The Lioness of the Romagna

[Sarah Tintagyl]

[i]La Castello Rivaldino
Forli, Romagna[/i]

Night had fallen over the city of Forli, resting along the fertile plains of the Romagna of Eastern Italy. Caterina Sforza, the Countess of the Romagna and the wife of Girolamo Riario, stood on the roof of the Rivaldino, the battlements that looked out over the darkened city and countryside. Cranking her fingers against the stone of the fortress, she returned to the glass of red wine she had with her and took a long gulp, the red liquid running down her mouth like blood. It was an omen of what was to come, she knew that all too well, that she would be the one dining on blood. Behind her, she could hear the sounds of great wooden door leading back into the citadel opening with a great creak and armored boots echoing across the stone roof.

"Are they dead Tommaso?" She asked the Chamberlain, Tommaso Feo, in a dry voice without turning her head.

"Si Madonna Caterina. The conspirators have been dispatched to Hell, just as you commanded. I thought that you would have liked to watch the rest of the executions personally?"

A month ago, the Count of the Romagna, Girolamo Riario had been assassinated by a group of conspirators from the Orsi Family. Riario was not a popular count, his policies had brought famine, unemployment, and suffering to the people of the Romagna. But as his power began to fade, Caterina's had begun to grow. It had fallen to the young Countess of twenty-four to defend the Romagna from its enemies while Giralomo sat back in Forli recovering from various ailments and weaknesses. It was Caterina who journeyed out with the population to build parks, some of the first schools in the region, and attract merchants and traders from across Italy. In Giralomo's last days, the region was finally beginning to turn around, showing signs of prosperity and success. Then the conspiracy threatened to undo everything that Caterina had worked for. The Orsi had come in without notice, killed Giralomo over a dinner conversation and then proceeded to kidnap Caterina and her three children. However, it was the Countess' wit that secured the Rivaldino to outlast the conspirators. After help had arrived from Caterina's family in Milan and her own attacks on the conspirators, Forli and the rest of the Romagna had rallied to her side and the Orsi were put down and captured. It was then that the young Countess placed all her brutality into their torture and death. Some were dismembered and thrown through the streets of Forli, some were burned alive, and the Orsi patriarch was disemboweled by Caterina herself. A small price she believed for threatening the social stability of the Romagna and taking away her husband. Even if Caterina already had designs on Giralomo's life herself.

She sighed at Tommaso's words. "One can only take so much death."

The Chamberlain laughed. "This is the same Caterina Sforza that I have known for the past four years? I didn't think you could ever get enough blood."

Caterina turned around and Feo stopped and gulped. Giralomo had been a lucky man, she was a breathtaking woman, long golden hair, crystal blue eyes, and healthy tanned skin, the scent of roses and wild herbs arose from her presence and her eyes never betrayed a sign of virtue. The Countess lived in sin, rage, lust, it was rumored even witchcraft, but if this was Sin in human form, his faith was easily betrayed. She smiled and walked over to him, opening his mouth and pouring the wine down his throat. "You're right, I can never get enough of seeing my enemies burn and scream. Which is why I don't think you would ever betray me...would you Tommaso?"

"Never Madonna. I have sworn an oath to you, the entire city of Forli has sworn an oath to you. You above all else, even as Regent of the young Ottaviano."

"Ottavinao will be taken care of in his own time." She sighed. "And don't worry, I don't mean anything stern, I mean to grow away from the Romagna and expand our power." She clasped her hands behind her back. "We can not allow ourselves to stagnate in Italy, or at least the Romagna. We have a great deal of social order to instill around the countryside, Bologna and Ravenna to be specific. Militarily, what are we looking at post-conspiracy?"

"The galliaese fleet under Admiral Ordelaffi is still a force to be reckoned with in the Adriatic, especially with the decline of Venice as a power of late. They were hit with an economic depression that had completely wrecked their economy."

"The Romagna more powerful than Venice?" Caterina chuckled. "I never thought I would see the day. Truly amazing and around Italy?"

"We have not received any reports from either your brother in Milan, the Pope in Rome, or the Royal Family in Naples."

"Perhaps I should update Gian on what has been going on in Forli." She rolled her eyes. "Actually, I should probably alert uncle."

"The Moor?"

Caterina glared. "Do not speak of Ludovico that way Tommaso, he is too valuable to my rule to be ridiculed for his complexion."

"And his brutality, I believe I know where you get yours from Milady."

"No." She kissed him on ear and whispered. "I am the daughter of the one who did not know fear." And left the Chamberlain staring out against the darkened horizon as the door shut behind him. Walking down through the castle, Caterina kept her head low as she bowed to passing courtiers on the way to her private quarters and sat down at her desk taking out a piece of parchment and a quill.

[quote]

[i]Dearest Brother and Uncle,

I hope this letter finds you both well in Milan, my thanks for the military support to put down the Orsi rebellion will be paid in full in the next few months as soon as I can secure things in Forli, Imola, Ravenna, and Bologna, the work of a widow is never truly done. Europe however from the missives I have received is a changing continent and is finally coming out of these chaotic ages by the Grace of God and I hope that while Europe advances, Italy, specifically Milan and her Daughter advance with them. My sorrows that our advisors could not gain control of the Papacy from the Portuguese as well, but perhaps in time a Sforza will have control of that religious thorn in the south. If not you Brother and Uncle, then perhaps myself. Nevertheless, if possible, I would like to see both of you again in the future, with Giralomo's death I must rethink the future of the Romagna region and as always, the advice of my family is some of the most important that I can ever hold. I would be honored to host a feast in both your honors in Forli, of course I would also yearn to see the spires of Milan again as well. But I will leave that to your gracious counsels.

I await your responses in haste.

Your Eternal Servant Under God,

Caterina[/i]
[/quote]

As she folded the paper, Caterina walked back out of her quarters to one of the courtiers in the stone halls. "This goes to Milan with the greatest haste. Do not betray me."

He bowed. "Madonna, your command is my greatest desire."

Caterina bowed in return heading back into her quarters to prepare herself for her night activities and as she relaxed in a hot bath of rose pedals, she reflected on the recent events. "You have the world at your fingertips Caterina." She said crushing a pedal in her palm. "It is time to make them understand it."

[SpacingOutMan]

The city of Milan was bustling with activity as merchants scurried throughout the alleyways trading a recent shipment of goods from the east. A lone messenger was amongst this chaotic crowd as he tried to push through toward the [i]Castello di Milano[/i].

Regent Ludovico sat idly in his room as a knock bounced off the door of his bed chambers. He began to stand up, astute, questioningly staring at the door. [i]"My liege, a message as arrived from Romagna!"[/i] a voice cried out. Ludovico jumped from his bed and gripped the door handle.

Opening the door, Ludovico's face emerged, staring the messenger in the face. Calmly, he took the envelope eloped between the courier's fingers and opened it. Scanning it, he sighed with a hint of joy gleaming on his lips. [i]"Come in, come in, take a seat,"[/i] he said to the courier as he motioned him in. He immediately rushed over to his desk and took out parchment from his mahogany desk.

[i]"Courier, give me one moment. I will have you send this message back to Forli. There is no reason to bring this letter also to the Duke,"[/i] he continued as he began to scribble down words on the parchment. Two minutes passed by as he then furiously etched his signature onto the paper and gave a content smile. [i]"Here, bring this back with due haste..."[/i] he started as he paused for a moment. He reached into the confines of his pocket and took out a few coins and put it along with the letter. [i]"...And take this as payment for your work,"[/i] he finished as he handed the letter and coins over to the courier.

The courier simply bowed and ran out of the room. Pondering, he thought about what he had just written and returned to his perch in the window sill overlooking the city.

[quote]
[i]Dearest Niece,

Milan is glad to hear of your success in taming Orsi, but your terms of repayment are not needed. We will discuss this at a different point in time; this is cause for a joyous celebration, not simple formalities. God willed for us, His binding and truest constituents, to inherit the lands of such heathens. Do not worry about the Papacy; two of our greatest Archbishops were elected into the College of Cardinals, and I know they will achieve the greater good in the name of God. They will do good there and as for Portugal, there is no reason to worry.

But I am terribly sorry over the death of Giralomo. May God bless his soul as he enjoys the fruits of everlasting happiness. We must meet to, again, celebrate your momentous victories. There is also a certain discussion that must be had as we move into the future of our great House. The House of Sforza shall lead Europe into a state of prosperity by example.

Though our schedules remain hectic, and tavel so limited despite the construction of new roadways, you can expect our visit in a month's time. I hope this is okay with you, my beloved niece.

Sincerely yours,

Regent Ludovico Sforza[/i][/quote]

Edited April 17, 2010 by SpacingOutMan

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Strolling through the grounds of the Rivaldino, Caterina clasped the letter in her hands as Tommaso Feo walked beside her. "I trust good news from Milan Milady? The Duke and Regent have approved of our payment."

"Better, they have completely glossed over it, no payment is needed. However there is a great deal of work that needs done to prepare for the arrival of Gian and Ludovico. A great deal of work." She said turning back towards the citadel and continuing her panorama over the city of Forli. "I will not allow my uncle and brother to come into this city without a fine array of celebration and pageantry."

"The budget will allow that?"

"For the continual blessing of Milan?" She glared. "I will have it no other way. Make sure that when the Duke and Regent arrive, they do so as if we were welcoming the Pope himself."

"Of course Ladyship." The Chamberlain bowed and set off back towards the castle as Caterina continued walking through the parks outside of the fortress. She hoped with a full heart that both Gian and Ludovico would be impressed at what she had been able to do in the Romagna and pray that they would bless her to the point that she could expand further.

---

A month later when news of Ludovico and Gian's arrival was immanent they would find the city of Forli along with other cities they would pass through, Bologna, Imola, and perhaps even Ravenna if they so chose decked out in the most royal decadence. The Seal of the House Sforza was emblazoned on all buildings, carried on the personal shields of Caterina's men-at-arms, and banners waved from Church spires and castle battlements. Forli, however, was Caterina's greatest accomplishment. The city's subjects were given the day as a festival and many more people from around the Romagna had come to see the arrival of the Ducal Family, the relations of the Bella Contessa. Music filled the air, carnival troupes lined the streets and parks, and Caterina had even allowed and had arranged for a large feast for the entire population. Meat, fresh fish from the Adriatic, and beef soup was free to eat and beer and wine was in abundance. Even by the middle of the day, many were already drunk in the merriment of the Duke and Regent's arrival.

As they entered Forli however, they were immediately received by Tommaso Feo, Caterina's Chamberlain along with Admiral Vitale Ordelaffi. They bowed low and Tommaso spoke first. "Her Ladyship is more than blessed to receive you both in good health today. She is waiting in the Castle Rivaldino for your presence. If you would both be so kind of follow our congregation, we will depart." Feo and Ordelaffi led the Duke and Regent from the gates of Forli through the town, with an escort of musketeers and finally arrived to the castle. The drawbridge was let down and they crossed the moat into the courtyard of an even larger festival of the local gentry. While under a pavilion decorated with spring flowers sat the Countess herself.

Caterina rose, dressed in green satin, her hair done in the style of Livia of Ancient Rome, sprayed with perfume and her eyes bathed in rose water. She smiled, approached her brother and uncle and bowed low to the ground kissing both of their hands. "Brother Gian, Uncle Ludovico, it is a pleasure to see you both again. It has been too long. Welcome to Forli. Please, sit with me and watch." There was a troupe of actors ready to perform the Song of Roland. "We can talk amongst their performance." She took them back to the pavilion as the actors began and had wine poured for them as well as bread given. "So." She sipped, the red wine bleeding into her lips. "How are things in Milan?"

[SpacingOutMan]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' date='17 April 2010 - 05:34 PM' timestamp='1271540033' post='2264231']
"So." She sipped, the red wine bleeding into her lips. "How are things in Milan?"
[/quote]

Duke Gian, being only eight years of age, seemed almost perplexed by the question. His inexperience in life had left him completely unprepared for the position given to him after the assassination of his father. But lest to not fall to never availing, Regent Ludovico had stood at his side as not only his adviser and artificer of the state, but also his biological uncle.

Stuttering with obvious effusion of misunderstanding, Gian replied, [i]"I... Mil... Milan is, well, things have been, um..."[/i].

Smiling Ludovico leaned over to his nephew and spoke into his ear, [i]"My dear nephew, let me draw breath and speak."[/i]

Nearly cutting Gian off, Ludovico continued, [i]"Milan fairs well, milady. We are in need of looking over our budget and training our military, but there is promise within the academies. There is also word spreading across Milan of a bright man by the name of Leonardo Da Vinci. The House of Sforza in Milan, of course, summoned for him. And I would ask how fairs Romagna, but I must say that this city has me left speechless. It's eloquent beauty and magnificence... it's truly breath-taking. My dear niece, you have truly out done yourself this time."[/i]

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Caterina smiled at Gian's response, she loved her brother dearly as any older sister would, she watched out for him and her protectiveness of Gian nearly made her distrustful of Ludovico. However her Uncle was the real power behind the Milanese state and any movement between her Romagna and his Milan would have to be done with the most delicate balance she could muster. She took his hand and held it even as Ludovico began to speak. "Do not worry Gian, I promise you always have my support, you are becoming a handsome young man. You'll make a great leader, we both will." She could still remember his birth, she was young as well, before being married off to Girolamo. Only years before the death of their father Galeazza, then Ludovico had stepped into the picture.

She turned up to Ludovico, still holding the hand of her brother and blushed. "I always try to outdo myself Uncle, you should know that by now. My father never taught me any less than to impress your guests and look..." She glanced over at the festival in the courtyard. "The people are happy a day off from work as well that the recent conspiracies have been, well," Caterina tightened her hands. "Crushed, helps greatly as well. Also, Da Vinci?" She shook her head. "I've never heard of him, I'm guessing a scholar of some sorts? If he does anything of precedence I really must meet him. I do enjoy the company of scholars a great deal." Taking another sip of the wine, she dropped Gian's hand and leaned back on her chair. "Now, you said about a discussion on prosperity? What exactly did you have in mind Uncle for benefit to our House?"

[SpacingOutMan]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' date='17 April 2010 - 07:05 PM' timestamp='1271545509' post='2264333']
"Do not worry Gian, I promise you always have my support, you are becoming a handsome young man. You'll make a great leader, we both will." [/quote]

The Duke smiled a bit as he let his uncle do all of the official speak. He tried to pay attention, but he was just too young to really understand the amplitude of the conversation.

[quote]"Now, you said about a discussion on prosperity? What exactly did you have in mind Uncle for benefit to our House?"
[/quote]

[i]"I can only assume he is some sort of scholar because he has already established a bit of a reputation,"[/i] he began. [i]"In fact, it was the Duke who noticed his artwork, and from there I suppose one could say it's history. But for the prosperity of Italy, as you know, the Republic of Venice and the Duchy of Milan signed the Treaty of Lodi just this year, ending the bloodiest of wars. Italy stands as a divided state, tormented by the reveling horrors of war and conflict. If we are to lead by example, we must united the states under one banner. The Treaty of Lodi exemplifies the ability for peace to be reached amongst two nations who hated each other. But one must put aside their hatred for the other for the sake of the greater good, just as God had intended. It is why I plan to create the Italic League, an alliance amongst all of the Italian states in order to defend the state from the belligerence of the rest of Europe. France, England, Spain, and Portugal all sit in unification with their own people, and even Austria-Hungary has finally come together as a single state. It is time that we, Italian brother-in-arms, end this cycle of hatred and come together under the single unified banner of the Italic League,"[/i] the Regent, out of breath, finished.

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Caterina nodded as he talked, the proposal of a League was something interesting and the preservation of Italy from the unification of other nations throughout Europe was important. Though she couldn't help feel a bit isolated, the Romagna was definitely not the strongest state in Italy, though it could definitely hold its own she was worried that Ludovico looked to gain total dominance of the peninsula. Not that it would be that horrible, after all, she would be quite cozy in Italy with him in power. But what of her own ambition? She was not about to let Ludovico steal the chance at her own immortality, she would rather burn in Hell.

"Well the idea is most definitely something interesting. Especially given that the war between Your Grace and the Venetians have ended. Actually..." She sighed and looked out into the courtyard. "Venice, since the war at least has entered into a horrible recession, their empire in Crete, Rhodes, the Adriatic Coast, all gone. It puts both Milan and the Romagna in a pristine opportunity to move, perhaps curb Venetian power forever?" Placing the wine glass on the table next to her, Caterina traced her fingers around the top of the glass, around and around. "If of course you do not have your own plans for the Venetians, I most definitely have my own ideas." She smiled and closed her eyes picking the glass up again.

"You think we have something to fear from those barbaric northerners? And by that I mean those who have just unified."

Edited April 18, 2010 by Sarah Tintagyl

[SpacingOutMan]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' date='17 April 2010 - 09:40 PM' timestamp='1271554832' post='2264484']
"You think we have something to fear from those barbaric northerners? And by that I mean those who have just unified."
[/quote]

Laughing a bit, Ludovico took a sip of his wine and swirled it around a bit. [i]"I take it you have your own plans for Venice. Why am I not surprised?"[/i] he halfheartedly questioned with earnest as he continued to laugh, but calmed a bit. [i]"Both of our states have the best opportunities to succeed right now, meaning we have to capitalize on this moment. The war with Venice and her allies left both sides crippled. Our army is but a fraction of what it was, granted most that were killed were conscripts. But alas, that is the venue of war, unfortunately,"[/i] he continued, hinting a vice of solace and remorse. [i]"As long as the Republic of Venice remains to stay intact, she will be an inherent threat to the House of Sforza. My dear niece, I have never doubted your ability to turn a terrible situation into a good one, but I do question what you could possibly do to bring Venice done?"[/i] Ludovico asked with genuine curiosity.

A pause breached the moment as he took a breath, not giving Caterina time to immediately answer he continued, [i]"And as for them, perhaps not Austria-Hungary as of yet. I would not dare question the loyalty the Holy Roman Emperor has towards his constituents... but with the recent rise of Portugal and dazed states Spain and France have been put in, they have become unpredictable states."[/i]

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"My plan?" Caterina smiled sadistically with a hint of sensuality. "Dear Uncle, it is not through men and munitions that states are brought down. Men do not need to die to make sure that Venice is no longer a threat to Milan and Forli's power. Instead, I am willing to wager that Venice could even be brought as an ally, if there would be a new Doge to sit in the Council of Ten. Or perhaps, a more correct term, the Dogaressa." With that she ran her fingers through her braided hair and down her neck. "Francesco Foscari, the current Doge, he doesn't have a chance. He is a man after all and men are weak when faced with women, Attila was killed by a woman and so were many other of the great leaders. If Your Grace would not worry, I will travel to Venice myself in a few months time and personally court Lord Foscari. Giralomo's death, however tragic, will not keep me from tearing my heart from my people. He was a weak man, he was going to die eventually, dying in bed just months ago. After all." She looked up at Ludovico. "If Italy is going to be united, why not unite it with people we trust."

As Ludovico continued he began about the Holy Roman Emperor which immediately made Caterina a bit uncomfortable, the power of the Germans in the world, especially the Austrians was massive. Though they were distracted by the Ottoman invasions as of late. However other states were continuously forming in the north. The Germans had interfered in Italy before, they could easily do so again, it was something she prayed that Ludovico would be cautious about. France, England, Spain, and Portugal, were other monsters entirely. "Then we should remain on our guard, though I'm sure I don't have as much to worry about with my person existing in the center of Italy." Caterina smiled and clasped Ludovico's hands within her's. "My payment, if those !@#$%^&* ever dare step within Italy, I will repel them myself. That you have my word." She chuckled. "You also have my sword and armor. I can't find good generals either. Have to rely myself most of the time, should tell you how Giralomo was in the field as well."

She smiled. "Nevertheless. There you have my plans for Romagna and the world for the next few months and years at least. Remember it, you will never find me so open again."

[SpacingOutMan]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' date='17 April 2010 - 10:10 PM' timestamp='1271556628' post='2264514']
She smiled. "Nevertheless. There you have my plans for Romagna and the world for the next few months and years at least. Remember it, you will never find me so open again."
[/quote]

The Regent sat for a moment pondering the idea. [i]"Diplomacy through courting. I am but a humble servant of God, but you know what I feel about those who use their vogue for any reason. However my dear niece, you have my blessing to do this and I trust you entirely. If we proceed with fulfilling the dream of the Italic League, it will be Europe who will fear us. I am not a warmonger, but I know that if we are to exist in this world, we must not be passed off as perceived weaklings. Some exercise subtlety in their hunger for power, but I want the world to know of not only Italy, but the House of Sforza. By the will of God we shall lead the world in a new direction. We shall test the waters under God's heavenly light and embrace the world that is Italian dominance. It is my dream to make the world revel in our superior intellect and dominance. All eyes will turn toward our great nation of states and the Papacy,"[/i] the Regent bolstered as pride took the better part of his voice's tone.

[i]"I couldn't be happier to have you with me my dear niece. The Duke and I wish to see this world progress so that God may look upon mankind and see that there are those who still live to set an example for the rest of the depraved world. I am glad you have been so open with me, but your hostility is a mere facade that you dispose on yourself, though I admire it my dear Caterina. Romagna is lucky to have you at their helm, and Italy is blessed with your timely presence when it needs people like you the most. Likewise, I plan to meet with the relevant leaders in the southern peninsula. I am serious about the Italic League; it is a necessity should we, as a nation state, survive. And who better to bring about this change than the two premier powers in all of Italy, that being Romagna and Milan?"[/i] his voice raised, usurped into question, as he sat back in his chair and glanced over to Gian, who had a glossed over look on his face.

Edited April 18, 2010 by SpacingOutMan

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"The Neapolitans, the Florentine and then beyond that we may have to worry about the Sardinians." She sighed. "Also Uncle, between you and I, there is a Portuguese controlled Pope can we really trust the Papacy right now if we do not control it?" Shaking her head Caterina turned back to him and Gian. "Nevertheless, if Naples, Sardinia, Florence, and Venice can all be brought to bear under the power of the Sforza Household then I don't believe we have much of a problem and I think I can handle Venice on my own. Foscari won't know what to do with himself. But I wait for the day when Milan and Forli can stand as the two great cities of Italy, surpassing Rome herself in brilliance." She turned to Gian. "One day that will be yours brother, I promise you that. But enough politics."

The Countess stood up from her chair and clapped her hands. "Ladies and Gentlemen, my subjects! Please, if you will cease your activity for just a moment. Today, we come together to pay honor to Duke Gian Galeazzo Sforza, Lord of Milan, my dearest brother and my dear Uncle, Ludovico Sforza, Regent as my brother has yet to properly ascend the Ducal Throne." Taking her glass from behind her she rose it into the air and turned back to her brother and uncle. "May the House of Sforza never fall and may our health and the health of our people last for as long as the sun continues to rise and fall, day and night. May God Bless Us All." She toasted her glass and drank down the wine with a strong gulp before returning to her seat, smiling at Gian. "This festival is for you and I feel that we haven't been able to talk." Looking up at Ludovico Caterina nodded. "Unless there is something more to discuss politically and should be gotten out of the way, I will take Gian for the time, it has been a long time since I was able to spend time with my brother."

[SpacingOutMan]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' date='18 April 2010 - 02:20 AM' timestamp='1271571591' post='2264699']
"The Neapolitans, the Florentine and then beyond that we may have to worry about the Sardinians." She sighed. "Also Uncle, between you and I, there is a Portuguese controlled Pope can we really trust the Papacy right now if we do not control it?" Shaking her head Caterina turned back to him and Gian. "Nevertheless, if Naples, Sardinia, Florence, and Venice can all be brought to bear under the power of the Sforza Household then I don't believe we have much of a problem and I think I can handle Venice on my own. Foscari won't know what to do with himself. But I wait for the day when Milan and Forli can stand as the two great cities of Italy, surpassing Rome herself in brilliance." She turned to Gian. "One day that will be yours brother, I promise you that. But enough politics."

The Countess stood up from her chair and clapped her hands. "Ladies and Gentlemen, my subjects! Please, if you will cease your activity for just a moment. Today, we come together to pay honor to Duke Gian Galeazzo Sforza, Lord of Milan, my dearest brother and my dear Uncle, Ludovico Sforza, Regent as my brother has yet to properly ascend the Ducal Throne." Taking her glass from behind her she rose it into the air and turned back to her brother and uncle. "May the House of Sforza never fall and may our health and the health of our people last for as long as the sun continues to rise and fall, day and night. May God Bless Us All." She toasted her glass and drank down the wine with a strong gulp before returning to her seat, smiling at Gian. "This festival is for you and I feel that we haven't been able to talk." Looking up at Ludovico Caterina nodded. "Unless there is something more to discuss politically and should be gotten out of the way, I will take Gian for the time, it has been a long time since I was able to spend time with my brother."
[/quote]

The Regent shrugged and nodded. [i]"We stand at the breadth of Christendom's stronghold, and God rewards those who are vigilant my dear niece, remember that,"[/i] the man brazenly stated as he lifted his cup for the toast and sipped it down. Ludovico slowly got up from his chair and pulled Gian's chair backward to let Gian get up. Gian looked up at him and only saw a genuine smile, so he responded in kind.

[i]"Thank you uncle,"[/i] his young voice sweltered out as he plopped down from the chair and approached Caterina. He looked at her rather curiously, not really knowing the inner-workings of Caterina. Most of his life was spent in Milan and the few times he was able to speak with her it was brief because of the turmoil within both Milan and Forli. But he loved his sister very much so, and butterflies cramped his stomach as anticipation filled his head.

Ludovico bowed once more and strolled onto the dance floor, looking for some company as music began to play in the background. Gian, feeling a burst of excitement rip from his stomach, jumped and hugged Caterina. Confusion swelled within him for a second because he meant to use words, but a hug was even better for him.

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Returning the embrace Caterina took the young Duke's hand as they began to stroll through the festival. "Gian, I am serious about what I said in the pavilion. There are too many young rulers today that never see the light of their rule because of opportunism." Brushing away a strand of hair that had fallen over her right eye, she knelt down in front of him and ran her hand though his hair. "I'm going to train you myself, sometimes I don't trust Uncle's...might...shall we say...sometimes and the last thing I want to see is my own brother being usurped by a member of his own family because of the right to rule."

Standing back up they continued their walk through the festival as the Countess opened her thoughts once again to her brother. "If you have any problems, if you require state advice, if you feel in danger, send me a letter, a personal courier, anything, and I will come myself to make sure everything is okay. We will train Gian, train ourselves together, I will teach you swordplay and hunting and everything we should have done as brother and sister long ago. Politics is a harsh life and you should have a teacher who while harsh can care for you as well. But if you ever need me, do not ever feel pressured to ask for my help." She stopped and took a deep breath, looking down at the ground she could almost begin to feel the tears building in her eyes. "Everything, everything happened so fast after you were born. When father was killed..." Caterina's left fist, her free fist, closed tightly, her entire body tensing up in anger. "Those !@#$%^&*, I swear if I had the strength I had now they would all pay, I would burn them all if I could. Italy will fear us Gian, they will fear you and they will fear me, they will love us as well, but parents must be harsh to their children and even harsher to the usurper....I...I miss him so much sometimes...He...He taught me everything I know."

Caterina closed her eyes and let the last tears fall to the ground before turning back to her brother and smiling. "I'm sorry Gian, for that, my emotions get the better of me far too much."

EDIT: Done

Edited April 18, 2010 by Sarah Tintagyl

[SpacingOutMan]

[quote name='Sarah Tintagyl' date='18 April 2010 - 02:14 PM' timestamp='1271614463' post='2265081']
Caterina closed her eyes and let the last tears fall to the ground before turning back to her brother and smiling. "I'm sorry Gian, for that, my emotions get the better of me far too much."

EDIT: Done
[/quote]

Gian welled up a bit as he thought about his father. [i]"When father was murdered, there was a big fight over the reg... rege... regency! But Uncle came for me and he has been taking care of me. He treats me like... just like father did. Sometimes I think Uncle doesn't see me as fit to rule, and I understand that, but fath... when... before father died, he told me to always remember why his own father fought for the House of Sforza... I... I am not strong sister. Uncle has tried teaching me, but I just can't catch on. When you two were talking during the show, I was... it was so confusing!"[/i] he exclaimed as he shied away a bit.

[i]"Uncle Ludovico is providing me with all I need, or that's what he said to me. I am to marry a girl from the Re... Republic of Luc... Loo... Lucca. Uncle told me it's necessary... something about me needing a wife since I'm duke..."[/i] his voice trailed off as he looked to the ground.

[i]"Sister, I want you to teach me everything. I want to be like my father, like his father, like Uncle. I want to be a ruler unmatched by the world, just like the House of Sforza!"[/i] Gian's voice roared as he looked into Caterina's eyes with a distinct fire. [i]"Uncle is always talking about how great you are sister. Father always talked about you after you had left from your visits for weeks... you're my big sist... sister,"[/i] a faint smile emerged from his face as he finished.

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"You'll learn Gian, it is an age thing, trust me when I first left for Rome from my marriage, I was the same way, confused. The world was big, it was scary. Father taught me to have strength, even as a woman I have to play politics like a man, which is something you have on me. Considering you're already a boy." The Countess chuckled. "As to the Republic of Lucca, it is necessary, thought I would have wished a more lucrative wife would have been found. Perhaps of Pisa or of Genoa, but one cannot demand everything, hopefully she is very beautiful and you both love each other dearly."

"As to helping you and training you, I cannot visit Milan much, however when I can I will tell you and you are welcome to come to Forli any time you wish and we will both be rulers unmatched by the world. There isn't a doubt in my mind. We'll do it together." She leaned down and kissed him on the forehead as they continued to walk through the merriment of the town and the festival.

[Acca Dacca]

Armed and on a mission, the Sicilian soldiers blasted their trumpets to part the crowd near the entrance of the Rivaldino, to which they lines up in two formations, facing each other, creating a small opening for something they wishes to present. At the command of the Duke, the men sounded the trumpets once more in a triumphant manner. A small caravan lead by the Duke presented itself into the town. The Duke dismounted his horse and stood at the end of the two formations the soldiers had created. There, he spoke:

"Make way for the treasure of Italy, the protector of Naples, the ruler of Sicily, Queen...JOAN!"

Out from the caravan left her musical jesters, each armed to the tongue with melodies of Italy and the greatness of Rome. She provided each with a lute and had them come with her on journeys for entertainment. From behind the Duke, the Queen presented herself dressed in her nation's colors, gold and red. She waved to those who applauded, and smiled at the children. Her guard rode just behind her, but she knew the city meant her no harm. After all, Italians wouldnt do such an injustice in her mind.

She presented herself infront of Regent and the Countess. For them, she bowed.

"My northern neighbors, I do not wish to intrude on your festival, I simply could not bare another day without seeing the rest of Italy. I make my way to Milan and Venice, but I heard of a great festival here, and...well, I do enjoy a party. I bow before you in forgiveness for my sudden arrival."

She laughed to herself abit,

"Goodness, this is no doubt the worst way to present one's self in front of those they chose to be friends with. I am Queen Joan the second, ruler of the Kingdom of Sicily. My home has been of a bore lately and I wished to take this time to see the beauty of all that is Italy, and hopefully, to make friends along the way. Pardon, but may I ask for a seat?"

Edited April 19, 2010 by Acca Dacca

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Caterina's head sprang up from Gian as she heard the blaring of trumpets near the entrance of the Rivaldino, but as happily as her people were applauding the arrival of the Queen of Sicily, Caterina's own feeling was a bit anxious and much contempt. Queen Joan had never given any notice of her arrival and instead had just appeared with all the pomp and pageantry that had been given to the Duke and Regent of Milan. So say it gently, Joan was deliberately or not, taking away from the majesty of the festival. However, though perturbed, Caterina was still not one to completely forget her manners to a traveling guest, especially one as prestigious as the Queen of Sicily. Taking Gian's hand, she began to guide him back to the pavilion that the Queen had been directed to, where Ludovico was seated.

[i]"My northern neighbors, I do not wish to intrude on your festival, I simply could not bare another day without seeing the rest of Italy. I make my way to Milan and Venice, but I heard of a great festival here, and...well, I do enjoy a party. I bow before you in forgiveness for my sudden arrival."[/i]

"I believe you are intruding whether you wish it or not Your Highness, however, it is only an intrusion in that I had no time to prepare for the arrival of the Sicilians. Had I known that you would be making an Italian tour from the south to the north at the same time of my honoring of the Duke and Regent of Milan, I would have planned accordingly. Nevertheless, I bid you a warm welcome to the Romagna and to the city of Forli." Caterina turned and clapped. "Boy! Bring our Sicilian Guest a glass of wine, there is no possible way that we can enjoy a festival still sober, let us drink ourselves into a stupor Joan, as any good ladies and lords of court would have their daughters do." Caterina smiled with a primal joy as she picked her own glass up and toasted to Joan's health as she gestured the Sicilian to sit next to her and Ludovico.

"So you say you are on tour of the Peninsula? Tell me Joan, do you see what you like of the Romagna so far. In honesty I have not had any contact with your southern kingdom and would like such. With a Portuguese controlled Pope and an inherent bigotry in the Holy Roman Empire. The friendships of our neighbors so close are the most important to me. So have you come to tour Italy for friendship or to become better acquainted to the terrain?"

[Acca Dacca]

The boy handed her wine, and she handed him her horse. She made her way up delicately to the seat that she was so graciously given by Caterina. As she sat down, she waved off her caravan to enjoy themselves, and to endulge themselves in the greatness that is Italy.

"It is a beautiful country. The mountains, the plains. As a child, I was never asked to go any farther North than Rome. I see now that I have been missing out in my years. I see that the people as well are very welcoming. As I made my way along your border people were quite giving to my soldiers with gifts of bread and fruit. It saved us a stop or two, which is why my message of my arrival was brought with me, rather than with one of my riders. How does everything fair up here? Should I expect any trouble on my journey?"

[Sarah Tintagyl]

"Trouble? From the House Sforza?" Caterina chuckled. "No Joan, from Forli to Milan, you should have safe travels, I and the Duke and Regent of Milan whole sway over much of Northern Italy, besides the Florentines, Genoese, and Venetians, the latter that we are looking to secure as we speak. But I can assure you that if anyone would give the caravans of Sicily trouble, they will rot in a Milanese or Romagnan prison for the rest of their lives. But yes, the north is much different from the south, though as you have not been north of Rome, I have only be as south as Naples and would much like to see your homeland island. So perhaps as time goes on and the Romagna and Sicily become better acquainted, you and I can tour the peninsula together, Joan. What do you say?"

Caterina took another sip from her glass. "As for news from our lands. Advancement, prosperity and the defeat of the Venetians at the hands of Milan and perhaps the creation of a League of States to defend our homes from the onset of foreign invasion. What would you say to that Joan?"

[Acca Dacca]

"Splendid! On both accounts! I hate to see our North in shambles, with locals giving themselves titles to take over the region. I wish you and Milan well in reuniting Italy together once more. I, myself, have some ambitions of taking the region of Abruzzo, and being able to rightfully call myself your neighbor. This would make my people more peaceful in these pressing times."

She sighed, and took a sip of her wine, as she looked out to see the greatness that was the North. Her people were troubled, while her neighbors enjoyed their good fortune. She sipped her wine once more and returned to the conversation.

"Naples has been at a fall, and it is partically my fault. I have bore no sons for my country, and the House of Anjou has but three descendents left that can rightfully be called noble. I have regions in need of Consul, but I am but one woman with an entire Kingdom to run. Only during these times can I find good fortune and press to find a husband to my liking who will be the father of my children, and the leader of Sicily. Then, and only then will Sicily be able to hold such festivals and gatherings of the less formal sort. How havve you faired with men? A woman of your stature must be in some need of a man, but it would be hard to find a man who could possess such strength to keep you at bay. You seem so...strong-willed."

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Caterina nodded. "Well Your Highness, if you require the support for an invasion of Abruzzo, you have my army at your disposal. Uniting Italy under friendly rulers would be something to push for and no other nation besides Sicily would I rather share my southern border with."

Joan then continued with her tale of dissent and collapse of her nation that put the Countess at a bit of uneasiness, if Sicily would fall to a foreign power. Or worse an Italian ruler that pitted themselves against the Sforza it could very well spell trouble for Northern Italy. "You are a husbandless Queen? Your Highness..." Caterina leaned over to her and whispered into her ear. "My eldest son Ottaviano has no wife to call his own and your marriage with Ottaviano would place you under the protection of the Sforza Household, perhaps in the future you would contemplate a marriage between our peoples. I believe it would benefit both the Romagna and Sicily a great deal...no...all of Italy." Finishing her sentence, Caterina leaned back and chuckled at Joan's last statement.

"My own husband? Well I should tell you that I have recently been widowed by a !@#$%^& conspiracy. However, there are not enough weak young men for me to wrap my fingers around. Truth be told, I have been looking at the Doge of Venice and perhaps engage in a courtship between our persons. Though I should tell you Highness, that you are absolutely right on what you say, I have yet to find someone on this Earth besides my dead father who could ever keep my ambition at bay. We women are prejudiced against and therefore if we wish to hold power, must rule like men, must train like men, must war like men. My will is strong because the state commands it, my body is strong because it is the property of the state. That is how we women hold power." And Caterina did not lie, while she was a beautiful figure, her also showed great signs of strength, athleticism ran through her veins, whilst her arms and neck were obviously strong through years of hunting, swordplay, and other training. "Beauty and strength go hand in hand Majesty. I employ both."

[Acca Dacca]

"We are friendly now? Im glad it took only a short exchange of words to gain your trust. Give me a day, and I'll have a coat of Arms representing the joint Kingdom of Romagna and Sicily!"

She laughed at the thought of having such a power over people but was brought back suddenly by the proposal of marriage. An opening, a way to make it all better.

"You are...too kind, my friend. A house that is so welcoming... I only wish that there was something I could do for you."

She fell into though listening to everything Caterina had said, and was astounded at the way she handled herself. Joan was much the same, but not at such an age. She was gorgeous, and knew it, and knew how to use it. She steadily nodded at every word spoken from her new found friend.

"I must say, that since Rome, I have always seen our culture to be the most beautiful. We are rich in traditions, tough with our might, yet gentle in our touch. I see that in you and your House, and I am far from fond of anyone outside of the peninsula, except the Croatians (Her nephew married a Crotian women and they wish to be the holders of Albania), so I must ask. How do we compare to other cultures? I dont mean to see us as the 'fairest of them all' but I do see us as a...multitalented group, wouldnt you say?"

[SpacingOutMan]

Intruding on the conversation, Ludovico chuckled a bit. [i]"No my dear niece, you keep power by the strong arm carried down in the House of Sforza. Every Sforza is renowned for their tenacity and bright intellect. But what makes us so powerful is our humility, believe it or not. I apologize for interrupting whatever conversation you two were having, but I simply had to introduce myself to the Sicilian Queen herself. I am Ludovico Sforza, Regent of the Duchy of Milan, subject to Duke Gian Sforza. A pleasure to make your acquaintance,"[/i] he brazenly interjected with ample graciousness and brevity. With that he took another gulp of his wine and stood back up after bowing to the queen.

[Acca Dacca]

The pleasure is all mine. Your family seems to be something of a gift from God to Sicily. You are exactly the company that we are looking for. Generous, Kind, and Trustworthy Italians committed to uniting the Peninsula not under one flag, but one culture. That is something that we can definitely be for, and we thank you for the hospitality that you have all shown us. Tell me, what are your future plans for your country and Italy altogether?

[Sarah Tintagyl]

Caterina laughed wholeheartedly at Joan's first statement. "Just because I'm being friendly Highness, doesn't mean that I would give myself as your servant. You said your state is in trouble and you clearly have shown yourself to be someone that I personally can get along with. I don't see why friendship, even one that grows quickly is not legitimate. I am easy to make friends with, don't let the stories of how I keep criminals in line make you think differently. We can be best of friends, surely. However, if you would rather me take it much slower, I can find my men to train somewhere else besides the province you have your eyes set upon."

The Countess sighed, she hated playing politics so quickly after meeting someone, but if Joan was going to take her words so drastically then she might as well be careful around the Neapolitans. "Yes well, the marriage is definitely one that could be cemented. Something that I have been very good at producing is children, Ottaviano my eldest, and Cesare my youngest is currently in Poland arranging our negotiations there and as for something for Sicily to do for the Romagna. I am sure that in the future we will have things that need your assistance. With the collapse of Venice my greatest hope is to see the Romagna ascend as the new premier Italian trading state, even if it means rule over Venice itself." Caterina chuckled to herself.

"As to Italian unification, I will never abandon my territory to anyone but myself. Not my uncle, not you, not the Florentines or Pope. We women work too hard to gain what is legally ours and I will not lose mine to a flag. But as to culture, I completely agree and to be the fairest ones Highness. We are the culture that brought the world Republicanism, Imperialism, Christianity to Europe, there is no greater set of nations in Europe. Even the nation-states of Portugal, England, and the other northerners. If there is to be any group of nations to ascend to greatness in our generation. It will be Italy, mark my words."