Battle of Cortenuova
Frederick II surveys the battlefield after his decisive victory over the Lombard League at Cortenuova. Imperial forces are rounding up prisoners while the remnants of the Lombard army flee in disarray
Setting
A vast open field outside Cortenuova, littered with the remnants of battle. The ground is churned mud from thousands of hooves and boots, trampled crops and broken weapons scattered everywhere. The distant silhouette of Cortenuova's walls can be seen under a brooding sky.
Characters
Frederick II
primary
A middle-aged man of average height with a stern, angular face framed by a neatly-trimmed beard. His piercing blue eyes survey the battlefield with a mix of calculation and satisfaction. His posture is erect, exuding authority, and his hands rest on the pommel of his sheathed sword.
Imperial Knight
secondary
A battle-hardened knight in his late 30s, with a muscular build and weathered features. His face bears a fresh scar across his left cheek, and his hands are calloused from years of wielding a sword. His steel-gray eyes show both exhaustion and determination.
Lombard Prisoner
secondary
A battered Lombard soldier in his late 20s, with a lean and muscular build from years of combat. His face is streaked with dirt and blood, showing a fresh cut above his right eyebrow. His dark hair is matted with sweat and grime, and his beard is unkempt from weeks of campaigning.
Imperial Standard Bearer
background
A broad-shouldered man in his late 20s, with a weathered face marked by sun and battle. His thick arms bear the scars of previous engagements, and his stance is one of disciplined endurance. Dark hair, cropped short beneath his helmet, frames a square jaw clenched with determination.
Field Surgeon
background
A middle-aged man with a wiry build, his face lined with exhaustion and streaked with mud and blood. His hands are rough and calloused, with short, practical nails. Dark circles under his eyes suggest prolonged fatigue. His brown hair is matted with sweat and dirt, tied back loosely with a strip of cloth.
Dialog
Frederick II
So, this is the flower of Milan's defiance? A withered stalk trampled in the mud.
Imperial Knight
Their carroccio stands captured, sire. Standard broken, bell silenced.
Lombard Prisoner
Spit your Latin at the crows, Emperor. Milan's walls still stand!
Frederick II
As do my siege engines. Tell me - does your Podestà value your tongue enough to ransom it?
Imperial Knight
Their routed forces drown in the Oglio's ford. Few will carry word.
Lombard Prisoner
The League's teeth remain! This victory reeks of hubris - like Caesar's before the Ides!
Frederick II
Then let history record how Imperial steel answers republican bleating. Hang him where Milan's scouts will see.