:

(OOC: A couple of things to consider/discuss in the OOC thread perhaps:

1. What happens if the Seneschal is killed during the emergency session?

2. What happens if a civil war begins during the emergency session, in particular with respect to the disbandment edict?

3. Can the King declare himself Seneschal during an emergency session?)

[KnightnDay]

Thomas rises and looks to Hugues and then to Louis. He then speaks.

"I wish to propose a compromise if possible. It hardly benefits our people if prince or seneschal are slain at these critical times."

Thomas then faces Louis.

"Dauphin, you have violated edict 2.8. Whether the king wants it enforced or not, the fact is his truce with Guillaume is not yet suspended, and by the edict the Seneschal has every right to carry out the prescribed actions. But your point is well taken, Aquitaine should not be endangered and any forces we might be on the verge of using against the English should not be diminished.

This is two times now you have placed your army in an unwise position. First at Bern where you were compelled to withdraw by the empire, and now in a position which violates a standing edict reflecting the will of the king and conseil. I suggest that action is called for against you and you alone.

My proposal for a compromise is this. First, the Seneschal will hold in abeyance the actions required of him under the terms of the edict 2.8 due to the unusual nature of present circumstances. He will take no action to disband your forces.

For your part, highness, you will agree to the following. You acknowledge you are in violation of the edict and agree to submit to disciplinary action. Specifically, you will agree to withdraw your bodyguard immediately to the province of Toulouse for the duration of any immediate conflict with England. Of course from there you are free to direct your house as you see fit."

Thomas then looks back at Hugues.

"I urge you two gentlemen to agree to my proposal. If this degenerates into an internal conflict, it may not be a question of who shall storm the gates of London, but rather who will defend the walls of Paris."

[econ21]

My Prince, in the spirit of ending bickering - let me respond to an earlier intervention that you made regarding my Edict 1.3 that I confess I did not hear. [ooc: I missed that post] You are quite right that it is pointless to include a clause regarding conflicting edicts within ones own edict. [OOC: that clause was an ill remembered hangover from earlier games.] Our Charter clearly states that where edicts are passed but are in conflict, the one with the larger number of votes takes precedence. Consequently, I hurriedly delete clause 6 from my edict.

It has also become clear to me that there is no reason why our Edicts - your Edict 1.1 for an immediate declaration of war on England, my Edict 1.3 on a crusade on London - should be in conflict. I still believe that the Seneschal should determine the timing of the declaration of war, but that issue can be resolved independently of the issue of a crusade. If Edict 1.1 passes, war will be immediate. If Edict 1.1 fails, the Seneschal - or the King - will determine the timing. Consequently, I have amended clause 3 of Edict 1.3 to refer only to the timing of the crusade, not the declaration of war. Now nobles may quite consistently vote for both Edict 1.1 and Edict 1.3.


Revised Emergency Edict 1.3

1. The Conseil authorises the Seneschal to declare war on England and petition Rome for a crusade to be called on London.

2. All nobles wishing to go on crusade must declare that intention and march to Paris, where the Seneschal will organise them into crusading armies under the overall command of the King. [OOC: only the Seneschal puts armies into crusade mode; crusaders have to modify their standing orders to reflect the armies they are assigned to.]

3. The timing of the crusade will be decided by the Seneschal.

4. When the time comes to storm London, all crusading nobles will join the King in storming the settlement. [OOC: we create a stack that includes all crusading avatars so they all share the traits gained.]

5. All troops who rally to the crusade will be regarded as soldiers of France and after the crusade is successful will be either disbanded or gifted to specific army commands as the Seneschal sees fit.

I understand that there are some in this chamber who have no appetite for a crusade on England. That is a matter for them - even if Edict 1.3 passes, no one will not be compelled to join the crusade. We each have our own path to God. However, those same nobles also desire to declare war on England. To those men, I urge them not to vote against Edict 1.3 - not to obstruct other brothers in arms who would ride with them against a common enemy.

We are entering a new age, Counsellors. The Papacy is no longer a tool of the Germans. It has broken away and is an emerging source of political as well as moral authority in a new world order. We remember the Lord, recognising the earthly power of the Romans and the powerlessness of his followers, he was obliged to advise - "render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's". But now the Church is finally emerging from the shadow of the smothering state, Roman or Holy Roman. No longer will Christians be compelled to follow the wishes of the German Kaiser. Through the Church, Christians will begin to have a say in what is done by their worldly rulers. No longer will Christian rulers wantonly be able to spill the blood of their brothers in Christ. The Church will command them to stop. And they will stop - as we have stopped our attacks on the Germans. And why did we stop? Was it is a sudden rash of conscience or compassion? No, it was the threat of excommunication. For the Godly, excommunication is a terrible thing. But now, for the unGodly, it also is to be feared. Because now is a new age. An age when men of war may rise, motivated by zeal, to crusade on those excommunicated. An age when the authority of the Pope may sway warriors of many nations to fight against those who so defy the teachings of the Church that they are expelled from its embrace.

The English - they were commanded by the Church to stop their attacks on Scotland. They did not stop and now are excommunicated. By bringing down the wrath of God in a crusade against the English, we would be acting to uphold the new authority of the Church over tyrants and warlords. We would be acting to bring discipline, restraint and respect for the church. To call a crusade against the English would not be opportunism nor cant, still less a land grab (surely my Captain's edict at least makes the latter clear!). It would be the first demonstration of the power of the Church over the realm of worldly rulers. It would, quite frankly, be revolutionary.

Cynics may sneer at those who call for a crusade, but I urge them to be cautious - they are not looking in a mirror. The men they judge are not motivated as they are. The men they see as hypocrites or deluded fools are walking a new path. That journey may start on the road to London or it may not. You may choose to walk that path or not. But do not block the way merely because you do not understand the motives of those who would take it. Do not turn away comrades who would join you in a battle. Do not let your cynicism turn away aid in this new age of zeal.

[Ramses II CP]

Louis nods his head companionably towards Hermant before speaking,

I rescind my amendment to Edict 1.1 and let it stand as originally worded and seconded.

I also wish to state that I respect your comments and clarifications on the justification for a Crusade. It is, indeed, a new age for the Church and I pray that the Holy Father's commandments be respected and upheld.

All the same I and my House will continue to decline to take part in the Crusade. Clearly many in this chamber doubt my good will and would abuse any power to oppose me. As such I make my intentions beyond all doubt; I intend to reunite France and drive William's armies off the continent entirely. What the King does with the lands I conquer I leave to his behest, as I did at Valencia, without protest or complaint. Have any others sacrificed their men and their own blood in battle only to be denied ownership of the province they took? I do not count Caernarvon as the King made clear his trouble with Duke de Rohan.

House Aquitaine does not deserve this persecution.

I will refrain from comment on the suggested compromise until the Seneschal has had the opportunity to respond to my challenge. Perhaps the man will see sense, yes?

:egypt:

[OverKnight]

Hugues turns to the Dauphin.

Sense? Hmmpph.

Very well, let me make my own attempt at "sense" Dauphin.

I need two seasons before hostilities start with the English. This is so Thierry de Rochefort and Alexandre Le Sueur may return to our lines. And that a proper Crusade can be assembled.

If your Highness will withdraw the clause from Edict 1.1 calling for immediate war, and pledge to refrain from attacking for two seasons, you may keep your army.

Now, you have already refused this offer in private, but I will make it publically now. I do not seek to cripple Acquitaine, only to delay your heedless aggression.

To a hammer everything is a nail. You could call for my impeachent, but instead you challenge me to a duel. The outcome of which is the end of my life, including my term of Seneschal of course, or the few brief blissful moments of victory before your father comes down on me like a ton of bricks. How appealing. In either scenario, I wouldn't get those two seasons anyway.

[Ramses II CP]

By God man, are you a fool? Sir le Sueur has already spoken and declaimed he is in so little danger that with a few mercenaries he might take London next year! It is a thinly disguised lie that you are worried for those men when they are not worried for themselves!

Let the crusaders take as long as they like to assemble their Crusade. I care not one whit. If we delay any longer, however, Valencia and Bordeaux will cost far more French lives to capture than they would this season. Furthermore dear William might very well catch his death in Scotland, rendering the excommunication moot. I would be untroubled by this matter as I want only to reunite France, not to go a'conquerin' in God's name.

I do not want you impeached or dead, but I will not allow my House or my nation to be impoverished by your stubborn insistence on observing an antiquated law in pursuit of mindless hostility towards my person.

By the by if you want to fund mercenaries for the men in Albion I will sacrifice for the greater good once more and remove my own prioritized recruitment to allow it. Just as I sacrificed to ride to your bloody aid when the Germans attacked, just as I sacrificed my precious cavalry for your benefit when I could've used them at Bern!

I call on you to answer my challenge before the end of this session. To give you the time you may need to consider the matter I move that the emergency session be extended.

Will any other Duke second the motion?

Prince Louis looks about expectantly.

:egypt:

[ULC]

Hermant, do you still labor under the impression that it is the divine will of god to punish the English, who have remained good Catholics even in his Holiness eyes, because William and his closest generals have erred?

Therefore, if we would, as the consiel, be excommunicated in the future by our own actions, it is then just for the Germans to kill and slaughter the good and faithful people of France as they to try to uphold the proclamation of the church? For something in which we erred?

What you are setting the precedent for, Hermant, is that the people who have done nothing wrong under their rulers, be punished when said rulers err and lose favor with the church - and has been shown, the Pope himself is a mercurial man.

[Vladimir]

*Gontran, at the rear of the assembly hall, looks about at the other Dukes in anticipation of their reply*

[OverKnight]

Hugues glances to the Throne.

I would like to hear from the King before answering your latest slurs, Highness.

[woad&fangs]

In three seasons time, the papal enforced ceasefire between the Royaume and the Reich will be at an end. At which point, the armies which the kaiser has mustered along the Rhine will be unleashed upon our lands. So unless the Conseil thinks we can force a peace with the Normans within three seasons, and let us not forget that our diplomats are a bunch of soggy brained incompetents, then perhaps we should focus our limited resources on keeping the Germans out of Paris.

[AussieGiant]

Alain leans forward in his seat.

"I will second ze motion to extend ze Emergency Session.

Ser Alexandre le Sueur 'as indicated zat 'e is safe. I would caution 'is comments wiz ze knowledge zat zere are at least four large armies on ze island, each of which could materialise on 'is position next season.

I want zem near Bruges before any war is called."

Alain nods at Hugues and then the throne.

"My Liege, it would be an opportune time to 'ave ze Seneschal and Dauphin remove ze 'ands from each ozers throats, no?"

[econ21]

Chevalier Gaetan, on the issue of the crusade as punishment, I agree: a crusade should not punish the people of a land. I would regard any crusade sacking a city as undisciplined; any crusade exterminating a city as criminal. I am a warrior, not a butcher. I would even stand to that belief if we were to crusade against the Moors or in the Holy Land. Before Christ, there were no Christians and it is only through conversion that the Church has come to dominate Europe. Only unbelievers can be converted.

I also agree with you that we will be setting a dangerous precedent if we crusade on the English for failing to heed the Pope's order to cease killing the Christian Scots. It will signal danger to all warlords and butchers who would spill Christian blood to seize their lands. And yes, this does bite both ways. Any general of France who attacks the Germans in their lands and brings down excommunication on France is likely to be judged very harshly by all of us in this hall.

Since the fall of Rome, Christendom has become prey to pointless internecine wars between those who profess to love Christ. The mechanism of excommunication, backed by the sanction of crusade by any and all good Christian nations, offers a chance to end that anarchy and establish something a kin to the Pax Romana of old. Such a new order of peace and stability would only benefit the people of England, and of France, and of all other Catholic nations.

[Braden]

My lords.

I have kept silent over these last exchanges in an effort to find my own centre of well being and to find guidance from God as to how to respond and how to speak.

I am still unclear as to Gods will. The English were excommunicated due to their actions against the Scots and so perhaps any Crusade called should be aimed at freeing them first.

However I do not begin to understand the logistics of such a voyage.

I am not a proponent of a full Crusade at this time. However, should a crusade be as God wills then either to Scotland or against the Moors seems far more fitting.

Perhaps the death of King William of England will naturally also make the English more pre-disposed to come to terms with us.

I am firm however in my belief that God has given us this opportunity, small opportunity to reclaim our historic lands! I am a member of the Royal Family and as such the thought of England owning what is rightfully ours is abhorrent to me in the extreme. We have the chance now to change this so I support a war on England to reclaim our lands.

Hence I also second proposed Edict 1.1. Immediate action is needed to reclaim our country, I can see it no other way…I apologise is that is disagreeable to some but it as it should be from a Prince perhaps?

I also find that I have to oppose in the strongest terms proposed Edict 1.4, as it lends no support to our own people in our own lands that are held by the English.

Although I have reservations over this I find I have to support Edict 1.0 also. Not for any other reason other than it will allow us to work faster to the betterment of those people we have liberated and will free such troops and nobles up for future issues in the East.

I also support Edict 1.6. However, I feel that my brother must be brought to account for his continued actions which have been found to be, if not directly in conflict with the general feelings of the council, are opposed to the correct functioning of government.

Louis, I ask you to return to Paris after we have ejected the English from our lands. Hand over command of your forces to another who will be nominated by our Father the King. I fear what will happen if you continue to go against the laws of the land and the councils edicts. Serve a simple penance…this will form the base of a proposal of my own but first I must complete those Edicts already in place.

I support Edict 1.7 Its general core is as I wish but I still feel that sending an army to Scotland may be a step too far financially and logistically.

I hereby enter a proposal for EDICT 1.8: The council pledges on honour and oath to God that upon the recapturing of our lands in France from the English and cessation of active campaigning thereof, we pledge to approach the Pope and request a Crusade against the Moors. The exact target province to be decided by normal council vote.

I put this forward as it is clear that the Moors must be dealt with and our Catholic cousins in Iberia seem incapable of doing this task. This will also enhance our standing in the eyes of the Pope and God for spreading his true word.

[ULC]

I am sure you recognize the soldiers under King still count as Englishmen, and as Catholics, if I am not mistaken? You seem intent on using the Crusade, a holy tool to fight for the faith, to bring back those lost and forgotten, to seize a city which is filled with good Catholics, which is defended willingly or unwillingly by hundreds of good Catholic soldiers, all commanded by one man who's personal ambitions have damned him?

Why not simply declare war, and take London, and trade it back? Why do you see the need to create a Crusade out of it? There is nothing "holy" in your objectives, there are no souls to save - all you are doing is corrupting the greatest tool of our faith to reunite and bring it's people back into the light. You are either attempting to gain power, or simply deposing a man whom the Pope has declared Vitandus upon...

[Ituralde]

Any man who willingly follows a heretic has damned himself to the same fate. Those English that fight for William have put their souls into great danger. I know you don't see it so, but in my opinion a Crusade is a justified tool to purge the own faith of those that have sinned against it.

Whether the Pope is still examining the case of William or has already felled a verdict over him will be made abundantly clear when he either agrees to a Crusade against him or disagrees. Surely you would accept the Popes ruling on a matter of faith de Rethel?

[ULC]

I already have accepted the Popes verdict, Vitandus, for William. As such, as any good christian would, I will avoid him until he sees fit to ask for reconciliation, and is reconciled by either the Pope, or a Bishop of the Pope's selection.

Excommunication is medicinal, not vindictive - William is to be coerced back into the fold, not damned and sent to hell. THAT, is what the Pope has decreed - stop trying to turn every Englishman, Scotsman, and Frank under English rule into a Heretic so you can declare a bloody crusade to take London and therefore justify a war that does not need any justification beyond the fact the English should no longer rule over half of the Royuame!

[AussieGiant]

"Nice use of words zere de Montpierre,

'when he either agrees to a Crusade against him or disagrees'

so if we politely ask ze Pope wiz our current impressive standing wiz 'im zen all is well and we can proceed?

I find it unpleasant zat out of all ze nations zat could ask for a crusade against ze English, it 'as to be us to do it? Likewise, ze Pope can call one 'imself, but instead we 'ask'.

As I said before, if we take such action it will be clearly a secular move, now matter 'ow disguised our methods are."

[Marcus Agrippa]

My lords I feel I must clarify my reasoning for my proposition as some think they can interpret it askew.

I am not safe but don't expect battle till war is declared.
I have seen that the English are pre-occupied with Ireland & Scotland there for once we are in Burges we could strike if the English do not send forces to their capital.

I am not blind to danger and wish to serve France for many years yet.
Our King has many of the best spearmen availible and with knights I believe london could be taken quickly for the profit of peace.

As for Edinburgh I think we could arrange for transport of a force after the English start sending their forces south. This should be a goal to force a stalemate the English can't break once we gain the our land back.

[AussieGiant]

Bowing formally to Le Sueur.

"I agree zat once you are near Bruges zen ze immediate danger will pass. However war could be declared immediately, zereby placing you in an unfair position.

If ze English do not defend London, zen we should absolutely make it a target."

[_Tristan_]

Mes Seigneurs,

I have listened hard on the debate here in this very chamber... All have argued a good case.

Let me say this :

The difference between France and England, as good servants of the Church, is that when embroiled in a war with the Reich and in a position to win it or at least score victories that would have prevented the Germans from mouting a counter-offensive, we relented, heeding the word of the Vicar of Christ on Earth for our own salvation...

Whereas Guillaume, in his lust for glory and conquest, for isn't he dubbed the Conqueror, willingly chose to ignore his Holiness call for truce and took Edinburgh from the Scots.

There lies the difference between us and the English...

As I've stated before, France has always been the honored daughter of the Church and it is our duty as France's nobility to make sure every Catholic now and in future years heed the Word of God, heed the Word of His Holiness.

That is the reason why we need to call a Crusade on England, to bring Guillaume down, to set an example for the Catholic world to follow, so that each and every sovereign, duke, count, baron, knight knows what he risks when defying God's will.

His Holiness holds us in favour right now but we are still under the threat of excommunication should we attack the German lands, how can you, mes Seigneurs, be sure that if we go to war with England we do not incur the same threat ? That would leave us hanging over the chasm with a two-fronted war and no means of forging ahead, being forced to defend.

Hence, I implore you to consider the need to ask His Holiness for his sanction beforehand and have him call for a Crusade on England.

Many have argued that other countries will see us as opportunistic but how can you be sure that those same countries will not themselves answer the call for Crusade ? How can they call us opportunistic then ?

Turning to Louis

My son, I was the first to point out the rashness of your actions concerning Bordeaux... By acting thus, you're forcing the Senechal hand and forcing mine... Forcing me to stand against my Senechal in favour of my son, or the contrary...

In the light of your past actions, I'm sorely tempted to give right to the Senechal and allow him to disband the men under your command... If it would punish you and you only, I would allow it... But it is not only you who would suffer but the whole Royaume.

Nor will I allow you to fight the Senechal in a duel to the death. It would gain you nothing and once more it would cost the Royaume, depriving it of one of its best generals.

Many have expressed fears, feigned or true, about the safety of our stranded knights in Wales, though the latter have expressed no such fear for their own safety... And have those same men taking into account the fact that I could, and my men with me, be under the walls of London as soon as this emergency session is over... That those knights could join me and fight to capture the city. So those fears are no reason to delay. I hope this deals with our Senechal request for a delay. Though I'd be willing to hear more arguments on this before I end up with a firm position on the matter. As I said, London is but a season's march away and with the help of our man Aubry Fevre, we could bring the city down without even a prolonged siege.

I hope this will be time enough for us to reclaim our lost lands as I do not wish to fight a prolonged war with England. I would even be ready to return any city or castle captured on English soil.

For I will say this : War with England is coming... I''d rather it could wait until our war on the Reich had found a peaceful resolution but this cannot be, and German stubborness is the man cause behind it.

But this war will only be led against England under the banner of the Cross. And I'll have the final say in this, be assured of it.

Now, if that doesn't suit your own ideals of chivalry or christianity, fine... Do not take up the Cross and fight as you did until now but do not deny others the benefit of fighting for what they believe in and under the benevolent gaze of God.

(OOC : I hope this all makes sense... It was difficult trying to answer each and everyone of the numerous posts...)

[Ramses II CP]

I am, as ever, obedient to your will my King. If the Seneschal will also submit himself to the King's commands not to disband my troops then he may consider my challenge withdrawn. With due respect to those who disagree I consider my aggressiveness to be at the heart of what it means to be a knight of France; to charge fearlessly forward no matter the foe and win victory with honor!

It bears repeating that I broke no law at Bern, and when it became clear that success required risking the defense of France and the destruction of my army I withdrew instead, swallowing my pride for the greater good. I have sacrificed as much as any in this chamber, more than most, setting an example with my House that I pray will carry down the halls of time. I will not suffer my men to be slighted or weakened on account of politics.

All the same I will consider the requests that I personally withdraw from this war, especially if it can only be conducted under the banner of the cross.

:egypt:

[_Tristan_]

The King cocks an eyebrow on hearing the word "obedient" coming out of Louis' mouth.

As obedient as your sister Constance, surely, Louis...

To be frank Louis, I envy you your carelessness (OOC : not sure about the choice of word... I meant to say carefree) and your aggressiveness... I was like this in my own father's reign... Not a care in the world and always looking forward to the next battle, even if we lost a lot of those in these times to Guillaume's minions...

But to rule is to look further than this, to see the greater picture... Past your aggresiveness, you've to learn the way of politics and to choose battles on your own ground and not that of your adversary...

Attacking like you want us to do would be playing into Guillaume's hand, we may take one or two of his settlements and then we run the risk of following him on the path of damnation... But if we get Papal sanction through a call for Crusade against him, we'll be God's soldiers doing his Holy Work, saving the souls of countless Englishmen from the pits of Hell through our actions and forever damning those standing against us.

As further proof of our goodwill in this holy endeavour, and as proof that we are not at war with the English people but only with Guillaume the Heretic and the Usurper and his clique, I propose Edict E1.9 : All English prisoners are to be released and all cities and castles taken from the English will be occupied.

I wish to free our people living under the English yoke and also wish to free the people of England from the yoke of an heretic sovereign, for that is the mission God has seen fit to provide us with.

Of course, as stated by Sieur de Rethel, should Guillaume be reconciled before we can bring him to justice, we will make every effort in our power to renew peace with him, though I expect that by this time both Bordeaux and Angers will be back in our fold.

Looking earnestly at his son, Philippe continues

Louis, you know that I'm not the most loving father nor the most easily loved... But I respect you for what you are, a true Prince of the blood, a fine warrior and exceptional general. You needn't remind me of the sacrifices you've suffered for the greater good of France, all here can bear witness to that... If I never thanked you for it, I do so now, with all my heart.

Philippe rises and bows respectfully to his son, then straightens and sits again.

Now, my son, your sword is needed once more... You may or may not take the cross but at least join us in our fight to kick English presence out of OUR LANDS...

Philippe ends his speech looking hard at his son, holding his gaze for a long time.

Now, mes Seigneurs, having perused the proposed legislation, here are my observations thus far :

Edict 1.1 is not needed as I will declare war on the English usurper as soon as this session ends if I can get the Conseil approval of a request for a Crusade from the Pope, and such a request is granted.

Edict 1.2 is the epitome of the selfish landgrab that so many here wish to denounce. Why be so greedy ? Let us content ourselves with reclaiming our historically French holdings, Angers and Bordeaux, and any lands where Guillaume may see fit to hide himself if we cannot find him in London, but let's be content with that. What rights have we to Pamplona or Valencia ? Would it not be better if once Guillaume is brought to justice, we could fight hand in hand with his successor against the Moorish threat, forming a bulwark to protect Europe ?

Edict 1.3 needs some little adjustment in my view. Notably, in §1, it should state "the Conseil authorizes the Senechal to request a Crusade on London from the Pope". I am, as your King, the only person invested with the right to declare a war unless this Conseil votes for it. I would see this prerogative be respected. There is no question that if the call for Crusade is launched, I will answer it for the Royaume.

§3 makes no sense. I've stated here many times that time is of the essence. Guillaume could very well maneuver himself out of his excommunication, whether it is by acting contrite or offering the building of cathedrals in every major English city... The same is true of our standing with the Pope... I'm as surprised as you are with our good fortune (OOC : I can't understand how that Pop-o-meter went through the roof) but it may not last... A single mistake by one of our soldier on the wrong side of the border could lead to our own damnation. If we intend to be a guiding light for all Christianity, we must strike fast and strike hard. Hence the request must be made at the earliest opportunity, as soon as this session ends. We're already losing enough time debating this issue.

However, I perfectly agree with §2,4 and 5. Let all who wish to participate in dealing Guillaume his fair punishment join with your King or strike at whatever target will deal the usurper a blow.

I will ask you to ignore also Edict 1.4. Unless I misread it, it requires giving back to England all settlements captured for the return of peace. Does it mean we'll have to return Bordeaux and Angers, provided we can take them, having then lost all we had gained, returning France to unity and dividing it anew, of our own free will to boot ? I'll agree to give back any settlement on Albion if it means we can then live in peace with England, but no continental settlement captured will be given back under my rule.

I will second Edict 1.5. I understand that some of you think they've been treated unfairly in the allotment of lands captured. Some Houses have benefited more than others but being fair is difficult. I will nevertheless try to do so and will consult with every Duke to hear their pleas and decide in accordance with them what they think will be fair payment for their participation in the war effort. I am no fool... I know full well we will be fighting a two-fronted war, and that it will require a division of our forces so that those fighting on the eastern front will fight a "holding" war with few rewards, while those fighting England will fight a war of conquests with probably many more rewards. Though Edict E1.9 should make sure this is not a war for profit. I intend to make sure that the Senechal will have enough funds to make the necessary recruitments to defend the eastern front, even if it is at the cost of our fighting in the west.

Edict E1.6 is not needed anymore. I personally ask the Senechal to disregard the provisions of said Edict 2.8 as long as my son is willing to obey my word ans stay his sword.

Edict E1.7 states too broad a target. While I understand the need to bring relief to the beleaguered Scots, it would require of us to cross all of England and would thus require us to annex the whole island, hence giving credit to those that call us opportunistic. We'll have to pray that our own foray in southern England will divert the English forces raiding Scotland and enable those hardy fellows to reclaim their capital. Moreover, I thought it too vague in the conditions it set upon capture of English cities, hence my proposed Edict E1.9.

I will thus formulate Edict E1.10 : During the war with England, all efforts shall be made to recapture the French settlements of Bordeaux and Angers and capture the city of London or any other English city upon which the Crusade is called or in which Guillaume (OOC : William for you English speakers) found asylum and until he is either captured, killed or reconciled. All settlements captured following the terms of this Edict are to be considered ratified.

I will second Edict E1.8. It is a noble endeavour but one which I fear we may have to postpone, depending on the state of our Royaume. We will be bloodied by the Crusade and the war against the Reich. I know how much my Royaume suffers in these times of war but I see also the need for you knights of France to uphold your rank and show your battle prowess in the eyes of God. Hence I make the promise that I shall seek an audience with the Pope to allow us to launch another Crusade on the Mohammedans in Africa or in the Holy Land.

That is all for now, mes Seigneurs. Let's hear your own views now.

[Ramses II CP]

I will second edicts 1.9 and 1.10.

I will also consider your advice mon Pere, and I am deeply grateful for your kind words. My sword and my blood are yours, as is that of my men, for now and forever!

What you ask of us shall be done no matter our personal feelings on the matter, for we are your subjects in every proper sense of that word.

Louis returns his father's bow deeply, and holds his gaze a moment before lowering his eyes respectfully.

:egypt:

[_Tristan_]

What passes for a fond smile can be quickly seen on Philippe's face.

[AussieGiant]

Alain leans back in his seat.

"Well, zat just about wraps up everyzing I 'ad noted down and zen some.

I zink ze King 'as comprehensively dealt wiz every point.

I would like to motion we all retire for refreshments and zen come back and as ze English would say,

'Take a bloody vote!', No?"

With that he slaps one of his 'pageboys' on the arse.

"Get in ze back you tartlet, I 'ave a 'uge 'unger for some melonsss!!"

[econ21]

I second Edicts 1.9 and 1.10

In accordance with His Majesty's wishes, I will revise Edict 1.3:


Re-Revised Emergency Edict 1.3

1. The Conseil authorises the Seneschal to request a crusade to be called on London from the Pope.

2. All nobles wishing to go on crusade must declare that intention and march to Paris, where the Seneschal will organise them into crusading armies under the overall command of the King. [OOC: only the Seneschal puts armies into crusade mode; crusaders have to modify their standing orders to reflect the armies they are assigned to.]

3. When the time comes to storm London, all crusading nobles will join the King in storming the settlement. [OOC: we create a stack that includes all crusading avatars so they all share the traits gained.]

4. All troops who rally to the crusade will be regarded as soldiers of France and after the crusade is successful will be either disbanded or gifted to specific army commands as the Seneschal sees fit.

[ULC]

Gaetan sighs at the Roi's words, grabs his cloak, and leaves, shaking his head.

"It seems this consiel is intent on committing blaspheme and is in the mind to refuse to listen to facts. As such, not only will I not waste any further breath on trying to inform others of the Popes intent, I will vote against the crusade in all it's forms - it would be poor of me to let my brothers go astray."

[Vladimir]

*Gontran stands erect, willing to speak.*

Well said mon Roi. Well said indeed!

Were a second needed for E1.9 I would be the first. Umm...

*Gontran looks up and to the left while counting with his fingers.*

Right!

If we are to go forward in the name of the Almighty let us walk in the footsteps of Christ.

With that, Gontran sits down with a look of satisfaction.

[OverKnight]

Hugues stands and bows to the King.

It will be as your Majesty says.

Reeves has updated (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2330511&postcount=2) the list of Legislation.

[Ramses II CP]

I second edict 1.8.

:egypt:

[Ituralde]

I thank you for supporting a Crusade to depose of William mon Roi. I would amend Edict E1.4 it was voiced that way to make clear my personal objectives in this upcoming struggle. I will not stand in the way of the Kings plan for the whole Royaume though and see how it could be too restrictive. Alas it is now too late for that as it is already put to the vote. Please ignore the Edict as it now stands.

[AussieGiant]

Alain stands and bows to the King, Dauphin and Seneschal.

My King,

now zat we 'ave finally seen fit to make our zoughts known as a body of nobles 'ere in zis Council, I request ze following.

I wish to take Angers once ze war against England is inevitably called.

Alain holds the Dauphin's gaze for moment and sits.

[_Tristan_]

Duc Alain,

It was also my wish when and if we declare war to ask you to march on Angers and try to capture Guillaume's son Rufus, who has been living the good life, drinking Angevin wine, and womanizing the daughters of the local nobility and peasantry alike.

We could fetch a good ransom for his head and should he die, it would be a fitting punishment for Guillaume.

[Braden]

Prince Henri stands

My lord Alain, a noble offer and I hope the Seneschal considers your request.

My lords, My King, I am unclear of the situation at this time…no war has been declared as we await the Papacy’s response to my fathers request for a Crusade yet it seems the Seneschal has not as yet decided upon a target for the Crusade.

However, the organisation and gathering of a Crusade does indeed take time. Time we can use to ensure the safety…if they wish it of course…of the Lords de Rochefort and la Sueur.

Perhaps my brother can aid in raising such funds?

I again pledge myself to defend our Eastern borders as has our noble lord of Frankfurt himself. I also add that I will do this with whatever forces are available now and ask for no greater forces or recruitment.

The merest “suggestion” that my brother be flogged for his violation of the outdated edict 2.8 is abhorrent in the extreme! I have suggested in the council that after his assault a suitable punishment be handed out by the King himself but not this!! To withdraw his forces now wastes time and money, money we will have little of to give to troops to just move back and forth in the countryside.

[OverKnight]

Hugues enters the Conseil. Reeves is behind him, hanging his head in shame.

My King and fellow Nobles. It appears that there was a. . .small. . .very small. . .accidental. . .miscalculation when it came to voting. I have explained it in an addendum to the current report.

Long story short, Edict E1.3b passed, so please take that into account. No other Legislation was effected.

I am sorry for the misunderstanding.

Hugues turns to Henri.

Your Highness, I have no intention of flogging the Dauphin. If you review my report, in it I make a rather macabre jest: If I was to be killed for disbanding the Prince's army, I should only be lightly flogged for suggesting that he move it.

The Duc sighs.

Of course if you have to explain a joke. . .it's not a very good one.

[Braden]

Henri stands to address the Seneschal

Indeed my lord, best not jest even of your own demise huh? You have served our nation well and it has taken its toll upon you but rest assured you have our thanks I am sure for your continued hard work and my personal wishes for your continued health…in particularly the retention of your head upon your shoulders no?

I am also glad that the voting has finished fully and that you find yourself in a much clearer position with regards England and the Councils agreed actions.

Henri bows slightly to the Duc before sitting again

[AussieGiant]

Alain grunts in amusement after the Seneschal's statement.

"So we 'ave permission for two crusades?!! God will surely be pleased wiz us after all zat crusading is done.

Bowing to the King.

"By your Kings command I will take Angers when you deem it time."

[OverKnight]

Hugues dips his head to Henri.

I am quite happy with keeping my head on my shoulders, unless it's after a night of too much wine.

The Duc shrugs at Alain.

Yes, two Crusades have been sanctioned by the Conseil, though I doubt the Pope will grant us a second Crusade against the Moors until many years have passed. (OOC: Ten turns assuming continued Papal favor.)

[Braden]

Henri stands again at mention of the crusade against the Moors

My Lords, this edict was my proposal. Obviously, should the Pope not grant us this then we cannot fulfil the edict fully. It may be possible to agree an amendment to the edict AFTER our current possible conflict with England and the potential crusade against them has passed.

I am sure that a Holy Quest, a Crusade by any other name other than official sanction from the Papacy, would be sufficient and even a fitting use for those noble troops who heed the call for Crusade now.

However, that is to be decided and we must now concentrate on the immediate task we have set ourselves.

[_Tristan_]

Mes Seigneurs,

We must prepare for war... Let us use this season for our preparations and at then send a request to the Pope at the turn of the season for a crusade on England.

As I've told our Senechal privately, we shouldn't delay too much nor should we be too hasty lest it endangers the lives of our stranded Knights in Albion. This season's delay should also allow us to discover the whereabouts of Guillaume.

As to the choice of a target for that Crusade, I know that the Edict asks for the Crusade to be called on London, but in this respect I think we should follow the spirit of it rather than the letter.

Should our spy discover that Guillaume has fled his capital, we should have his new hiding ground declared by the Pope as the Crusade target.

Turning to Louis

That said, I will ask my son Louis to leave his camp under the walls of Bordeaux and march a few days' march away, to be still able to strike swiftly but not be too threatening.

Then looking at Alain,

I will also ask Duc Alain to assemble his men for his proposed assault on Angers.

Finally scanning the benches

Lastly I will ask all knights of the Royaume to make themselves known as willing to take the Cross and join me on the road to Calais from where we'll be crossing the Channel and bring the fight to Guillaume.

Philippe then turns to his son Henri

Henri, I consider your Edict to be nothing more than a declaration of intention, a good one at that. The Moors are a wart on Europe's fair face and I'd like to see French knights in the front rank when we decide to lance it and restore Europe's beauty.

[Ituralde]

I would be willing to join your Majesty in a Crusade to rid he world of William. I have made no secret of it that I desire to got. But I also made clear that I will only leave if there are sufficient men left to defend the East. I know of your son Henri and the Baron of Frankfurt, which should be sufficient, especially considering this is to be a fast operation.

[KnightnDay]

If the seneschal will grant me two spear militia companies in the coming season, that should provide an adequate defense for Frankfurt. From the reports I have, the empire is not yet massing significant forces in the area.

[OverKnight]

Hugues nods.

If the funds are available, you shall have them.

[econ21]

Now that Edict 1.3 is known to have passed, all knights wishing to go on crusade should declare that intention and ride to join the King in Paris. I declare that is my intent and believe that the Company Order will soon redeploy.

OOC: it's probably a logistics nightmare, but hopefully Ituralde, Overknight and Tristan can sort this out.

[_Tristan_]

Senechal,

If funds are available, I'd also like you to recruit some ship to allow passage back to Marseille of my daughter and her bride, Signore Barbus Selvo. Or perhaps you could forward them the necessary funds.

[Ramses II CP]

Prince Louis bows to the King before speaking,

My King the men and I will depart the immediate environs of Bordeaux as soon as we are able (OOC: I think the army has exhausted it's movement). I will also make public my intent to allow my vassal, Gontran de Linars, to handle the capture of Bordeaux when war is finally declared.

As I have stated, I do not intend to join the Crusade unless my father asks that I do so. Nor, to my knowledge, do any of the men of my House intend to join.

Duke de Rohan I take your meaning very well, and our deal still stands, as does my vow to ride to your aid if you call.

I find no humor in your statements Duke de Champagne. I suggest the next time you propose a punishment for your Prince, legal, personal, or otherwise, that you be prepared to carry it out yourself.

Mark my words, this delay will cost lives rather than save them. Those lives belong to the King and, for my House's part, are grateful for the chance to be utterly obediant to his will, but it disappoints me to have them sacrificed on the absurd altar of legal wrangling and politics. France's nobility are not the men I had thought they were, had hoped they were. We dance our wars on the head of a pin when victory could be had more cheaply by a single clean charge. I pray that God favors our course, for his wisdom is far greater than my own, but I cannot find the sense in it.

I count myself very fortunate to have King Phillipe the Lion to lead our people. We live in glorious times Frenchmen! The realm of the Franks will be restored, and you may all live to see it! Pray your thanks to God, plant a seed in your wives, sharpen your swords, and saddle your horses for war is coming!

At last.

With that last pronouncement Louis departs the Council chamber shaking his head.

:egypt:

[Vladimir]

*A smile spreads on Gontran's face which both expresses pride in the trust his lord places in him, as well as...something else.

:evil:*A low rumble escapes from his backside.* :blush:

[Ituralde]

Simon looks around.

It seems that so far only the King and members of the Order will be taking place in the Crusade.
I have word from Hermant Mauvoisin and Robert Bouchart that they will join the Crusade. Brother Robert is currently guarding Bruges with only his bodyguards, I hope something can be done about this to free him up to join the Crusade. It would be shameful should he miss the official sanctifications and blessings in Paris.

I offer my full cooperation to the Seneshal and the King to bringing this Crusade to a quick start.


OOC:
I'll move all the Order men to Paris. OK can then form the Crusade when he wants and afterwards Tristan can move us towards the destination.

[AussieGiant]

"Funds are going to be tight as I well know. I 'ope Bruges can receive enough of a garrison to ensure it does not rebel.

If one of ze nobles of Bretagne do not take up ze Cross zen I will ask zem to converge on Bruges."

[OverKnight]

Hugues rushes into the Conseil.

Mon Roi and lords of the Realm, it is very important that you all review my report (https://forums.totalwar.org/vb/showpost.php?p=2345083&postcount=238) before acting this season. The Moors have declared war on us and, if that wasn't enough, the Germans have been excommunicated.

It seems we had that Emergency Session a year too early. At least I'm not the only one with poor timing.

[Ituralde]

This... this is very.. very unexpected! Another Kingdom fallen from grace and the heathens on the move.

Simon makes the sign of the cross and sits back again, obviously shocked by the developments.

[Braden]

Duc de Champagne,

Should the rest of the Order continue to move West to join the Crusade, if that is still occurring I will do my uttermost to pursue any German formations in our current lands in the Lower Rhine.

I also believe that with your victory at Staufen, and following its final capture, we might look to consolidate mildly due to the German forces to the South of Staufen before considering a move to Nuremberg.

For my part, should I be in command, I will look to securing Hamburg if possible from the Germans.

I suggest Nuremberg as a target as I firmly believe we can use it as an acceptable bargaining chip with the Germans to secure a cessation of hostilities. It will also, should our approaches still be rebuffed, a more defensible border region.

I still believe the Crusade and War against the English is not only possible but should be continued as before. There are sufficient troops in the East to continue even an offensive war against the Germans now and ransoming more German captives can only provide more funds for us to replace losses.

As for the Moors, I believe that although they have declared war they seem intent on ignoring our mostly undefended belly. Due to this I also believe they will continue to move East, perhaps towards Marseille or Toulouse, I cannot of course guarantee this but I feel they are a force we can deal with in two seasons time rather than now. Should Zaragosa request troops however, I believe they should be headed ahead of similar requests from here in the East.

[Vladimir]

*Pounding his fist on the table*

If the Moors are attacking we must secure our South-Western Flank from the English!

[AussieGiant]

Alain starts chewing on some paper.

"Ze insanity levels are extremely 'igh at ze moment.

I am going to need a few moments to adjust my zinking."

Alain leans thirty degrees to one side in his seat and rips off a huge fart. Medoc proceeds to howl at the indignation.

Holding up his hands he says in a conciliatory tone.

"It's ok, it's ok...zay do not cause discomfort when zay are so loud.

There are a few more after shocks which Alain manages as he continues to address the council.

"So, where were we?"

Short management pause.

"Ah, yes. German excommunication and Moorish War."

Another short management pause.

"I zink boz issues shange little, no?

We simply 'ave to carry on regardless."

[ULC]

I suggest we also declare a Crusade upon the Germans. It would only be fitting.

[GeneralHankerchief]

*Raynaud re-enters the Conseil, his eyes gleaming with holy fire.*

Gentlemen, if anybody needs me, I will be prosecuting this holy and just war with the devilish Moors to the fullest extent imaginable. I submit my suggestion to the nobles here that a Crusade be called on the Moors instead of the English, now that they mean to destroy us and are actually a Muslim target. Anybody who wishes to join me is more than welcome to. There is much sword work to be done.

He turns around, departing to leave, and then turns around again.

And if any of you wish to stop me...

I'll see you in Hell.

He departs once more.

[OverKnight]

Hugues takes a sip of wine and murmurs:

So glad you could join us, Chevalier. It is unfortunate we do not currently share a border with the Moors.

He addresses Gaetan.

Only one Crusade at a time, as I mentioned before it will be a long time between Crusades.

[TinCow]

Heh... the House of Aquitaine is more than capable of handling the Moorish threat, so long as we are not starved of resources. We will secure the English lands in the area quickly, and use those as a base from which to defeat any armies the heathens send at us. Give us the men we need, and the rest of France can forget about the Moorish war altogether. You need not fear that Aquitaine will falter.

[ULC]

Gaetan cocks an eyebrow.

"But why not declare a Crusade upon the Germans, Duc Hughes? I see no reason to put the English as either higher priority or as more deserving - for starters, we are not at war with the English yet, and all we would be doing is answering the call of the Pope yet once more."

[_Tristan_]

Philippe looks at Gaetan.

But that would require another Emergency Session, and while we lose time debating the merits of Crusading West, East or South, our enemies will gather their strength.

The English Crusade has already been sanctioned by the Conseil so unless our Ducs deem it necessary to call another Session, we will follow the will of the Conseil. I will already march this season towards the crossing at Calais and any and all who wish to join will have to join me there.

These unfortunate turn of events somewhat hurries our venture in English lands. Any laggards will be left behind...

One last thing : the Crusade as voted by the Conseil requires that the target should be London, as we all thought we would find Guillaume in his capital city... But it seems that while we delayed, the felon heard of our wish to march against him and took up residence in Nottingham, a much better defensible position.

Now, should we follow the letter of Edict E1.3 or should we follow its meaning and ask for the Crusade to be declared on Nottingham, Guillaume's hideout ?

I respectfully ask our Senechal to make the necessary request to the Pope this very season so that we can march under the Cross this very year (OOC : OK, could you take the save and request the Crusade before the end of the turn, thus allowing some of us to take the Cross and do our Crusade moves this turn? We've already lost one turn waiting for the avatars to declare if they would join, I would not lose another...)

I'll also ask him to coordinate our military actions by defining who will march south against the Moors, who will hodl the Eastern front and who will strike at England's heart, reclaiming our lost lands...

[ULC]

Gaetan looks at King Philippe questioningly.

"How would that require another emergency session at all? Why not simply change our target? As you have suggested with the taking of Nottingham instead of London? If we are to abide by pure law, then we must take London - if we are to abide by the spirit of it, we must call an emergency session and then decide which, English or German, are in more need of saving. Matters of faith are not to be taken lightly."

[_Tristan_]

When I say we should march on Nottingham rather than London, it is imply because this Crusade was always meant to bring Guillaume to justice and not just to capture any particular city... Hence my proposal that we follow the meaning of the Edict rather than its letter...

I'm also surprised that if you request an Emergency Session, you of all people, do not request that it be called on any Moorish-held city... Where you not the one to advocate that we'd be using the Crusade to our own means rather than for the saving of English souls.. Surely if we chose to strike at the Mohammeddans, I thought it would find grace in your eyes...

[ULC]

Gaetan shrugs

"So therefore, in your eyes, the German people are of less value to God then the English people, and that King William committed a more blasphemous act then Kaiser Karl, even though they essentially were excommunicated for the same thing."

"If this crusade was about saving souls, as crusades are meant to be, then I don't think you'd take issue with declaring it upon the Holy Roman Empire, where the vast majority of our military commanders and assets are located near."

"Instead, we would declare a Crusade upon King William, were we must gather men from the far reaches of the Royaume, and step outside of the wording of the law to go after one man, dragging us into a 4 front war - to the north from Albion, to the south from Cordoba, to the east from Pamplona and Bordeaux, and to the west from the Empire."

"Whether or not I would argue for a Moorish Crusade seems irrelevant to this body - they seem far more interested in declaring war upon fellow Catholics, and so I thought I would hop on the bandwagon and ask the innocent question of "why not them?". Because it appears that your willing to admit this crusade is nothing more then a shame intent on grabbing land with Papal favor - or is it because your tired of having refer to Duke William as an equal?"

[_Tristan_]

Where did I admit such a thing, De Rethel ? Please tell me...

I have no wish to claim lands in England, but I surely want Guillaume brought to God's justice for his sins.

As to why not the Germans ? I'll return to you the question... Why indeed ? Have they sinned against us as the Englsih have for contless years now ? No...

Are we weather vanes to turn where the wind blows ? Going west now but turning east as the wind changes...

No... We've set a course for ourselves and I intend that we follow it to its end...

If you fear our Eastern border will be depleted, your fears have no ground... Our Senechal are proven time and time again that the Germans are no match for our knights... And few knights are willing to join the Crusade.

La Maison d'Aquitaine will be quite adequate in dealing with our southern threat, be it English or Moorish...

And both Duc Alain and myself should be enough to handle our northern marches and the conquest of London and the capture of Guillaume.

I have no fear we will prevail... have you ? Maybe you should go back to the ship that brought you back and sail once again for Constantinople...

[Ramses II CP]

Prince Louis returns to the Council chamber in a more subdued mood,

Where my King leads, I shall follow, but I think if we wish to set an example for the rest of Christendom we should ask for a crusade against the Moors. Such a course would aid our allies in Iberia and set God's banner against it's natural enemies, the infidels who terrorize the Holy Lands and have invaded Christian Spain. Such matters, however, are beyond my ken; I still don't see why we would wish to crusade against the English when we could've simply driven them off the continent with a straightforward war last year.

In any case, Sir de Linars remains in striking distance of Bordeaux with ample forces to force the Englishmen there to submit. The other English holdings in the south will not long outlast the fall of Bordeaux. It is our good and natural right to expel William and his band of theives from our kingdom, and my House awaits only word of the declaration to begin the work!

I and Sir de Perrone have ridden south with my new recruits to block the mountain pass out of Iberia. If the Moors wish to pass through our lands they will be forced to take the coast road, and if we catch them there next year they will be brought to God's justice for daring to march across France.

I petition the King once more to release the soldiers from the garrison of Valencia (OOC: The spearmen and mercenary crossbowmen south of Zaragosa) to the command of Sir de Xaintraillies so that they may be used for the defense of the realm.

With a dark glance in the direction of the Seneschal Louis continues,

I cannot comment on the fighting in Germany, but I would have it known that training requests for troops from Toulouse to defend the eastern front will be heard equably no matter who submits them. The Germans are mad to continue on this course. I regret only that I will not be able to confront them myself due to the Moorish invasion and the pending English war.

:egypt:

[econ21]

This season's news is unwelcome, but changes little on the ground. The war with Germany goes on, although now with less need for restraint on our part. We have always intended to challenge the Moors -they have merely pressed the matter. Neither the Germans nor the Moors seem to have armies on our borders that need make us abort the planned assault on England.

On the matter of the crusade on England, I would ask the Conseil to distinguish form from content. I believe Edict 1.3 offers the best approach to the form of any crusade. Specifically, that we open it to all nobles to participate in and that we do not exclude them from the final assault on the crusade target. I would hope that we adhere to those principles whether crusading on the English, the Germans or the Moors; whether marching on London or Nottingham. I believe that the Company of the Order of the Fleur de Lys will march at full speed to Paris to join the crusade, but hope that the Seneschal will abide by Edict 1.3 and wait for us "laggards" to arrive before formally launching the crusade.

When I speak of the content of a crusade, I allude to that question of the target. The King is fixed in his wish to crusade on the English. I believe the choice of target is ultimately at the discretion of the Seneschal - petitioning for a crusade is an act of diplomacy, for which he is responsible - but given the vote for Edict 1.3 and the Conseil's reaction to this season's event, remaining firm on the English as our target appears appropriate. As to whether Nottingham or London is the target, I would be content to leave this to the Seneschal's discretion. Recent events have reinforced my belief that - Edict 1.10 not withstanding - we should return any provinces captured on the British Isles to England when they are returned to the bossom of the Church. Once expelled from our lands, the English cease to be the main threat. We should not permanently scar and occupy their lands as they have ours.

[OOC: I don't want the crusade to knock out the English faction, which is what we would effectively be doing if we took and held their castle in Nottingham and their capital in London, as well as both contintental settlements.]

[Ituralde]

I would also like to petition the King to heed the wording of Edict E1.3 a little closer. I can see that he is impatient and I can understand it. The faster we bring William to justice the better. For the sake of speeding up the Crusade I would be willing to meet with the King in Bruges and have the Crusade declared there instead of Paris. I want all Nobles to be present when the Crusade is declared though. It is a holy act, we do not merely pick up the Cross beside the road. I am sure Robert Bouchart can make the necessary arrangements in Bruges to see the Crusade of in a manner deserving to our endeavour. Also I am more in favour of going towards Nottingham than striking at London. Our goal is William not England.

I hope this compromise will satisfy all parties involved and still follow Edict E1.3 as closely as possible. That being said I'd rather keep strictly to the Edict than take liberties at every step. It is important that our actions reflect the will of this Council.

I salute the bravery of our Eastern defenders and the House of Aquitaine that will help us master the troublesome times ahead regardless of the changed situation.

[OverKnight]

Hugues looks very uncomfortable and a bit wobbly. Everytime the word Crusade has been mentioned, he frowned and took a drink, which might explain his current state. He stands to speak.

My King and my fellow Lords. . .all this talk about Crusades ( He drinks.). . .and targets. . .and various proposed plans is all well and good. However, I have legislation, passed just last season, before me that spells out our immediate path.

The Crusade (He drinks.) will be called once those who wish to take the Cross have arrived in. . .Bruges seems to be the latest proposed gathering point. I fully understand and sympathize with the King when his Majesty calls for an immediate Crusade (He drinks.) but my hands are tied.

I am willing to move the target of the Crusade (He drinks.) depending on the location of William and adjust the gathering point for the Crusaders (He drinks.), but the rest I must hold firm on unless those involved are willing to compromise.

Also, if two Ducs or the King feel strongly enough about changing the nature or target of the Crusade (He drinks.) or adjusting the legislation we just passed, they can call another Emergency Session.

Mentioning the last phrase, Hugues drains the rest of the wineskin and sits.

[Braden]

I find I concur with the Duc at this time my Lords.

What is VERY unfortunate is that clearly William knew this was coming and that the Pope would sanction a Crusade to his capital so has run and hid in Nottingham.

Should we wish to proceed with this in the most noble manner then although we are tied by London being the official target of the crusade...we all here in the Council can agree as Gentlemen and Nobles of France that the true target of the crusade is William himself and wherever he hides.

IF this is agreed between us then, fail the crusade we will BUT fail God we will not. Attacking London just because it was given to us by the Pope as our ultimate result for his Crusade, does not sit well with me as it is not our true target or the intention of the Crusade itself.

A crusade can be called, enacted and uphold much of Edict 1.3, but where it goes ultimately lies with those in that crusade.

(OOC: yes I know we're likely to take a large in-game hit as the crusade will fail ultimately but that just makes it more interesting for us...we don't have to play to the in-game mechanics)

[AussieGiant]

Alain stands and after rummaging around under Hugues desk, produces another wineskin. Raising an eyebrow at the Seneschal in question, he uncorks it and squirts a long stream into his mouth.

"Zere is no way on zis earth I will be tempted to call anozer session!

We will 'opefully 'ave enough words on paper to debate for anozer week or so."

Taking another squirt, Alain fills his mouth.

He then glances at Medoc who looks on in forlorn hope at getting some action. Alain consider the request for a moment then gives the big poodle a blast. Medoc seems to enjoy the experience but more ends up on the floor than in the dogs mouth.

"Can we just call ze Crusade on ze English, pound Nottingham castle to dust, take Angers and Bordeaux in the ensuing seasons, hold our positions on ze German front, which should not be 'ard because we can now go on ze offensive, zen 'and back Nottingham in a peace deal, if ze English get all pissy, take London, zen offer peace again which zey will surely 'ave to accept, zen come back 'ere in 15 seasons for another Council session?!"

One squirt for Alain, one for Medoc.

"We can zen call a Crusade on ze Moors, because...zey will still be Muslims, unless somezing dramatic 'appens and zat will always be an option no?"

[Ituralde]

Seneshal I thank you for your support and your open-mindedness about the Edict. Meeting in Bruges as soon as possible and then immedatelly setting out from there looks like the best course of action to me.

[AussieGiant]

Alain seems a bit put out by de Montpierre apparent lack of acknowledgment of what he said and proceeds to fire a squirt of wine at him. It's followed by a questioning look.

[Braden]

Alain, please...or next session I shall put forward an edict banning alcohol in the council chambers...

Henri laughs quietly

Fear not on that one...I hear your words and support you, none of us wish another vote at this critical time any more delays can be fatal to our men.

[OverKnight]

Hugues eyes widen at Henri's suggestion.

What!? You are cruel young man Highness to propose such a thing as banning wine in the Conseil. Sacre bleu! This is France, wine and good government go hand in hand.

Hugues glares at Alain.

And you good Duc, don't waste that vintage, 1066 was a good year. If you wish to spray wine at your peers, please use whatever swill you're able to produce in Bretagne.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe strides into the Conseil, his armour still fleckled with specks of blood.

Mes Seigneurs, this here (pointing at his breastplate) is English blood... Our swords have finally drunk of that most foul beverage...

War with England is declared... Strike now... Strike swiftly... I and the other Crusaders will deal Guillaume the killing blow but I want to see you bleed him... Take everything from him... EVERYTHING !!

Turning to Alain and Hugues.

Would you share some of that wine ? I rode directly from Rambouillet and I'm thirsty as hell...

Taking a sip from one of the proferred goblets, Philippe calms down.

That fool Harold thought to defy us by riding against Paris. Hopefully I was still in the vicinity. Guillaume has refused to ransom his kin, the greedy and avaricious bastard that he is...

Now, we'll cross the Channel next year and I deem it a good omen that we take the Cross once safely on the other side. It will consecrate English soil once again as being part of God's Kingdom.

Join me at Calais, Crusaders, or join me in Folkestone but there only will we take the Cross.

Philippe takes another gulp of wine and finally sits on his throne.

[OverKnight]

Hugues raises a new wineskin, the one Alain stole a lost cause, in salute to the King.

Cry 'havoc', your Majesty, and let slip the dogs of war.

[Ituralde]

Simon looks incredulous at Duc Alain then decides to ignore his squirting, grinding his teeth at the words of the King.

So neither Paris nor Bruges then. I follow my King where he leads.

[Braden]

The English themselves have initiated this, in actuality we were withdrawing from their lands. Let it not be said in history that we drew first blood…this war has been started firmly by the English.

Good luck and good hunting to all on our Western front.

even Henri raises a glass in honour

[AussieGiant]

Alain gives Simon another squirt, missing intentionally and going for the splash damage option. At the Kings statement he fires one long last shot straight up in the air the whole council is covered in a thin shower of excellent 1066 and then promptly belches.

"Well zen..."

In a rather effeminate and soft voice he says.

"'avoc!

He continues in a more normal tone.

I'll be in Angers by next season if anyone wants to speak to me."

[Ramses II CP]

Louis roars,

War! At last, at long, long last! All hail the King and praise his victory! William will be repaid for his treachery and his heathen heart!

At his gesture a number of pages depart the Council chamber on sundry preassigned tasks. Louis then raises a toast to his father.

Bordeaux will be under siege shortly. Valencia should fall as soon as Sir de Xaintrailles can reach the walls. Pamplona will have to wait a few seasons, but the English will find no shelter there in the long term. They will be expelled, and this will once more be the kingdom of the Franks, whole under her King, Phillipe the Lion!

I find myself surprised that William would not pay ransom... can it be that he has emptied his coffers to make war on the Scots? Or was it that his vassal's own ambition had been unleashed and Harold acted outside his master's orders? Ever do a traitor's own look to betray him.

I hope I have made it clear that I mean to repel the Moorish invasion of our lands, no matter what excuse it hides under. With that in mind I want to make my training requests in public, so that the Seneschal may deny them in public as well rather than attempt to backroom them away in some obscure political wrangling.

I ask that militia be trained at Marseilles and Zaragosa, the the cavalry at Toulouse be retrained, and that some archers be commissioned at Toulouse to hold the castle while I take the mounted men out against the Moors. In the immediate future House Aquitaine will likely see the heaviest fighting, do not short my men because of our disagreement.

With a sneer of faint disgust Louis continues,

Wine is never really the problem, the problem is those who cannot hold it. Set aside mere drink and instead let the blood of our enemies refresh your cup now Duke de Champagne! War calls!

:egypt:

[Cecil XIX]

Duc Raymond strides into the Conseil.

The Army of Bourgogne has ridden into battle! I am proud to say that we have taken not only the life of Gunther von Nurmerburg as he encroached upon my lands, but just a few leagues from Bern we engaged an army under the command of Kaiser Karl, and my vassal Raoul Chatillion defeated and killed the Kaiser in the ensueing melee!

I'm embarrased to say in my enthusiasm I forgot to send a unit back to Dijon, but it's nothing that can't be taken care of next season, while my army besieges the castle of Bern.

[OverKnight]

Hugues smiles at the good news.

Congratulations to Duc Raymond and Chevalier Raoul de Chatillon. We appear to have the Germans on the defensive.

Hugues turns to the Dauphin.

Your Highness's request for more men will be taken into account. However, military expenditures are at an all time high. I must warn the Conseil that barring further prioritizations, recruitment for new companies will be curtailed. If we keep enlisting Companies, there will be no money for building, diplomacy or trade.

I am sorry if this is troubling to the Dauphin, but Acquitaine must make do with the sizable forces it already has.

If the Moors become more of a threat, I may reasses the situation.

[Vladimir]

Then I will do my part to ensure Bordeaux is taken with a minimum of losses.

[Braden]

My Lords,

Rest assured that I will do my part with the forces I have at hand and take on any German forces near Frankfurt and defeat them wholesale. I further propose to hand control of one of my mercenary ranged units to Frankfurt so they may be closer to taking the field actively after I have negated this immediate threat.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

Yvon smiles bitterly
One wonders what more must the Moors do to be considered a threat?

[KnightnDay]

The Moorish army near Marseilles is not a threat to you, Baron Lacaze. I have no doubt their presence is disturbing, but they will only attack a city that was identified by their own religious leaders and so far as I am aware, Marseilles is not the one.

Frankfurt needs troops more than anywhere. Against substantial imperial forces, I cannot do anything more than hide behind walls with only three militia units and rely on the assistance of Prince Henri for protection of what is the most financially significant city in the royaume. That last point may not be of interest to many, but it is a fact.

[Braden]

Baron Thomas de Saint-Amand and my lords,

As part of my pledge I have stated I will release one company of crossbowmen to the Baron’s command after I have met the forces immediately arrayed before me.

I also intend to offer any captives for ransom back to the Germans in the hope that the Seneschal will agree that any funds raised from this will be used to help recruitment in Frankfurt.

The baron has been gracious enough to offer me any and all forces he has at his disposal, an offer I am happy to refuse at this time. However, should I get the opportunity I intend to march North an besiege Hamburg, a significant castle, for which I may require additional troops.

If or when this occurs, I will call upon Baron Thomas de Saint-Amand to aid me directly. I will not be requesting funds for myself to hire additional mercenary companies.

[Ramses II CP]

Prince Louis enters the chamber followed by four strapping young men carrying chests. They deposit them on the Council floor. With a grand gesture Louis begins to speak,

This, gentlemen, is a Sultan's ransom.

The Prince smiles broadly at the men, and tips a wink in the Duke de Champagne's direction.

Despite the Seneschal's refusal to live up to his end of our bargain and despite his further refusal to see an invasion of infidels as a threat I and my men have dispatched the foreign army in defense of France. The enemy's people, being a forgiving lot I suppose, have agreed to paid over fourteen thousand florins for his release. Obviously I've already negotiated the exchange.

A look of frustration and anger comes over Louis' face as he continues to speak,

This is my pledge. This is my bond. No matter how I am treated I love my country, love fighting for my country, more than anything else. Demean my House, mock my habits, and disguise your ambition to take my conquests for yourselves and it matters not, I will always serve the kingdom of the Franks to the fullest extent of my abilities.

Christophe de Perrone. Raynaud de Xaintrailles. Yvon Lacaze. Gontran de Linars... and now Gaetan de Rethel. These men are heroes of House Aquitaine. You may not care for our methods or the size of our lands, but you cannot question our results. We enrich, enlarge, and ward this nation. Someone made some claim or the other about the wealth of Frankfurt in requesting reinforcements. I match that claim now, with the wealth House Aquitaine brings to France. Reinforce us in kind, build for us in kind, or meet God's justice in the hereafter.

In particular Gaetan de Rethel is in need of mercenaries to reinforce his siege of Pamplona. We can afford them.

Secondarily there should be training and construction at Toulouse, also with an eye to completing the siege of Pamplona.

Thirdly, in my humble opinion, we might consider if some of this money should be set aside to fund the Moorish crusade which must surely someday come. I leave to the discretion of this body the method.

I vow this as well, should the Moors come again we will meet them once more. As God is my witness, no infidels shall invade France and cross her freely so long as I live.

With a self satisfied smile Louis plops into his seat.

:egypt:

[Cecil XIX]

A message arrives from Duc Raymond

As Lord of Dijon, the trade capital of the Royaume, I must point out that under normal circumstance Dijon is the wealthiest city of the Kingdom. The reason it is not at this moment is because it was necessary to lower taxes for the duration of my campaign to seize Bern.

[Vladimir]

May I point out Sieur that if developed properly, Marcelle would be far wealthier than Dijon. It is our gateway to the riches of the Mediterranean and the East.

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

Yvon rises, clapping his hands

My only regret is that I could not have taken part in the battle..... My lord has saved my city, for no matter what the rest of you say, I Believe that the moors would not have taken a second thought at sacking it.

He has brought riches before you none of you could have dreamed of. Perhaps next time you all wish to mock Aquitaine you look at our own coffers MY lord, And your PRINCE, placed those riches there.

Now I believe I shall go back to the city and spread the good word.

It is my hope that under my leadership Marseilles will become a trade capitol of the west.

[OverKnight]

Hugues is drinking wine when the chests are brought in. When their bounty is spilled on the floor, he expells a spray of purple over a report in shock. Daubing at his doublet, he speaks.

Most impressive Dauphin. Your Highness makes a better bandit than a martyr.

Standing, the Seneschal rethinks his last statement and genuinely bows to the Prince.

Your Highness shall have the stables at Toulouse and building in other parts of the Duchy. As for the mercenaries for Gaetan. . .I am loathe to reinforce a man who sieges a castle with just his retinue. Unless we take hostages every season, adding more companies to our forces will eventually bankrupt the Realm. This is not an insult to Acquitaine, it is a problem that faces the entire Kingdom.

We should not base the long term finances of the Realm on the continued expectation of such impressive wind falls as this.

[OverKnight]

Hugues recieves a letter, after scanning it, he shakes his head.

I have asked that requests for recruitment be made in public.

Baron de Saint-Amand, your request for two companies of mercenary crossbowmen is denied.

The army of Lorraine will be headed to Frankfurt to assist you with the Germans.

[KnightnDay]

A messenger arrives bearing word from Franconia and reads aloud.

To his most honorable seneschal and Duc of Champagne. The crossbows are no longer required. The enemy has been driven from the field by my guard and spear militia. My attempt to secure a ransom was to no avail. Apparently the empire's fiscal resources were insufficient to come up with the necessary florins. Prince Henri and I will continue to do what is necessary with the resources we have to defend our lands.

Respectfully,

Thomas
Baron of Franconia

[AussieGiant]

Alain glances at the pile of coin, raises a glass and says.

"'avoc."

[Braden]

Indeed my brother, what fortune you bring us this day! I do fear that I would have had nearly such a haul but…

*Henri pauses for effect*

…the new Kaiser decided to stand defiantly and not face me in hand to hand combat. He died with a crossbow bolt in his chest after allowing his entire retinue to suffer the very same fate by standing at the bottom of a hill and NEVER moving from his position.

Yes, my lords. I bring news of two further victories in the East against large German armies. My first battle was fought in difficult position atop a mountain pass. The Kasier refused to ransom back his loyal men that night.

The second battle took place in a deep forest, the cowardly Kasier refused to take the field actively against me and I had to march my entire army around the forest to assail him. Luckily the incoming Kaiser…I care not his name…did pay a minor sum for his men of 620 florins.

I will ask the Seneschal to aid me to uphold my offer to Frankfurt. I ask that the florins I have gained this day be given to my lord Saint-Amand to allow him to either recruit or hire mercenaries for this immediate period. I will, next season, send one company of crossbowmen to stand beside the lord of Frankfurt and in return I ask for a company of spear to allow me to march North again for my forces are depleted after two such large battles in difficult situations.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe looks at both his sons.

My sons, with your prowess, I see my reign will not be for nothing. When I die, I'll die knowing I'll leave the Royaume in capable hands.

Looking sternly at Louis.

Please, Louis, do not be so harsh with our Senechal. You've accomplished so much with so little, it is understandable he's rzeluctant to send more troops to your help... I think he fears you'll conquer the world if given free rein...

As to the slights against you, just point out to me those offenders, and I shall punish them myself... Our blood is the most noble of France and a slur against you is a slur against me.

[Vladimir]

Hugues is drinking wine when the chests are brought in. When their bounty is spilled on the floor, he expells a spray of purple over a report in shock. Daubing at his doublet, he speaks.

Most impressive Dauphin. Your Highness makes a better bandit than a martyr.

Standing, the Seneschal rethinks his last statement and genuinely bows to the Prince.

Your Highness shall have the stables at Toulouse and building in other parts of the Duchy. As for the mercenaries for Gaetan. . .I am loathe to reinforce a man who sieges a castle with just his retinue. Unless we take hostages every season, adding more companies to our forces will eventually bankrupt the Realm. This is not an insult to Acquitaine, it is a problem that faces the entire Kingdom.

We should not base the long term finances of the Realm on the continued expectation of such impressive wind falls as this.

*Gontran's squire intones*

Forgive me Sieur, but my lord informs me the stables at Toulouse are already at maximum capacity. If you wish to proceed with your most noble statement we will need to expand the castle. With my lord's recent success at Bordeaux, that time draws closer. You would be the Seneschal responsible for approving the first fortress in French history. It's quite an honour.

[KnightnDay]

Thomas enters the conseil having ridden from the battle of Champagne. He walks over to the bench of Lorraine and bows to the seneschal. Then, Thomas moves to the bench of Aquitaine where Louis is seated. Thomas stands before him and then kneels, his head bowed.

“Dauphin, I have been advised that my actions at Champagne warrant consideration for my adoption into your family. I would consider it the greatest honor if you would accept this humble offer. My words and actions in the conseil have been consistently supportive of France. To that end I spoke against the suggestion that your forces at Bordeaux be disbanded as the seneschal suggested.

My actions in battle when I have been given the opportunity have been no less. I have fought well at Metz and other places that have been properly documented. My latest action at Champagne was a victory for France, without benefit of anything more than spear militia and my own guard.

I have served by lord, the Duc of Champagne faithfully these years past and I offer my same pledge to you if you will accept. I earnestly pray that you will.”

Thomas then looks to the prince, and awaits his reply.

[Ramses II CP]

A troubled look crosses Louis' face before he replies,

Thomas de Saint-Amand I mean no disrespect to your great service to God and France, but I must decline. My wife has yet to provide me with a natural son and my daughters have yet to come of age, so in the absence of a direct heir to carry on the line I fear it could create chaos for me to adopt a noble, especially of another House, as my own.

In compensation for this dismissal and recognition of your valor I offer instead that the next company of Mailed Knights trained at Toulouse be sent to serve under your command. Though we face war on many fronts all parts of France can work together for the greater good.

:egypt:

[KnightnDay]

"I quite understand, highness. I pray God delivers a son to your family and thank you for the favor you have bestowed."

Thomas then rises and takes his place at the bench of Lorraine.

[OverKnight]

Hugues glances between the two men, shakes his head and remains silent, a hint of a rueful smile on his lips.

[Ramses II CP]

With a wry look Prince Louis addresses the Council,

So, now that the Moors trouble lands other than House Aquitaine's they are finally seen as a threat? Perhaps if the Seneschal had taken my requests seriously Aquitaine would have the forces in place to meet them, but in truth recruitment has been insufficient to replace my losses from the previous Moorish invasion. No matter, we all know who places grudges ahead of the good of their people.

A sneer crosses the Prince's face before he continues,

I do not know how the English reinforced Pamplona, but I mean to consolidate my forces and secure that front first at this time. If any other House wishes to ask aid against the Moors I pledge my House to answer as best we are able, next season, dependant on what men are available to us, of course.

As to how the Moors reached the position they have... do we need to hear charges of treachery and treason again? I am not fond of some members of this Council, but even at that I cannot imagine they would stoop to treating with infidels, much less aiding them in crossing our lands. Some other trickery is at work. Fortunately the solution is simple, we should prepare a line of fortifications blocking passage from Iberia into France proper. Eh, a matter for the future anyway.

It is well that the German front seems quiet, as the English are rallying large armies to the defense of their King. We'll put them to flight soon enough, and the more the merrier, eh Mon Roi?

As I've said all along, training requests for Toulouse and Bordeaux, once the latter has been assigned to House Aquitaine, will be entertained fairly no matter who issues them. The defense of the realm cannot be left in the cold over petty disagreements.

:egypt:

[OverKnight]

Hugues shakes his head.

All the companies your Highness requested last season were recruited, as well as all your prioritizations met.

Hugues stands, back straight and head high, with a flash of rage in his eyes.

I tire of your baseless slanders. I tire of your holier than thou attitude. I tire of you blaming everyone but yourself for the problems facing your Duchy.

You are a mindless bully. A wart on the face of this Kingdom. Your heedless aggression has landed you in trouble and now you whine like a child whose toys have been taken away.

You pushed for a war with the English, you have it. You pushed for a war with the Moors, you have it. You have attacked on all fronts, leaving your Duchy without a reserve, and now events have overtaken you. That is not my fault, but your own.

So if you wish to impeach me, try it. If you wish to challenge me to a duel, I'll accept. But for the love all that is Holy, cease your snide insinuations and focus on the challenges that face all of us.

[GeneralHankerchief]

*Raynaud soundlessly licks his lips at the Seneschal's last statement, but says nothing.*

[Braden]

My lords please! Now is not the time with a Moor army deep in our own territory…surely you can both see this?

Brother, to say the German border is “quiet” is a bit of a misnomer seeing as a German army threatens Antwerp as we speak? Not only this but my sources tell me it is an army raised from Hamburg’s own garrison…leaving the castle largely undefended.

However, the watch towers also see another large Imperial army at Magdeburg just across the border.

So, it would appear the Germans are more active than first assumed huh?

Have we brought the English to heal yet in our own country? Do we know what holdings the English have in Spain? I suggest we find out urgently so that large forces such as those at Pamplona have come from deeper territories? Without intelligence we are likely to charge into the darkness and be consumed!

I request that we try to find an agent to investigate before we commit more to this theatre.

My lord of Champagne, I thank you for allowing the recruitment of spears for the Kings army. With greater German forces ahead of me I feel I may require further re-enforcement before I take Hamburg.

I also agree that we are again in a significant position to sue for terms with the Germans. However, to ensure this I strongly believe both Nuremberg and Magdeburg should be captured for potential exchange.

Gentlemen, now is the time to focus and consolidate our forces. Look to garrisons and take the field with as much as we can as we have Germans and Moors to repel from within! Dijon AND Marseille are threatened by the Moors large army…I care not HOW they got there all I care about at this time is HOW we are to remove them!

I cannot, in good conscience, leave the Eastern front to combat this new threats. Should I leave Magdeburg and Hamburg unchallenged the armies from these regions would surely threaten Frankfurt, Antwerp and beyond.

Brother, it seems the coin you got for us will be used up faster than we all envisaged huh?

[_Tristan_]

Mes seigneurs,

The Moorish threat has been proven true... While we bickered among ourselves, us Christians, our lust for battle fueled by the Pope's writs, the Mohammedans have gathered their forces and are now walking our lands, desecrating them... This must stop.

Now, England has almsot been brought to heel. The Order knights and myself are in position between Nottingham and London, poised to strike the killing bow to the heretical self-styled English King.

We've taken back the lands Guillaume and his minions had taken from us or we are about to do so.

I know that I've been pushing hard these last years for a Crusade to be called upon England. But I did so only to have our foray be done with his Holiness' sanction, allowing us to do God's work unopposed and not be seen as acting out of selfishness and with the wish of claiming lands for our own.

Now, it is time to consider if this Crusade is still required. Would it not be better if another target was chosen ? I can almost already hear some of you say "I told you so" (looks pointedly at Xaintrailles and Rethel) but the duty of a King is to look to the greater good of his Royaume before loking to the good of his soul.

Now, the Moors are desecrating our lands and we need our Senechal to alter our boat's course, steering us away from the shoals, only his hands are tied by our legislation.

So I'm calling to you my Lords. Do we need to change our legislation ? Do we need another Emergency Session ?

I'm waiting on your views, mes Seigneurs. Should you wish it, I'll be calling that session myself.

[OverKnight]

Hugues looks drained.

If the Conseil chooses another target by something approaching acclamation, I will have the Crusade called on it.

I would suggest Granada or even Marrakesh. If we cannot come to a consensus on a target, than another session might be required.

Hugues sighs at the thought.

As for England, an option, barring a peace, is to withdraw our forces from the Island to focus on the continent. We could recruit a fleet and blockade Dover, keeping them from an easy crossing.

While we are considering our options, should we have peace for our time with Germany? What should we give if this palatable?

[_Tristan_]

Looking to Hugues.

I concur with you. Another will only be needed if we have dissension on the Crusade target. Granada or Marrakech would be fine.

As for England, I'm not prepared to leave until Guillaume has been brought down. Once this is accomplished, and if a Crusade is called upon the Moors, I will certainly join, though it may take some time for me to reach those God-forsaken lands.

Finally in the matter of the Reich, I dearly hope their new Kaiser will be more amenable to peace than their last one. As to what offers we can make them, I would propose lands but that will have to wait as the lands taken from the Imperials are not yet ratified and thus cannot be traded yet.

[Braden]

Lords,

Do we need to call a full session to answer but one question? I, myself, called for and had the Edict approved for a Crusade against the Moors. If our situation against the English is so far in our favour already then would not a crusading army now be mere “overkill”?

I propose that our ultimate goal of ousting Guillaume from power remains true but the ultimate sanction of a Crusade is no longer needed against Christians but perhaps we can enact Edict 1.8 NOW with the forces we have in England!

What better way for the English to seek redemption in the eyes of the Pope and God than to have the opportunity for their normal men to join a just Crusade against the Moors?

I say to my father and King. Finish Guillaume and then call the Crusade outside Nottingham! Allow the Good Christian, ordinary fighting men of England a chance to expunge themselves of Guillaume’s folly by joining you there to march back to fight the true enemy of every Christian.

As for the ultimate destination of a Crusade on the Moors, I know not but to be honest care little. The very fact that we will do this is enough for me.

As to my own feelings on the Germans. Yes, a peace with offers of land seems the most agreeable. However, I will ask the council, my King and Seneschal to wait until I have completed what I set out to do. I wish to seize Hamberg and Magdeburg…once ratified I would see Magdeburg used as an addition to any negotiations to find peace. Hamberg, being a significant castle would act well as a re-enforced border guard with the Empire.

((OOC: yeah, I know…potentially one-of-THE most stupid ideas to put forward due to in-game mechanics but In-Character…its what Henri believes is a good idea))

[OverKnight]

Hugues coughs diffidently.

Not to be legalistic. . .

He narrows his eyes and briefly glances at the Aquitaine benches.

. . .but Edict 2.2 pre-ratified any land seized from the Empire after an excommunication. Granted, only Staufen currently fits the bill, but other territories may soon follow.

Staufen is currently within the Royal Demesne.

Edict 2.2: No further attacks are to be made on the Reich for the next Senechal term and suitable negotiations will be held with the Kaiser to regain a state of neutrality. Defending against attacks from the Reich doesn't impinge on this Edict..Should the Reich be excommunicated, the present edict will be void and agressive action will be authorized on all Imperial assets. If any provinces should be acquired in this fashion, they will be considered ratified.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe nods to Hugues.

You did well to remind me, Senechal. It seems I've been poring over battle plans too long and have not given enough thought to our legislation.

(OOC : will update my SOT to add Staufen, for now...)

[Braden]

Father, I would urge against using Staufen as a bargaining chip. Its location is too strategic and should it be held by the Germans again it would leave Frankfurt exposed from the South more so than it is now.

I beg a few seasons to give you Hamberg and Magdeburg also under the Edict. They will be pre-ratified and I believe Nuremburg and Magdeburg would be more appealing to a Kaiser who will surely be sorely pushed for coin than either Staufen or Hamberg.

[_Tristan_]

Looking at Henri.

Do not fear... I've no intention to give back Staufen. Twice have we claimed it and it will now remain Frank at whatever cost.

But please do not over-extend yourself. If you venture too deep into German territory, you may find yourself with your way back cut-off.

[Braden]

*Henri smiles at his father*

Fear not father, my first intention now is to ride closer to home before moving again against the Germans.

[Ituralde]

My King. For several seasons now you have lured my men north with the promise of a Crusade being called as is asked for by legislation passed in these halls. We could have been done by now, our men fueled by the fervour of Christ had the King not delayed in meeting with us. I know of the situation in the South, I voted for a Crusade against the Moors myself but only after William has been brought to justice. Not by us as mere Frenchmen, but as Crusaders, servants of the Popes will to bring just punishment to William!

Unless you propose a curse of action where the Pope approves of us both killing William in the name of the Lord and then moving against the Moors, I ask the Seneshal to stick to the legislation we voted upon. We already bent Edict E1.3 into a shape beyond recognition, but what use is the legislation passed in this body if we opt to ignore at every possibility?
Maybe the detour towards Nottingham can be incorporated into any request against Marrakesh or what not sent to the Pope?

[AussieGiant]

Alain raises both eyebrows at the last statement from de Montpierre.

He crunches down loudly on a large green apple, an amused and curious look on his face.

[Ramses II CP]

Prince Louis offers the Duke de Champagne a broad grin with lots of teeth,

Good, good! You've some spine in you to stand up for yourself! That's better than creeping about cutting me off from behind. We're not back to a place where we need a duel yet, at least not by my account, but I am glad I've answered the insults you levied against me over riding to the walls of Bordeaux.

My Duchy faces nothing it can't handle, even if you should find a way to have us attacked from a fourth side. We alone border all of France's current enemies, though the Germans at least haven't made an attempt to invade Aquitaine. We alone have dedicated recruits from our castle to the armies of other Houses, and promised further. It is not whining to point out that we've fought hard and lost many soldiers while supporting our neighbors at the same time.

Still, it was one of my own who pointed out to me that I proclaimed Aquitaine would need no more mercenaries for the English war. I spoke in error here last season and I renounce my request for mercenaries, which is the one you failed to meet due to some excuse or the other. The men we can train will be sufficient. To that end I humbly petition the King to assign Bordeaux to House Aquitaine without delay, so that training and construction can begin there in service and support of the whole Kingdom.

I will not move that you be impeached Seneschal de Champagne. France has prospered under your hands, though I may question the methods, and that carries more weight in my heart than our dispute.

I have made my opinion on the Crusade clear, but I will repeat it for emphasis; The infidels deserve a crusade. The English are nearly cast out of France, crusading to punish William may be fruitless and unecessary. Surely the loss of so much in exchange for his rash act at Edinburgh is punishment enough? All the same, where Mon Roi leads Aquitaine follows, as it should be with all Frankish Houses.

Louis looks hard at Simon de Montpierre before returning to his seat.

:egypt:

[_Tristan_]

My son, I've heard your plea that your House be granted Bordeaux. In the light of Edict E1.5, men of your house have already acquired Bordeaux and Valencia and are poised to take Pamplona from the English.

So granting you Bordeaux today would prevent you from laying claim to any other land reclaimed from Guillaume's hands. Is that your wish ?

I prefer we wait until the term ends before any land allotment from the Demesne is made. But if you have any request as to recruitment in Bordeaux, make it known to me and I'll be sure to include them in my requests to the Senechal (OOC: update my SOT accordingly).

As to you, Sieur Montpierre, the Order knights have served me faithfully these past years. For that, I thank them, but I fear that your ideals of chivalry and your dreams of glory have befuddled you. The Crusade of Edict E1.3 was to be a guarantee that our war waged on a Christian Kingdom was waged according to God's will and not against it.

Now, our success against Guillaume's men at Bordeaux, Valencia or even here on English soil are omens that God looks after us in this endeavour. So why do we need the sanction of a Crusade when God is already marching beside us ?

But we may need a Crusader zeal to march down from these northern wastes to the heathen South, under the Cross, extending the reach of God's Word upon the face of the Earth... That would be a true Crusader aim, don't you think ?

As soon as Guillaume is defeated and I hope to see his kingdom reconciled with his death, I will take the Cross and march on whatever Moorish city his Holiness will see fit to assign to us as our pious goal. I encourage any and all of you with sufficient men under your command to join me on this most Holy of missions.

Let's put behind us Edict E1.3 and make use of Edict E1.8 as soon as Angers falls.

[Ituralde]

I had merely hoped we could use this opportunity to solve two problems at once. We have two Edicts, both calling for Crusades, for Crusaders to defeat King William and for Crusaders to march against the Moors. If we put it to the Pope accordingly he may grant us our wish now and have us travel as Crusaders towards the Moorish heartland after bringing punishment to William. We are poised to strike either way. This is only a suggestion to at least keep the spirit of Edict E1.3 if we can't keep to the words due to the changed circumstances.

Whatever the decision I will proudly follow your Majesty where he leads.

[Ramses II CP]

Pamplona and Valencia, as I understand it, would not be ratified at this time and must remain in the King's domain until a Council session anyway. At that next Council session the absurd edict tying your hands will have expired and you can grant those lands to the House that conquered them, as is only just. Any from another House who press a claim to lands I and my House have conquered will face consequences for their umbrage.

As to lands taken from William elsewhere, I and my men will not likely aid in taking them, and so we will press no claim to them.

It is, of course, entirely your privelege to dispense Bordeaux at the time of your choosing, but it is a natural and historical part of Aquitaine and in my mind there can be no doubt about it's final resting place. Duke de Rohan and I have already struck an agreement between us regarding Anger and Bordeaux's disposition, so he has no complaint, and the other Houses seem unlikely to interfere. Christophe de Perrone has been on campaign at my side for many years and I mean him to govern in Bordeaux. It would sit well with me to reward him with title and lands as soon as possible.

I thank you for your consideration of my request.

Prince Louis bows deeply to his father before returning to his seat.

:egypt:

[_Tristan_]

After Louis' speech, Philippe nods.

I agree with you Louis... Bordeaux is historically part of Aquitaine, stolen by force of arms by the English... Just as Marseille rightfully belongs to Bourgogne...

I know you've already made the gift of it to one of your vassals but would you be ready to return it to the Duchy it belongs to historically ?

Our Royaume cannot be built on discrepancies between the Houses. We must tend to have equal powers between the Houses so that equilibrim is maintained. Already your House has taken the lead and by far, if all its conquests are ratified and given to you and your vassals... It creates envy, jealousy and tensions such as exist between you and the Senechal.

Only through equilibrium can our Royaume thrive...

Do you see my point, Louis ?

[Cultured Drizzt fan]

Yvon stiffens but stays silent, his face scrunches up into a grimace.

[Ramses II CP]

Mon Roi if the other Houses are jealous then let them make their own conquests. What pride could they take in begging the scraps from my table anyway? As House Aquitaine is not ashamed that France itself is larger than our House lands, so let the other Houses not be ashamed that they are not as large as House Aquitaine. We are all Franks, are we not? When aid was needed at the German front I and my men rode to give it, instantly! When soldiers were needed, I gave them up out of my own pool of prioritizations for the good of France.

It is a dangerous precedent to look on success as something to be punished. If my House is to be the conquerors and the other Houses merely gate wardens for our conquests then I will need larger armies and more support.

Marseille is not mine to barter with, it belongs to Yvon Lacaze, fairly given after he and I cast the Germans from it in battle. If House Bourgogne wishes to petition him for it they have my permission, but I will not pressure him to surrender it. I wonder if Bourgogne will remember who rode to their aid, securing their flank by the conquest of Marseille and setting to flight more than one German army along the way.

It is my opinion that giving provinces to the House which conquers them is fair, by definition, whereas distributing lands to Houses across borders and without reason is unfair, also by definition. If we want to create Houses that are perfectly equal we shall first have to petition God to remake Europe out of neat little squares for us, and then petition our enemies to only come at us when the correct House is ready for them.

After the Tournament my House had the noble opportunity to propose a Crusade against the Moors, at which time we proposed that the provinces taken in that Crusade be split evenly between the participating Houses, with House Aquitaine taking last place in the list. This was done because it was taken for granted that the Crusade would be a group effort among all the Houses. No one proposed such an edict for this war precisely because it was clear it would not be a group effort. No House aided Aquitaine in the capture of Valencia or Bordeaux, just as none will aid us at Pamplona, just as none aided us at Marseille or Zaragosa, or Bern when I withdrew from the walls there.

Instead House Aquitaine won a great prize for France by ransoming the Moorish Sultan, a prize which has already been used to enrich the lands of all Houses. If you call on Aquitaine to sacrifice for the other Houses I say we have done so already, in war, in finance, and in territory, as it was Valencia which was traded for Caen, and Caen surely shall not be awarded to House Aquitaine.

Valencia and, God willing, Pamplona will be yours to dispose of as you wish my King, as Bordeaux is now. Ever and always may it be so, but surely all present can see the rightness of my words. To beggar my House in favor of the others does no service to either, for it demeans them while disheartening us. If you wish to weaken Aquitaine to prevent envy let me suggest that you simply hold Valencia or Pamplona in your own domain for a time, to give the others a chance to catch up if they like.

Louis' voice ends on an almost plaintive note, and his face shares Yvon's discomfort.

:egypt:

[Cecil XIX]

A letter arrrives from Duc Raymond at Bern.

Seneschal, I hope you will allow the recruitment of some additional soldiers to ward off the Moorish army that could strike at Provence or Burgundy. It seems to be quite a beastly collection of heathens, one I would wager to be thrice the size of my own forces.

Also, word has reached me that his highness the Dauphan has spoken recently of his aid to Bourgogne. I must confess I was confused by this, as it was the first time I had ever been informed such aid ocurred. It is quite odd that I would not notice such a thing, even in my small domain.

[AussieGiant]

Alain chuckles quietly after Duc Raymond's letter is read out.

[Braden]

*Henri stands and takes a deep, cleansing breath before speaking*

My Lords, My King and Father,

I feel I must speak of the Crusade and the options ahead of us. I feel wholly responsible for this current situation as it was I who put forth the approved Edict for a Crusade on the Moors…I had hoped that the Popes issues with the English would have been resolved either by act of war, crusade or God by the time such an Edict would be considered.

It is to my disappointment that we find ourselves in the situation where we are considering abandoning our Godly task against William.

The Moors are a threat, perhaps the greatest we face or any Catholic nation faces. However, I must say now that our priorities must be defence of our realm and the completion of our task against William before a Crusade against the Moors should be called.

We must ensure we are focused in our task to force William face God and repent. How this is done is immaterial to God, by the sword or by persuasion but account he must before we abandon our call to arms against his realm.

I ask the King and Duc’s under threat now to show patience. A crusade must, of course, be called against the Moors but let us complete one task before we embark on another, epic, one? The East is not secure…the German army marching to Antwerp is surely testament to that…but by conquest and negotiation I hope we can bring our war with the Germans to a close in the next few seasons.

Likewise, William cannot hide in Nottingham much longer and again, we will seek and come to terms with the English.

I plead with the council for patience. If we do not wait and bring our full force against the Moors, I fear we will suffer greatly. However, our immediate needs are clear. Complete our task in England as fast as God permits…raise troops to defend ourselves from the Moors who impinge on our sovereignty and hold our borders until a Crusade can be sent to defeat the Moors in their own lands.

I do not believe my father requires much more for the task against William and I will not require much more than I have to secure the North Eastern front. So I ask now, Duc’s…what forces to you need now to combat this immediate threat?

Be clear on your requests and consider what you have now already which may be excess and can be used already.

Henri sits with a sigh. A weight lifted from his soul perhaps

[OverKnight]

Hugues nods.

Metz stands ready to reinforce those who need it. I also ask the King to place Staufen and other powerful Castles in the Demesne at my disposal to shore up our defenses. This will be particularly important if Aquitaine needs more men.

I have in the past spoken out against more recruitment, but given the circumstances, now is not the best time for restraint. I will not bankrupt the Kingdom, but I will loosen the purse strings.

Prince Henri raises a good question. There seems to be a rough consensus towards a Crusade on the Moors, but the timing of such is still in question.

Should it be called immediately, next season, or once we have disentangled ourselves from Germany and England?

[_Tristan_]

Hearing both Henri and Hugues speak, Philippe adresses the Conseil.

I hereby give permission to the Senechal to recruit any units he deems necessary to the good conduct of our wars from the castles and cities in the King's Demesne (OOC : This overwrites any SOT proscriptions).

All I would ask of him is a fair assessment of the needs and priorities of the Houses, to preserve the equilibrium I mentioned earlier.

I myself have enough men under my command to bring down Guillaume and any of his minions that would wish to raise their swords against us, though my army is lacking in missile infantry, having left them in the care of my son Henri in the Eastern theater.

Henri, never have I mentioned not bringing Guillaume to justice, to account before God for his sins, to repent for all the wrongs he's done France and Scotland, refusing to heed God's word.

I'm sure that if our Senechal could send our spy Fevre in Nottingham, the castle could be ours by next season, provided he manages to bribe the right men in the garrison... Then Guillaume would either be our prisoner or burning in the fires of Hell.

Then the Crusade could be called next season to the target this assembly would see fit to choose and once again, I'll promise you I'll be the first to take the banner of the Cross and march against the followers of Islam, and I'll encourage all of you not otherwise engaged to do the same.

We never intended to hold the English lands we claimed in Albion so they will not require garrisoning. But it will require that one of our diplomats be sent towards London, York or Caernarvon to negotiate a truce and the return of said settlements.

A last word to the Senechal : Be wary not to hire too many men yet for I'm sure that our call to Crusade will see many men flock to our Banner, under the Cross, good soldiers and pilgrims alike, that will bolster our forces when we march against the Moors.

[OverKnight]

Hugues bows his head.

I will be judicious when it comes to recruitment Majesty.

Diplomats are ready to negotiate with both the English and Germans if need be.

Our spy shall be dispatched to Nottingham.

[Braden]

*Henri nods approvingly before rising*

Father, I could not ask for more at this juncture. I am certain the Seneschal will do as he pledges and allow sufficient recruitment immediately to ensure the integrity of our lands, whilst also allowing for those who will heed the call to our Crusade that will come.

I would still prefer us to have come to terms with the Germans also, but I hold by your will and your instructions my King.

I urged us all to decide when and where to call a crusade only after William has been dealt with..such a call was not directly aimed at you father, for I was certain of your drive in this matter but mainly aimed at those who worried that we would be distracted by the Moors too early.

With a united France there will be nothing to stand in our way…I await the day when this is finally true, soon it appears from reports I am happy to add.

Henri turns to the Seneschal My lord, we’ll have to see how much more manpower is truly required in the East to force a truce…not much I am sure by my part. I would prefer not to use mercenaries but until later that may be the only option open to many of us near the front for true re-enforcements might take too long to reach us. I will review my forces and put forth a formal request shortly for you to review.

[Ramses II CP]

A letter arrrives from Duc Raymond at Bern.

Seneschal, I hope you will allow the recruitment of some additional soldiers to ward off the Moorish army that could strike at Provence or Burgundy. It seems to be quite a beastly collection of heathens, one I would wager to be thrice the size of my own forces.

Also, word has reached me that his highness the Dauphan has spoken recently of his aid to Bourgogne. I must confess I was confused by this, as it was the first time I had ever been informed such aid ocurred. It is quite odd that I would not notice such a thing, even in my small domain.

Duke Raymond it is very odd that you didn't notice me defeating a German army in your territory or dedicating some Mounted Sergeants to your own army. Perhaps your attention was drawn to something in your town, where you were sitting with more men and resources than I had at the time, or perhaps you are simply being snide because you lack any other response?

If you need help with the Moors you may ask House Aquitaine.

:egypt:

[Vladimir]

*Kip readies his pen in anticipation of the expected request for aid.*

[AussieGiant]

Alain, bedecked in black and white trimmed armour has clearly seen action. He makes his way to the centre of the council, his hand resting on the bloody hilt of his long sword.

My King, Dauphin, Lords of France.

The realm of France is once more whole.

All English troops on our ancestral lands have been slain.

Prince Rufus was killed in action and Angers taken.

He bows to the King, Dauphin and Seneschal.

[_Tristan_]

A bright smile brightens Philippe's face.

Well fought Alain !!

Great news, Mes Seigneurs !!

Ah ! Alain ! I find once again the young man I thought you were !

As I told my son, I cannot give you Angers yet... It will in the King's Demesne for now to allow our Senechal easier access to our recruitment pool.

Nevrtheless, your men are free to come and go in an out of the castle without any risk of being seized or disbanded. You have my word on that.

[AussieGiant]

Alain is clearly please hearing praise directed towards him by the King.

Thank you my lord.

We will garrison Angers until the next move in the attacks against our numerous enemies.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe turns to the Senechal, a smile still on his lips.

May I ask the Senechal to recruit one unit of armoured spearmen in Caen to free the spear militia currently garrisoning the castle ? While it will be a costly expense, it will save us florins in years to come by sending the militia back to Paris... Thus both units will be sustained by the respective populations of the provinces (OOC : They'll both have free upkeep).

[Braden]

My Lord de Champagne,

My hand is forced by the Germans now, I must face the large army arrayed against me. It is clear that this force is the one my scouts noted outside Magdeburg and that is has been re-enforced by garrison troops from the same city.

This now means I cannot turn West to defend Antwerp.

Should I have any troops left after the battle I will march immediately towards Hamberg. The intention is to seize Hamberg and then move to Magdeburg and do the same as soon as possible. I hope that the addition of Magdeburg to your negotiations will be sufficient to tip the scales to a peaceful resolution.

That “strong negotiating position” you required perhaps? Draining troops from both Hamberg and Magdeburg to create the army that now faces me and the one threatening Antwerp has left both settlements wide open for us.

Perhaps the Frankfurt Garrison could march on Magdeburg now?

I formally request funds to hire a single mercenary infantry company for the battle ahead. They will be disbanded as soon as Hamberg is taken however as I hope to recruit locals and replenish my own forces from the castle itself.

[OverKnight]

Hugues drums his fingers.

One company of spearmen, make it count.

[Braden]

Henri reads to the end of the Seneschals report and snorts with derision as he reaches the end sentence but he composes himself before rising and bowing to the Seneschal

My Lord Champagne,

Thank you for the floins, I hope that I will be able to refund the treasury with a ransom payment shortly should the Germans wish to see their son’s again.

I sincerely pray we are still set on a crusade against the Moors though! Just because they are no longer an immediate threat does not mean they still do not threaten Valencia, it does not mean that they do not actively attack our Catholic brothers in Italy and that they will not pose a real and constant threat to our nation, its people and our eternal souls.

[KnightnDay]

"I will march on Magdeburg this season and the fall of the place will certainly bring the new kaiser to the bargaining table, especially once good Prince Henri has rid the foe from our lands.

I do request from the Seneschal permission to raise one company of mercenary crossbows to guarantee victory. The expense of their hire is not cheap I understand, but if it brings about peace with the empire, is it not worth it?"

[OverKnight]

Hugues drums his fingers again.

Baron, you have a company of peasant archers on the way to you, and you already have some crossbowmen. Make do with that. Prince Henri is facing worse odds, which is why he is getting those spearmen.

[_Tristan_]

Hugues, if you keep up with your drumming, I think I will have you impeached and enlisted in my army as master drummer.

More seriously, the Bastard has no guts... He fled north from our advance but that will not save him... We'll flsuh him out of the last rathole he can find in his country... We'll cut off all of his exits... He'll be trapped, forced to fight or surrender.

To those ends, I will strike at the large force barring our way near Nottingham and try and capture the city in the following days.

After that I'll release from my service those Order knights who do not wish to pursue Guillaume up north, freeing them to strike at either London or the small English forces entrenched in the countryside.

I will face Guillaume by myself... Once this has been dealt with, we'll put our Crusade to better use against the true threat of Islam.

[Ramses II CP]

Duke de Rohan my congratulations on your conquest! I trust you have received the wine I sent north to Anger in celebration? The Kingdom of the Franks is whole once more! Let us raise a cheer for our King, his Dukes, and all the fighting nobles of the realm!

To return, for a moment, to the matter of Bordeaux I do still wish to reward my loyal servant. I understand the issue of recruitment, and to appease this desire I offer to open Bordeaux and Toulouse for recruitment for any House at the Seneschal's discretion after the transfer of Bordeaux is effected. I ask only that the first Mailed Knights recruited be sent to Thomas de Saint-Armand as I have committed.

It would seem William has become a coward in his dotage. Sir de Perrone and I have discovered that the bulk of the English at Pamplona have fled to the docks, seemingly hoping to get away by ship. They take the spirit of their King very well, but I doubt any will escape.

I am very pleased to hear that a Crusade will come against the Moors! As soon as it is declared I will prevail on my men to open all training facilities in House Aquitaine as a whole to the Seneschal for the recruitment effort, as Toulouse will be opened once Bordeaux is assigned to Aquitaine.

Brother Henri please take great care in the east! We've room to withdraw and rearm on that front, indeed if the threat to Antwerp is serious that may be the best course. I am not present and will not second guess your assessment, but the Germans have been defeated so many times it would surprise me if there was any boldness left in their commanders.

It is a glorious time to be French mes ami!

:egypt:

[Braden]

I thank you for your concern brother but the Germans force my hand by displaying a large army within a league of me! I cannot back down from the challenge or the chance to not only obtain a clear path to Hamberg and clear this army from others way to Magdeburg but cut off supplies and retreat for the German army at Antwerp.

[KnightnDay]

"It is indeed a glorious time, highness. I have every confidence that Prince Henri shall sweep the enemy from the field."

Thomas reaches for his cloak off of the bench.

"As for me, it is time for my return to Frankfurt and prepare to head east. The church which the Seneschal kindly funded there is well under way now."

"Mon duc, as you say, I shall make due. My apologies if I have been overly demanding in my requests for troops. With so many Germans about, it tends to make one uneasy."

[Braden]

Aye! Soon the East will be loud with the sound of shields and lances being splintered.

Brother, should I fail, I will repent my possible folly THAT day!! *Henri laughs loud before turning and following Thomas*

[Braden]

*Henri bursts into the chamber, bloodied and soiled, grabs the nearest goblet of wine and throws it down his throat*

GAH!! Ha! I met the enemy in the night, before me five companies of horse and SEVEN..SEVEN companies of archers and crossbowmen...and those were but the ones I cared to count. My own men accounted for more than ten dozen of the enemy. Exhausted we became victors of that field my Lords.

I offered, for a mere 1330 florins, for the Kaiser to have much of his army back but he refused. Their heads now adorn spikes near the forest.

Those that fled, for we were to tired to contine the pursuit, have found their way to Hamburg castle and my men continue our march there...now only half a league away across the ford.

My dear Seneschal, I'm sorry to say that the mercenary spearmen are mostly dead and my forces are down to two companies of spear, one mercenary and one of brave French and one company of peasant archers...and my own body guard, but we continue forward to attemp to seize Hamburg next season.

Now, I believe I need to wash...

[econ21]

I congratulate Prince Henri, my Duc, my sovereign the King and many other nobles for their great victories. It is an honour to serve beside you.

I am deeply disappointed that a crusade has not yet been called on the English as per Edict 1.3. I understood it was the King's intention that we go to war under the banner of a crusade or not at all. We voted for a crusade. We gathered for that purpose. But now it seems to have been abandoned for no good reason that I can see.

Nonetheless, I will serve my King and my Captain as required. Should any crusade be called upon the Moors, I would ask the Seneschal to follow a procedure similar to Edict 1.3 and opening the crusade to any nobles wishing to serve, and allowing them a place in the final assault. Needless to say, I would wish to fight alongside those fine men.

[Braden]

*Henri returns to council seemingly more refreshed*

My lords,

I have made it know I will besiege Hamburg as soon as my forces can arrive at the city. We do face significant odds as the garrison now comprises some 500 men.

This is unfortunate.

I ask the Seneschal if there is any assistance he can provide me in this venture. For an assault on a castle I will need more fighting men, the enemy comprises mainly archers and cavalry however so once we are past the walls the fighting should be in our favour.

[ULC]

Gaetan enters, flanked by two men, one older, with years of wisdom upon his face and in his step, and the other with the look of youth, recklessness, and a bit of mischievousness, a seemingly perpetual knowing smile upon his face.

"Pamplona has been taken - the English army of 1300 strong vanquished for a mere 200 French lives. But in this noble conquest, a most heroic victory, one amongst us has given his life for the cause of the Royaume - Baron Yvon Lacaze."

"He died a noble death - bringing the huge swarms of English cavalry to heel, and in doing so insured French victory! Few men would have held as fast as Yvon had that day upon the field - I doubt few men here would have died so nobly in the face of death, would have so steadfastly died for the rest of the Royaume..."

"I ask that we give a moment of silence, of respect, in honor of this hero of the Royaume."

[Braden]

Henri sits down with a slump, ashen faced and holds his face with his hands in shock

[OverKnight]

Hugues speaks.

A most unfortunate victory.

[OverKnight]

Hugues gathers his thoughts.

Baron Lacaze will be sorely missed. He was a noble and well spoken man. No victory, no matter how heroic is worth his loss.

[Ramses II CP]

Prince Louis enters the chamber fresh from battle. His tabard is stained and his armor is battered. As he enters he removes his helm and tosses it to one side. His face is full of barely contained rage, and his voice chokes with anger as he speaks,

The English are dead. Wood is avenged. They cowered under cover of darkness and rain, high on the mountainside above us, and still we coursed them and ran them down. And they did run, the yellow backed cowards, ran for their lives and threw away their weapons when I sounded my horn. None escaped. All who surrendered were thrown from the cliffs as they screamed for their mothers and their wives.

Gaetan de Rethel I honor your victory and celebrate your conquest of Pamplona. Nonetheless you are relieved of your command and I charge you to guard Pamplona until such time as the King provides another garrison or assigns the castle to a noble. I encourage you to petition him for it after it's ratification.

The life of a Baron of House Aquitaine was lost under your command. It is true that all men die, that many, many men have fallen on my orders, even noblemen of my guard, but it is also true that when I rode to assault the bridge over the river Rhone against the Sultan of the Moors I led the charge personally and, because of the risk, brought no other noble of my House with me. We leaders of France, we bear a responsibility to one another to safeguard lives entrusted to our command. Think well on this as you ward Pamplona in the coming seasons.

I go now to pray for the soul of a hero of France. I ask that the men of this chamber join me in that prayer, and raise a toast to the memory of Yvon Lacaze, Baron of Marseille, Hero of House Aquitaine, and servant of God, France, and King Phillipe!

Prince Louis bows deeply to the King and withdraws from the Council chamber.

:egypt:

[ULC]

Gaetan shakes his head.

"I have no need of Pamplona - it's taking is bitter for me, no matter how those under Yvon and I's command feel about it. As for the men - they were never mine to begin with."

"However, I feel insulted that you suggest I sent Yvon to his death - I threw myself at the enemy as hard as I could and I myself was thickest in melee. His death was unfortunate, and senseless - even now I question why it was not I who died, but him instead. If I could give my life in exchange for his, then I would do so."

"In fact, due to the results of the battle, I am considering resigning from the Conseil, and has been suggested many times, take that ship from the Royaume to whatever horizons may meet me."

[Vladimir]

He is missed. I suggest a mass be held in Paris in his name.

[_Tristan_]

The King stands and formally bows to his son, then turns to speak to the assembled nobles.

Mes Seigneurs,

I grieve for the loss of Baron LaCaze. He was a valiant knight fighting for the greater good of the Royaume and he served faithfully to his bitter end.

I think my reign has been nothing but battles and I counted myself blessed that non of you, mes Seigneurs, had fallen in battle. Now, I wonder if we have followed the right course and we've not been blinded by our battle-lust, our dreams of glory...

I will ask our Cardinal Etienne Courtois to have a mass said in memoriam.

Still, Lacaze' s death is not to be put at the feet of Sieu de Rethel... The Baron marched under Rethel's command willingly and trustfully and I'm sure he engaged the enemies he saw fit to engage... We all know how fate can be whimsical in battle... All it requires is a lucky spear-thrust and a break in your armour...

His death is to be laid at Guillaume's feet, loading the scales even more against him when the Final Judgment comes.

I will make him pay, be sure of that...

Now, as my son Louis proposed, let us all pray for the soul of Baron Yvon Lacaze. May God bless his soul.

[_Tristan_]

Lacaze is avenged once more.

Nottingham has fallen. I've released the few captured defenders and occupied the city, as was voted in this Conseil. I think I may have gained their respect, if not thier love, for they now dub me "The Honourable".

With this accomplished, Guillaume is now cornered in York unless he flees once more north up to Edinburgh but that would place him even more between the Scottish anvil and our French hammer.

Hence, I will ask permission from our Senechal to send Aubert Fevre north to York this very season (OOC : OK, can I have permission to move our spy ?). I will then follow him there and finally bring down the Bastard.

I'll leave my army in the command of the Order knights, tasking them to garrison Nottingham and defend it against the relief army with the English Prince. It is up to them whether they wish to defend from th walls or attack in the field.

Whatever option they choose, our army lacks missile troops and I know that some mercenary have asked for employment. While I know our treasury may not afford this, I kindly ask our Senechal to provide two mercenary companies of crossbows to the Nottingham garrison. All the recruitment capacity of Nottingham is also put at the disposal of the Senechal, as is the case with all provinces within the King's Demesne.

[_Tristan_]

Turning to his son, Philippe eyes are full of anger.

Louis... Do not pretend to act out of vengeance for your lost comrade when it is only your beastly nature thta expresses itself.

What need had you to mercilessly kill those English soldiers you captured ? They surely were no more of a threat. At least, you could have tried to ransom them... That would have served us better than...

Clearly at a loss for words, Philippe stays silent, looking intently at his son

How many times has it been stated in this Conseil, that we're not at war with the English people but with its rulers ? Don't you see that your acts may ruin all the work I've been doing in England, gaining the trust of its people ? Don't you think that word of your senseless massacre won't reach the ears of those same people ?

By acting thus, you've violated the will of this Conseil, going against Edict E1.9. I am not even sure of the fate Valencia, Bordeaux or Pamplona have suffered at the hands of your cronies. (OOC : I'm not sure I read anything abuot whether the cities were sacked, occupied or exterminated ...)

And you want me to release inot your hands even more possibility to commit those dreadful acts by releasing the potential to create a larger band of felons.

I am almost of a mind to go to Rome myself to ask the Pope to launch a Crusade on the Moors, a more fitting target for your beastly instincts.

Philippe then shuts up, simmering.

(OOC : I considered that Ramses' actions in Iberia and my own in England were at the same time, hence Philippe newly acclaimed Chivalrous' status doesn't fit well with Louis' behaviour).

[OverKnight]

Hugues speaks.

The spy in Nottingham is at your Majesty's disposal.

Hugues glances between Gaeten, the Dauphin and the King. He wisely holds his tongue.

[Ituralde]

Seneshal, I know I am not the first to ask nor will I be the last, but I find myself faced with an enemy superior in number and training, any and all help will be appreciated.

[OverKnight]

Hugues slowly pours himself a glass of wine. He takes his time slowly perusing a report. Setting the parchment down, he carefully tips the glass, spilling a few drops of red on the rushes of the Conseil floor while muttering a prayer. The Duc then finishes the wine in one violent gulp before hurling the glass to crash against the wall across the chamber.

Why is it that so many of the Nobles of the realm request funds for mercenaries only after they are within an arrow's flight of the enemy? The object is to ransom the foe back to their own ruler, not hold your own men hostage at the expense of the treasury.

The Seneschal grimaces and turns to Duc Alain.

Mon Duc, you have my full and unreserved apologies for any complaints I made in this chamber concerning your term as Seneschal, particularly when it came to the hiring of mercenaries. You grant one request, and then another comes, and another and another. . .

Hugues speaks with a falsetto impersonation of his own voice.

"Seneschal, I only need a few companies for my insane and possibly wine soaked strategem to work! Grant them to me and I promise victory and glory!"

Then, "Seneschal, my insane plan has worked, but I need a just few more companies to defend against the suprising but inevitable and overwhelming counter-attack. Oh, by the way, skirmishing has already started, so hire those companies tout de suite. If not, my poor men, who's only crime was following my insane, drunken orders, will be chopped into cat food!"

The Seneschal sighs.

Need I also remind Captain de Montpierre that the settlement entrusted to the Order is under threat? And that the army tasked with defending that settlement is driving on Hamburg? Or that the Steward of Antwerp has not roused himself to deal with this threat despite reinforcement? And that most likely I will have to travel for two seasons to resolve it myself? All while the Order is picking fights it doesn't have to.

The Duc throws up his hands.

One day our over reliance on mercenaries, and I am much to blame as anyone, will come back to bite us. Where will these men go once peace, or at least a semblance of it, returns? Do you think these companies will quietly leave the realm once we stop paying them? They'll take up banditry, set themselves up as robber barons. One need only look to Sicily to see what could happen.

Hugues grits his teeth and looks directly at Simon.

But you don't need a lecture Captain, you need men. Reeves tells me that a company of crossbowmen and a few more of Welsh spearmen are in the area. You may hire two companies.

Bonne chance.

[Braden]

Mon Duc, I thank you for recruitment of spears in Frankfurt...unfortunately they appear to have ALL marched with Thomas.

Henri is clearly more than disgruntled and continues through gritted teeth

Despite the fact that I am to assault a castle and am outnumbered more than 2:1.

It seems I will have to proceed without resupply.

Henri spins on his heels and leaves casting Thomas a glare

[Ituralde]

Your Grace you do right in admonishing me. The only defense I have for myself is that the early scout reports I had riding out from Nottingham did not account for the high level of professionalism of the army that is facing me. I'm still trying to figure out how the English managed to field these men when they don't even have the proper infrastructure to train them.

None the less it was my decision and I now have to live with it. I appreciate your forthcoming on the matter, but like you I am unwilling to pay mercenaries for my blunder. Maybe it doesn't have to come to a confrontation? After all William is slain and the mainland conquered, maybe peace with the English will put and end to the fight? If not I'll gladly take two companies of Welsh Spearmen to best the English facing me.

As for Antwerp, your offer is gracious but Brother Gaspard should be able to resolve the situation. And even if he doesn't our work on the island is done, I will return towards Antwerp as fast as the army facing me allows. At least the German army holds no surprises.

[Braden]

A herald with the colours of Prince Henri enters to address the council

My Lords, I will not keep ye long. A brief missive from His Royal Highness Prince Henri states:

"My lords, father, I have refused the marriage proposal put to me this day. I feel that I am too young for such a commitment at this time and that a marriage proposal from outside the country will be more favourable in the future for the Roi."

I thank you my Lords for your brief attention.

The herald bows deeply before withdrawing from the chambers

[AussieGiant]

Alain nods his head in acknowledgment of Hugues' words.

Yes, I do remember writing to you regarding my final and incomplete report prior to me stepping down.

I mentioned a number of disturbing characteristics in relation to ze realm. It seems we are now slowly starting to realise zose consequences.

Alain moves into the chamber centre, relaxed and calm. His voice steady and strong.

Gentlemen, Lords of France.

We 'ave ze bitter sweet consequences of our unbridled thirst for war and conquest, Baron Yvon Lacaze has paid ze ultimate price, zat of 'is life.

Wrapped in words of honour, unity, papal decree and chivalry we have become a kingdom all fear. Maybe zat is our aim, maybe it is not, but our expansion is clear to zose who care to observe. We now 'ave lands on ze British Island, we 'ave pushed so far east I believe we will meet ze 'ungarian soon. We 'ave gone so far souz zat lands historically belonging to Spain are now ours.

Are we to continue? Will we stop only when we 'ave ze pleasure of calling ze Pope our neighbour?

Is Spain to receive its ancestral lands from us? Will we give ze now reconciled English back their holdings?

What we 'ave done is make France whole once more, a noble and righteous cause, ze rest, well zat is debatable and already I 'ear fear in ze words and actions of our neighbours and friends.

France 'as raged and fought, raged and fought again, seemingly wiz unlimited anger and fury, is zat what we are? Is zat what we wish to be in ze eyes of ozers? Our borders are over extended, our generals begin to feel mortal, we cry for more and more men to feed our expansion and conquest.

When do we call a 'alt? When do we show mercy to our enemies? What is our purpose? We expand and expand again, is it for ze sake of expansion itself or is zeir a plan?

Alain takes a seat.

I ask all 'ere to zink a moment on zis. We 'ave a made good sense in zis council from ze beginning, but now...now zat we look back on ze last two Seneschal terms I do not know anymore.

[OverKnight]

Hugues nods to Alain.

The Duc de Bretagne raises some important concerns. No doubt they will be discussed at the next Session.

Captain de Montpierre, before granting your request, I sent out feelers to the English. A peace offer of Nottingham, York, trade rights and 1000 florins, the approximate cost of the mercenaries, despite being balanced, would have been rejected. This is one of the reasons I granted you the men. Perhaps taking London will make the English realize the futility of their situation.

I can see why unchecked aggression is so appealing, our enemies won't acknowledge they've been beaten until they're in the grave.

I'm afraid that both peace with England and the Empire may be a burden passed on to my successor. Though I will continue my efforts to the end of my term. Of course now that the English have been reconciled, the Pope may step in again.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe, having listened to the Ducs, stands to speak to the assembled nobles.

Ducs, you raise good points.

Indeed, France is now known as a nation to be feared on any battlefield, against any opponent, at fearful odds even...

I had expected my reign to be a peaceful reign.

I made overtures to Guillaume to resolve peacefully our differences, negotiating trade rights as a beginning and comtemplating offering an alliance for the return of our lost territories... Now, most of you here have opposed such an alliance and see what your efforts brought us : another war, the death of countless French sons and the death of one of our noble knights... Had we obtained our settlements through a fair exchange as I had proposed (looks in Alain's direction), we might not have had to unscabbard our swords against Guillaume and his cronies and Yvon Lacaze might still be alive and here among us.
I would have prefered to pay those settlements in gold rather than in blood, mes Seigneurs.

As to the war with the Reich, there has been some plot at work that has unwillingly plunged us into this war. Nothing has been yet uncovered about the hand that pulled our strings and I fear we may never know whose agency it was that worked against us.

All I see looking back is fields of battle littered with the corpses of our vaunted enemies and the bodies of our brave soldiers. Do you think I relish the sight ? Don't you think I wouldn't rather see those men toiling in the fields, reaping wheat and barley ?

I have had enough of warring. I had hoped we could make France once again what it was under Charlemagne's rule. What I had not anticipated was the cost of such a venture.

Now, we must take stock of our conquests and see if they can bring us peace. The Senechal tells us England will not sue for peace. There is no easy solution to this and all solutions to this problem unfortunately come through fighting : either we fight them to the bitter end, obliterating them from the face of the earth as a nation or we fight them until we capture enough of their lands that they'll agree to a ceasefire.

The same goes for the Reich.

I will ask our Senechal to sue for peace with those Kingdoms, bartering the captured settlements in the King's Demesne to achive that aim. I understand that is one more heavy weight put on the shoulders of the Senechal, taking on responsibilities that should truly belong to the King and thank him for the good work accomplished so far. Had I known such hard times were coming, I would have put more pressure into being elected as your Senechal against Hugues, for those hard times are my responsibility to handle.

We've made France whole once again, mes Seigneurs... It is now time to make it shine as a beacon of enlightenment and progress, to make it proof of God's blessing on us.

And you, Louis ? What do you have to say on these matters ? You who have killed and maimed indiscriminately left and right, showing not one ounce of mercy, hiding behind a professed desire to serve your country when it was in fact your battle- and blood-lust that you served ?

The only heartening news I've received is that your vassals seem to show more restraint than you, as the cities and castles Aquitaine conquered have been spared.

Have you nothing to say about this, Louis ?

Philippe then sits, glaring at his son.

[Ituralde]

Simon returns into the Chamber a weary look on his face.

I thank your Grace for giving me the funds necessary to defeat the English. It looks like peace will not be had and we are forced to meet them on the battlefield. Prince John and his Cousin Henry fought valiantly as lions against our Knights. Robert Bouchart gave his life for victory against the English!

He came to us as a noble and chivalrous man from the Duchy of Bretagne. He followed my call to do Gods work in a Crusade against the English. His wish was not to be granted and despite my efforts I could not hold my promise of a Crusade nor bring him home safely. For that alone I am deeply humbled and apologize with all my heart to Duc Alain for letting my guard down and depriving him of one of his men.

Simon bows deeply towards the Duke of Bretagne.

I mourn this loss as much as you do. But Brother Robert knew what he was getting into when he joined our ranks. He did not want to hold back, he was amongst the first into the fray and I was close to him when he died in the decisive fight against Prince John and his followers. My Battle Report will give you more detail, but without Robert Boucharts efforts victory would have not been possible that day. For that alone he bears my eternal gratitude and I hope that he will recieve in Heaven what has been denied to him here on earth, to serve God and ride under His banner!

Simon raises a goblet in memory of the deceased then waits a moment before adresing Hugues de Champagne again.

Seneshal, I attempted to regain the florins given to me through ransoming back the prisoners I had. The English refused. Should our coffers require it you have my permission to release the Welsh mercenaries from my command.

[OverKnight]

Hugues bows his head and then raises his glass.

To Robert Bouchart!

The Duc drinks deeply.

I must confess I did not know the man well, but he died a warrior.

Hugues sighs.

I hope his sacrifice will be worth it.

Having already paid for their service, the Order may keep the mercenaries.

Hugues looks to the King.

Your Majesty, I will again send out our diplomats to seek peace. If it can be had on acceptable terms, I will take it. We may have better results if London, Hamburg and Magdeburg fall. We shall see.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe takes his head in his hands. Those nearest to the King can hear what seems to be sobs.

[econ21]

I salute the memory of Robert Bouchart and Yvonne Lacaze. They were true soldiers of France and died well, fighting for their country. I did not know Yvonne well, but Robert was a valued member of the Order of the Fleurs de Lys who I will sorely miss. He was a quiet man, but when he spoke, his opinions carried weight and I am honored to have served with him.

Nobles of France, I venture to say that up until these recent losses, we have been lucky. We have won victory after victory, and while we have paid for those gains in the blood of our men, the membership of the Conseil itself has been spared. Now, outside Pamplona and in England, our luck may seem to have run out. But in truth, this is nature of war - it is not costless but extracts its bitter price.

To Robert and Yvonne, brave fighters who served their country well!

[_Tristan_]

Sieur de Montpierre,

I order you to march with your Brother knights to Antwerp and take up the defense of the city. Our Senechal has enough to do watching the Eastern border without having to cross half of France to defend our holdings in Flanders.
Need I remind you that the city is your responsibility. Where is your Steward when he's needed ? Stewardship doesn't only mean counting sacks of grain, casks of wine and heads of chattel... It also means providing safety for the citizens living behind your walls and in the countryside... Should I have heeded the words of my Dukes when they appealed to me not to grant lands and thus power to your Order ?

This is not a punishment, Captain... But we've neglected for too long the needs of our citizens by running headlong into this mad English venture. Therefore, I'll bring it myself to an end. And as a further proof of my continued trust in you and your Order I'll release to your command every single men under your command right now, provided that a single unit remains to maintain the siege on London if I haven't arrived when you decide to go (OOC : Ituralde, if you take the save before I do, please leave one unit at least to maintain the siege if you move the Order knights out).

I'm only a season's march away from London and I'll take up the siege in your stead. London will not remain in our Royaume long enough to be considered part of it and I will not insult you by letting you believe you might stand a chance of claiming it for your Order.

Let me also state that I will make my will known as to which Houses will be grabnted what provinces before the start of the next session of the Conseil.
I've already heard the pleas of some of our Ducs and Lords. My secretary will receive all the requests now, unless, mes Seigneurs, you wish to make those publicly. (OOC: PM me or speak up in this thread...)

[AussieGiant]

Alain's head sinks into his chest. After a moment of consideration he speaks in a quiet tone.

"And so it continues my lords. Another honourable man has lost his life, Bretagne was greater for the quite and steady presence of Lord Robert. I will notify his family and ask for succession to be organised by his household.

I am thankful of the words from the King and members of the Order."

He bows to Simon and Hermant.

[KnightnDay]

To the east of Antwerp, Henri and myself continue to do what we can to keep the Kaiser's troops busy. But it is quite apparent that the prince and I need assistance beyond what Frankfurt can provide. One only needs to see a single company defending Nuremburg as evidence that our position is hardly one that encourages the Kaiser to seek terms.

Perhaps some more professional troops can be raised at Caen and then transported by ship to reinforce Henri. A prospect of a long siege is what currently faces us without proper reinforcement.

[Ituralde]

Simon stares shocked at the King and it takes some time before he realizes what he is doing, upon which he bows deeply.

My King, I thank you for showing your trust in the Order by releasing into my command the infantry I led to London, led towards London following your permission as given in your report to the Seneshal. I don't know what I have done to anger your Majesty. I had only acted as you have instructed me. Seizing London was never my aim, but I hoped to help in initiating the siege with your army since I was moving south anyway.

Which brings me to the matter of Antwerp. I have already stated in this very chamber that I will move towards Antwerp as fast as possible. While I thank Duc Hugues for his initiative the situation was well under control. Brother Gaspard while for some reason loathe to attack the Germans would have been in a position to repell any attack against Antwerp. I assure you that I take my responsibilities seriously as do all members of the Order of the Fleur de Lys.

Bowing stiffly Simon leaves the Chamber.

[OverKnight]

Hugues turns to the King.

Lorraine took Staufen from the Germans. . .

Hugues grins wryly.

. . .twice, actually. I would be most grateful if it was granted to my Duchy. The territory fits nicely into the existing Duchy, allowing for quick defensive movement. This would strengthen Lorraine in its service as the de facto German march.

Hugues bows and then addresses Thomas.

It may be time to build a Channel fleet, but any troops transported by ship would be subject to attack by the English and German fleets. We will not have naval parity with them without spending a great deal of Florins.

As for proper reinforcement, the Dauphin's gift will most likely be galloping towards you as we speak.

[_Tristan_]

Philippe looks at the departing Order Captain with a note of puzzlement in his eyes.

Anger ? There was no anger in my words... If any of you encounters de Montpierre, be sure to tell him so. If the man cannot take orders, then he shall know my anger... There is no more need for so many knights on the English island

Philippe then turns to Hugues.

Your request has been duly noted, Hugues. I'll wait for the other requests before giving it right.

[ULC]

The smiling man from Gaetan retinue enters, and bows clumsily, obviously drunk beyond reasonable limits. He pulls out a scroll and proceeds to juggle it as he loses his hold on it. Finally, after grasping it firmly, he proceeds to open it and stares very closely at the print, mumbling to himself as he reads. Finally he throws the scroll to the ground, frustrated, and begins to speak in a mix of broken French and English, all the while gesturing drunkly.

"Members of the council, Chevalier Gaetan de Rethel wishes to make known that he is terribly sorry for the death of Robert Bouchart, and sends his best, no, heartfelt regards to his family. My lord recognizes that the Order may be in need of men, and he would make it known...that, that he would be open to joining the Order again if, it is acceptable to the good sirs."

With that, he takes a dramatic bow, and proceeds to exit in a zig-zag pattern.

[Braden]

Henri enters, muddy but in good health and hearty

My lords,

I must, again, thank the Seneschal for his efforts to re-enfoce me. My plans, which have been supported by my father, are to wait for the enemy to sally forth against me where I will have the advantage.

Should forces arrive from Caen then I will be glad for them certainly.

I am shocked that the cowards do not sally already...perhaps I leave a bitter taste in their mouths still from our last encounter!