Treaty of Brétigny
The Treaty of Brétigny is being ratified in Chartres Cathedral, marking a temporary cessation of hostilities in the Hundred Years' War. King John II of France and Edward III of England stand before cl
Setting
Chartres Cathedral, specifically the nave where the treaty ratification is taking place. The Gothic architecture towers above, with pointed arches and ribbed vaults creating a sense of divine grandeur. The space is vast and echoing, filled with the mingled scents of incense and candle wax.
Characters
King John II of France
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his early forties with a regal bearing. His face is marked by the strain of captivity, with deep-set brown eyes and a neatly trimmed beard showing streaks of grey. His hands, though clean, bear the calluses of a warrior who has seen battle.
Edward III of England
primary
A tall, imposing man in his late forties, with broad shoulders and a commanding presence. His face, though weathered by years of campaigning, retains a regal handsomeness. Piercing blue eyes and a well-groomed beard frame his strong jawline.
French Bishop
secondary
A tall, gaunt man in his late fifties with a prominent nose and deep-set, piercing eyes. His clean-shaven face bears the lines of age and wisdom. His hands are long and delicate, often clasped in prayer or gesturing with deliberate solemnity.
English Herald
secondary
A lean man in his early 40s with sharp features and a neatly trimmed beard. His piercing blue eyes scan the assembly as he prepares to speak, his posture erect with military precision. His hands, though bearing ink stains from scribal work, are steady as they hold the parchment.
French Nobleman
background
A middle-aged nobleman with a sharp, angular face and a well-groomed beard streaked with gray. His piercing blue eyes reflect both intelligence and restrained anger. His posture is erect, betraying his noble upbringing, though his hands are clenched slightly at his sides.
Dialog
English Herald
By the grace of God and the authority vested in His Majesty Edward III, King of England and France, we proclaim these terms: Aquitaine in full sovereignty, Calais in perpetuity, and three million gold crowns for the King's ransom.
King John II of France
By Christ's wounds, such terms would bleed France white... yet if God wills peace, we shall bear this cross for our people's deliverance.
Edward III of England
The lion does not bargain with the lamb when the field is won. These terms are not for debate, but for ratification.
French Bishop
In nomine Patris... Let us remember that even Solomon's wisdom grew from humility. Might we seek terms that nourish both flocks under God's peace?
King John II of France
My lord bishop speaks true - but when the wolf is at the gate, even a king must sometimes bow his head... provided the shepherd remembers his vows.
English Herald
The seals await imprinting, Your Majesties. Shall I summon the notaries?
Edward III of England
Let it be done. And may God bear witness that England's claim is now writ in ink and blood.