The Republic Reborn

[Nomadic]

[ic=Before the Lesser Council]
I will respect this position Senator and I am glad that we could come to some mutual agreement on this matter. If you will allow me to present this to the senate calmly I promise to do my part to make sure it stays calm and that any debate is approached logically and respectfully.
[/ic]

[Polycarp]

[ic=To Senator Sismondii]Senator,

I appreciate your kind regards and thank you for your invitation.  I have always strived to best represent the Roman people in their desire for freedom from tyranny, even when it meant alienation from my own family; I have sometimes wondered whether my removal from power was not a gift from God, for I am not as young and vigorous as I once was, and leading the people of Rome is not a duty lightly undertaken.  Considering my situation and my brother's concerns for my security, I must regretfully decline to accept your invitation to your estate.  I would happily receive you at the Castle St. Angelo, however, if you would accept my hospitality.  My table is always open to the faithful servants of the people.

Patrician Giordano Pierleone[/ic]

[ic=To Senator Sismondii]We welcome the return of the Romans and their Senate to the Holy Church and can think of no greater purpose under Heaven than the fostering of peace between the successors of the apostles of Christ and his beloved flock.  We thank you for your offer of support and dearly hope for congenial relations between the city and the Holy Church to continue unabated and unmarred by division and strife.

HADRIANUS, Episcopus, Servus Servorium Dei[/ic]

[Nomadic]

[ic=Letter to Pierleone]
I would be most honored to accept such an invitation, I thank you for your offer of hospitality

Senator Arrigus Sismondii
[/ic]

[Magnus Pym]

[ic=Letter to Senator Sismondii]Well, you seem set on voicing your proposition to the Senate. I hope that you will reconsider. That being said, I will do my utmost to not have you blocked in the Senate, should other Senators be bent on sabotaging your efforts.

Now to... this matter. You may have heard that the nearby village of Labarum has recently been deserted? There are barely anyone occupying these lands now, except for the barons and the vicarius, Bernardo, who lives in the fortified villa of Gallinas.
Me and you have something in common, we both want Rome to prosper. What's more, we both know the Republic's economic dynamics need to change if we want this to happen. You have your wool trade, and I have linen. Both our businesses are doing good, but both could enjoy more success.
Now, I have assumed control of the village and the lands around it, for the time being. But I'm certain the local officials won't sit on their laurels while I take their lands. Their resistance may prove to be my defeat, but it won't if I have sufficient support. If you help me assume complete control over Labarum, you will be granted lands at no cost.

Now you may think that when it is done the lands will be defenseless and all our efforts will go to waste? Being a Consul and you a Senator of Rome, my guess is that outsiders won't dare attack us. We are backed by the Pope, and we may use our full force for the defense of our interests.

All Romans will benefit from this.

Hugo de Vinti[/ic]

[ic=Private Talk with Niccolo Capocci at my Palazzo]Signore Capocci, how many men, exactly, could you muster at this present time?[/ic]

[Nomadic]

[ic=Letter to de Vinti]
I could of course use the land, you have my backing on this. What manner of support are you looking for?

Arrigus Sismondii
[/ic]

[Magnus Pym]

[ic=Letter to Senator Sismondii]I'm happy you ask. Being a wealthy merchant, and a Senator of Rome, your support is more symbolic than anything. It adds alot of weight. With more supporters, I may be able to persuade the barons into surrender without shedding a drop of blood. Which is what I aim for.

However, I might call on you to provide funds for a bribe or supply me with men. I should already be good on the latter, but better safe than sorry.

In the end, you get your lands anyways, unless you step back from this initiative. But rest assured it will end up being a very profitable scheme.

Hugo de Vinti[/ic]

[Nomadic]

[ic=Letter to de Vinti]
Well for the time being you have that support. If it should come to men or money we can of course discuss that possibility. For now you can assume that I will aid you in this endeavor.

Arrigus Sismondii
[/ic]

[ooc=Orders]
- Sismondii will present his ideas before the senate as a whole stressing that his drafts are not what he is presenting, he is simply asking for an opening of discussion on the codification of consular and senatory authority and processes (such as elections, duties, and limits on consular authority). He will offer the drafts for consideration but will say that he is more than happy to hear alternatives to them. He will also hint at his discussion with Basile and Calafatus as proof that such checks and balances are needed, that he is concerned that the senate is in a position where without limits and clear guidelines a more influential or powerful member could push their own agenda to the detriment of the entire senate and Rome, even accidentally.

- Sismondii will attempt to wait until Calafatus leaves on campaign before doing much of this, he will put all his influence behind getting this heard, not on getting his version of it passed but just on getting the senate discussions it and preparing a final version. He will work to exploit the concerns against the consuls having too much power (such as the situation with DeRosa) as well as getting support from those brought in during Pierleone's time via election. He will do all of this as calmly and respectfully as possible, not wanting to actually cause another DeRosa incident.

- I will talk with Pierleone about my concerns regarding the potential abuse of consular powers and the happenings at the lesser council, about my concerns that Calafatus is overstepping his authority and fights now to maintain the nebulosity of his position when it is clear that the senate needs checks and balances. Mention my presentation of an altered version of his senate plan and ask his thoughts on what he might recommend for senatory codification. Finally tell him "if the senate shuts me down as a whole I will respect it but I am concerned that if they do not Calafatus may attempt to use violence or the threat of violence against my family and property, would you see it in your heart as a brother in Christ to offer us sanctuary if this happens (especially with my newborn daughter's life on the line)?" When talking with the Patrician I will try to voice my concerns in a calm and collected manner. I will not overtly attack Calafatus though I will elude to the possibility of him causing trouble, and of my concern regarding him.

- Pay my 2wp rent to Calafatus

- Put the other 2wp into savings

- Support Hugo de Vinti in his Labarum Initiatives
[/ooc]

[LD]

>>It is my understanding that either none or a very few of us were actually ever at any point elected. So far as I know, at the behest of Arnold of Brescia, we seized power from the previous elected senate; since that time we have held no elections.

Oh, I had thought we actually were elected, so therefore Arrigus' system of election wouldn't have changed anything other than adding a third consul... (oops).

[Polycarp]

Anno Domini MCLV
Autumn has passed into winter...
Winter seldom brings snow to Rome, but the cold winter winds are accompanied by sudden storms.  Floods are still a danger, and only the most reckless mariners try their luck at sea this time of year.  In the countryside, vines are pruned and firewood is gathered, while craftsmen huddle indoors making and maintaining tools and equipment for the coming year.  The people fast through Advent before feasting at Christmas, upon a pig slaughtered in late autumn if they can afford it, and on wild game if not.  Epiphany is celebrated in January, and the date of Easter is announced to the people.

Our Consuls: Hugo Da Vinti and Roberto Basile
Our Pope: Adrian IV
Our Rage: Smoldering [2]

[ooc=This Season's Top 5 Popular Issues]1. "Bring back Arnoldo!"
2. "Let the Normans and Papists kill one another – the better for us."
3. "We ought to do to Viterbo what we did to Tivoli!"
4. "It is time to restore justice in Rome."
5. "We won't stand for another tyrannical Prefect!"[/ooc]

News from Abroad

Dire news comes from all corners of the realm for King William of Sicily.  A royal Sicilian army under Chancellor Asclettin de Catania landed at Taranto around the end of August, intending to lift the siege of Andria; the Count of Andria, Richard, had retreated behind its walls after a skirmish with the Greeks near Barletta.  Asclettin's troops caught the besieging Greek army by surprise, and Count Richard defeated the rebel cavalry under the traitorous Count Robert of Bassonville.  The Greeks and rebels found themselves outnumbered, and the Greek co-commander Iohannes Doukas was unhorsed and almost captured.  Victory seemed within the grasp of the loyalists, until Count Richard's furious attack was halted by the Greek infantry, who had rallied behind a low stone wall in a nearby field.  According to the tales that have reached us, Count Richard was unhorsed, pelted with rocks that the Greeks had pried loose from the wall, and – in full view of his men – brutally slain by a priest from Trani who rushed forward from the Greek line with a dagger in hand.  Richard's men fled in dismay and Chancellor Asclettin's near-victory turned into a bloody rout.  The Greeks' savage Pecheneg cavalry rode down hundreds of fleeing Sicilians and nearly managed to capture Asclettin himself.  Andria subsequently surrendered to the Greeks, who are said to have returned to their headquarters at Bari.

Meanwhile, the rebels Robert Drengot and Andrew de Rupecanina began their invasion of the kingdom in the west, and seized the city of Capua.  Pope Adrian IV marched south at the head of a Latin army on the first of October, arriving eight days later at Capua, where the Pope reinstated Robert Drengot as Prince of Capua.  After assisting in the siege of several local fortresses, the Pope's army has proceeded to the Papal stronghold of Benevento.  Though royalist garrisons remain throughout most of the castles and cities of the kingdom, the rebels and Papal forces have yet to meet any resistance in the field.

For his part, King William is believed to still be bedridden with a serious illness; some whisper that he is dying.  The baronial revolt on the island is spreading, with rebel armies moving closer and closer to Palermo itself.

Foreign merchants bring news that the city of Lucca has begun exporting fine silks thanks to a trade agreement with Genoa, whose ships bring raw silk from the lands of the Greeks to be woven and dyed by Lucchese artisans.  The closer alliance of these two cities is surely designed at confounding the Pisans, traditional enemies of both Genoa and Lucca.

Several monks returning from Sicily have reported that Eugenius of Palermo, son of the late amiratus John of Palermo, has completed the first known translation of Ptolemy's Optics into Latin.

News of Latium

While war rages in the lands of Sicily, another conflict is developing much closer to home.  A dispute has arisen over the village of Labarum, which was occupied by men loyal to Consul Hugo de Vinti after its residents fled before the coming of the Emperor last season.  Though the Consul has claimed to be restoring the lands to productivity, local barons have accused him of making a grab for their rightful lands.  In September, a group of armed men chased Consul de Vinti's new tenants out of Labarum; rumor has it that they were hired by Luidolfo de Rubino, signore of Castrum Rubrae.  The events after this point are somewhat unclear, but on October 6th, Signore Niccolo Capocci led a dozen horsemen to the village of Varca, a fief belonging to Luidolfo, expelled the villagers, burned their houses, and slaughtered all their livestock.  Since then, the sowing season in the villages north of Rome has been marred by raid and counter-raid between the barons allied to Luidolfo and Niccolo Capocci, who still seems to have some friends in the countryside who have taken his side.  So far, Capocci seems to have the upper hand – although substantially outnumbered, his armsmen are securely lodged in the half-finished castle of Senator Arrigus Sismondii over the Milvian Bridge, the only crossing over the Tiber between Rome and Falisca.  A skirmish between Capocci and his enemies in late October within sight of this castle was inconclusive, and Capocci's continuing hold over this strategic point has made it difficult for the opposing barons to conduct raids against the estates of Capocci and de Vinti on the east bank of the Tiber.

The Abbot of Farfa, Anselm, has died.  Emperor Frederick has claimed the right of investiture over Farfa, as it is an abbey by Imperial grant.  Heribert, a German bishop and Imperial representative, has arrived at Farfa to invest Rusticus, a Pavian monk and strong Imperial partisan, with the title of Abbot.  It is well known that the Pope too claims authority over Farfa, but with Adrian and the Curia away at Benevento, Heribert has been able to do the Emperor's bidding unopposed.

News of Rome

Consul Hugo de Vinti has continued work on the repair of the Aqua Virgo and the walls around the Porta Asinaria near the Lateran Palace.  These projects have progressed quickly thanks to his generous out of pocket spending, but still require more funding and many seasons of hard labor.  Various equites have agreed to commit sums to these projects amounting to [2 WP].  The spending of great sums of silver in this way has been a popular move among Rome's laborers, masons, mortar-makers, lime-burners, smiths, and carpenters.

Senator Arrigus Sismondii has brought a proposal to re-establish popular elections and limit the powers of the Consuls by the addition of a third consular office with powers pertaining to the Senate's relationship with the Church.  His program of reform has met with a mixed reception.  Many of the middle-class senators, perhaps a majority, support the restoration of elections in some form, but the Arnoldists among them have rejected the idea, claiming that anti-republican forces could use the popular assemblies to deliver the government into the hands of the Curia.  The equites are, in general, not very excited about the prospect of elections – perhaps the first time in the Commune's history where they have aligned with the Arnoldists – but some elites have suggested that elections would be tolerable so long as the equites are assured of a continuing role in government, such as a number of guaranteed Senate seats or some other structural safeguard to prevent the government from falling fully into the hands of the "mob."

Positions differ substantially in the matter of a third consul.  The equites have come out universally in favor of a revision of consular offices and powers; they generally support the idea of the consul ad ecclesiae, but urge that regardless of how many consuls there are, the Senate should indeed be given veto power over them, and their duties and powers should be better codified to prevent abuse and conflicts over jurisdiction.  The senators of the popolo are lukewarm on the idea; many are satisfied with the consular system as it exists, though some concede that the Commune could certainly not be harmed by a few administrative checks on consular power.  The Arnoldists among them reject the proposal entirely, calling the very idea of the consul ad ecclesiae an implicit submission to the Papacy, and claiming that restrictions on the Consuls will only hamper the city's ability to rule and defend itself in this time of uncertainty and war.

Arnoldists staged sporadic marches and demonstrations this season, demanding the return of the Brescian Monk and warning Rome's leaders not to submit to the avarice of the Curia.  Surprisingly, no deaths were reported, perhaps in part because the troops of Patrician Giordano Pierleone prevented any protesters from entering Trastevere, where the Papal government under Papal Chamberlain Boso Breakspeare is currently headquartered.  Known Arnoldist radical Wetzel has continued giving speeches to the crowds, though without any notable incident like that of last season.

It is reported that Cencio Pierleone, a nephew of Patrician Giordano, has arrived in Rome as an administrative official in the office of the Papal Chamberlain.  The 28 year-old Cencio is the sole living son of the late Leo Pierleone, the eldest of the Pierleoni brothers, and fled the city in 1144 along with the rest of his family (save Patrician Giordano).  Though rumor has it that he and his uncle have not spoken since then, he is presumed to be Giordano's legal heir, as the Patrician has no living children.  An heir to such a prodigious fortune – and an unmarried heir, at that – certainly makes him an eligible bachelor, though that will change if he remains with the Church and decides to take the vows of the priesthood.

Other Events

[spoiler=The Reception of Kosmas Bariotes]
(All players whose characters attended this event – which I believe includes everyone – are welcome to read this.)

Lord Bariotes arrived in Rome on September 9th, accompanied by the diakonos (deacon) Eustathios, his personal secretary Ioannes, three manservants, and ten Pecheneg mounted bodyguards.  The party was welcomed by Consul Basile and his men at the Porta Asinaria, and then escorted to the Consul's estate.  The dinner in honor of the ambassador's visit was held on the 10th, a small but quality affair; the Consul had hired a harpist as well as a Sicilian Greek lute-player for the evening's entertainment, and no expense was spared on the food and wine.  The Consul served salt mullet as well, caught at his fishery near Gregoriopolis, causing Lord Bariotes to comment that it was a shame they had no salt-cured mullet eggs, evidently a specialty dish in the land of the Greeks called outarichon.

Lord Bariotes discussed the Greek invasion with his Roman company; though the Battle of Andria had occurred two days before the dinner, word of the victory had not yet arrived in Rome, and Bariotes could only guess at the progress of the Greek strategoi Palaiologus and Doukas.  He mentioned that Emperor Manuel had considered personally leading the troops in Italy, but that the ongoing war with the Hungarians had compelled him to remain on the Empire's Balkan front.  Rumor had it, however, that the Hungarians had recently made an offer of peace, and if the Emperor accepted the terms, he might reconsider taking command at Bari.  Bariotes assured everyone that the intention of the Emperor was not to overthrow the Sicilian kingdom, but to reclaim the cities of Apulia and thereby create a buffer between Greece and the Normans to prevent the sort of devastating raids that Roger, William's father, had launched against the Empire.  He acknowledged a new alliance between Manuel and the Pope, and Eustathios added (through a translator, for he could only speak Greek and Latin) that the Emperor was eager to negotiate a reconciliation between the Latin and Greek churches.  Both praised the decision of the Romans to reconcile with the Pope, and Lord Bariotes noted that this would allow a more permanent Greek diplomatic presence in the city, though he would not be the one to lead it – he had been reassigned to Bari, his newly reconquered birthplace, while his role as ambassador to the Papal Curia was to be filled by an Imperial Secretary named Basiliakos, who would presumably be landing in Ancona in the coming Spring.[/spoiler]

Finances

Treasury: 2 WP

State Projects:

• Aqua Virgo Repair [11/15]
• Porta Asinaria Repair [5/10]

Income: 1 WP

• Duty, Patrician Pierleone: 1 WP
• Papal Stipend: 1 WP

Expenditures: 0 WP

[spoiler=Personal Finances]
Arrigus Sismondii
Wealth Level 4 [13/16]
Savings: 3 WP
IP: 22 Wine, 2 Olives, 13 Wool
Projects: Rocca [10/15]
Assets: Estate

Fortis Calafatus
Wealth Level 4 [9/16] +1 WP (Rented Land)
Savings: 9 WP
IP: 26 Farmland, 7 Colosseum Rent
Projects: None
Assets: Estate, De Re Militari, 150 Heavy Infantry (3WP)

Vittorio Manzinni
Wealth Level 4 [9/16]
Savings: 17 WP
IP: 24 Egyptian Trade (Glassware, Linens), 7 Hospitality, 2 Pontis Rent
Projects: None
Assets: Estate, Grain [4], Land in Ripe et Marmorate, 50 Heavy Infantry (1WP)

Roberto Basile
Wealth Level 4 [7/16]
Savings: 3 WP
IP: 14 Sicilian Privateers, 10 Oranges, 7 Fishing
Projects: None
Assets: Estate, Tower House [15], 100 Masnada (1WP)

Hugo de Vinti
Wealth Level 4 [13/16]
Savings: 2 WP
IP: 14 Marble Trade, 10 Sculpture, 13 Flax Production
Projects: Gilding Palazzo [5/5]
Assets: Palazzo [10], 50 Heavy Infantry (1WP) with crossbows[/spoiler]

Senatorial Inquests

Senators that requested information or launched endeavors have the results of their efforts listed here.  This information is private, but you may certainly choose to share it with the Senate.

[spoiler=Fortis Calafatus]On Campaign
There was much work to be done in September to prepare your forces to march.  Your own men had to be found, re-equipped, and reorganized, and those that had moved on after being dismissed had to be replaced quickly.  Da Vinti's men were ready enough, but needed to be drilled along with your own to try and make some sort of cohesive force of them.  Supplies, wagons, and pack animals had to be procured, and mercenaries had to be hired.  Your light infantry force is composed largely of Sabine zafones, friendly to Rome and you personally after the joint campaign against Farfa.

You arrived in Ferentino on the 27th, two days before Michaelmas.  Your presence was evidently a great surprise to those assembled – nearly five hundred men (your own soldiers plus servants, porters, blacksmiths, wagoners, and other auxiliaries) marching into the Papal camp, bearing your arms on their banners.  Your men composed the largest single force in the army – Perugia, for comparison, sent only a hundred men; Viterbo no more than 250, though a hundred of these were horsemen.

The Pope held the traditional Feast of the Archangels on Michaelmas, September 29th, inviting all the lords in the army.  You were, perhaps surprisingly, invited to the high table with the Pope's most distinguished guests.  The great lords of Latium were largely absent, having paid in lieu of personal service, save for Raino, the junior Count of Tusculum, and Trasimund, Count of Segni.  Though many of the lords present could not be considered your friends – signores in the camp of the Frangipani, lords of Farfan territories (including the new Count of Catino, whose father was killed by your men at Mons Elcinus), and several Roman signores who avoided your company – Raino and Trasimund were cordial, as was the Pope himself, who seemed inclined to forget about the harsh words exchanged during the peace negotiations with Frederick.  After the feast, in fact, you were appointed to be a member of the Pope's war council, along with Raino Tusculani, Count Trasimund of Segni, Signore Bernardo of Anagni, Signore Raylando of Aquino, and Signore Malavolta, the Pope's Master Constable and leader of the Pope's household troops.  Considering your history, it seems likely this was meant to be a gesture of reconciliation.  The Pope was the formal leader of the army, but the executive command was delegated to Count Trasimund, who was named vexillifer ecclesiæ (Standard-bearer of the Church) and carried the Papal Standard next to his own banner.

In total, the Papal Army appeared to number about four thousand men (not including non-combatant auxiliaries), of which slightly more than half were mercenaries – most were from various provinces in Italy, though there were also companies of Provençals, Aragonese, and renegade Normans.  Turnout seemed to be below the Curia's expectations, but the army marched on October 1st regardless.

The Papal army met no resistance whatsoever on its way to the city of Capua, where the Norman rebel Robert – the Prince of Capua until he was exiled from the realm by King Roger after a failed rebellion – had re-occupied the city.  Robert gave homage to the Pope, and Adrian formally recognized him as Prince of Capua.  You had the occasion to see Roger's army there, and you were less than impressed.  Though Robert had some Norman knights with him, fellow rebels like himself, most of his "soldiers" were no more than conscripted peasants who seemed certain that the Pope or the Emperor would come to their aid against William.

The army moved on to San Germano, near the ancient abbey of Monte Cassino, to accept the homage of more Norman rebels.  Only at this point was the army finally employed in the pursuits of war – specifically, in taking various Sicilian-held castles between Capua and Benevento.  There appeared to be no loyalist presence in the field at all, just small garrisons hoping to hold out against the rebels, but with no relief in sight they surrendered one by one to the Papal forces.  Only one, a castle northwest of Benevento called Rocca Maginulfi, refused to surrender even after it was clear no help was coming.  Situated on a steep rocky bluff, the castle could not be stormed, and the Papal army had little in the way of engineering expertise.  After three weeks of waiting, the army was starting to strain the supplies of the countryside, and the Pope opted to leave a force of six hundred men behind under Raynaldo of Aquino to continue the siege (including de Vinti's crossbowmen, who were considered very valuable to the siege effort).

Now, with winter approaching, the army is encamped at the Papal city of Benevento.  The Sicilians appear all but beaten, yet significant territory is still held by loyalists, particularly the great cities of Naples and Salerno – once the capitals of independent duchies – and the many fortresses surrounding them.  The Papal army seems to run out of steam, however.  Though the mercenaries and some of the vassal troops are expected to remain after the end of the period of mandatory service, the leadership of the army is provided by nobles who expect to return home in a month and are clearly not eager to mount another campaign in December.  The Curia itself seems reluctant to budge from Benevento, which boasts strong fortifications and a great papal palace; the cardinals evidently did not enjoy campaigning very much.

You now face the choice of whether to return at the end of December or whether to remain with the army further.  At present, the army doesn't seem to be doing much, which argues in favor of a return to Rome; on the other hand, if you remain after December once many of the other nobles have gone, you might have considerably more influence over the vexillifer Count Trasimund and the actions of the remaining army.  In either case, your period of mandatory service will be complete, and you will be able to leave the army at your convenience without having to pay any fine.

You have spent 4 WP and saved 1 WP this season.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Roberto Basile]The Greeks
Your hospitality was very well received by Lord Bariotes and his party, though diakonos Eustathios was less than impressed with the city itself – Bariotes explained that the priest had been born in Thessalonika, the "second city" of Greece, spent most of his life in Constantinople, and evidently expected Rome to be somewhat similar.  Eustathios was horrified by the state of the city and lamented that the once great Rome had been reduced to such "squalor."  Lord Bariotes apologized for his companion and expressed his gratitude for your hospitality and your efforts to introduce him to the great persons of Rome.  In late September, as the Pope prepared to leave Ferentino, Lord Bariotes said his goodbyes and departed with his entourage.

Marriage
Signore Caetani was introduced to you by Senator Calafatus.  He seemed somewhat lukewarm about your suggestion of a match between your son and his daughter – while nothing but polite, you could tell he had not seriously considered marrying her into a lowborn house.  As the dinner went on, however (whether it was his positive impression of your wealth and taste, or simply the wine, you could not say) he opined that in these modern times, wealth and influence sometimes meant as much as good breeding, and that he might consider such a match – particularly if there was some compromise on the dowry.  Your immediate understanding was that you (or rather, your son) would be the one doing the compromising.

There was no further discussion on the matter while he was in Rome, but in early November you were visited by a messenger from Signore Caetani bearing a proposal.  Apparently, Signore Caetani has title to an old keep on the coast called Torre San Lorenzo, built before the Caetani family acquired Ardea.  Nobody has lived there for some time, and to prevent his rivals from usurping the territory, Crescenzio mortgaged half of the property to the Basilica of St. Paul (just outside the walls of Rome).  He notes that while the size of the land is not great, it came into his family with a dowry from an old Lombard family and has the distinction of being an allod – that is, land owned free of obligation, not held as a fief from the Pope or Emperor or some other lord.  The Church would have very little legal authority to stand on if they wished to contest or interfere with the bequest.  He asks what your opinion would be on an arrangement wherein the other half-share of the property is given to your son as a dowry, with the title itself (that is, the title to the whole territory, including the share mortgaged to the Basilica) being transferred to his daughter upon the marriage, and thence to any lawful sons the couple may have.

Your family and close advisors whom you have consulted in the matter generally agree that these are fairly standard terms.  It is well known that the coast of Latium is not the most fertile or prosperous place; the coastal region is poorly developed, and much of it has never been resettled after its abandonment in the 9th century due to Saracen piracy.  The estate is undoubtedly not a great one, though the allodial title and the fact that it is has at least some fortification already are small positives.  The decision depends substantially on how much gaining a foothold in the neighborhood of Ardea (and an association with a noble family) means to you.

Gregoriopolis

You have begun offering bounties for skilled tradesmen to move to Gregoriopolis; your efforts may be described as successful, if not overwhelmingly so.  By your estimates, the permanent population of the town has probably doubled since you began your efforts – though that only represents a hundred or so new inhabitants.  By now, all the seasonal workers on the salt pans have returned to their off-season labors, mostly as manual laborers in Rome or lime-makers burning crushed marble in the ruins of Ostia, though some have found menial employment in the local industry as woodcutters, splitting logs for barrels and boats.  On the coast, the last Pisan ship of the year has been sighted, and it is expected they will resume their marble collection in the spring.

You spent 3 WP and invested 1 WP this season.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Arrigus Sismondii]The Feud
Since his raid on Varca, Signore Capocci has been relying heavily on your hospitality to wage war against the barons of the western Tiber bank in the name of Consul de Vinti.  When pressed by the enemy, he waits behind your walls; on October 25th, he and his men fell upon a raiding party on the road below.  One of his retainers was killed before the groups disengaged, though he claims to have killed – or at least maimed – three of theirs.

Your servants are a bit resentful of the presence of Signore Capocci's men, who seem to have made themselves at home in your rocca; your steward complains that they have surely ransacked your larder just as much as they've ransacked the countryside to the north.  Occasionally they do bring something back from their raids – a sheep, rounds of cheese, a cask of wine – but they claim that taking more loot would slow them down dangerously.  If they remain on your estate much longer you it may start being reflected on your overall finances.

Senatorial Reform
For the Senate's response to your proposed measures, see above.  I'll get back to you soon regarding the Patrician.

Egypt
Your ship has returned from Alexandria, the Pearl of the Mediterranean.  In this city, each nationality of merchants possesses a funduq (plural fanadiq), a multi-story building around a central courtyard which functions as a sort of "merchant embassy" – a residence, hotel, warehouse, and marketplace all in one.  The Venetians, Genoese, Pisans, Greeks, and Catalans all maintain major fanadiq in Alexandria.  Your emissaries discussed temporary residence with several of them, and were eventually able to get a good price from the Genoese funduq, where they stayed for the remainder of their time in the city.  Through the Genoese, they arranged for a tour of the city, where they saw many industries and workshops – dyeworks, glassworks, oil presses, perfumeries, and others – many of which, they were surprised to learn, were operated for charity and gave all their profits to "mosques," the temples of the unbelievers.

Your representatives were able to negotiate a purchase of alum, though it had to be done through the Genoese themselves.  Only certain nationalities and cities have trading rights in Alexandria, and other interested parties must go through them; even with Manzinni's contacts, your men were unable to circumvent these middlemen.  It seems clear that without special dispensation from the Egyptian government or a deal with one of the merchant republics, getting alum "wholesale" will be impossible.  An audience with the Caliph or his representatives proved impossible to arrange, and the Genoese responded that any agreement would have to be negotiated with their superiors in Genoa directly.  Thus, while your ship returned with alum, they were unable to procure any guarantees of a permanent or long-term trade arrangement, and had to pay quite a bit for what they did procure.

Alexandria, bustling with foreign traders and travelers, is fairly isolated from the Caliph's court at Cairo, but rumors still filtered through to your men from their Genoese hosts.  It would seem that the Caliph of the Fatimids has recently died, and his son and successor is a mere boy of six.  Effective power now rests in the hands of the Grand Vizier Tali ibn Russik, who has many problems – with the loss of Ascalon to the Crusaders and all of Africa to the Almohads, the Caliphate's military situation is said to be bleak; while the Vizier struggles to control the court at Cairo, provincial officials are said to flaunt the government's will.  It is no wonder that no Egyptian official of any importance had time to receive a trading party from a city which is, after all, a non-entity in international trade.

This mission has granted 1 IP to Senator Sismondii's wool enterprises.

You spent 2 WP, saved 2 WP, and gained 1 IP this season.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Hugo de Vinti]The Feud
Signore Capocci has certainly shown enthusiasm for your cause, though that enthusiasm may be to blame for the escalation of this conflict into violence.  The initial removal of your farmers from Labarum was done without violence, but since Capocci's raid on Varca, it has been impossible for your men or the workers under your control to set foot on the west bank of the Tiber without risking attack.  While acts of sabotage and vandalism have occurred on your estates, presumably caused by your enemies across the river, it is not easy to convey a mounted raiding party over the Tiber and impossible ensure its quick escape, and by operating out of Senator Sismondii's castle Signore Capocci has been able to hold the Milvian Bridge against any raiding parties seeking to cross there.  Damage to your lands has been minimal compared to the damage against theirs, and despite your inability to use the lands on the west bank you have acquired, you can hope that in time the lopsided nature of this conflict will force the barons to agree to favorable terms... that is, if the Church doesn't intervene first.

So far, support for your position is hard to come by outside of Rome itself.  Sismondii and Capocci support you, obviously, as do a few of Capocci's friends and in-laws in the region, but others seem very reluctant to intervene.  Signore de Corso in Formello has denied any involvement in the matter and called for all parties to appeal to the Church.  Your men did intercept a messenger sent east through your land who, after some "persuasion," admitted that he was sent by the barons to appeal for the aid of the Frangipani, who control several castles and estates east of your territory – the land north of the Aniene, around Tivoli, is one of their centers of power within Latium.  So far, the Frangipani have made no sign they are interested in intervention, but they do present a possible threat that looms over your lands.  With no river between you and with Capocci's castles destroyed, nothing stands between the Frangipani and your flax fields except a few Church estates and the Church-owned castle of Nomentum, recently "liberated" from Capocci's occupation.

Documents
You have been able to confirm the presence of written titles to Gallinas at Santa Maria in Via Lata; all you had to do was ask, and a monk was sent to bring them to a table for your men to view.  (Your men could not read Latin, but the monk assured them these were indeed records of the Vicariate at Ad Gallinas Albas).  It is not inconceivable that some subterfuge could be arranged to steal, destroy, or forge these documents.  The priests of Santa Maria, however, are well aware of their ownership of the land and would certainly put their word against yours if such a thing were to happen, and it must also be considered that the vicarius of Gallinas has yet to join the fight between the barons and Signore Capocci – he has, apparently, sent an appeal to the Church, but there is no evidence that he has participated in any of the attacks against your lands.  Attempting to usurp his title would almost certainly draw him into the conflict.

Naples
Your agent has successfully smuggled a number of linen-workers out of the city.  With a few palms greased, it is not a terribly difficult matter.  Still, the number who can be removed in this way is small – many of these artisans are law-abiding citizens who have no desire to risk trouble with the royal authorities.

You invested 1 WP and spent 7 WP this season.[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Vittorio Manzinni]Egypt
Your ship has returned from Alexandria, the Pearl of the Mediterranean.  In this city, each nationality of merchants possesses a funduq (plural fanadiq), a multi-story building around a central courtyard which functions as a sort of "merchant embassy" – a residence, hotel, warehouse, and marketplace all in one.  The Venetians, Genoese, Pisans, Greeks, and Catalans all maintain major fanadiq in Alexandria.  Your emissaries discussed temporary residence with several of them, and were eventually able to get a good price from the Genoese funduq, where they stayed for the remainder of their time in the city.  Through the Genoese, they arranged for a tour of the city, where they saw many industries and workshops – dyeworks, glassworks, oil presses, perfumeries, and others – many of which, they were surprised to learn, were operated for charity and gave all their profits to "mosques," the temples of the unbelievers.

Your representatives were able to negotiate a purchase of alum, though it had to be done through the Genoese themselves.  Only certain nationalities and cities have trading rights in Alexandria, and other interested parties must go through them; even with Manzinni's contacts, your men were unable to circumvent these middlemen.  It seems clear that without special dispensation from the Egyptian government or a deal with one of the merchant republics, getting alum "wholesale" will be impossible.  An audience with the Caliph or his representatives proved impossible to arrange, and the Genoese responded that any agreement would have to be negotiated with their superiors in Genoa directly.  Thus, while your ship returned with alum, they were unable to procure any guarantees of a permanent or long-term trade arrangement, and had to pay quite a bit for what they did procure.

Alexandria, bustling with foreign traders and travelers, is fairly isolated from the Caliph's court at Cairo, but rumors still filtered through to your men from their Genoese hosts.  It would seem that the Caliph of the Fatimids has recently died, and his son and successor is a mere boy of six.  Effective power now rests in the hands of the Grand Vizier Tali ibn Russik, who has many problems – with the loss of Ascalon to the Crusaders and all of Africa to the Almohads, the Caliphate's military situation is said to be bleak; while the Vizier struggles to control the court at Cairo, provincial officials are said to flaunt the government's will.  It is no wonder that no Egyptian official of any importance had time to receive a trading party from a city which is, after all, a non-entity in international trade.

This mission has granted 1 IP to Senator Sismondii's wool enterprises.

Restoration
You have continued your projects making restorations to churches under your "protection," as well as improvements to your properties.  The animus of the common folk against the "foreign" monks seems to have died down since the Emperor's visit and the return of the Church hierarchy.  The end of this period of crisis has solidified the local churches in your "camp" – even if the people of Ripe et Marmorate are ambivalent to your dominance in their district, the monks consider you their protector.  Even though the Chuch has returned to Rome in a sense, the Pope and his officers have yet to demonstrate a substantive ability to protect the churches and priests from their irate neighbors.  Your rebuilding efforts have, by now, secured the temporary stability of the most important churches in the district – while more work could be done, there are no longer any critical maintenance problems plaguing the churches under your care.  The churches are grateful, of course, but they recognize the need for long-term income of their own and hope that a continued period of peace will allow them to collect rents and tithes from land grants outside the city.

Spain
Your ships have returned from Spain, having succeeded in their mission.  1 WP worth of grain has been added to your assets.

You have spent 2 WP, invested 1 WP, and saved 1 WP this season.[/spoiler]

[ooc=Finally!]Thank you for your patience - I know it's been an unusually long delay, but I've been moving and beginning grad school, and my schedule has been insane.  There is still a lot to do - I'm not going to touch the front page tonight, nor do any letters - but these things will come (probably tomorrow).[/ooc]

[Polycarp]

Revisions
I was in a hurry to post an update last night and neglected to include the following two items within News of Rome:

• Pietro Colonna has returned from Tusculum with his entourage, and has again taken up residence in his grand palazzo.
• A contingent of monks of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon, better known as the Knights Templar, arrived Rome in November after landing their ship at Civitavecchia.  They total around thirty men, including sergeants, priests, lay brothers of the Order, and Gerardo di Meda, who has apparently been selected as magister fratrum ("brother-master") of Rome.  The Templars have taken up residence at the monastery attached to the Church of Santa Maria in Aventino in the district of Ripe et Marmorate.

The first page has now been updated (including the maps).  EDIT: Also, you may wish to re-read the first news item about the Battle of Andria, because I accidentally switched some names.  It is fixed now.

[ic=To the Consuls]Leaders of the Romans,

As representative of the Papal Curia in Rome during the absence of His Holiness, I am empowered with all the prerogatives of the vacant office of Prefect, among them the administration of the justice of the Church.  Several noblemen and vassals of His Holiness have come to me to complain about the malefactor Niccolo Capocci, whom they have accused of banditry and breach of the Peace of God, which specifically prohibits robbing the poor of their goods and livestock.  I am informed that this man and his comrades-in-arms have been acting in the interest of and under the auspices of Consul de Vinti and residing in the castle of a certain Senator Sismondii.  If true, this would appear to indicate active Roman support for a man waging war against his neighbors within the patrimonium, which I believe would be contrary to both the spirit and letter of the treaty between the Senate and His Holiness the Pope.

I await the response of the Senate to these allegations.

Boso Breakspeare, Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church[/ic]

[ic=To the Senate of Rome]Honored Senators,

The generosity of the Romans to the people of Gregoriopolis, our neighbors, is well known.  We hear that they have received many great gifts, and that the Romans have even built them a new port and brought many skilled tradesmen to better their community.  There is work and industry there, thanks to the beneficence of the Romans.

Thus I am compelled to ask, what have we done to earn the scorn of the Roman Senate?  Were the Romans not generously received in our humble village on their march to the coast two years past?  Every day we see merchants and tradesmen from Gregoriopolis and Rome travel through our village, yet we are denied any share in this activity, and ignored by the kindly and generous Romans who have bequeathed so much to our neighbors.  Have we given some grave offense to the Senate that we should be treated in this way, so differently from our neighbors in Gregoriopolis?

Rodolfo, Sindaco of Acilia[/ic]

(In case you had forgotten, Acilia is a village located on the Via Ostiensis between Rome and Gregoriopolis.)

[ic=To the Senate of Rome](This statement is read aloud to the Senate by two men recently arrived with the Templar contingent, bearing the distinctive black mantle with a red cross worn by sergeants in the Templar Order.)

"In the name of His Holiness the Pope; and in the name of André de Montbard, Grandmaster of the Poor Fellow-Soldiers of Christ and of the Temple of Solomon; and in the name of Girardo di Meda, Master of Rome of the same; the Order of the Temple of Solomon does hereby resume its presence in the City of Rome, and does reclaim the church of Santa Maria in Aventino and its attached monastery in this district of Ripe et Marmorate.  The Priory of Rome exists for the purpose of supporting and coordinating the defense of the Holy Land and defending the One and True Apostolic Church founded by Jesus Christ, and is directly responsible to His Holiness the Pope and no other power on this earth."[/ic]

[ic=To Senator Manzinni]Senator,

I am informed that you have acted as steward for the churches of Ripe et Marmorate in the absence of my order, including our Priory.  You have my gratitude.  The hospitality that can be offered by a monk of the Templar Order is perhaps not as great as what you may be accustomed to, but I trust you will not hesitate to call upon me if there is any matter of interest to yourself and the Order that you may wish to discuss.

Master Girardo di Meda[/ic]

[TheMeanestGuest]

[ic=Letter to Boso Breakepeare]Chamberlain,

Though this matter is not one to which I am overly familiar, I have heard some word of it. It is my understanding that Consul de Vinti merely sought to restore a tract of land to productivity that had been abandoned and ignored by the accusers in question. Indeed, it seems it was these vassals of His Holiness who initiated these unfortunate hostilities. Consul de Vinti merely acts in his own defense. As I have said, these matters are somewhat unfamiliar, and I will of course defer to Consul de Vinti's account of events in all cases.

However, regardless of the circumstances of this matter I must reject any possible accusation of a breach of peace by the Senate of the Commune of Rome. A citizen, any citizen, of Rome acting only in defense is well within his own right. Furthermore, there has been no muster of any force of the Commune. The Consul brings to bear private arms, and acts as a private citizen. The text of the treaty between the Commune and His Holiness makes explicit reference to the Senate of Rome, and only the Senate of Rome. Clearly, the body of the Senate has not acted, and therefor there can be no breach.  

Consul Roberto Basile[/ic]

[ic=Before the Senate]Senators, Senators. Of late there has been much discussion of codification and revision of the powers of the Senate itself and the offices of the Consuls. I cannot but agree, there must be codification and establishment of proper procedure if our Great Commune is to continue to prosper as it has so far. However, I cannot agree in entirety with the proposal of Senator Sismondii, and therefor bring to you my own proposal.

- Firstly, I must agree that the body of the Senate should possess the power of censure over the Consuls in the event that such action becomes necessary. As such, I propose that should two of every three Senators - in absolute terms, disregarding a lesser Quorum - vote in favour of such censure that the matter then be brought before the judgement of a committee formed of the Lesser Council, and three Senators of the Greater Council selected by random drawing, whereupon the members of this committee shall be bound to initiate a vote to determine in finality if the actions of the Consul should be subject to veto, requiring only a simple majority of votes. However, to preserve ultimate authority of action under dire circumstance, the Consuls shall be rendered immune to veto as concerns matters of war, civil strife, or disasters inflicted by the wrath of a vengeful God.    

- Secondly, the division of the power of the offices of the Consuls must remain as it currently stands. Our system of dual Consulship has so far proven itself resilient and effective, and I cannot countenance the dilution and further division of these offices. Should additional matters present themselves that the Consul should feel that he is not able to divert the necessary attention to, he shall be free to appoint a representative from the Lesser Council to act with his full authority as regards the matter in question.

- And lastly, I cannot in good conscience agree with the re-institution of popular election in our Commune. Though ever and always we should strive to serve the best interests of the People of Rome, we cannot allow our government to become distracted in search of their favour and in service to their whim. In many instances the best course for the People of Rome is not the one that they
look upon most favourably. We must always be ready and able to guide the People with a firm and fair hand which would no doubt only be compromised by the reintroduction of election. As such, I propose that the position of Senator can rightly only be based upon hereditary right, and to assist in this endeavor I propose the creation of a Codex Beneficium wherein the family names of our esteemed company shall be enrolled, and they shall be known as Benefactor, and it is from this text that we shall determine the rightful heir to position in the body of this Senate.

I call you now to consider carefully my words, Senators. We must act in this regard with purpose and alacrity.[/ic]

[Nomadic]

[ic=Before the Senate]
The good Senator Basile offers a sound plan for the large part and it is good to see him come forward with alternatives to my suggestions as I had hoped some would. To his first point I find no fault and think that we can all agree on the wording. There is need of checks and balances and his method provides these while still permitting the Consuls to act unhindered in times of severe crisis. To his second point I have no issue, my suggestion of a third consul was merely to add to the conversation. While I do think it would do the senate good to have someone representing it to the church and I do think we desperately need a senatory appointed officiator of law I will of course submit that a consulary position is not the only way to see these happen. As such I will also support Senator Basile's second point and agree that for the time being it is likely the best choice.

To the third though I have concern. The election gives choice to the Romans, that they have a voice in who represents them. It also serves to make sure that no senator gets complacent in their position. That senators is critical, complacency will kill us faster than anything. However popular election is not the only way. So I offer some alternatives for consideration, alternatives which may calm the concerns of the rabble having an unnecessary grasp on the senate, that those against the republic might take control, or that our most noble equites might have their say diminished. And so then I offer the following:

- That any Roman citizen may offer themselves as a replacement for an existing open position in the senate (vacated by death or other tragedy) to the senate who may accept or reject their offer based on its merit and their ability to perform the duties of senator. The candidate that wishes to seek the office of a senator which has been vacated by death or other tragedy must have the support of every two of three senators within the senatory body to proceed to election.
- That the position of senator will be voted upon during an election by the voting population of Rome who shall be defined as the heads of household of every Roman family which provides towards its defense (The Equites and the Grasso). The voting population shall present to the senate their choice for election with each such choice counting as one vote in favor of making said candidate a senator.
- For this purpose during an election the senate may reserve the right to choose randomly from amongst themselves five senators who shall serve as an election council and see to the gathering and tallying of votes and the announcement of a winner so that the greater senate may focus on the more critical matters of Rome while still permitting elections to proceed.
- A member of the senate may present a vote of no confidence in another senator. However, such a vote must come with proof that the senator in question has used their position as senator to commit acts directly contrary to the good of Rome and their position and that they have sought their own personal gain to the detriment of the senate and the Romans. In order for the vote to be achieved there must be senatory consensus that the person in question has indeed acted in this matter. Upon consensus the person shall be stripped of their position and it shall be offered up to potential candidates.
- In all matters of election that fall outside these terms the senate shall have final say with every two of three senators being in favor of a motion being sufficient to handle such matters.

What say the senate? I offer now for consideration of the drafted rules this revision combining the most excellent ideas of Senator Basile here with a modified private electoral system that offers continued representation of our most esteemed equites, promised protection against those voting who would do harm, the limiting of elections such that they will not distract the senate from its duties, and the final promise that the senate would have ultimate authority over elections. Such a system shall clearly codify the senate and define its powers while protecting it from both the predations of the maleficent and the potential complacency that might spell its doom. Such a plan promises a renewed and invigorated senate with a more clear purpose for the future and the ability to present itself as a united front to any problem that might threaten the stability of Rome.
[/ic]

[Polycarp]

[ic=To Consul Basile]Consul,

Regardless of who started this matter, it is my intent to end it.  These acts of brigandage, performed chiefly albeit not exclusively by Niccolo Capocci, must cease.  Capocci has no credibility with the Curia and I find it difficult to believe that these reported acts of destruction, if true, constitute "self defense."  Nevertheless, I will withhold any judgment in this matter until Consul de Vinti and Senator Sismondii are given an opportunity to have their say.

As for the Commune's involvement, perhaps the Roman Senate does not officially support the acts of Niccolo Cappoci.  Nevertheless, the association of two Senators - one of them a Consul, no less - with a man who has attacked Church property and now seems to have turned to brigandage to raise his fortunes does not reflect well on the Senate of Rome.  Such actions undermine the peace and good relations between the Senate and the Curia even if the treaty is not explicitly broken.

Boso Breakspeare, Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church[/ic]

[ic=To Senator Sismondii]Senator,

As representative of the Papal Curia in Rome and the executor of the justice of the Church, we invite you to give your account of recent events involving yourself and Niccolo Capocci, who has been accused of banditry and the violation of the Peace of God in his attacks against the lawful vassals of His Holiness and the peasants residing on their lands.  We are informed that you, Senator Sismondii, have been harboring and aiding this man in his activities, and we believe an explanation is in order.

Boso Breakspeare, Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church[/ic]

[Polycarp]

[ooc=Due Date]Orders for the coming season are due on Sunday, August 26th.  Please let me know if you will need more time.[/ooc]

[Magnus Pym]

[ic=Letter to Official in Santa Maria in Via Lata]Dear [Official of Santa Maria in Via Lata],
I have come during the autumn to inquire about the existence of a certain document, the Ad Gallinas Albas. I and some retainers have verified its content and have found what he intended to. However, I wonder if you have a copy of this document available. If there is a way I could acquire it, I would be much grateful.

In Good Faith,
Hugo De Vinti, Consul of the Interior of the Republic of Rome[/ic]
[ic=Letter to Patrician Giordano Pierleone]Patrician Pierleone,
You have, by this time, probably been informed of the latest events in Labarum. While some rumors may or may not be true, the truth is that most are oblivious to the fact that Labarum under Roman care would not only be more prosperous, but would propel the wealth of Rome to a whole new level.
The savage barons chased my men by force, and have begged the Church that they intervene in this matter. They went as far as begging the Frangipanis to support their cause. But they are selfish. I have yet to hear them say that it is the people who will benefit from their care.
Patrician, would the Frangipanis interfere, could I count on your support?

Sincerely,
Hugo De Vinti, Consul of the Interior[/ic]
[ic=Privately to Signore Niccolo Capocci]Signore, I thank you immensely for your support in this matter [Labarum's Case]. You will be rewarded for this, rest assured.
However, we are now under scrutiny. The Church has heard of our actions, quite obviously, and wish the matter dealt with.
Quite frankly, I will not cede these lands to these damned savages. But we should cease any hostile actions against the barons for the time being. Our cause would gain some weight if we were to be seen as the sole victims of the barbary.
I will keep you informed.[/ic]
[ic=Letter to Consul Roberto Basile]Consul Basile,
A letter from the Chamberlain, Boso Breakspeare, reached me recently, and no doubt has reached you as well, in which I am being falsely accused of disturbing the Peace of God.
I only sought to put to good use a few lands that had been abandonned. I saw it as an opportunity to create wealth for Romans without shedding a drop of blood. But the barons of Labarum have been acting like savages. The good signore Capocci has been kind enough to grant me some protection, but the barons still raid the lands today.
In all honesty, these savages could not put these lands to better use than I. Labarum's fields would propel the wealth of Rome to higher levels under my care.

As a precaution, I have already asked signore Capocci that he tones down the manners which he employs to defend my interests.

Consul Hugo De Vinti[/ic]
[ic=Letter to Senator Sismondii]Senator Sismondii,
You have my utmost graitude for providing such support to this cause. It will not soon be forgotten.
The Church has been made aware of this, and the savage barons of Labarum have only told them lies. Obviously, we will be sought out to clarify our position on this matter.
Good Romans were chased violently from abandonned lands by savages, let's not forget that. We are merely defending the interests of the Roman people and their chance at prosperity.

We must not cede under the pressure. Labarum's fields must become Roman possession.

Yours truly,
Hugo De Vinti[/ic]