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And surely you meant Senechal, Duc Raymond ? We're not Reichlanders...
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And surely you meant Senechal, Duc Raymond ? We're not Reichlanders...
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
I would support Edict 3.6 but I feel it goes too far, especially in light of the fact that our next Seneschal is to be the King himself.
This is not an offence to you however, my father, but merely I feel the Edict should focus on getting a Crusade approved, provinces pre-ratified and an intended scope of the Crusade. Should this be all Iberian provinces held by the Moors for example?
On the question of lands being returned to the Spanish, you know my feelings on this matter so again I agree with the Edict in so much as it goes not as far as I wished, but I feel it is not needed in an Edict anymore. Lands ratified will pass to the King, who is also Seneschal, and therefore I believe that in this case he will do what is the best course in this matter. Greatly improved relations with Spain would be a significant boon and should it be chosen to use these Iberian provinces as part of enhancing that relationship I will not stand in its way.
Spain is a “land-neighbour” of our lands and it is important to deal with them well for they have not shown us any disregard.
For those that find my comments at odds somewhat with my own comments regarding the provinces in England…well, I hope it is known now that I do not care for England and purely wish it back in true English hands. Should Edict 3.1 fail then I am heartened to know there are other similar Edicts which mention granting such holdings to Scotland even and I am thankful for them. I hope at least one comes to pass.
Without 3.6 the lands taken will not be ratified and must wait until a formal Council session to be returned to the Spanish... in my understanding of the law anyway.
Our relations with Spain are near perfect I assure you. My wife reports to her family regularly on the excellence of our ties at my insistence.
:egypt:
My Lords I am dismayed you can not find the purpose on my edict.
I made it quite clear that it will stablies our north and pave the way for trade.
Scotland should be whole and stronger to diswade the English from war.
Unless we are to become conquers we need to make allies and establish trade to allow us to improve our lands. I may also point out that we can train superior soldiers to the mercenaries currently available if we improve our training grounds.
Also the crusade should be against north Africa as we would gain land that would support a future crusade to our holy lands.
I second Edict 3.6.
Hugues enters the Conseil, looking much healthier than in previous years.
I second Edict 3.4. If we must use mercenaries, let them fight for their pay.
I am also intrigued by the idea of offering the Scots land in England. We are overextended and gaining an ally for a buffer would be wise.
A young man in pompous and extravagant clothing enters the Conseil and waits shyly for some measure of silence before speaking.
Seigneurs de France!
I present myself, Barbus Selvio, former member of the Venetian Doge's extended family and now husband to the fair Constance, daughter of our great King. I apologize for not presenting myself here sooner, but there were some familial... matters... to attend to in Italy.
Now then, I do not wish to bore you with a long discourse, but let me say I am in awe over what you have accomplished, first in your war against the Holy Roman Empire and then in your war against the English. Truly, your bravery and prowess is unmatched mes Seigneurs and it does me at great honor and pleasure to join your ranks.
Nodding to the assembly, Barbus takes a seat.
*Henri stands and acknowledges Barbus’ entrance*
I thank my….brother…for his words praising our actions thus far and trust such honour and bravery is to be matched by his own in the near future.
Charles looks towards Louis..
I may be young but at least I know how to make sons!
Turning towards Barbus Selvio..
So, what took you so long to get here? Made some money or 'bought' another princess on your way here?
I really don't understand why Constance chose you! Venetian from all people!!
Charles shakes his head..
Alain leans back in his chair and gives the young Charles an exaggerate thumbs up signal.
He mouths the word "Nice".
Philippe acknowledges the arrival of Barbus Selvo with a nod and a smile.
Welcome to our Conseil, Barbus... I hope that you'll make you feel at home... Though knowing your bride, a change from home must be what you're looking for...
Philippe's face then becomes more more grave.
Mes Seigneurs,
I think it is time to take stock of our conquests. We've achieved much during my reign and under the guidance of our Senechaux.
We have reconquered the land lost to the children of Charlemagne and to our former vassal Guillaume, surpassing even the accomplishments of our greatest ancestor.
France is truly blessed by God, as is proven in our successes against the English.
And yet, I've heard many among you wish that we surrender these conquests. On what grounds, mes Seigneurs ?
To act contrite of having brought down the heretic Guillaume ? To prove to our neighbours and to the world that we feel guilty for our actions ?
I cannot understand you stance. Only a few years ago, Guillaume, my former vassal, laid a claim to my crown, trying to enforce it by force of arms. Don't we have a right as victors to the spoils ? Is that not the way to treat the lands and the people that raised their arms against us ?
Moreover, I do not wish to set a precedent. For if we were to relinquish our English holdings to their former masters or to the Scots, what should we be prepared to cede ? Valencia to Spain ? Nuremburg, Bern or Staufen to the Reich ? Marseille to the Milanese ? Hamburg to Danemark ? Magdeburg to Poland ?
For I tell you, if we begin given away our conquests, we'll soon find beggars at our doors.
In this light, I wish to propose the following legislation :
Proclamation 3.1 :The borders of France will be fixed upon their boundaries of 1100. No territories comprised between these borders can be given, sold or otherwise exchanged to another Kingdom (OOC : faction) but through a 2/3 vote of the Conseil authorizing it. If lost through an act of war, all efforts will be implemented so that any of those territories are reconquered by the end of the term in which it was lost or at the latest the first half of the next term, if the territory was lost in the second half of the term. All Edicts contradictory to this Proclamation will be considered null and void.
This should keep the "beggars" at bay and help us have the manpower to defend our conquest and launch the Crusade that so many of you wish for.
I second Proclamation 3.1
Forgive me, my prince, but one cannot second a proclamation by the king. If he proclaims it, it is law. The only issue is determining if he has the authority to do so.
"It is not a precedent your Majesty. We can do what we like wiz ze land we 'ave taken.
Ze simple fact is, we went in wiz a stated aim which we achieved. Zat aim was not to take land but deal wiz William. Well, 'e's been dealt wiz, and now we conveniently take ze land?
Giving it back to ze English or Scottish would show us to be 'onourable in our aims and not tempted by ze need for more land and power.
In ze mean time, we 'ave taken ze lands off ze English in France proper. Somezing zat can be understood and seen by Christendom as reasonable and our right.
Ze rest seems to occur very transparently as a grab for power while ze English were momentarily out of favour wiz ze Pope. Somezing zat 'as been resolved wiz Williams deaz.
As for beggars, well, 'NO' can be an answer to zeir pleas."
Alexandre stands to be heard by the king, A concerned look upon his face.
Mon Roi,
I have to ask what your intention is for the future of France. Your named the chivalrous and you deserve that title. However since war with the Holy Roman empire began, you have avocated that we conquor with few limits. Now you tell us we should keep lands that are far flung and difficult to protect.
What happens when other kingdoms decide that our garrisons are so small that they can take what they want with little effort.
We have few trade routes few allies and an army we have to pay more for, than if we trained our own.
If they wish to blocade our ports we have few ships to defend us.
We have war on three fronts that seem to have no end.
If you have a master plan please elaborate because this counsel seems split between sense and loyalty.
Having said his peace Alexandre bows and sits eagerly awaiting the kings response.
Simon nods at the words of Alain de Rohan.
Hugues nods as well.
Philippe listens attentively to the objections.
I hear you well, mes Seigneurs... But tell me how honourable would it be for us to relinquish the hold we have over those English provinces to the Scots who are themselves at war with England ? Would it be honourable to turn those people over to some of their fiercest enemy ? Is that how you see honour and chivalry ? I do not... What I know is that under our rule, the people of England will prosper as much as our own, that they'll be treated fairly... Do we have such guarantees if we turn them over to the Scots ? Do we even have these guarantees if we release them to the descendants of Guillaume ? Will he not exert upon them his vengeance for having submitted to our rule, for not having fought back ?
Maybe some of our neighbours will see our work in England as self-centered but in our hearts, and more importantly in God's eye, we will be doing what is honourable and right so I say let them see us the way they want to see us... The more important is knowing that we'll be recognized for our deeds on Judgment Day.
And Sieur LeSueur, may I remind you that the war against the Reich was started by an aggression upon my very person and that following God's Will as expressed by His Holiness, I ordered a cessation of hostilities which were started again upon the Kaiser's excommunication. Hence the war in the East is based upon the same grounds as the war in Albion.
Around us, Kingdoms and Duchies fall prey to heresy... Heretics march upon our lands... But through all this, France remains as a bastion of faith, a beacon to those who would seek shelter...
Who are we to refuse it to those who require it ? Is that the conduct of a true Christian ?
Or are you, mes Seigneurs, acting out of spite, because the Crusade that so many of you required against Guillaume has been nipped in the bud ? And your dreams of glory with it ? Why is it only Albion that occupy your mind and about which you wish us to turn tail and run ? Out of some strategic insight ? Then tell me what position is the more threatened : Nuremberg which can be assailed by Imperial armies from almost all corners of the Earth ? Or our English provinces which are assailable from the North and West only and can provide for themselves in matters of recruitment ? How come none of you demands the return of those provinces to the Reich or Denmark or Poland ? Wouldn't that prove, as you claim, to our neighbours, that we have accomplished until now is not a land-grab ? Let me hear you on these mattters, my Lord.
Nevertheless, mes Seigneurs, I hear your words and I understand your fears that our Royaume may flounder against too many enemies. Do not forget that we are favoured by God, as has been proven countless times, defeating insurmountable odds here and there... To adress your concerns, I'd be willing to amend my Proclamation to reflect the changes you deem necessary to make our Royaume more defendable. But I wish you take time to consider my words and the necessity for us to provide to the needy, for the salvation of their souls...
Father,
I hear your words and they sound reasoned and sensible. However, many of us here hear such words and just think of “Imperial” aggression, of a need to conquer and control rationalised by words which sound appeasing to the ear yet we still fear them for there is a real possibility that such noble words can be used to gain something abhorrent to someone as worthy as yourself.
Beware Father, when you rethink what you propose here, of what will become of those people and those lands should your noble thoughts be perverted.
Far harder is it to stay your hand now but far easier than attempting to make amendment should this all turn to folly. The only enemy I fear is God and his wrath my father, this is why I wished England to be in English hands be they their own local Duc’s or their own new King.
For sure we can say we will rule the English well and justly, but perhaps were they not the words that Bastard William used when he sailed for that land? Have the English exchanged one yoke born of France for yet another? What of a call for their country in their own hands?
There is no right by birth or Gods will that says we have claim to their lands.
I await a reworded Proclamation 3.1 before commenting further.
"Many questions your majesty, but not many answers.
We called a crusade 'ere in zis Council because ze premise was to take down William. It wasn't called.
Not only were we uninterested in English land on ze island, we chose to use ze Pope's displeasure and excommunication as ze reason to even go to Albion.
Zere is no reason to stay given we committed to ze reason for going so clearly. Unless of course we are shanging our minds?"
My king,
If you intend to extend our protection to lands far and wide then tell us and make provitions to govern and protect what we have and what we gain.
I have watched as nobles have been attacked and seeing a weakness in the enemy conquered their lands.
I believe making allies and trade partners provides wealth to improve France and prevents us over extending our forces. What if armies from farther east take advantage of the Reichs weakness they could swamp us or attack lands under protected by us.
The Reich provides a buffer till we increase our forces if they can defend themselves.
Albion and Spanish provinces have few defenders. England has a force in the north and lands north and west. Plus you may have noticed Albion is surrounded by English lands and nations across the sea who may see their opertunaty for easy expansion.
Like I said I don't doubt your character my king but if you see heretics and wish to free them by taking their lands we must do it with more thought. Less we bite off more than we can chew.
My intention in going to Albion was to punish their heretic leader. I was attacked that this was nothing but an ill disguised landgrab and that the Order wishes only for power. To show the sincerety of my claims I promised that the mission against William was not for land. I stand by what I have said and will support any Edict that relieves us of those English posessions.
Spoiler Alert, click show to read:
Louis winks in Charles' direction,
As do I dear boy, as do I! It is only my wife who lacks this ability, and my daughters are suitable to serve France. I daresay little Heloise may be a match for your courage already.
For my part I welcome good Sir Selvo, and salute his courage. He has tackled an adversary more terrible than the English by far!
As for Proclamation 3.1, it is writ by the hand of the King whose authority descends directly from God. As such it has my unwavering support, but I wish also to acknowledge the very great nobility of Mon Roi in agreeing to listen to the Council's suggestions. It is a testament to the might of the Franks that we can come together to make such matters acceptable to all.
Louis bows to his father and resumes his seat in silence, with a troubled look on his face.
:egypt:
*Gontran looks down at his papers*
*looking up*
The word of mon Roi descends from God but gold comes from the treasury. While London is a potentially profitable city, it and the rest of the isle will take considerable investment. Look at the poor condition of our trading cities. For centuries we suffered from Dark Ages brought about by the rise of the heretic, many of whom reside in Iberia. Our lands are fertile and our people are proud, but our cities are laughable. Let us restore our lands to our former glory and beyond before we invest so much in foreign lands. The occupation of England will restrict desperately needed funds and cause additional burdens for our Seneschal. We've recently seen how oppressive those duties are.
It will come as no surprise that I agree entirely with the objections to the Proclamation that have been put before this Conseil in better words than I could find.
There are two answers to these objections put forward:
1. That it is a proclamation from our sovereign and beyond doubt. If that is the case, so be it and may God have mercy on our souls.
2. That it is equally or more honourable to keep Albion than hand it to the Scots. This fails on two counts.
Firstly, a French master is equally, if not more alien to the English than a Scottish one, and Scotland and England are no more blood enemies than are England and France.
Secondly, it ignores the alternative proposals which have been made, namely to return the lands to the English or to give them independence of all three.
Reeves speaks.
My Lords, I have been informed that the time for the proposing and seconding of Legislation has passed. Voting will begin shortly.
OOC: Zim has asked me to handle the voting thread for this session.
Chevaliers, forgive me. I was buried in legislative matters and did not read Edict 3.7 carefully enough. Therefore, I withdraw my support.
Come and see the violence inherent in the system...Seigneurs I believe we have just been turned from a body with some, albeit limited legislative power to the insignificant audience in a Capetin puppet play.
Not only that, but we have not even been offered the dignity of an explanation, let alone a justification. It is a good thing too, that our brave Kings are appointed by God himself, lest we start to question their sanity and fitness to hold power.
Of course, perhaps such divine providence is less strong than we might think. After all, did not Guillaume of England and a succession of German Kaisers make similar claims, only to find themselves swiftly excommunicated and at the wrong side of a coffin.
But of course, such things could not happen to Philipe the Honourable, mighty ruler of the mighty Franks. His providence, worldly or divine is beyond question. So if I may, I will take my seat and enjoy the show.
Louis absorbs the implications of the veto silently before announcing,
Mon Roi it was not necessary to veto a measure I proposed, had you but asked I would have withdrawn it. To those who would complain I point out that this power was granted the King as a part of the foundation of this body; his mandate to veto underlies and empowers our own mandate to propose law. The two cannot be split without irreparable harm to both.
:egypt:
Hugues speaks.
This is not an auspicious beginning. The King is within his rights to veto legislation. However, as with his announcement of his taking the office of Seneschal, I wish it had been done in a more timely fashion.
I also would have liked an explanation rather than a terse statement by a minor functionary (OOC: Hi Zim! :laugh4:)
With such a interesting beginning to his Majesty's term, I'm sure the Conseil will have to be vigilant for the rest of it.
Christophe frowns.
Perhaps I should see to it that my own veto is properly oiled and sharpened.
Oh, my friend. Perhaps you should be less gloomy and focus more on "weapon maintenance." Marseilles will soon have the facilities to do so.Quote:
Originally Posted by TinCow
Alain leans forward.
So in essence ze King has now added London, Valencia and Pamploma to his 'oldings, mercenaries are not able to garrison and if a Crusade is called, all land is to be 'anded to ze Spanish.
Ze only zing zath seems unpalatable to ze King is ze last piece of legislation.
I am sure ze flexibility our new Seneschal 'as will be most revealing in ze coming term.
We shall wait wiz baited breaz as to what to do next.
*Henri now stands. He looks visibly upset*
My Lords,
I would be lying if I did not say that I am distressed about these developments. Whilst it was a shame my father felt it necessary to announce that he would be Seneschal, it was a more than acceptable choice. Not only as it was his given right to do so but, not intending any offence, perhaps the King deemed the potential candidates not sufficient.
However, we now find that my father has veto’d three of the seven proposed Edicts? This leaves us with what?? My dreams of a crusade against the Moors now gone, even though only last session the King was SO strongly in favour of it, we are FORCED to become occupiers of Albion also with all that entails.
My lords…we became invaders not only to depose Guilliam who had fallen so far as to have become Excommunicated by His Holiness, but also to free our historic lands from the English yoke. We did both those things…but…for our shame we have now become the worse sort of invader. Unbidden, unwanted, perhaps even unwelcome. We have seized not only provinces but the very core of another free kingdom.
Whichever way this is dressed up my lords this is a sorry day. We had the might and the right to do what we did but do we have the RIGHT to continue on this course? Where did our intentions to depose Guilliam and free the English disappear to?
Where stands Edict 3.7 now? We have no Edict to pursue the Moors into Iberia and yet the Edict stands, does it stand as a proof for us should we now embark on war into the peninsular?
I am very interested to hear from our King his vision for the next years in his direct charge.
However shocked and upset I am at this time, the King is my father and as such I can only believe his intentions are honourable. Is all expansion now to cease, all wars to be addressed and peace be forced by any means needed? Perhaps this is what is planned for us now and perhaps my father felt that only he could have the authority to prevent some of us…
*Henri casts a glance to his elder brother*
…from pursuing more personal agenda’s for personal gain.
*Henri bows and sits, far more composed than when he stood*
It seems that many in this body feel as I do about the King's actions. Perhaps it is time to express our displeasure in the manner to which we are entitled by law. I encourage all nobles to refuse to aid the King in the occupation of England. All nobles in England should return to the continent, with all military strength they possess. I further urge that all nobles deny the King the use of their provinces for the purposes of recruitment to defend the English provinces. If the King wants England so badly, let him hold it himself with his own resources. The Counseil is more than capable of governing France while the King is off in the north gratifying his personal ambitions.
*Henri’s face turns ashen and he mutters to himself*
..oh my…
*Gontran mutters orders to his squire, who then bolts out of the hall*
:blank:
Christophe raises an eyebrow.
Is what I suggest really so attrocious? The voting shows that this body overwhelmingly supports a complete withdrawal from England. Indeed, only one noble in all of France voted against Edict 3.1, and only two voted against Edict 3.3. We are clearly all agreed on the situation, yet the King has chosen to pursue his own course on this matter in direct affront to the near unanimous agreement of the nobility.
This is not England. The King of France does not tell us what to do in our own lands. We are sovereign in our territory which we hold by rights independent of the Crown. We are free BY LAW to deny the King the support of our lands if we disagree with his policies. Indeed, this very fact may be why the King seeks to rule all of England. In that country, the King rules absolute and his nobles can be countermanded even in their own homes. If Philippe prefers to be King of England rather than King of France, so be it. Let him go and rule that island. I, for one, choose to remain a Frenchman.
*Henri seems nervous but rises to speak anyway*
My Lord..erm…I can only speak for myself in this matter.
Atrocious? Perhaps not, but the King is my father and his blood flows in my veins also so such organised disobedience perhaps not only threatens the King but also myself.
I find myself disagreeing with the King but honour-bound to be loyal to my family.
I believe an English Sergeant in my mercenary company has a saying “Trapped between a rock and a hard place”, I believe it quite apt for my predicament at this time.
So, you must understand my shock at your proposal.
*Henri sits again with a sigh*
Alain takes a moment to hold the gaze of Raymond and Hugues.
*Gontran's mind is filled with the vision of Alain's eyes in separate directions, one eye on each person*Quote:
Originally Posted by AussieGiant
:dizzy:
I really don't see what is the problem?
My father, the King, used his right to veto Edicts he didn't like.
Previous Kings have done it so .. why can't he do it?
Hugues nods to Alain, and turns to Charles.
The King is within his rights to veto Edicts. The rub is that he vetoed popular Edicts. With a stroke of the quill, he wiped out almost half of the Legislation that we spent days crafting and debating. On top of this his Majesty did not grace us with an explanation.
So the King is within his rights, but we would be within our rights as well to register our consternation by certain acts. Some have been mentioned by Baron de Perrone: Denial of recruitment and armies. I might also add another: Lowering of taxes.
Finally, we have the option of Impeachment, but only if the King steps beyond his rights as Seneschal.
Indeed, zere are a number of effective options available at this time.
I am wondering if zey are necessary.
The explanation of recent events by our king may go far in telling us in whether they are necessary. I did not take offense when he decided to assume position of seneschal as it was his legal right.
But his action to oppose such clear positions of the conseil is a most troubling one. Defiance in the face of an enemy is one thing. This is quite different.
Philippe strides into the Conseil and settles himself upon the Throne.
Mes Seigneurs,
Long have I debated with you in these very chambers the way I considered our role in England. I hoped you might see things my way not as occupiers like many of you try to portray us (or rather portray me) but as a safeguard against the depredations the British sovereigns (be they Scottish or English) might have wreaked upon the people of the land you wanted us to give back to them.
As I stated many times here, I would not suffer it. The English people will soon find the French rule preferable to that of Guillaume or his descendants. They will soon live in an era of unprecedented prosperity, if you allow me to conduct my policies to their fullest extent.
But this prosperity is not destined to England alone. For I intend to sue for peace with our neighbours or at least maintain a vigilant watch behind our borders. But this can only be accomplished if you, mes Seigneurs, cooperate with your sovereign, instead of being the grain of sand in what I expect to be a well-oiled machinery.
This era of prosperity can only be accomplished also if we do not seek to lead wars in distant lands. Hence my opposition to the proposed crusade. I think we've already proven to God and His representative on Earth, His Holiness Gregoire, that France was a faithful vassal of the Church and have no need to request any Crusade on Heathen lands to prove our faith. However, should His Holiness call for a Crusade against the Moors or with the purpose of freeing the Holy Land from the Muslim yoke, I will not oppose the wish of any noble that would wish to answer the call and provide as any help as the Royaume will be able to provide.
And de Perronne, I'd like you to remember by whose grace you find yourself holding lands. Bordeaux fell under your rule because my son pleaded with me to grant it to him so that he could offer it to you in return for your service. Now, you would betray my trust and that of my son by calling your fellow nobles to join in what seems almost like a rebellion against the Crown.
I do not think to hold the absolute truth. Am I not the first of French sovereigns to give so much powers to his vassals over their lands or the ruling of the country ? Don't you trust your King to lead the country to the best of his abilities without tying his hands with Edicts that dictate our foreign policy ?
I have used my powers of veto simply to free my hands from the bonds you tried to put to them in dealing with the foreign powers. On matters of internal policy such as the use of mercenaries or the ratification of conquests, I let the majority rule.
Speaking of which, it came to my attention that many among you who wish to be separated from England (looks at de Peronne and Henri) nevertheless have voted for the ratification of London or am I mistaken ? Perhaps I am and you wished only to ratify our Iberian holdings but got waylaid by the fact that they were tied to the ratification of one of our English conquests. So please, mes Seigneurs, spare me your lessons on our legitimacy in England and I'll spare you some about Spain.
Father,
Simply put I voted in favour of ratifying those provinces in England so that you would be able to do as you pleased with them...or rather as Seneschal.
Point is, without full ratification, could we fully negotiate legally for their trade to our benefit.
Mon roi, simply put, I have no confidence in your grand plan of bringing peace to the poor oppressed of Europe. Firstly, because I have seen no details of any sort of plan. Indeed, it appears to be your policy to present this chamber with facts already implemented, rather than with plans. Others may follow you out of trust alone, I will not.
Secondly, I do not believe that we can secure this prosperity you wish us to see. Already, the English people are threatened again by Viking raiders. How is this security? More importantly, why is it the business of good French nobles to defend the sons of Albion at the cost of many French lives?
Let me say it simply: If we had not invaded Albion, we would now not find ourselves in yet another pointless war! Where will it end? Do we invade Scandinavia? And then Poland? And then the lands of the Rus?
We are squandering time, we are squandering money and we are squandering lives for what, with all due respect, I cannot see as more than your personal ambition.
I once again encourage all nobles to refuse to continue aiding the defence of Albion and to return to our homeland immediately.
My King, I regret that I have promised to serve my Duc this term and am no longer on active duty with the Order Company. If my Duc wishes me to assist you in fighting off the Norsemen, I would be honoured to serve under you again. However, Duc Raymond had planned for me to return to Dijon. I will consult with him and report back.
[OOC: Cecil is moving Hermant this term.]
"May I inquire of his majesty what became of the spear company he reported to have recruited in Frankfurt? I see no evidence of any troops within its walls."
Aquitaine is honored to have Pamplona added to her domain, thank you Mon Roi.
At the same time I call on Sir Selvo to return the soldiers Aquitaine donated to the defense of Valencia and make his own arrangements for the defense of his castle. The matter can also be discussed privately at his discretion, but I make the request in public so that all may know the fairness of it. My House considers the conquest of the castle to be sufficient gift to my sister, garrisoning it can come from the land's resources.
As to the northern raiders they are naught but that, raiders. If they plunder England they do so in the wake of our own plundering, and I find myself little inclined to make trouble over it. Let them take what they want and sail back where they came from.
:egypt:
Louis returns to the chamber with four men carrying two heavy chests. They deposit them on the Council floor and Louis uses his foot to kick them open, revealing that they are full of Moorish gold.
The Sultan of the Moors has met me in battle once more, been defeated once more, and been mercifully ransomed by his ever forgiving subjects once more. Ten thousand florins was the price on his head this day. I confess that I was tempted to simply execute the coward, especially after the manner of his hasty surrender, but I am attempting to follow my father's noble example and learn... restraint... with my enemies.
There are two more matters I wish to bring before the Council. Firstly I ask the considered opinion of the men of the chamber on the matter of converting the castle at Pamplona into a town. I am not much of an administrator, but it seems to me that Bordeaux is more than sufficient to oversee the protection of that coast and that the development of better trade and shipping opportunities at Pamplona might benefit the realm. I am no expect, however, so I put the matter before men more accustomed to managing peasants at their lives. What say you?
Secondly I intend to pursue the Moors into their lands and punish them for their invasion of France and for having the termerity to declare war against us. With God's favor I and my men shall cast the Moors out of Iberia and back into the desert, securing it for Christians once more. In that vein it has come to my attention that there are more Christians around Cordoba than at Valencia. I suggest that Sir Selvo do something about his heathenish subjects at first opportunity, it would be unseemly to have a Muslim rebellion behind my path of advance.
Recruitment prioritizations are being processed for myself and my House. I trust I have provided sufficient funds to see that they are met without complaint.
:egypt:
My Lords,
Due to the actions of the Norsemen the Order will support the King in the defense of the defenseless.
I formally request the Seneschal allow the raising of another company of Spearmen in Antwerp.
I also request funds to hire mercenary crossbowmen to help me maintain the siege of Hamburg for now. If I have more spears I would invade and take the Norwegian captial!!
I request Nottingham and York to myself.
I think that Norsemen are too bold and should be trampled to death by our mighty forces. Even though I am young I am more than capable to defend our settlements in Albion!
*Henri baulks at Charles’ comments*
May I remind you younger brother that the King will grant provinces and the responsibilities they entail to those HE deems worthy and capable. Such overt “want” may not be seen with such generosity if you are not careful.
Are you even bloodied yet?
A figure in a dark cloak of blue, with a large hood pulled over his head masking his features, makes his apparition in the Conseil. The bulk of the apparition speaks of a man. He walks slowly with apparently great difficulty. Slowly he climbs upon the dais and sits upon the Throne. None of the sergeants make a move to stop him but a few swords are heard being loosened from their scabbards among the nobles. But before anybody steps forwards, a voice resonates from within the hood.
Mes Seigneurs,
All recognize the voice of the King though it comes slightly changed.
I grieve for the loss of Hugues de Champagne, my friend and faithful vassal. His death reminds us all of our own mortality. I have asked our Cardinal to say mass here in Paris in his honour in a few days' time. His vassal Bertin will also be honoured in the same ceremony. We'll recommend their souls to God.
With the passing of both, the House of Lorraine has lost almost all of its leading nobles. Though this is a sad time, we must nevertheless the rise to Duc of Thomas de Saint-Amand. Let all acclaim the new Duc.
Waiting the hurrahs to quieten down, Philippe stands with difficulty. He then lifts his hand up to his face and draws back his hood. Murmurs of dismay can be heard through the assembled nobles as they get their first sight of their King new face. Or semblance thereof. For in lieu of the flesh, all that can be seen of Philippe's face is a leather mask that covers his whole head, with slits for his eyes, mouth, nose and ears.
This is the work of Danish axes. My face is such a mess that I could not impose upon the look of my torn flesh. Do not pity me... "Who lives by the sword shall die by the sword"... I am not dead yet but I've already received my sentence in this life rather than in te next.
Forgive me if I do not seem the same but my wounds still hurt.
With these words, Philippe slumps back upon his throne.
*Henri moves to aid his father but is waved back by him*
Father, just give me the men and I will destroy Denmark for what they have done to you! It galls me to leave the siege of Hamburg…but as you request I will withdraw towards Frankfurt.
*Henri remains standing beside Philippe, one hand on the back of the Throne in a gesture of support*
Duc Saint-Amand, it pains us all that your title will come to you in such a sorrowful way but Dukedom has come to you. My Father and King wishes us to combine our forces at Frankfurt and due to these reasons and others…
*Henri steps forward, nods to his father and kneels before the new Duc*
I, Prince Henri, of my own free will and volition pledge myself to Duc Thomas Saint-Amand as vassal. To serve with honour and chivalry in the defence of our realm and to the betterment of the Duchy of Lorraine. Until Mon Duc or Death release me.
Philippe turns his head towards his son.
Peace, my son... As I told already, this is not the deeds of the Danes... I've done this to me myself by living by the sword...
Almost unheard, Philippe adds.
But could I follow any other course ?
Alain swears quietly under his breath. Taking a moment to compose himself, he stands and bows to the King and Duc Thomas.
"My fellow Duc and friend 'ugues was a great man whom ze realm will miss more zan most of you realise.
I acknowledge Duc Thomas as ze new ruler of 'ouse Lorraine and remain at 'is disposal if 'e needs any assistance in zis trying time."
Alain turns to the King.
"My liege, you seem severely wounded. Is zere anyzing we can do to assist you?"
Not sure of his next sentence he continues regardless.
"Are we intending on retaining Albion?
All of it?"
I thank Mon Roi and Duc Alain for their support.
I also accept the oath of Prince Henri with gratitude.
This seems not the time nor place for eulogies. Duc Hugues was a teacher to his vassals and a gifted leader who won many victories against the enemies of the Royaume. His service as Senseschal earned the respect of many in this hall. Baron Bertin was my brother-in-arms and our first action together against the rebel garrison of Metz under Duc Hugues seems as if it were only yesterday.
There is no doubt that the House of Lorraine has suffered two terrible losses. But I am determined to see that it is restored to good health in time.
The mask turns to face Alain.
I have indeed been severely wounded, but it is my soul which hurts more. I thank you for your offer of help but I shall learn to deal with the pain, of the body or of the mind.
After a pause, Philippe goes on.
I've asked our diplomat to bring the matter to the attention of the Scottish King. He did not seem interested in the least in any English provinces, lest we give them up for free.
Though until we've asked the English King at what price he will have peace, I think we're in Albion to stay. Which reminds me that you've not stated if you were willing to have London as one of your Duchy's provinces, Alain.
I've also commissioned several buildings in the Isle. I wish to recoup these investments if ever we return these provinces to a Norman, Saxon or Celt sovereign.
*Henri rises after Duc Saint-Amand accepts his pledge*
I thank you Mon Duc. I will serve with honour and I am sure we will discuss Duchy matters out of these chambers.
My King, father, rest well and reclaim your great strength. It seems all our neighbours wish to only take by force…even that which we offer in favourable terms, it is almost as if an unseen hand moves against us. It is clear we must bring stability and safety to England until the true English King accepts his provinces back…not by the tip of the spear but by accepting negotiation with us.
I will ask if you are possible to release some of the troops currently under your command back into the command of the Order of the Fleur De Lys? I feel they may be needed elsewhere soon, especially with a revitalised enemy on our Eastern border and perhaps a new threat in the North with the Norse.
Louis makes a striking contrast to his father, dressed in light formal clothes, his skin bearing a golden tan from enjoying the southern climate, and his disposition bright. He is the very picture of health, though he has begun to thicken about the middle. He bows deeply to his father before speaking,
Mon Pere your wounds are noble testament to your valor and dedication to your realm. What other King of this decadent age rides at the head of his armies? What other man of your years could drive back so many of the fierce northmen? You need wear no mask on my account, for what could be more beautiful than marks of your foe's failed blows as you carried your soldiers to victory?
I do have a concern with regards to Albion, however, which is simply that it strikes me as unseemly to spend excessively on those lands while native Franks at Marseilles live in squalor. I ask that the improvement to the walls there be built, and that in the future the people of that city be considered when funding is set aside for construction. I will instruct my vassal to make the necessary paperwork available to you (OOC: Change his SoT).
The death of a Duke of the realm is always regrettable, especially so soon after the loss of a Baron. House Lorraine has my sympathies.
:egypt:
I too mourn with the House of Lorraine. They have lost two of their members today, one of them being Hugues de Champagne, a lion on the battlefield and a noble Seneshal to all of France. He will be missed! I congratulate Duc Thomas and hope that Lorraine will recover from this blow.
On behalf of the Brothers of the Order of the Fleur de Lys I would ask you Duc Thomas if you want to continue the patronage of the Order as was done by Duc Hugues before you? Having the Dukes of all Houses as our patrons has always been a clear sign that the Order belongs to no House and all Houses and has its only purpose in serving France, God, and Chivalry!
Simon then turns towards the King.
I thank your majesty for sparing my feelings while riding against the Danes. I'm afraid it was not necessary though. I have told you how I feel about the matter of Albion, but this does not mean that I will disobey your orders or that I wasn't willing to lend my full support to your Majesty when I decided to bring those men to you personally! I have been and will be a loyal servant and obey your orders even if I haven't grasped their full wisdom yet.
With that in mind I ask you if the services of my men and those of the Order are needed by you in Albion?
Alain nods in agreement while listening to the Dauphin and Ser Simon speak.
"If we are to stay in Albion for ze moment zen I will govern London my King.
I will make the necessary arrangements."
My King and Seneschal.
You have hinted that I could recruit mercenaries to aid me, I have been approached by a company of spearmen for employ. Do I have your authorisation to hire them for now?
I will also request, as Baron of Metz that two companies of Sergeant Spearmen and one company of Peseant Archers be recruited there in order to march to Frankfurt as soon as possible.
I thank you
((OOC: Updating SoT now))
My King, Seneschal, I must again ask if there are an troops that can be released from England back into the care of the Order. Our line in the East is perilously thin when matched against the armies arrayed against us…Germans, Poles and potentially even the Danes!
If the Order attains troops in England they would be ferried to Antwerp to join troops there before moving directly East to aid me and the Duchy of Lorraine against these enlarged threats.
Philippe turns to his son.
My son, England is not yet pacified. The English King still has a sizable army under his command and as such is still a threat to the provinces I have made my duty to protect. Hence, the forces currently in England will have to remain there. I will check the reports (OOC : the save) to see what men can be spared. You are also authorized to recruit the mercenary spearmen you requested (OOC : one unit).
I will make it known to you soon what men can be spared and brought back to the continent by Brother de MontPierre.
Philippe comes back to the Conseil with a parchment in his hands.
Henri, your request for reinforcements will be implemented. I will see also to the recruitment of mounted sergeants in Staufen.
*Henri bows to the king*
Thank you indeed. I could not ask for more at this trying time.
*Henri enters, he is flustered and clearly tired*
My Lords,
I must report that I have had to withdraw from the German forces facing me such was their strength. I do not fear their numbers my lords..no, but their quality is of such that I have not seen before this day.
I myself saw at least eight companies of fully armoured knights…some with horses and some without..four companies of armoured spearmen with support by an equal number of crossbowmen.
Not only this but each man had the look of a seasoned veteran…well trained and well armed and confident in their task. I chose to withdraw, I could have made greater speed with my horse along and there was a great risk that the enemy could catch me if I did not…
However, I remained with my infantry. IF they were to be forced to face such an army then they would do so with me at their shoulders!!
I am planning to now join with what forces are available to the Duchy at Frankfurt before we turn and face this new threat. Even with such numbers our forces are mainly militia…normal working men of the Duchy with minimal drilling.
I understand the King did not feel we required the more professional forces that my castle at Metz could provide and, looking at our current income of the Realm, I can see why. Next season we will be in danger of bankrupting ourselves but our enemies it seems leave us with little choice.
My Majesty, I take it from your silence on the matter that my services are no longer required in Albion. I will move with all hast toward Frankfurt to join Prince Henri in the fight against the Germans. May the Welshmen be as much help to you killing the English as they were to me.
Philippe nods at Simon de Montpierre.
I will not keep you in these Isles against your will, Simon. I fully understand your feelings and hope things could have worked differently. Now, be assured that I still consider you a faithful vassal and I'm sure my son, your Captain, will welcome your reinforcement.
I'm sure the Welsh will serve me as well as they did under your orders... Yourself will soon find you among the finest of French soldiers, defending our northern border...
I entrust to you the life of my son Henri.
I thank you your Majesty. You will not be disappointed!
Bowing deeply Simon leaves the Counseil.
Brother Henri there is no shame in saving the lives of your men for a better day. Though we are Franks we are not invincible. All would do well to remember this fact, especially in light of the losses our realm has suffered of late.
I also announce that I and my expeditionary force have captured Grenada from the Moors. The soldiers captured in it's defense were not ransomed; it is clear their Sultan cares only for his own life. I now mean to ride to Gibraltar and sieze the narrow crossing to prevent the Moors at Cordoba from easily being reinforced before I move north against them. I have heard little from my father in law of late, if there is a diplomat available I would appreciate him contacting the Castillians to see how their forces lie and what scouting reports they may have.
Grenada is a hive of scum and villainy, it will require many priests to make a decent place of it. Perhaps Spain can aid in that matter as well.
The Moors there fled my coming in great cowardice, and few would face me. I wonder if all heathens are such cowards. In a few years when I drive on Cordoba we shall find the true test of their hearts.
(edit): Sir de Saint-Amand I have sent papers turning over the command of the Mailed Knights from Toulouse to your staff. They are now entirely at your disposal. If they prove inadequate in any way let me know and I will deal with the matter with my training staff. I apologize once more for declining to adopt you, in light of current circumstances it increasing appears to have been a decision of questionable worth on my part.
:egypt:
My Dauphin, regardless of our disagreements in the past let me be the first to congratulate you and thank you. Without many troops or much support, you and your house hold our Southern frontier, on which we face an actual and not self-induced threat. But far from merely holding, you have gone on the offensive and are throwing the heathens back to the sea. I salute you, hero of France.
Along with the carrot, though, comes the stick, and I must say that I would be most pleased if Granada and Cordoba were given to the Spanish crown.
"Dauphin, please, no apologies are necessary. God has seen to look after me and I have no regrets with the position I find myself in today.
And the knights I am sure will account for themselves well in battle. Compagnie d'Aquitaine will remain close by my own guard when it is time to cross swords with our enemies.
With that, I must depart. The men of the Reich yearn to do battle with the forces of Lorriane and I intend to see to it that they are not disappointed."
"Adieu, mes amis."
A letter arrives from Duc Raymond in Dijon.
Your majesty,
In anticipation of future battles with the Germans I shall use one of my prioritizations to recruit one regiment of town militia immediately. Also, I have a question for our scribes: Can an Lord use his prioritizations to recruit soldiers in settlements owned by his vassals?
Your obediant,
R. de Provence
Micheal D'Anjou enters the council, apparently in a good mood. He hums slightly as he takes a seat near by the rest of the house of aquitaiune
The English prince was foolish to move so deeply into french lands. He has been dispatched as well as his small retinue. They fought tenaciously, but broke when casualties started to mount. We rode down all we could, and I believe they have been thoroughly eradicated. The only explanation I can come up with as to how he got where he was is by ship, so I would like to petition he king to allow me to build a watchtower north of Pamplona next season.
Casualties among the peasants were low enough, although the uselessness of them as anything but cannon fodder still amazes me. But what can one expect?
For anyone who was unaware, Prince Henry of England had somehow crept into the forests southwest of Bordeaux. He was not as well hidden as he might have wished, however, as Baron D'Anjou makes obvious. I have given him charge over Pamplona and asked him to discover how the English came to intrude upon our lands. I suspect they've a naval presence of some sort in the west. Perhaps it is time for France to develop one as well?
I have ordered a blockade placed on the port of Cordoba to deny the Moors resources and reinforcement. I also mean to erect a fort at the narrows of Gibraltar, if the Seneschal will permit it next season, so that France can control passage. If the will of the Council is to return Granada to the Spanish they may also wish to garrison that fort, but in the mean time it will prevent Cordoba from being reinforced easily.
Once Granada and the crossing are secured I mean to drive on Corodoba and expel the infidels from Iberia for good. I still do not clearly know the situation in my father-in-law's lands. Perhaps an agent could be assigned to discovering how matters lie?
I ask that all Franks pray for Baron de Chatillon's victory at Bern. Perhaps Duke de Provence could be troubled to stir himself to the man's aid?
The same prayers must be said for Prince Henri and Duke de Saint-Amand in the north. The Germans have clearly found a new source of funding for their armies, especially in light of their purchase of Nuremburg. Perhaps after we have seen off their latest armies an equitable peace could be found?
Speaking of which, I salute your wisdom in enriching our kingdom at the small cost of surrendering those far flung settlements Mon Roi. Your guidance as Seneschal sees France profitable and successful on all fronts!