Actually this thing happened a few days ago, and I was out of town for a while. I do not remember the exact message was given, but I was positive that by killing the prisoners I would kill the Pope as well. I also recall, that it was a 21 piece unit.

But it is quite possible that my memory does not serve me well. I just wondered is it a possibility due to the special nature of the papal forces.

I am sure there was no new pope elected, as I was closely watching the messages and I also remembered the V&V of the present pope.

However that seems to be reasonable that killing the Pope on the field does not end excom - but it would be good to know for sure.