The Lateran Palace stood heavy in the spring sun, its courtyards thrumming with the slow bustle of servants and guards.
While within its cool marble halls the College of Cardinals gathered in solemn array.
Tapestries of Christ's passion hung above them, their woven faces watching as Pope John XIX sat enthroned at the head of the chamber.
The letter of King Cnut of England, Denmark, and Norway laid open upon a gilded stand before him.
The Pope's fingers traced the parchment's edges, his brows drawn in thought.
"Brothers," John began, his voice measured,
"we have received from the northern king a missive both urgent and troubling. King Cnut appeals to us as Vicar of Christ to condemn Duncan of Alba for treachery, and to sanction his claim of retribution. Yet the tale is knotted with contradictions. The Scots claim they were set upon without provocation. And now…"
