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.