Conseil du Royaume

Thierry takes a parchment in front of him. The scribe next to him tells him it's the bill for his latest armor. Thierry shrugs and mumbles something.

"Read the Charter", he says. What are we? Priests? I can't read.

He whispers something to his scribe who takes another parchment and starts to read it softly to Thierry, who is soon starting to look bored. He tells his scribe to shut up and looks at Duke de Rohan.

If it's legally possible, then go ahead. I don't mind taking Caernarvon a second time. Allthough not very cooperative, the women were nice.

Alain glances at Thierry.

"Yes well we wont be going back zere again if it is successful no matter how accommodating ze Welsh wenches have been.

Zere are far too many sheep 'ere. It is not good for ze men's moral to be so near sheep all ze time. At least zat is what I have experienced."

I pray the High Seneschal will not become greatly annoyed that I should disagree with his interpretion of our charter- to wit:

All conquered provinces must be ratified by an edict, which can be passed at the session before the conquest or be applied retroactively at the first session after.

Edict 1.2 which passed by a vote of 20-0, stated

Brigandry is is not to be tolerated, and as such all rebel settlements bordering the nation of France are to be brought under her rule.

Ergo, by virtue of the fact that the rebel outpost of Metz bordered France, then it's ratification was a fait accompli.

And having been so ratified and the land formally passed by consent of the king, the remaining portion of the charter does not apply- to wit:

While a province is not ratified taxes must be set to the highest level possible and no recruitment can be made in that settlement.

So if the Seneschal considers whether or not to provide troops in support of the defense of Metz, I do not believe our charter should be an impediment to a final decision.

Bertin remains silent but gives a small nod of agreement in the direction of Thomas.

Sir de Saint-Armand is correct that my intent with Edict 1.2 was to ratify in advance the taking of rebel provinces bordering France, which would include Metz, Bruges, Zaragosa, and, after the taking of Zaragosa, Valencia. Is this unclear?

The difficulty with offering these lands is that they will do nothing to halt the German advance and they are highly unlikely to be viewed as worthy by dear William. Clearly he intended Wales to be a part of his realm, and so logically he will barter for it. Staufen is, perhaps, a less viable offer, but if he accepted it would secure one region of our border with the Romans.

Bruges is a rich city, in potential at least, and I do not believe anything we want from William is worth it in trade. Zaragosa and Valencia secure our flank to an ally, if they were surrendered to William we would have a potential enemy with access to three cardinal directions of attack against our nation. The land belongs to the King to do with as he pleases, but I would have to say offering William the chance to surround us is probably unwise.

Metz is a more interesting case in potential, but Metz has been assigned to a Baron and is no longer under the King's strict control. You will have to speak to the Baron to determine that province's availability in negotiations.

:egypt:

Alain stands visibly brightening at the news from Sir de Saint-Armand.

"Excellent.

I 'ave been speaking to ze King, Metz is formally 'anded over while ze remaining provinces are all part of ze Kings Demesne at zis point in time.

While I can understand ze issue wiz negotiating 'ard fought land to ze English, creating a France which is whole once more will at least shorten our boundries and ensure we 'ave a proper border to defend.

Zis is far more valuable zan 'aving enemies on both to our front and behind."

If we secure french lands from William they are already safe and far from the reach of the Germans or English. Also they are castles so professional troops could be trained. And offering lands such as Stauffen and Zaragosa are too remote for the English to use to martial forces against us.
Plus they are now surrounded by our ally to the south and enemy to the east.
So they could fall and be captured again.

Hugues speaks.

I believe we should limit ourselves to offering Staufen and Wales in any deal with the English. Not only is Bruges a profitable trading town, it offers the shortest passage across the Channel. We should deprive the English of it, and it might be useful later.

I know we have a Diplomat in England, but do we have one that will be able to treat with the Germans in the next few seasons? The possibility still exists that the Pope will ask us to cease hostilities.

Edit: Hugues nods to Thomas.

Very sharp thinking Chevalier.

We seem to have a consensus on Bruges being off the table.

Offering Zaragosa and/or Valencia would cut Raynaud de Xaintraillies off from the rest of France and strand him deep in English lands. I don't believe he would agree with the idea that it makes them 'too remote' to attack us. I don't know how that would effect the King's edict preventing trespassing on English lands... that same issue would cloud the hand over of Caeranarvon, eh?

Furthermore we have a castle, right now, with many men awaiting training and it is not being used. Not only that, it borders Germany when none of the other castles we might secure do, leaving troops trained at those a long distance from the front. I have resisted putting in prioritization because I do not wish to constrain the Seneschal's hands, but if we're securing fresh castles just so we can train I will put a prioritization in ahead of building any facilities in those places.

Zaragosa and Valencia are already secure and producing income for the war effort, more than would be produced by Anger certainly.

I hope very much for peace on the German front, but if it cannot be found and I find Toulouse is being surrounded by English provinces I may not feel entirely comfortable bringing my forces east into the German campaign.

:egypt:

Hugues grimaces.

That large German army now south of Reims did not besiege that city, nor did they attack me at the Moselle ford. Judging by that and their general course, I'd would say that they are heading to Dijon.

I hope you laid your best silverware out for company Duc Raymond.

He shakes his head.

I'm sorry a poor jest.

There seems to be three ways to deal with this: First, gather the combined forces of Bourgogne and Lorraine and attack them now. Second, wait for them to siege and then sally combined with my forces attacking their rear. Third, let them siege, but destroy their siege equipment through sallying. This could prolong the siege until starvation forced a sally, allowing us to gather a superior force to relieve the town.

What say you Duc Raymond?

Of course, if anyone has any bright ideas I'm listening.

(OOC: Turns out I have internet access up here after all.)

*An Aquitanian clerk gets handed a stack of reports. After skimming through all of them, he nods thoughtfully and stands up to address the Conseil.*

My Lords,

I hate to trouble you at this hour but it seems as if there has been another development in regards to the Empire. I will note that we have lost contact with Her Highness the Princess Constance. Her progress reports, normally very precise and prompt, have been noticeably absent for some time now. Considering her most recent report puts her in or near Imperial territory, I worry for her safety. I will also note that one of her suitors is a minor Imperial nobleman; Hermann von Munich, if I am not mistaken.

Not to presume things above my station, but I would like to reflect on the possibility that a member of the Royal Family has been kidnapped by the Holy Roman Empire for a moment.

I believe your second plan is the best, Duc Hughes. If his majesty will allow it, perhaps the Seneschal can recruit additional spear militia and rush them towards Dijon during the next season.

It seems to me that once we have accomplished that, the time shall be ripe to embark on a campaign to attack Bern. It is a fine castle that could supply us with many soldiers, and is quite close to both Staufen and Dijon. What say you all?

As for the matter regarding Princess Constance, I can only hope our enemies would not stoop so low. It should certainly be looked into, though by what authority I know not.

I second the Duc of Burgundy's proposal. The war is becoming a darker affair, with the fears over our Princess. Taking Bern would go someway towards securing what at present is our "soft underbelly", so to speak.

Hugues nods to Duc Raymond.

I will hold at the ford then and move in after they pass. I will most likely bring up extra forces from Reims and any Chevalier of Lorraine who wishes to join me.

You realize Duc Raymond that this will be your command? If I attack the rear, they will have time to back off to a site outside the town walls. In order to keep this advantage, you must initiate the attack and my men will enter as reinforcements.

Before I commit my men, I must have your word that you are confident of victory. A bloody defeat would ruin both our armies. This would leave my Duchy open to attack from the German army south of Frankfurt.

I mean no disrespect and I expect losses, but I must have an army still worth the name after the battle.

Thomas leans over to Hugues, and in a low voice replies "Mon duc, I am at your disposal and shall ride out from Rheims if this be our plan."

Hugues responds, forgetting to whisper and clapping Thomas on the shoulders.

Excellent! The whole Duchy will be there.

You have my word, Duc Hughes, that our forces will be victorious against the Swabians.

Alain looks at both Duke's in turn.

"So what do you need from me to support zis manoeuvre?"

Hugues responds to the Seneschal.

If Bertin de Montsault is to join us, as he wishes to do, a company of. . .ugh. . .peasants should be recruited to keep order in Metz in his absence, otherwise there might be rioting.

If the Germans siege Dijon, I will be able to bring myself, Baron Montsault, Chevalier Saint-Amand, four companies of spears and two of bowmen to the aid of Duc Raymond. Of the spearmen two companies are bloodied from Staufen.

Combined with Duc Raymond's forces in Metz, we should match the German numbers. Judging by my previous battle, they will most likely have the edge in quality of footmen, but with so many of our nobles in the field, we will have an advantage in cavalry.

Alain raises his eyebrows at the description.

"Well zen we should completely rodger zem if zat is ze case."

A herald in royal livery steps into the Conseil.

The King would require the service of the Order de la Fleur de Lys for one season more. Sa Majesté would like that as many Chevliers of the Order as possible join him on the Rhine ford west of Frankfurt to bar the way to the large German force holding it.

Raynaud de Xaintrailles:

I formally request permission to depart Iberia for a diplomatic mission to Imperial territory in order to inquire about the Princess Constance's wherabouts. It is clear that her absence has made an already-difficult situation even more terrible. As the Imperials, no matter their past troubles with the Pope, are a good Christian nation, I cannot believe that they would hold a fellow highborn against her will.

"You will be buggered by a bratwurst before you take two steps into Imperial territory Ray!!

Just what exactly are you going to be attempting zere? "

Raynaud:

I aim to go there under the protection of diplomatic immunity, inquire about her wherabouts, and ultimately extract her. Even if the war continues, it is beyond any highborn's sense of decently to kidnap a fellow highborn woman to use for his own twisted purposes.

Sir de Xaintraillies so long as you leave a competent man in charge of our Iberian holdings you have your lord's permission to proceed. I trust your understanding of the situation and your ability to ward yourself.

Plus, if the Germans do you any harm I'll take it right back out of their hides twice as fast. Godspeed!

:egypt:

The Prince, obviously in a merry mood, rises to speak once again with a wry grin,

I should add that if you do encounter any Germans who have run afoul of dear Constance please save them from her posthaste! I and the lads won't be far behind to deliver them to a sharper and more kindly fate, after which they will surely be at peace.

:egypt:

Raynaud de Xaintrailles:

As you will.

*Raynaud bows and exits the Conseil.*

God's speed, Raynauld.

Your majesty - the Company of the Order of the Fleur de Lys stands ready to answer your call. All four of us (Gaspard, Eloi, Simon and myself) will ride with you at your command. This will leave Antwerp without a garrison, but I trust you and the Seneschal can make suitable arrangements. Lowering the taxes would suffice to keep the locals content.

OOC: Tristan, it's probably easier if you move all the avatars, thanks. :bow:

It will be an honour to serve under your guidance once more, mon Roi.

I wish Seigneur de Xantrailles success in his endeavour. I still hope that the worst hasn't happened and that the Royal Family is safe.

Hugues clenches his fist.

I could lift that siege and destroy that army at Staufen if I only had an army worth the name.

I could hire mercenaries once I cross the Rhine and that would give me enough men, but the cost would be high.

The situation along the upper Rhine and Switzerland grows grim. The forces in Bern will reconstitute and strike west again. If Staufen falls, the German army there will join them. So we pay now for the mercenaries, or we pay later rebuilding our burnt cities.

Failing this, I will fall back to the Moselle ford.

Alain looks at a piece of parchment and shakes his head in disappointment.

"Duc Hugues,

I regret to inform you zat zere are still regiments on zhe prioritisation list which must be recruited before any mercenaries.

Unless of course zose nobles wish to readjust zeir lists.

In fact, can all nobles of ze realm please indicate here or by way of a letter if zay are still requiring troops? I wish to cross sheck my numbers."

Hugues nods in resignation.

Of course. . .All of Lorraine's prioritizations have been met.

He heavily sits down.

Note: The battle referred to in this post is from a withdrawn save and is not part of game continuity. Nor should this post be considered "canon". I'm leaving what was written for the sake of transparency.

Spoiler Alert, click show to read: 

After leaving, Hugues limps back into the Conseil in battered armor, one arm in a crude linen sling.

Well, I surprised the Germans at their siege camp. I managed to kill half of them. Still couldn't break the siege.

He sits with a clatter of metal. Grabbing a goblet of wine, he finishes it in three large gulps. Wiping his mouth the Duc takes in a deep breath and releases it.

Now, if the Germans attack me, I can retreat and the siege, for the moment will be lifted. However, if they still attack Staufen, I will be unable to stop them without reinforcement. They'll bleed some more, but they'll have the Castle.

The Duc smashes the goblet down.

Your call, Seneschal.

The Duc laughs mirthlessly and begins to drink straight from the bottle.

Nobles of the realm, word has reached me of the successful negotiation of Princess Constance's release. It further appears that the German Emperor has made an overture of peace alongside freeing my dear sister. I would hear your thoughts on the potential for peace.

Firstly have we repaid the Germans for their treachery against our King? Mon Roi only you can answer this by rights, but more than one German noble has met his end on our swords. I made Mandorf walk fifteen miles through the snow after I captured him, and that's no small humiliation for such a stiff backed prig, and now their Emperor himself faces a siege that can have but one conclusion. If we kill a King, though, there may be no turning back from total war and I must question whether we are prepared to administer all the German lands with William still strong at our backs.

Secondly have we secured defensive borders for the territory we mean to hold? Staufen fell because our laws and finances prevented it's defense. Marseille is in a similar constraint, although I have men in position to keep that city secure, but it will inhibit any further advance on my part. Antwerp is a rich city, and along with Marseille could, in time, provide a flood of trade income... if we can get off a war footing.

Thirdly we must genuinely consider whether or not it is our intent to spend our florins on troops to occupy hostile, foreign lands while native Franks live under English rule. I have strictly observed the King's truce with England, and found it credible, but as the next legislative session nears we must consider conserving funds for a potential end to that truce.

Finally, and perhaps most controversially, I will ask that the idea of the Moorish crusade be reconsidered. Good Christians war with each other while their brothers live under heathen rule. I question if this is truly what God wills, though it was not wrought by our hands or intent.

So, what say you? Shall we now, concertedly, seek peace? Or shall we drive on east to the ends of the Empire?

:egypt:

Hugues speaks.

Talking about peace is grand, but have we had any actual negotiations involving diplomats? I don't recall the Seneschal reporting on any.

Staufen was to be a chit, but we waited too long. What do we offer now? I doubt the Germans will accept peace without the return of some of their taken lands.

If this war goes on longer, I fear that we will begin to lose territory. The King's drive into northern Germany is inspiring, but we have few forces to counter a renewed attack into Lorraine or Bourgogne.

Edit: It appears that we have no diplomats anywhere close to the Empire or their forces.

Alain stands, glances momentarily at the King and then addresses the Council.

"My Lords, ze King and I 'ave reached an 'in principle' agreement with ze English. It will be ratified officially zis season and very soon.

Wizout saying too much, it does involve an exchange of provinces zat will be to our liking and will create a mostly sound border with our neighbours and ze English.

I do not want to say more at zis time but soon you will receive official word of ze arrangement.

At least zat may help wiz zese discussions."

Hugues laughs.

You are a cruel man Seneschal, to hint at so much and yet say so little.

Grinning back.

"Yes, I zink I am spending too much time wiz de Rochefort!"

Will our king, who has been winning glorious battles in the east be making this announcement? As to the thoughts of Prince Louis, I would again ask our king for his opinions on these matters. I realize his majesty has had his hands full with the Germans, but these matters of state are of considerable importance, and to know his majesty's thoughts would be of use to this conseil.

Hugues stands, he sways a bit but steadies himself.

Metz is besieged. Another German army threatens Dijon or Reims. I and the Nobles of Lorraine will do what we can about Metz, but will anyone else act against this threat to our Kingdom?

The Duc glances over to the Bourgogne section of the Conseil, raising an eyebrow before his gaze passes on.

Perhaps the Order? They are here to "protect the welfare of the French people". Oh, but they are busy protecting the welfare of the one Frenchman who is most important. They are in Flanders and Germany.

The Seneschal? He is in Wales. And there is no money for mercenaries. We must build instead, we wouldn't want to short the Germans on kindling.

The Dauphin? On his way, praise the Lord, but not here yet.

The King?

Hugues pauses, something on the tip of his tongue. He closes his mouth with a click of his teeth. After a moment, he speaks again.

The King is otherwise engaged. Though I would hope the threat of excommunication will shift his Majesty's focus to our homeland.

We face the loss of Metz within a season, and another city perhaps within two. What are we going to do about it?

Edit: Need I remind anyone what city is west of Dijon and Reims?

Alain Grimaces at Hugues words, standing slowly.

My Lord Duc, I wish to personally apologies for not recruiting additional forces in ze last season. Ze situation in Lorraine is dire and I can not explain my complete lack of oversight regarding ze matter.

Wiz ze situation in Dublin nearly untenable, I will move as many men as I can from Bretagne towards your Ducal seat in the coming season.

Simon turn towards Hugues.

Duc de Champagne, if you require the assistance of the Order you just have to ask the Captain of the Order. I am sure we could be of service. Of course for now we have chosen to follow our Roi and will do so until he no longer requires us.

Hugues takes a swig from a wineskin and turns to Simon.

I have stated several times the severity of the situation. I have asked for help several times. I have begged for a comprehensive approach to respond to the German build up in this very chamber!

I have been met with a few mollifying words or silence.

Well the time for words has passed. To Hell with all of you!

Enough is enough! I have had it with these :daisy: Germans in my :daisy: Duchy! I'm going to go kill those :daisy:s and make them rue the day they crossed the :daisy: Rhine!

Hugues stalks out.

Esteemed Duc de Lorraine, I see the Order as primarily defensive, so I am extremely sympathetic to your call for aid. However, even if we answered your call this season, the Order Company could not reach Metz in time to assist in lifting the siege. If we look beyond this season, the King is arguably more exposed in Frankfurt without our support than you are in Lorraine. Consequently, to speak frankly, I cannot see the Order being able to provide you immediate aid. After the coming Conseil session, our new Captain will doubtless review our deployment in consultation with the King and the Seneschal. Our duty is to march to wherever we are most needed, but discerning where precisely that will be is no easy task and will require careful coordination with leaders such as yourself.

[OOC: posted while OK was posting. No doubt Hermant was vainly speaking as the Duc was storming out.]

Alain frowns as Hermant makes his address.

He stands, tilts his head to the side, opens his mouth, purses his lips to speak, raises a hand with the index finger pointing towards the centre of the chamber, sucks the air through his teeth, blows out loudly, then shakes his head and slumps back down on his seat.

Madoc, now a brilliant shade of lilac, his head the same height as a seated man, seems slightly confused by the episode, but still gives his master a reassuring lick on the face once Alain resumes his place.

Thomas, clearly agitated by what has come to pass, stands to speak. He knows that he must not say what he truely believes, lest he forsake a code of conduct that he swore to follow as he came of age.

"Seigneurs, you will excuse me, but my path is set. My place is by the side of my lord, the Duc de Lorraine, to whom I swore loyalty and with whom I have fought and will fight to the death if God wills it. Lorraine and its people will be defended, to my last breath. To this I swear."

Thomas then turns and walks almost out of the chambers. He then comes to a sudden stop, overcome by anger. He turns suddenly in the direction of Hermant.

A wise decision to remain at our Kings side. Perhaps he will favor you and the Order with Frankfurt in addition to whatever else he's promised you- for your loyal and faithful service!

He then turns again and leaves the conseil.

Hugues bursts into the Conseil battered and bloodied, he tromps to the center of the room while drinking from a wineskin. As he stops to speak, he sways, barely keeping his feet. Is it blood loss, wine or both?

There are no more Germans left between the Moselle and the Rhine!

https://i207.photobucket.com/albums/...metzsalvic.jpg
https://i207.photobucket.com/albums/.../zsnakevic.jpg

The rest will have to wait until next season. We're back at the ford, though those lazy militia from Reims had to rest at Metz. Made me bring those peasants with me. . .ugh.

The first batch of survivors were ransomed for 2056 florins. That means we can build something! Wooooo!

Second batch the Germans didn't want to pay for, so. . .

Hugues makes a loud and sloppy throat cutting gesture.

Bertin and Thomas fought like lions! I love those guys! They make me so proud!

That's how we do it in Lorraine!

Wooooo. . .

Mid exclamation, the Duc pauses, gags noisily and starts to look a bit ill.

I don't feel so good.

The Duc keels over with a loud clatter of metal. Reeves, always in the background, drags him to the Lorraine benches and attempts to revive him.

While Reeves tends to Hugues, Thomas now enters the chambers, a look of utter exhaustion upon him. Contained in the butcher's bill- fourteen of his bodyguard dead, paid by Thomas. His duc's loss was greater still.

Stopping at Lorraine's bench, he points to Hugues de Champagne and proclaims:

"There my brothers, is the rock of the Moselle. The Kaiser's men cannot break him. Lorraine is safe while he lives; he fights as though the fury of tens of thousands stand behind him!"

Thomas then slowly walks to take his seat.

"Reeves, when you have a moment, please hand me the duc's wineskin. I think I need it."

The Prince enters and regards the scene in some amazement before speaking,

Good Duke de Champagne if you had but waited a little while I and the men who have kept up with me would've been delighted to join you lads in routing the German dogs. Only a few mounted sergeants are with me yet, but Sir de Perrone is bringing the rest along at a goodly pace!

I would suggest that we coordinate our next action. As the heart of France now appears secure I would like to ride back and bring de Perrone and the men with him along personally. Do you believe we have time for this? I will trust your 'ground truth' as you have more recently seen the battlefield than I.

:egypt:

I congratulate the Duc of Lorraine and Chevalier Thomas on their victories. It is clear that fortitude and prowess are among their many virtues. When he has recovered from his exertions, perhaps the good Chevalier Thomas would contemplate the possible virtue of charity in debate.

Reeves looks up from his ministrations. He hands the wineskin to Thomas. At this point, the "Rock of the Moselle" loudly vomits and then turns on his side, still in a deep slumber.

It appears my lord is indisposed.

As to the Dauphin's question, the current situation looks like this:

https://i207.photobucket.com/albums/...in/1095sit.jpg

There is still a German army under Captain Hans that is in the heart of our territory. He could strike us at the ford, at the Prince even, or siege Reims, Dijon. . .possibly even Paris. If he attacks the Duc at the ford, there is little anyone can do I believe. Though men could be moved in to reinforce him, but it is most likely not needed. The Dauphin could combine with Sir Perrone if he expects an attack. If a city is besieged, we will have a season to respond. We have enough forces in the area that could converge to break a siege. Of course Hans, if he was an intelligent man, may even retreat to Bern or Staufen.

The survivors of Metz are in Staufen and some of those who survived the battle with Duc Raymond outside Dijon are encamped in Bern, though Hans may have a majority of these. These forces are still considerable but are perhaps depleted. They could march again however.

The next move of our enemy will dictate my Duc's actions. However, I am confident that if he is able to, he would choose to attack. With the caveat that any action against a German settlement or army in their territory would bring the spiritual wrath of the Pope down upon us.

Edit: It does appear his Majesty might be in for a rough patch if he chooses to hold Frankfurt. I'm quite sure he has anticipated this though.

Thomas takes a few gulps of wine, and feeling a bit refreshed as a result, rises and stands by Reeves. He looks down on his now-slumbering duc. Gently placing his hand on the duc's head and with a smile, Thomas quietly says to Reeves.

"Quite indisposed as you say. Yet under his leadership he saved us all from death's grip, I certainly could not have done so, and I dare say my doubts are that Bertin would have fared better."

Thomas then turned away, and took three or four steps away from the scene.

"Chevalier Hermant, I welcome the opportunity to have a debate on any subject you would care to indulge in. I have no shame in saying I greatly prefer that sort of challenge than the one we have just come from."

Chevalier Thomas, forgive me - I tried to be elliptical and ended up merely being obtuse. I do not wish to challenge you to debate. I am merely recommending that in an esteemed place such as the Conseil, we adopt the principle of "charity in debate". That is to say, if a man disagrees with us, we are charitable about his motives and his speech. He may not say what we want to hear nor do what we want him to do. Nevertheless, unless we know otherwise, we assume his motives are honorable and his speech true. It is easy to accuse a man of base desires and false utterances, but much harder to prove. The falsely accused man will be innocent, while the guilty will deny all bad intent and hide their falsehoods in subterfuge. It is more seemly and more constructive to adopt the principle of charity in debate. Trading words with a base liar is unlikely to be productive however it is done. But if your adversary is in fact an honest man of good intent, the principle of charity in debate can avoid antagonism and advance understanding.

"I see, Chevalier Hermant, and trust you will pardon that I did not understand the true meaning of your words. I am quite tired. When mon duc appealed for assistance, it was my hope that you might at least offer to inquire among your members if even one might be available to assist us. When that sort of response was not forthcoming, it did weigh most heavily on my mind. Under the difficult circumstances we are facing in Lorraine, I hope you can understand that.

It is the mark of a true gentleman that he measure his words, even in the most challenging of times. I myself am enough of a man to recognize that I have room for improvement in this area."

With that, Thomas bows towards Chevalier Hermant and returns to take his seat.

I and my men are now in position to relieve Dijon if it should be brought under siege. I am uncertain if we could reach any other core cities, but I will ride out alone if necessary. None should fear to ask my aid, I will serve under any man who defends France for God and King!

:egypt:

I am grateful for the Prince's arrival at Dijon and wish him every success in defending our Kingdom.

Chevalier Thomas, I understand your situation. But let me also explain mine: the Order marches under its Captain. It is not always practical to debate operational matters while on campaign. In moments of calm, such as in this Conseil, I am a great believer in consultation. But out in the field, where decisiveness and swift action are at a premium, I believe in command. When I heard your Duc's request, I personally - as Lieutenant acting in lieu of my Captain - assessed the situation. That is when I found my Company was too far from Metz to be of aid this season and that the King was menaced in Frankfurt by a substantial German army, with only two companies of mounted sergeants to support him.

But this issue raises a larger one - the planning and conduct of military operations throughout the Kingdom. At present, each army appears to be acting semi-autonomously - moving at its commander's whim. This risks inefficiency - for example, suppose all armies were to march to Metz or Dijon, when only one was required and leave other areas undefended. I say with all frankness, had I been able to reach Metz this season, I probably would have marched there - leaving our beloved King exposed, unnecessarily it now seems - given the skill of Lorraine's brave defenders.

I would suggest we consider the benefits of a more unified command structure. The office of the Seneschal is ideally placed to undertake this role - organising the planning and implementation of our military campaigns. I suggest that candidates for the post in the coming Conseil give some thought to this idea and how it might be made operational. If it is part of their campaign manifesto, it may give them more authority when they seek to direct our great Lords and army commanders. For my part, I believe the Order Company would happy work within such a national command structure. Afterall, it was to provide a national armed force, that the Order was formed.

The King steps in the Conseil chambers.

Mes Seigneurs,

I wish to congratulate all of you for your valiant conduct on the fields of battle. France will have nothing to fear in the coming years if we can keep maintain such a high standard of valour. For having witnessed it with my own eyes, the bravery of the Order knights is to be commanded. I'd be grateful if they were to join me in Frankfurt to help defend it against the Imperials or to rout any remnants of the Imperial army lingering on what is now French soil.

Anyway, I hope our war with the Germans to be at an end soon.

Heinrich the Heathen, who had wished to defy his Holiness, the Representative of God on Earth, now faces his Creator's judgment. I feel my mission is accomplished, which also seems the way Sa Sainteté sees it, putting us under threat of excommunication if we failed to refrain from further assault on the Reich. So I encourage all of you to refrain from laucnching further assault on German hodlings, though that doesn't mean defendng our own against their assaults.

I do not doubt that once the army attacking Metz has been defeated we will not see further German incursions in our lands, though with Mandorf taking the throne of the Kaiser, we cannot be sure... We can trust him to bear us a grudge, Louis, non ?

However, I am angry... Because all my efforts to make our Royaume whole again, or as close to it as can be, have been spoilt through the lack of efficiency of our Senechal.

I had managed to secure a deal with Guillaume concerning the return of Caen and Angers to our fold for provinces that hold no intrinsic value to us, Caernavon (overseas and surrounded by the English) and Valencia (too far from our homeland to be easily defended). This was sweetened with an offer of alliance and us paying tribute to England for the next ten seasons. A price I was more than willing to pay for such a gain.

Now, I can't decide if it was a fumbling attempt by our Senechal to carry out this deal or a deliberate attempt to sabotage it but the diplomat chosen for the task is less than skilled, some even call it awkward... I feel this was not the most adquate man to chose for this important mission... I feel he may have gravely insulted my cousin Guillaume, provoking his refusal...

Though I hardly understand the motivations behind such an act, as his would have made Bretagne once again a full part of the Royaume rather than a French island cut off from the main land by a sea of English swords, I cannot but see the ill will displayed by our current Senechal in carrying out my wishes or those of the country.

I had asked Duc Alain to make everything in his power to grab Dublin under the nose of the Scots and English smoething which could have been easily accomplished had he managed to seal that alliance with England. We could then have offered to return Dublin for Bordeaux, maybe sweetening the deal once more with florins or military access, as can only be done among allies.

I cannot but see also the neglect of our Capital where only a market has been built during the whole term of our Senechal, while several of our settlements have seen more than their fair share of building... Does our Senechal expect us to impress the world if our Capital is nothing but a pigsty ?

You even failed the Duc of Lorraine by "forgetting" to recruit the men he so direly needed, forcing to fight heroically to defeat the German hordes unleashed on our lands... Something for which I wish to thank him with all my heart.

Thanks to his efforts and my own drive through German lands, our Royaume could have achieved this very season to be the equal of Charlemagne's Empire extending from the Pyrenees to Flanders, from the Atlantic to Swabia. It seems this dream of mine will have to wait.

Duc Alain, I'm sorely disappointed in you... I had thought you had what it took to be a great Senechal, a man that had all it needed to rise to the top and bring his House up with him... It seems I've been duped in thinking so...

It seems our Royaume will need a man with a stronger will to lead it in the next seasons. One that will see the sense of following his King's directions, if not to the letter, at least in his intent...

The King's demesne has been greatly enlarged by our campaigns this term... These lands do not belong to me solely... They belong to all of us who fought for our Royaume. So I'll ask the Ducs, knights and all who feel entrusted to hold some of these lands in my name to make themselves known, either here publically or in a private audience, to lay their claims before so that I can assess their validity and the claimant merits in determining how these lands will be allotted.

This will be done before the start of the next Conseil session, to allow some of our still landless nobles to have a chance to gain some and run for the position of Senechal.

Reeves's eyes widen. He redoubles his efforts to awaken Duc Hugues. With a grunt, he awakens and the two have a hurried conversation. The Duc then shuffles forth to speak.

Uh. . .right. First, thank you for the praise your Majesty. Just doing our part.

He shakes his head trying to clear the cobwebs.

Second, I can't speak to a lot of what has been said, but Duc Alain did meet my prioritizations for men. It's just that due to our resources, it would have been peasants or militia, no archers or cavalry. There was one time I was refused mercenaries, but that was more than balanced out by the time he granted me money to hire them to defeat the Germans at Staufen.

Duc Alain has been straight with me.

With respect, mon Roi, the only Seneschal whose performance would be completely satisfactory to your Majesty, would be, well, your Majesty.

A rye smile cross Alain's features as the King makes his speech.

That smile continues as he stands, the parchment he holds in his hand folded carefully and precisely, then slowly and with great care torn in to equal parts.

With a even and ironic lilt to his voice he addresses the Council as a whole.

My King, Dauphin, fellow Duc, lords of ze realm.

I was going to provide a summary of ze last 15 years and 'and zis report to ze next Seneschal, whoever 'e may be.

While holding the gaze of the attending nobles he absently holds the torn parchment out to which Medoc proceeds to eat with just a few gulps.

'owever, it seems zere is no need. Our King 'as made 'is will known and zere is clearly no need to add anyzing furzer. I did as I was instructed to ze best of my ability.

As a result, 'ere openly and publicly in zis chamber, I, Duc Alain of Bretagne make no claim to any of ze lands 'eld in ze King's demesne. I will leave to ze rest of you to stake your claims at ze Kings pleasure and to rule in 'is name over zese lands.

I would simply ask ze King to consider ze claims, which may come from ze nobles of Bretagne, and 'opefully put aside 'is zoughts towards me and allow zem to reap some rewards for zeir valiant efforts.

God save France, God save ze King.

Alain sits.

Having listened to Duc Alain reply to his criticism, the King speaks again.

It is now time to take into account our conquests and reward the Maisons du Royaume with the lands they helped us acquire for the greater good of France.

The King's Demesne has been much enlarged by these recent additions and now has come the time for me to share it with you, mes Seigneurs.

Of all our conquests, only Frankfurt and Marseille have not yet been ratified by the Conseil and thus cannot be allocated. Nevertheless, let me say that should these provinces be ratified I intend to offer Frankfurt to the Duchy of Lorraine.

Marseille will remain the propriety of its conqueror, my son Louis and the House of Aquitaine.

There remains in the King's Demesne five regions to be handed out : Bruges, Antwerp, Caernarvon, Zaragoza and Valencia.

Zaragosa is to be given to my son Louis and the House of Aquitaine, as should only be fitting.

Antwerp is to be given to the Ordre de la Fleur de Lys, as a base for their headquarters, as a reward for the good service they provided at my side.

Bruges will remain for now into the King's Demesne, as I intend to oversee its building to become a major trading centre personally.

As for Caernarvon and Valencia, these will have to remain into the King's Demesne. The first one ws never intended to be a lasting addition to our Royaume but rather as a way to show Guillaume what it felt to have a foreign power at his throat. It was intended as a bargaining chip with England towards the return of English-held French territories. The second is too distant from our homeland to be easily defensible should the Moors prove more aggressive than they've been these past years and choose to push north. Better leave Guillaume to deal with them first.

I'm sure that under the proper guidance, the deal that was reached between Guillaume and myself can still see the light and will allow us to give lands to Houses that have been neglected until now.

Simon bows before the King.

In the name of my brother Knights I thank your for rewarding the Order of the Fleur de Lys with the gifting of Antwerp. Posession of land will enable us to serve the Royaume even better in the future. With land comes power and the possibility for one of our members, who holds the land during Council to run for the position of Seneshal. I am sure that the widening of the field of contestants for this most venerous office can only benefit France as a whole.

I thank his Majesty once again and also congratulate the other Nobles to their new possesions. France has prospered may it continue to do so!

As a member of the house of Aquitaine I am also thankful to his majesty for allowing us Zaragroza, and Marseilles. We will not disappoint him, and the cities will become shining examples of our nation.

Alain stands and bows to ze King.

I would state for ze record 'ere zat ze English are still open to negotiations wiz us. Ze next Seneschal will most likely be able to obtain ze conditions for a land exchange upon a simple meeting.

Philippe acknowledges Alain's word with a simple nod.

Exactly the reason why both Caernarvon and Valencia have not been handed out to the Houses. I hope the deal with my cousin Guillaume can be finalized in the next term.

Had you done this yourself Alain, rather than wait on the next Senechal to fulfill your mission, there would have been lands for your House in this.

Now, I'm not one to hold grudges for long, and I may have been a bit harsh earlier... I spoke in anger... You've done what you could to keep the kingdom afloat and aside from your diplomatic setbacks, you did rather well, all considered.

So if the deal can be brokered next season, I'll reward your House with one of these newly exchanged lands.

I wouldn't be doing France a favour by antagonizing one of her Duke, would I ?

Alain bows formally to the King.

You may antagonise whom ever you wish and hold grudges for as long as you would like your Majesty.

You have said what you thought, your meaning is clear.

Ze good news is zat ze situation is not fatal and ze next Seneschal will be able to fulfil your orders.

Perhaps ze nobles of Bretagne can join ze Order and gain some experience against ze Roman Empire.

I will retire to Rennes.

Hugues bows to the King but casts a glance at Alain while doing so.

Thank you, your Majesty.

Perhaps I should adopt the title of Marquis? It seems I am now a lord of le Marche du Rhin.

Edit: Pending Conseil approval that is.

A nervous looking functionary makes his way to the dais in the center of the Council Chamber.

"The 2nd Conseil du Royaume. It shall close for voting on the 10th of September at 21:00 PST, so make your edicts, amendments, and announce Seneschal candidacies while you can."

The King takes a scroll handed out by a scribe and reads aloud.

Edict 2.1 : The settlements of Marseille, Frankfurt and Antwerp will be incorporated into the Royaume. The settlement of Caernarvon will also be incorporated insofar as it stretches the extent of Edict 1.2.

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.

Hugues speaks.

I second both edicts.

I know I don't want to be denied communion. I assume that attacking German forces that enter our lands is allowed by this Edict, mon Roi?

I'll have more to say once Reeves gets me the latest reports.

Another scroll is handed to the King by the scribe.

Edict 2.3 : A diplomat will be sent to Rome at the earliest opportunity. It is important that we build back the best of relations with the Holy Father, in the wake of his threat of excommunication.

Proclamation 2.1 : Any settlement bought from a foreign power (OOC : AI faction) will be automatically incorporated into the Royaume.

Edict 2.4 : A treaty will be signed with Guillaume of England concerning the return to the French crown of the settlements of Caen and Angers. Negotiations will be held also for the return of Bordeaux.

Gaspard de Neufville rises to speak.

"Bons messieurs, during the time of Duc de Alain as Seneschal, the royaume has expanded considerably. Land to the east has been reclaimed from our German neighbours, and the lordships of northern Spain have been returned to Frankish rule."

Pausing for a moment, Gaspard continues.

"However, during such a rapid expansion, we have had little time to build up the royaume and bring prosperity to our lands. Only now, having brought florins into the roi's coffers, do we have enough wealth to improve this land for the better.

Churches, markets, ports - not to mention barracks, stables, and headquaters for siege engineers - can and should be now built across the realm. Such expansion of our towns and châteaux will strike fear and respect into the hearts and minds of all the roi's enemies."

Looking each noble in the eye, Gaspard pause before continuing.

"Bons messiuers, I am willing to take upon the office of Seneschal, and carry out the faithful governing of the royaume in the interests of our roi and this assembled conseil.

I will see that due resources will be sent to the nobles fighting on the frontier with the Holy Roman Empire, while securing our other borders with sufficient men and supplies to ward off any sudden attack.

I also pledge to begin the construction of a royal navy. This navy shall be under the command of the roi, and will be initially built in the excellent ports of Bruges and Antwerp, once they be properly furnished. We cannot allow our royaume to be without either naval transport or a suitable defence against marauders that come across the depths as the Vikings of old.

As Seneschal, I would seek to maintain a healthy relationship with His Holiness and the Holy Sea, and begin to organise emissaries at all the major courts of Europe. Such communication is vital for the swift conclusion of diplomatic affairs, and will increase our contact with neighbouring royaumes.

As Captain of the Order de la Fleur de Lys, I also pledge to lead mon fellow chevaliers into battle at mon roi's command. I will serve where he wishes me to, and we will uphold the honour of our roi's name.

Finally, I pledge that if elected, I will govern fairly and equally among all the Duchies and the Order. I am not interested in favouritism, but will govern in the best interests of all.

Merci, bons messieurs."

Gaspard de Neufville resumes his seat.

Alain folds his arms and leans back in his seat, with a rye smile and a look of some contempt he glances around at any other nobles who may run for the position.

Yvon Looks up


Ahhh, I second Edicts 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and Proclamation 2.1.


but on 2.4 I have to disagree. The English have already proven to us they do not want a fair deal. We can blame Duc Alain de Rohan all we want, but in the end it comes down to the fact that the English enjoy having France in a stranglehold.

As Yvon finishes, the King answers.

Not a fair deal ? Who are you to question the fairness of a deal when this deal has been brokered by your King ? Don't you think we'll benefit from this more than it will cost us ? Have you taken into account the costs of maintaining troops on our borders with the English and the current length of that border ? If we minimize one then we can minimize said costs, money that can serve to improve our lands and pay the upkeep of our soldiers fighting against the Reich.

And we can excuse Duc de Rohan all we want but I concluded a deal with my cousin Guillaume and it is only through the fault of our diplomat, chosen by our Senechal, that the deal could not be sealed.

Hence the need for this Edict to finally seal that deal, a deal which will much benefit France as a whole, returning to her bosom provinces that had been lost.

And as strangleholds come, I had hoped to have a similar stanglehold on England by way of taking both Caernarvon and Dublin, forcing Guillaume's hand in restoring to us our mainland provinces, but it seems the odds were too great for the men of Bretagne.

Hugues speaks again.

I will second Edict 2.3 and 2.4.

I would prefer to preserve the power of the Conseil to ratify any new province, no matter how it is acquired. If urgent, we can always vote to ratify possible targets of a land swap in advance.

The proposed amendment could be abused by an adventuresome Seneschal. For example if we somehow acquired Scotland in a trade, even if no one but the Seneschal wished to acquire it, under this proposal, the new lands would automatically be part of the Realm.

Yes, something like this would never happen. Scotland of all places! But I use the example to show my point.

The war against the Germans, however just, has put us into a very bad standing with the Holy Sea. Edict 2.2 ensures that it doesn't get worse and Edict 2.3 might improve the situation somewhat. If we truly want to impress the Papacy we will have to show it through our action. We have to repent for waging outright war and claiming the territory of a fellow Christian Kingdom.

In absence of a better way to redeem ourselves I propose the following Edict.

Edict 2.5:
The next Seneshal will send at least three priests to Cordoba, where they will spread Christianity.

Rescuing the infidels from the doorsteps of Hell through holy missionaries will surely redeem us in the eyes of the Papacy. Cordoba is the obvious target, the beating pulsing heart of the heathen threat to Iberia.

Raynaud de Xaintrailles:

*bursting into the Conseil chamber*

I second Edict 2.5!!!

*He pauses, looking around.*

The Princess is back in France. I will get briefed on the situation and speak more later.

Simon looks at Raynaud a little surprised but slowly nods.

What great news! The Princess has returned, safe and sound I assume? I can't wait to hear your story.

Still looking perplexed he sits down again.

Reeves urgently whispers into Hugues's ear. The Duc tries to bat him away like a bothersome fly.

Why in God's name would I want to do that!? I'd rather be drawn and quartered. . .by Elephants! Make yourself useful and get me some wine.

Reeves, undeterred, continues his whispering. The Duc loudly responds.

Damn! Yes, I suppose so. That's a good point.

Reeves continues on.

Alright! Enough! I understand. But you'll do all the paperwork!

Hugues composes himself and stands to speak again.

Hmmm. . .yes. . .ah. . .having consulted with my advisors and after careful deliberation, I have decided to. . .

Hugues shoots Reeves a poisonious glare.

. . .stand for the position of Seneschal.

It's come to my attention that Captain de Neufville may or not be legally qualified for the position. Certainly his claim is stronger than last time, but anything is better than nothing.

Right. . .ah priorities for my term. . .uh. . .yes.

Reeves hands Hugues some parchment.

Well, we seem to be in a spot of trouble with the Pope. Can't allow that to continue. There are already some edicts from the King concerning this, which I have seconded. We must assume a. . .

Hugues sighs audibly.

. . .defensive posture in our war with the Germans. That means no more marching into their land and killing their Emperor or Princes or taking their cities. Of course, they march into our land, they're fair game. We keep what we have taken, but keep the Pope happy. Or as happy as that sour old coot ever is.

Speaking of the war, it took us by surprise. . .

Hugues shoots a quick glance toward the Throne.

. . .well most of us. Which means we don't have the necessary buildings to recruit proper troops. Toulouse is the only place in the Kingdom where even peasant archers can be recruited, peasants! Cavalry is hard to find too. This needs to be addressed.

Now, if 2.2 passes, we'll be trying to make peace with the Germans. But it will take a while to get a diplomat to them and they are an obstinate and bloodthirsty people. . .unlike us of course. Peace is not a certainty. And other threats could emerge; the English, the Milanese and others. We have discovered agents of theirs in our cities. They can't be trusted to keep the peace, even though we are a. . .peaceful people seeking only co-existence.

So we need these military buildings so we can protect our cities, reduce our reliance on mercenaries and provide our Generals with balanced and reliable forces.

Now, that doesn't mean churches and markets are right out, but we need to find the correct balance. You need money for troops, but if you don't have decent troops, you've got nothing. We're playing catch up at this point.

As Seneschal I would also attempt to provide a level of coordination among our military efforts that has been. . .ah. . .lacking. Whether it was the Order sieging Bruges against the wishes of the King or marauding German armies bursting into our heartland, we need better communication between the various factions of the Kingdom. After consulting with field commanders and assessing the situation I would propose a comprehensive strategy for the deployment of armies at the beginning of the season.

Obviously, anyone would be free to ignore me, but it's a start. I was able to work with Duc Raymond in this very chamber to save Dijon, so I've done this before.

Well, That's it for my. . .uh. . .prepared statements. I'd be. . .uh. . .happy. . .to answer any questions the Conseil might have.

The Duc sits and takes a large swig of wine.

Your majesty's pardon. I wish first thank his majesty for the epic victories he has won against the Reich. They have clearly drawn the attention of those outside the Royaume that the Franks are not a people to be trifled with. We are also appropriately grateful to his majesty that these conquered territories are to be shared among those who have performed due service to the Royaume.

May I suggest that chevalier Yvon be permitted some degree of forgiveness by his majesty for that last statement, because he does not, as put so aptly, know the specifics of this deal, concluded through most skilled and artful negotiation of the respectve crowns. Indeed, I do not. Does anyone share the confidence of his majesty as to what details are contained in this deal? Is our next diplomat merely delivering papers to be signed by your cousin or is there more to it than that?

I too share a certain level of disappointment with the results of our more formal diplomacy to date. Yet I do take into account that the offers alone do not make the diplomat. The skills needed for such a craft take many years to perfect and are not always easy even in more peaceful times when suspicions are not so great among men. I know of the man in Scotland representing us, and I dare say he is fairly new at the game and as a result at times he has difficulty convincing others that the sky is up. Under normal circumstances I would wish he had more time and better circumstances in which to work, but sadly he does not. Were that our princess have been available, perhaps this negotiation could have been concluded some time ago, and it is indeed joyous news she has returned to us once more.

But I stray too far from my question. What specifically must happen in order for this deal to be struck with your cousin, sire?