Conseil du Royaume

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...

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?"

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...

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:

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.]

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.

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.

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)

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?"

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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."

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:

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.