L'Eglise Aristotelicienne Romaine The Roman and Aristotelic Church

[Moss]

All the way from Ardencaple, Scotland comes a young woman. Who was just about to join the fellowship, who was about to not only take her rights into baptism, and ultimately to marriage. When a priestess with murderous intent did cause questions in her heart.

Rather than leave it to the murderous priestess to help Moss decide. She took the advice of another to go on a journey. One of land, time, and spirit. So it is Moss de Montemayor finds herself in Rome.

Such grandeur compared to the lands of natural beauty of Scotland. It leaves the young woman with further questions, so she approached the center of faith. That of Aristotle, the faith that the Anglais tongue called Jah. Presenting herself to the building. She inquires to different officials.

"Hello, I am Moss de Montemayor. I seek council of the higher ranks to the faithful."

Moss waits hoping to find someone whom can aide her in this perplexing question inside of her. She has learned some Italian from her family. If this may be of some use, but she is uncertain at this time. Repeating her greeting in Italian to see if it helps her.

"Ciao, sono Moss de Montemayor. Io cerco consiglio dei ranghi superiori ai fedeli."

Moss continues to wait very nervously, as for her, her entire future depends on this moment.

[Lordwilb]

Liam was walking from the Square into one of the Roman offices when he saw a lady enquiring to the officials; since he overheard English being spoken first, he approached tentatively.

"My lady, do you need assistance?" He spoke quietly in his soft Irish accent, glancing at the officials then back at the visitor with a gentle smile. "I am the new Archbishop of Canterbury, and the Vice Primate for England, Scotland and Ireland, but please, call me Liam."
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ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY + SENESCHAL OF THE HOLY AND CHIVALROUS ORDER OF HER SACRED ROSE

[Moss]

She certainly had not had to wait very long as she was responded to. Turning with a smile upon her lips. She greeted the man.

"Greetings to you sir Liam."

Moss pauses offering her hand in greeting. A bag of pilgrimage upon her opposite shoulder. Reflecting things she has been told. She does not recall so much of this man, but perhaps her sister would have. To bad she is traveling some where in Germany now.

"I am Moss de Montemayor of Ardencaple, Scotland. Canterbury isn't that part of England area?"

Pausing to wait reactions, since Scotland has been a horrible war for much time. She continues after appropriate time for a response.

"Yes sir perhaps you could help. Though I was hoping for someone above politics of our areas... I do hardly know you to know if you fit this description. Can you help? I have questions about the faith you represent before I take my step into baptism with my fiance. I find myself torn on understanding. It could well perhaps be where I am from, being such a harsh area of life."

She waits knowing she said much in nervousness. She does have a tendency to speak more than she should when nervous.

[Lordwilb]

"Yes, it covers the south of England - my home for now, although I am Irish born."

He listened to her concerns patiently.

"Of course - it is understandable. I know little of Scottish politics and am far from involved in them, so I would hope I could help. As one of the leaders of the bishops of this zone, I will gladly try to answer your questions and, if I am unable to do so - since my areas of expertise are Canon Law and discipline in particular - I will send for a Cardinal. The Cardinals from outside the Anglophone zone are less likely to speak our language well, and may thus struggle to understand what you wish to discuss. Still, if you prefer, I can seek one out for you."
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ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY + SENESCHAL OF THE HOLY AND CHIVALROUS ORDER OF HER SACRED ROSE

[Moss]

Moss nods to his words, herself unsure... Though her family maybe more able to know. She took this journey herself to seek answers. Letting her journey pack off her shoulder, fall to her feet, she keeps a hand on one strap for security.

"Well you see Liam. Scotland is war ridden. I have heard rumors of a former priestess, they call Swampi, having terrorized the lands, with various acts that later, about the time I arrived, was excommunicated. Which was reassuring to me in my beliefs... even if now I hear in Ireland she publicly flaunts her abuses to the faith. The church took it's stance and that was it."

Shifting her weight on her feet feeling anxious.

"Since this time representatives to the church in Scotland certainly have not been so dramatic. Giving a sense of ease and path to believe in again. Not long from now, my fiance and I, finally feeling an excitement in hope again have contacted our local priestess to be baptized and married. A person who has more than been supportive and welcoming. A priestess Reid. She has been wonderful, although not holding a known post for the faith yet, past being ordained. She has still offered that hope and light we all seek. As well as confidence to continue down the path."

Pausing for a breath she continues.

"Though now I have had the misfortune to meet a priestess from the parish of Stirling. Whose acts and words cause doubt in my choice. I was going to run away from the faith, and be done with it. Then this question of audacity to bring any faith's name into such a horror I felt I wanted to understand."

Reaching to her pack she pulls a painting.

"You look and tell me if it is you who is best to handle this situation or another. I can understand Italian mostly... Though speak I am told by my family like a horse stuck in the mud."

She blushes to recall the first Italian word she was taught. While holding the painting up for examining.

The paintings and log.

"You can see my concern to a representative of the faith wishing such ill will to people she does not know. Wishing and proclaiming publicly the need for destruction of an entire town, and all the lives related to me or not, with in this town. Let alone in a county with only three towns in it. How can I or anyone go forward in joining a faith with such homicidal parishioners? Isn't the point of a parishioner to help save the lost and not scare us away? Is this normal for the Aristotle faith to have a blood lust for those who should be in their flock?"

Pausing to give the man a chance to keep up to the situation.

"So who do you think is best to answer my questions?"

Pausing she holds a half smile. Trying not to run away in fear to infuriate perhaps a more powerful person than the one causing fear already. One who may actually kill her on the spot.

[Statler]

Overhearing a conversation on the Square of Aristotle's I believe it is time for me to introduce to me to the lady that has a conversation with the Bishop Vice Primate Liam. When I walk towards them I nod towards Liam in recognition and turn my attention to the lady.

Hello Lady Moss de' Montemayor, allow me to introduce myself, my name is Father Statler and I am currently living in Kirkcudbright. Recently (last Friday) I have been elevated to the position of Archbishop of Glasgow and I am currently arranging my travel papers to cross the border.

After this brief introduction I pause and take a moment to think about what I should say next.

Here in Rome we are aware of the turbulent situation in Glasgow, it has even resulted in the absence of Bishops and Archbishops. That is why I am asked to travel there, assess the situation and spread the word of our Lord.

Therefor I am very pleased to hear that Mother Reid, even without a Parish, is doing a good job in your hometown. Unfortunately times of war are times in which the nameless one grows in strength. That can endanger individuals of all rank and social status if not properly protected and guided by our Lord and his servants.

I ask of you therefor to look at the teachings of Aristotle and Christos for they teach Love and Forgiveness, rather then doom and wrath. Due to the current situation in Scotland some may forget parts of that message and let Fear and Anger rule their tongue.

Once I arrive at your hometown I shall bring it upon me to spread the true word of Jah without any interference by politics whatsoever. I will try to show the path of our Lord to those that have temporarily moved away from that path.

I believe that is what I wanted to say for now. Hearing that his Excellency Liam has asked a Cardinal to give some answers here as well.

Ah, one more thing, I have asked a relative of yours I believe (Duke Pirathouse) for permission to enter Glasgow. Once I have permission and transportation I will go there. However, I am still looking for a ship to bring me.
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[R.I.P.] The Scottish Cardinal Emeritus | Bishop In Partibus of Ptolemais

[Lordwilb]

Liam listened to the lady patiently, before noticing Archbishop Statler approach.

"Yes, my lady, the Church takes a dim view of those 'clergy' who act like Swampi did. This is Father Statler, the Archbishop of Glasgow and as such the most senior bishop of Scotland; if I cannot help you, I am sure he can. I am glad Mother Reid has been helpful to you."

He heard her comments on the priestess of Stirling, and looked at the proffered image whilst Statler spoke to her. He commented briefly afterward;

"I see why you are concerned, my lady. As Archbishop Statler explained, times of war often raise tempers even among certain clergy, and I believe Stirling has lacked a bishop until his recent elevation, who could supervise the clerics. Raised tempers are excusable, I think, for Jah made us far from perfect - but comments wishing death are, as you say, inappropriate. Aristotle teaches us that the wise must participate in the life of the city, and I interpret that as meaning the clergy have a duty to steer their parish and sometimes participate in political debate, but equally Christos taught patience and humility."

He considered how they ought to handle the matter.

"Jah also teaches us the value of forgiveness and understanding. Perhaps the most appropriate reaction would be for a representative of the Church's disciplinary body, perhaps me, to contact Mother Ventular and advise her of the importance of considering her responsibilities as a shepherd to the community, and the need to remain calm and consider her speech. If she were to stop there, I ask that you demonstrate forgiveness, although given the situation you would of course be free to select any priest for your baptism and wedding. If it continued, we would be obliged to take more serious action."
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ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY + SENESCHAL OF THE HOLY AND CHIVALROUS ORDER OF HER SACRED ROSE

[Moss]

Moss grew very uneasy to the appearance of Statler... A reaction not well hidden with eyes growing very wide. Color being flushed from her cheeks. She remembered this man far to well from her early days in Galloway. He was now promoted? She knew to well this mans known friends stances against her own family, and her. Stepping closer to Liam. She at least recognized protection of a higher rank.

"Master Statler, I have not seen you since I left Galloway. Even then it was limited in appearance. How is your dear friend Wardolf? Does he as well still want the heads of myself and that of my family?"

Moss notices a fold in the parchment that had not been visible before... Relieving herself of holding on to her bag, Carefully having dropped the strap onto her foot, and wrapping it around her toes with a slight slide and tug. Securing her belongings once more. She was too familiar with Scotland, the thieves, and cut throats. With the free hand she smooths the documents revealing in fact the final words before her depart towards Rome..

The fold.

Restoring her gaze to that of Statler she chose her words very carefully.

"Master Statler, I do remember you very well. I am the type of personality as you well know, that believes forgiveness is earned, and not just issued. Sir Liam, though I am pleased to see master Statler here, this is the awkwardness and fear I had in coming here. As I was in, and helped connecting the forces that finally took control of Glasgow. Thus many of Scotland I can not trust. Though I stepped down from my positions of my own free will, hardly has that alleviated the hatred. I fought beside the faithful and the unfaithful, but just the same I have suffered. There are some who would play a creative game of politics, that I just do not participate in."

Pausing she continues to watch Statler in his actions and reactions.

"Forgiveness is in my ability though you see. As once Sir Geoffrey spoke very incorrectly and against my family. He did offer myself apologies and explanation that even he had been lied to, and felt betrayed by those who had used him. In knowing Geoffrey as I do, in knowing he offered me the truth to present as I needed for my family. I forgave him, and released the feelings of betrayal I myself held for him, but in my eyes he more than earned forgiveness for his minor infringements into the profuse. Sir Liam as you can see certainly intervention of the church is needed. Even to your sitting sisters. For if they have themselves lost faith, so in doing the faith is lost. It is true the faith has been dark for a long time, which is why my fiance, Osdeath, and I had leaned towards a church wedding. Hoping to add a level of positiveness back to the community, while our wishes are partially met as well."

Passing the document to Liam she freed her hands. She had plenty of copies of her own, and a memory of the horror to sustain her. Taking a very deep breath she sighs.

"Master Statler as you full well know I have some pull in Glasgow. I could speak to dear Pirat on the matters concerning your passage, though know your name is not currently in concern or blockade, so since I often speak in regards to the safety and lack of ill intent to individuals, but first some information will be needed. If you bring with you any whom have threatened us, I am afraid it maybe difficult. Just as you are protective of your family in Aristotle we are very protective of each other. Especially considering the high level of hatred having been issued to us. Due to matters spoken by your own priestess, our entire family, my life, and my fiance's life are under threat by the church. For reasons unknown to me to be against Aristotle. My own sister is baptized. Did you know that? She lives with recognition of many in her area, of being more pure than even officials. Many of my own family as well have been baptized. As you yourself note, the church in your watch is encouraged to participate in politics. Really making this issue of faithful fighting heretics who are supported by priestess's an important matter to the church."

Pausing Moss cups her hand some thoughts crossing her mind.

"Since not even a priestess shall go against her superior, similar to in my family. Since the threats are upon my own wedding. I make a proposal to help all gain that of which they wish for the name of the almighty."

Smiling she motions to Liam, and then to Statler.

"If Sir Liam can agree. As well as you, master Statler, I think everyone can relax once more. Since my fiance always wished an English wedding. Yet we were unable to travel to England. I propose Sir Liam and yourself master Statler to not only attend my wedding, but as well in combination with priestess Reid to help officiate or oversee, and run the services. Offering my family a blessing, and safety in this time so threatened. This brings the faith in direct involvement. Offers appropriate blessing to where one of the faith had cursed, and meets the purest of natural instincts of the purest of hearts. Though I better caution you, I would feel the priestess in concern did in the least recognize publicly your efforts in Jah's name in this matter. Though since the matter of discipline is not in my own hands, but that of the church. As the behaviors demonstrated are so against not just me and my family, but the church as well. I shall defer that to the appropriate resource. As Sir Liam has pointed out, and offered. Offering my forgiveness to the church, and such a person if they earn it, in a manner appropriated by the church. I believe both of you can agree this simple action can go a very long way into opening bounds that have been closed, due to similar behaviors that have long been occurring in this place of war. It is not promise to a war's end, but opens new levels of communications, and possibilities for more if handled appropriately. All this combined makes many wishes, needs, and errors plausible to be addressed in spreading the word of love. Wouldn't you agree?"

Moss smiles standing with her hands cupped before her, feeling perhaps a best solution is possible for now. Moss hates making decisions, but recognizes sometimes there is a almost greater hand pushing her in them. One being that of her family, one being that of coming to Rome, one being her choices in regards to going to Glasgow, in such she was always led by something larger than her. This decision felt no different for her.

"To the matter of a ship. You know that is not really a problem in the least. HRM Wallace bequeathed a ship of his own for such a journey. They have already arrived in Ardencaple with permissions, and remain a mere few days before moving on. Master Statler should be aware of Lady Eira. As well as her ship. It was large news in our own Highlands."

[Statler]

I smile at Lady Moss and hope that I can relief the tension with what I have to say to her. Because it is never my intention to cause fear in the hearts of those that want to follow our Lord. Mention the name Wardorf brings back memories from many years ago.

Wardorf, now that is a name I haven't heard in a long time. Nor have I spoken with him since I joined the Church. I worked the mines with him many years ago, but then our paths separated, I became religious and he became more political involved. We both started a journey of our own, with no contact anymore.

I do miss him, for we had fun when we where young men. As a matter of fact, I do not even know what he is up to nowadays or what drives him. It is funny to see how easy people grow apart over time. But then again, that is also how easy people make new friends in new areas.

As for my traveling, I knew about the ship of Lady Eira. Unfortunately she has explained to me that she has freight that goes to England soon and that she doesn't expect to be back in Ardencaple within the next 3 to 4 weeks. So I am looking for some other means of transportation. I know of one person, Aberfeldy, who used to live in Glasgow and may want to walk with me as well. Other then that I will need to find people to walk with me or a ship that can take me from Girvan. But I am certain I will work these things out.

Now,I want to thank you for your mediation in my travel permission, for this morning I received a message from Duke Pirathouse that I have permission to enter the County of Glasgow.

I smile thankfully to Lady Moss, for I am most pleased that this was issued so quickly.

I am also delighted for the invitation for your wedding. I would be pleased to visit your wedding ceremony, regardless of the role that I can fulfill there. I have not yet been to a English wedding before and I can imagine that the Parish priest and local Bishop may have a role in that ceremony as well. But I accept your invitation happily and I am convinced we will work out the details in time.

With that I hopeful that we can work together in the future, or as Lady Moss said before have an open communication going on between the Church and the Montemayor family.
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[R.I.P.] The Scottish Cardinal Emeritus | Bishop In Partibus of Ptolemais

[Lordwilb]

Liam appreciated Moss' concerns, but he also trusted Archbishop Statler to act fairly and with concern for the parishioners.

"I am glad that Archbishop Statler has been granted permission to fulfil his duties in Glasgow and to serve the people there. Lady Moss, I can assure you, neither your life nor that of your fiance is threatened by the Roman Church; one priestess does not speak for Rome."

He hesitated as she made her proposal.

"I would be glad to attend your wedding if Mother Reid allows it, although she ought to lead the ceremony. I will offer a blessing, although I cannot take a side in the conflict itself."

[OOC: by attend, I presume you mean attend an RP ceremony in an accessible area; I can't personally travel IG because I must remain in my Archdiocese unless it is a very brief absence. I will offer a blessing even if I can't attend, though.]
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ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY + SENESCHAL OF THE HOLY AND CHIVALROUS ORDER OF HER SACRED ROSE

[Moss]

Moss looked at both men. Who have tried so hard, though they had not to, for both faith and person. A person neither had really even known. The display of faith, the actions of gentle intelligent thought, the knowledge demonstrated. The giving, and humbleness of both. Their words wash over her as she thought in depth to each word. The day growing long, and though spirit remains ever with energy, bodies do tire.

"Master Statler, the issue of your travel was never really an issue. This is the work of the almighty, and not the work of one of his children. Though his work shining in us. I look forward to your arrival into Glasgow. Seeing as I do now, through my niave eyes, so impressed am I, that surely this confidence shall as well be viewed by the people. To your long time removed friend. I have only just seen a friend of his. Who also has visited into Ardencaple in times recently passed. She has told me he is in fact doing well. Ever the proud guardian of his home and town. Surely to come forth from another lips with such a honorable description is in fact linked, at least in part, to those early years of healthy exuberance shared with you.

My family has ships, I am sure could help, but sadly with the condition of our country, I am not sure this is so wise of an act to utilize yet. Perhaps you can be more accurate in this thought with your own other known. We could indeed shine a group of individuals as well to offer an escort, except I am afraid the same end would come. As I believe you yourself are safe for both ambulation and travel. Perhaps it might be more wise to consider if nothing else, an English vessel. I do know there are many belonging to West-Morland that are not of the military alignment. This may be of an venue to research as well. The king Wallace would have been able to arrange this much easier, before the attacks upon his fleet. Truly Scotland needs your wisdom and guidance now more than ever."

Looking at Liam a clear look of understanding upon her face. She could sense his hesitation, and understand his concerns.

"Sir Liam I know such a visit would give my fiance, in fact myself, great joy to know a connection to himself by spirit will be attending. Of course I imagine only of sister Reid performing, though thought of her own light shining for this occasion. One needed for so many no doubts. To the matter that caused my doubt. I feel both of your words have been more than comforting. I am but a mere child in these matters. So must offer my forgiveness as requested to the church, as well as release any further concerns into your far more capable hands. Of course I still must have our baptisms, the wait of bans, and then the ceremony. I think this shall governance plenty of time to work out details to the when. Though in no small part to this special moment, feel confident in my own heart, and that of the church to continue. I thank you both for this.

Feeling as if I have consumed enough of your time, perhaps I should begin the long journey back to my family and home. To begin this holy process. Again thank you both for all of your aide in this issue, and may you continue to be blessed."

Before departing Moss leans forth embracing both men simultaneously in an gentle embrace. A rare moment for her, as normally she lets too few into such a close proximity with her.

"Fare thee well gentlemen, and I shall write more to the wedding as more is set."

Waiting for return conversation Moss would then prepare to depart.

(Yes we can hold in one of the universal forums. In fact intended to, just not sure which one yet, likely the glen. Unless you have another idea.)

[Lordwilb]

Liam smiled.

"I look forward to the wedding. It was kind of you to invite us, and you need not concern yourself about taking up our time - time spent with those concerned about the faith is, in my opinion, time well spent. I hope your journey is safe and comfortable. Farewell."

[OOC: The glen is probably best, since you don't seem to have forum two churches which are accessible in Scotland. The URACESI forum (or the separate one for just Scotland and Ireland) on forum one is also accessible, but might be less visible. It's up to you where you feel most comfortable.]
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ARCHBISHOP OF CANTERBURY + SENESCHAL OF THE HOLY AND CHIVALROUS ORDER OF HER SACRED ROSE