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3.1% The return of the fallen king / Chapter 11: Considering the next steps carefully

Chapter 11: Considering the next steps carefully

<<''No plan of operations reaches with any certainty beyond the first encounter with the enemy's main force''>>

--Kriegsgechichtliche Einzelschriften (1880); often quoted as, 'No plan survives first contact with the enemy

Conradin was heading through the hallways after his meeting with the monarch of Bohemia , intending to discuss the loan transaction with his counselors. He entered the chamber where he had ordered his retainers to meet and saw that his vassals were currently deep into a discussion that ended at his arrival. The counselors had been waiting for him  to hear about the result of the negotiation, which Conradin briefly replied was a success.

''Now that we have the money, what should we do?'' Conradin inquired to his retainers, his voice filled with anticipation. The retainers exchanged glances, each one pondering the possibilities that openeed thanks to the new budget.

He looked at every face of his freshly acquired retainers, but his gaze was drawn to Galvano the one with the most experience, who began to advise the monarch on the options available to them .

''We could sail to Sicily and incite our subjects to revolt, or we could go to the north of Italy and pursue our involvement in comuni politics.'' Galvano proposed

''We have no reason to fret; let us discuss the advantages and cons of each option calmly , and make a decision based on those ,'' the young king said after a few moments of thought.

''So, if we were to sail to Sicily, possibly requesting Pisa or Genoa to lend us some ships, we would arrive with 3000 knights at  our hands.

We would  be able to surprise Charles and coordinate the rebel force to join us in forming an army if we go this way. We could use the loan money to fund this trip, allowing us to get started on our plans right away. We may then begin planning and preparing for our upcoming campaign. The disadvantage of this would be leaving the northern regions of Italy alone. Following my uncle's defeat, the comuni of Italy are overwhelmingly pro-pope and, as a result, support Charles.'' Said Conradin before continuing with his analysis

''Their support may be merely lip service, but what if some of them decide to curry favor with the Pope and send Charles money or troops to back up his claim? This would undoubtedly weaken our position. Furthermore, if the comuni of Italy align with the Pope and Charles, it could potentially create a divided front against us, making it harder to gain support and resources from those regions. Additionally, the possibility of facing internal conflicts within our own territories cannot be ignored if some of our allies choose to switch sides under pressure from the Pope.. '' Conradin then came to a halt and let his words pause for a moment before continuing:

  ''Now, for the second option, going to the north of Italy and influencing the region's politics with our presence may deprive Charles of possible sources of support while possibly gaining some of them ourselves; however, this would take time, allowing Charles to further consolidate his position in my kingdom.''

  Conradin's voice grew more contemplative as he weighed the consequences of each option.  ''Tell me, Corrado, what choice do you think we should make?'' Corrado reflected for a moment before answering, ''Your Majesty, I believe that traveling directly to Sicily would be the finest choice to make. It would be a straight route that would allow us to garner additional support for our throne's claim, as well as intelligence and knowledge to help us plan more successfully. ''

Conradin turned to face Galvano after hearing Corrado's views, Galvano understanding the king was asking for his opinion responded to the king's request

''Your Majesty, I too agree with Corrado since sailing for Sicily would be the best route to take ''

The last to speak was Maletta, who proposed instead heading north to gather reinforcements or gold before advancing south. The three argued a little more about the complications that either choice would cause, and considerable time passed before Conradin made his conclusion, ''Well, why not both?''

His retainers were taken aback and inquired as to what his majesty was on about.

''Why not go to northern Italy, influence the situation there, gather support, and then move to Sicily through the sea and coordinate our forces with the rebels?''

The tree retainers exchanged glances before Maletta replied. ''I believe it is a feasible possibility, your Majesty, however it may incur in unexpected issues,'' he said.

''All well, then, we'll go forward as planned, after all every plan may incur unexpected problems it would be foolish to think that reality will go exactly as planned  ,'' Conradin said as he rose from his seat and exited the room. The tree retainers nodded in agreement, understanding the risks involved. They knew that adaptability and quick thinking would be crucial in handling any unforeseen challenges that may arise during their mission. With determination in their eyes, they prepared to embark on this daring endeavor, ready to face whatever obstacles lay ahead. 

After all, they couldn't stay there and talk all day; they needed to prepare and look presentable for a feast that was waiting for them since it would be impolite to show up with a shabby appearance.


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Chapter 12: Banquet

Amici e vini sono meglio vecchi = Old wine and friends improve with age

--Italian proverb

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After the discussion, Conradin left the room, leaving his retainers behind, in order to prepare for the feast hosted in his honor.

Conradin took a minute to catch his breath and prepare for the evening feast, tired after a full day of planning for his upcoming campaign. He knew he had to put on his best face as a guest since he didn't want to offend his host, so he made sure he was presentable and well-rested for the event. He bathed and dressed in his best clothing, making sure he was presentable and ready for the kingdom's meeting.

He wore a doublet of deep royal blue that aligned with his eyes. Crafted with the finest silk, it was adorned with golden embroidery that traces his heart, hearald's lion, it. Overdoubletblet, he wore a heavy velvet cloak of crimson blood. Around his waist, he had a leather belt where he hung his swords. On their hands,  he kept the same squirrel's skin he had worn since he hunted them when he was 12. 

While their king was busy preparing himself, his retainers were expressing their opinion on their lieutenant. Galvano was the first to speak.

''I have to say, when I learned that the last member of the House of Hohenstaufen was only a 14-year-old kid, my hopes were dashed, fearing that he would allow his youth to lead him to make stupid decisions. Now, after being by his side for two weeks, I see my biases were unfounded. I noticed that before making a decision, he allows his retainer to express their opinion, after which he analyzes each one to make sure nothing is amiss''. Galvano praised the young leader for his mature and thoughtful approach to leadership. He admired the way the 14-year-old sought advice and carefully considered all perspectives before making important decisions, proving that age does not necessarily dictate wisdom. 

''I agree with you,'' Maletta said. ''I believe he will be the one able to restore his family's authority. The way he conducts himself is the only thing that bothers me. He had to grow up so quickly and didn't get to smell the beautiful aroma of life. He could not enjoy his youth since he grew up in the midst of deception and betrayal.''

Corrado didn't say anything and instead just glanced down at the cold floor before expressing his thoughts: ''That may be, but his responsibility to his blood and all its subjects obligates him to act as a sovereign dictate. We can feel pity or sadness for his premature inner growth, but what we can and should do is make it as smooth as possible.''

After saying this, he got up from his seat and began walking to his chamber to prepare for the feast, advising his companions to do the same so as not to embarrass their young king.

Returning to our young monarch, he was about to enter the hall, where he could clearly hear laughter and music. The banquet hall was luxurious and opulent, with a big table in the center and several smaller tables positioned around it. The room was adorned with exquisite tapestries and sparkling chandeliers, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and celebration. As the young king stepped into the hall, he couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and excitement for the festivities that awaited him. The walls were lined with wonderful works of art, and the area was illuminated by a plethora of candelabras that cast an unearthly glow on the proceedings. The ambiance was vast and sumptuous, reflecting Bohemia's strength and wealth.

The musicians performed sophisticated and joyous music, creating a celebratory atmosphere during the feast and setting the tone for the evening. The comedians cracked wise and amused the audience with their jokes and stories. With their wit and humor, they were able to lighten the tone and guarantee that everyone had a nice time. The music and humor were a great accompaniment to the food and wine, and they all worked together to create a festive mood. The feast showcased an array of delectable dishes, ranging from savory meats to decadent desserts, pleasing the palates of all attendees. The wine flowed freely, with each glass enhancing the flavors of the meal and adding to the overall enjoyment of the evening. The combination of exquisite cuisine, lively entertainment, and convivial company made for an unforgettable celebration that truly captured the essence of Bohemian opulence. 

It was a very entertaining and merry evening, and those in attendance couldn't help but enjoy themselves as they took part in the festivities.

He observed that four seats were reserved near the royal pair, which he assumed were for him and his retainers. He sat on the conserved place after clearly greeting and thanking the royal couple, not wishing to keep the hosts waiting any longer.

He then took his seat and waited to see what happened next. He hoped for a pleasant and delightful evening; the entire situation was magnificent and majestic, and he was proud to be a part of it.

After a short while, the other retainers arrived and sat with the king. The feast lasted hours, and Conradin had a pleasant time with the monarch as well as meeting many notable nobles from Ottokar's domain. And with some promises of land and glory, many third sons of barons decided to swear fealty to Conradin, as back home they had nothing to await them. Conradin's charisma and charm won over the hearts of the third sons, who saw an opportunity for a brighter future under his leadership. The evening ended on a high note, with Conradin feeling grateful for the newfound support and eager to embark on his journey towards greatness. 

The next morning dawned, and, in contrast to the fine image of the feast's Conradin, the current image of him was one of decadence, and he could easily be misinterpreted as a tavern drunk if not dressed elegantly.

Conradin tried to recollect what had happened the night before, recalling some details before grabbing a wooden pail and vomiting the food and alcohol from the night before. This was the 14-year-old king's first hangover, which caused him such severe headaches and stomach aches that he swore he would never drink wine again, a promise he would soon break.

What made him delighted and smile, however, was that he was able to enlist many third and fourth sons of numerous tiny noble families, such as barons and knights, who will be used as commanders for his army, which he seriously lacked; unfortunately, he could only use them for his German contingent of knights since most of them only spoke German and Czech. His smile, however, lasted for only a moment before he gagged and continued to throw up.


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