Italia ~ 1373 The Pope Gregory IX considers it to be of utmost importance to reduce the power of the Visconti family of Milan, who are the traditional leaders of the Ghibellines. Under Frederick Barbarosa, the name “Ghibellines” was given to those who supported the expansion of an imperial Italy, while “Guelphs” where those who supported the Pope. The Visconti family is strong in spirit and strength. His most glorious predecessor in name, Pope Gregory X, was a Visconti and was elected Pope while fighting on crusade in Acre. This powerful merchanting family has prospered since that time and their financial ability to hire mercenary forces threatened the lands of the Papal State further. The brothers, Galeazzo and Bernabò Visconti are both brilliant and brutal towards the papal interests. The have been constant threat to the territories of the Papal States and have been excommunicated as a result. Pope Gregory XI and the Papal League call for WAR against the Visconti of Milan. Papal forces, including The White Company, respond to support His Holiness. Prince Franco D’Orsi, being a devout Catholic and a member of The White Company, is obligated to obey the orders of the Pope and does so with skill, loyalty and honor. In the days following his victory at the Battle of Montichiari against the Visconti, Prince Franco returns to his home shores of Trimaris. His thoughts now turn his eye to his duties here and very Throne of Trimaris! It is vacant and he is the rightful heir, but he has always been a warrior. He has trepidation ascending to rule his cherished lands, in that he is not married and cannot yet provide and heir for the secure future of his beloved Kingdom. He calls forth his Cardinal for guidance and to humbly tithe the “donations from the Visconti family” to the Pope.
The donations were members of the Visconti family, captured in battle. The Princess Isabella Visconti demanded audience with Prince Franco to insist that he release them. Franco was so smitten by her beauty that he agreed to release them if she would marry him and unite their families. And that is our story so far.
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