NationStates Jolt Archive

Lost Lambs, or Wolves in Sheep's Clothing?

Nathicana looks over the request with a mix of intrigue and trepidation. A Legate, here. So that is what Battista was up to while attending the investiture. Why that sly son of a bitch. Time to speak with Giraldi, it seems, get whatever insights he gained while over there. If he had suggested it, I would have heard by now. Interesting … and their choice. I know I’ve heard that name before. Think … think … families, familiar … Gah. Too much else on my mind at present. Bloody reforms. Memo to me: get Toni on it.

“Else, has Minister Giraldi returned from Rome (http://forums2.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=320856&page=4) yet?”

From her office outside the door, the woman called back. “Moment mal … ah. No, he’s due in later this morning.”

“Excellent. If you could, leave a message with his office that I would like to speak with him immediately upon his arrival if not sooner.



—Later that day—

“You do realize who this is, yes?” Giraldi asks in an overly casual voice, his eyes flickering over the missive with growing concern.

“It has been bothering me, but …” Nathi admits, going over some other reports, her brows creased with consternation, lips occasionally mouthing some of the words and phrases, jotting down possible responses on her datapad.

“Given that both the Valenti and Gonzaga families are two of the more prominent members of this new nobility you have begun restructuring, I should think it would. My God, woman, they were among the first to have their papers turned in and verified, and have been some of the more influential groups jockeying for their cronies to be accepted as well.” He looks up from the letter in surprise. “You mean, you d—“

“I’ve had quite a bit on my plate lately, Minsiter Giraldi. You’ll pardon me if I can’t offhand recall each and every one of these new nobles at the drop of a hat as yet on account,” she snaps, meeting his look with a rather heated one of her own. “Now. Let me think … Ah yes, money. He himself has some skill in finances, does he not? I seem to recall some years back …”

“An understatement, but yes,” Giraldi replies dryly. “Given what is known of the man, they have given a lot of thought as to just who to send. I would be … cautious if I were you. I would not put it past them to try and gain more influences in the government, quite likely focusing on you, unless I miss my guess. They are a sly bunch, the Vatican. That is one thing that hasn’t changed over the years, guaranteed. I don't like it.”

Nathicana ponders thoughtfully, nodding as he speaks. “And Battista. What of him? Do you see a threat?”

“Not as yet,” he replies, frowning slightly. “I am fairly certain he hopes to improve his own position within the church, no doubt, looking to perhaps score a red hat for himself, but I think beyond that, he is relatively benign.”

“I’m waiting for Pellegrino’s files on the man.” Nathicana pauses, reaching for her ever-present glass of ice water, then sips slowly. “Still, keep an eye on them, Niccolo. I will of course be placing this under your department, spreading out the technicalities amongst the others as is needed. I believe we will have the situation sufficiently covered. And if they prove to become problematic … we will have them quietly removed.”

The minister’s eyebrows shoot up at this. “Permanently?” he gasps, not scandalized so much as surprised at the bold idea.

“Oh for the love …” The dark-haired woman throws her hands up and looks briefly heavenwards with a gasp of exasperation. “Do use your head. This is the Vatican we’re talking about you fool. Of course I’m not going to assassinate so public a figure. Deportation under the law is removal enough. Our own citizens, however, are another matter entirely. As I said – keep watch.”

“Oh, I will,” he replies, his slick smile returning finally. “I will.”



—A week later—

An official courier arrives at the office of the Secretariat, package in hand. Inside is a large manila envelope containing the following:

--One Certificate of Diplomatic Appointment, listing the purpose and approval for Arrivabene's extended presence in the Dominion. This document is duplicated and miniaturized in the form of a small wallet-sized card.

--A Diplomatic Passport valid for one year, with instructions as to renewal and proper lines of recourse, in card form.

--A temporary Dominion Drivers License, good for one week upon validation of it (should it be needed). Included are instructions for validating the temporary, and obtaining a more permanent card.

--Identification Stickers for whatever vehicle if the Archbishop would be using during his stay.

--A list of pertinent contact information for everything from emergency numbers, to Ministers and their respective departments.

--Forms for registering any additional household staff with the Foreign Labor department, with instructions on how to attain the proper work visas for them.

--Forms for registering any household staff hired in the Dominion with the Domestic Labor department.

--Forms for registering any firearms with the Diplomatic Envoys department of Intel.

--Forms for registering the car and its plates with the Transportation Ministry.

--A list of nationally recognized holidays, for reference.

--A map of the city, attached to several informative pamphlets on it, the surrounding area, recommended sites, and of course, a list of the finer eating establishments.

--Information on available vehicles and properties through the government, and a list of suggested realtors and dealerships, should assistance be required.

--Several documents with detailing notable rules, regulations, strictures, and customs.

--A brief introductory letter, also explaining their efforts to speed the process and smooth his transition.

--A letter bearing the official seal of the Dread Lady, addressed in a bold flowing hand to one Archbishop Emilio Arrivabene Valenti-Gonzaga, Apostolic Legate to the Dominion.

All cards come complete with a small gold cross denoting the ecclesiastical nature of the envoy, a UV watermark (detectable only under said light), and a small bar code along the bottom right edge of the backside, sealed behind a durable clear plastic coat.

(ooc: I could spend hours writing up an entire lawbook on the Dominion. Suffice it to say, common sense rules the day - nothing odd in the way of most laws, and if you've a question, ask me on it. People tend to live their lives fairly normally - so long as they do not rock the boat, after all.)


FOR REFERENCE:

Cesare Calabrese - Chancellor
Niccolo Giraldi - Minister of Religion
Evangelista Ravanelli - Minister of Public Relations
Talia Amadore - Minister of Communications
Bernardo di Medici - Minister of Trade
Antonio Pellegrino - Minister of Central Intelligence
Sophia Lorenzo - Minister of Transportation
Niccolo Ugurgieri - Minister of Education
Donatello Calfa - Minister of Finance
Leandro Pacci - Minister of Science
Angelus Massetti - Security Advisor





To the esteemed Archbishop Arrivabene,

It is my hope that your stay in the Dominion will be a productive and pleasant one. We are pleased that the Church whom our great nation shares such a history, and indeed, current ties to, has seen fit to re-establish closer relations. I know the faithful will accept you with open arms. No doubt, this will be seen as an answer to their prayers.

If I may impose upon you, once you are settled in comfortably, I would like to meet so that we might have the opportunity to get to know one another better. I find it best to keep in touch personally with the foreign representatives residing in my nation, after all, and am interested in your thoughts on where you see this appointment taking yourself and the Church. No doubt there will be some changes, due to the distance between the Dominion and Rome over the past many years. Please, contact my office at [number] and speak with Else to arrange a suitable time. I thought perhaps over a dinner? I know of several spots not far from the offices here that have both a wonderful atmosphere and truly delicious menus.

If there is anything we can do to make your stay more comfortable, please do not hesitate to ask. We pride ourselves on our tradition of hospitality, after all, and while I realize the Church and your family here will no doubt have things well in hand, it is never a poor idea to take advantage of good assistance freely offered, should the occasion arise for it.

--Nathicana D’Aquisto

Angelini decided to brief Archbishop Arrivabene himself. It took an Italian, especially one with noble connections, to fully encompass the ramifications of this particular situation. And although he was perfectly unassuming in manner, something about Arrivabene still inspired a kind of superstitious awe among many in the Vatican bureaucracy. Which would have shocked the good Archbishop, had he realized it.

Over luncheon, of course. Although Arrivabene did not enter to quite the same degree into the Cardinal’s appreciation of fine Italian cuisine, he was appropriately appreciative. As good manners dictated, they chatted about non-business topics during antipasti, primi, secondi… By the time the dolce was served—a tiramisu so exquisitely light and subtle as to render comparison with the version served in most restaurants virtual blasphemy—both men were fully relaxed, alert, and simpatico.

Arrivabene watched with a twinkle in his eye as the Cardinal did full justice to a hefty plateful. He himself ate sufficient to demonstrate a sincere appreciation, but he was more abstemious by nature than the genial Angelini. “Once again, Carlo, your kitchen staff outstrips their already-considerable reputation. Truly a magnificent meal. And the wine…” he sighed with gentle appreciation. “Frizzantino, my friend. A miracle on the tongue.”

“You’re too good, Emilio. A simple repast, but appropriate to the occasion.”

“Ahhh… the occasion. The Dominion has responded, yes?”

“Promptly and with great attention to detail. And commendable professionalism. Nataka was purring, if you can imagine it. He does so appreciate doing business with those who understand all the nuances of diplomacy.”

Arrivabene nodded. “It was only to be expected. I hear she makes the trains run on time, too.”

Angelini choked a bit on his espresso, repressing a snort of laughter. “And they say the Valenti-Gonzaga have no sense of humor.”

The archbishop smiled a bit thinly. “Well, let’s just say it’s—recessive. You’ve met my brother, obviously.”

Angelini rolled his eyes. “Dear Paolo.”

“Dear Paolo. Dear Paolo has high hopes that this particular assignment might at last enable me to be of use to the Family.”

Not as au courant with the internal situation in the Dominion, Angelini frowned. “How so?”

“Eh… This ‘renaissance of the nobility’ whim of Nathicana’s. Half a dozen cousini of the nth degree are hoping to work their way into the dress circle. Paolo’s already sent me dossiers and briefings from his business agents.”

Angelini sat back in his chair and indulged a hearty laugh. “No, not really!” he gasped, when his breath returned. “Bene, bene… grazie, Paolo, for the best laugh I’ve had in days. Bless the man. I could wish my relations were half as entertaining.”

Arrivabene shrugged. “Your relations never had fun flirting with the Left in the ‘eighties, or climbing into bed with the neo-fascists at the turn of the century. Ah, well. Paolo does surprisingly well by the Family, in spite of his… eccentricities.”

“And illusions.”

“Illusions can be powerful tools.”

Angelini regarded his colleague steadily, and surprisingly shrewdly, for a moment or two. “Yes, the Holy Father is right. You’re the man for the job, definitely. In any case, the documents are all in hand, and the staff list you submitted to Nataka has already been approved. The clearances are being obtained through proper Dominion channels. Emori Naitaku just returned from Tanah Burung; he’s ready to leave in the next day or so to do the advance work. Did you have any preferences as to locale, for the Legation?”

“Ahhhh… Have him contact my secretary. That may be settled already. One of those nth cousins I referred to earlier already contacted Paolo, asking him to relay the offer of a villa at ‘exceptionally reasonable terms’ as his own, er… contribution… to the Church. I had Francesco check it out. It’s not a bad place, actually… on the edge of the city, on the main road that leads to the Dread Lady’s own villa.”

“Reasonable terms?”

Arrivabene grimaced… “Oh, only about one and a half times its real market value, and about half what we’d have to pay for similar accommodations going through conventional channels. I thought I’d go ahead and buy it privately, then transfer title to the Church. Of course, the Secretariat will have to foot the bill on the build-out. But I think that I can rely on the Dominion Valenti to ensure that the Church will not be done on the job.”

Angelini nodded. “I’ll have Emori contact Francesco, then, and we’ll leave it in your hands. A relief, actually. Now, as to the specifics, I understand that the Holy Father has already briefed you?”

“Roughly. I’m to make myself useful. Low key. No threat. Long term agenda, pianissimo legato approach.”

“Precisely. But be prepared to handle surprises.”

“Oh, yes. Definitely that.”


Within a few days, the packet of materials from the Dominion, well supplemented by dossiers from the Secretariat, was delivered to Arrivabene’s office.

A very brief scan of the enclosed materials—including the Dread Lady’s correspondence—sufficed to put an extremely thoughtful look on the Archbishop’s rather narrow face. Setting down the dossiers on the Dominion government officials, his fingers flew over the keys of his viewer, calling up certain of his personal family files and records. How interesting. How extremely interesting. He picked up the telephone.

“Prego. Paolo, it’s Emilio. Did you, or did you not, tell me that your business in the Dominion is being handled by Amadeo Massetti?”

“Si. Si, bene. Grazie.”

“Eh? No, just curious. Yes, I know how to contact him. I want Francesco to put a little transaction in hand—that villa that Marcantonio Valenti is trying to dispose of. I plan to acquire it. Your man Amadeo can make himself useful, yes? Good. Thank you, Paolo.”

He rang off, and stared into the middle distance for a moment, then turned to the next item.

Well, well… a dinner invitation from the Dread Lady. And so loaded with subtext, too. The gentle reminder of how efficiently her intelligence operation functions… “the Church and your family here…” Oh, so very delicate. She has the touch, this Dread Lady. I wonder if Colasuonno’s speculations about her are accurate…?

Thoughtfully, he penned a response:

To the Dread Lady Nathican d’Aquisto of the Dominion

Respected Signorina—

I am honored by your gracious welcome, and the kind invitation to share a dinner. When the formalities are out of the way, I would be happy to accept.

As your Public Relations ministry will be aware through official channels, our advance staff are already on site in the Dominion. We have obtained suitable property, and have received gratifyingly efficient assistance from Minister Ravanelli in acquiring the necessary permits, etc., to prepare it for occupation—a process already underway.

The Apostolic Delegation to the Dominion will consist of myself, my secretary, a chaplain, one domestic and three clerical staff. We look forward to hiring local assistance to fulfill other operational functions, although we tend to live quite simply.

I do not know whether you have heard from Archbishop Battista regarding his discussions with the Holy Father and the Secretariat of State while he was recently in Rome for the Holy Father’s installation. As was discussed, the Delegation will provide you and your government with a channel of official communication to the Apostolic See. As the Dominion has a large population of devout Faithful, we hope that you will find such communications to be an asset.

In addition, I will be working with Archbishop Battista and the Dominion’s Episcopal Conference to facilitate communications between the Dominion’s Faithful and Rome. We have been much remiss, in letting our obligation to such an important Catholic community continue for so long without appropriate attention.

I look forward to discussing topics of mutual interest with you while experiencing some of the Dominion’s characteristic delicacies. My staff will make arrangements with Else, as you so kindly suggest.

With sincere appreciation for your hospitality and gracious welcome, I remain,

In Christ

+Archbishop Emilio Arrivabene Valenti-Gonzaga
Apostolic Legate to the Dominion


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v333/thshifties/AbpArrivabene.jpg

Empress Aurora read the documents on ambassadorial procedures for Nathicana with interest, then was distracted by some servants' children playing TAG outside her window.

Matters at the Nunciature had settled into a basic routine. The Archbishop had spent most of his time working with the local Ecclesiastical Conference on parochial re-organization. Eleven candidates had been identified for Episcopal elevation, and the process of getting them approved by Rome had taken considerable time. But new Bishops were badly needed.

The men chosen were a good mix—some from influential families, some with particular expertise or skills, a few highly popular local spiritual leaders. All had worthy spiritual credentials, and had passed stringent doctrinal review. Most occupied a comfortably orthodox middle ground, two were on the conservative side, and one outstandingly liberal priest had been selected on the basis of his pastoral work and popularity. Matching each one to an appropriate See had been a delicate procedure, and Archbishop Battista had proved both shrewd and sensible in helping suggest placements, based on the newly-reorganized diocese.

The new Bishops had visited Rome for their ordination, and had returned a few weeks ago to begin work in their various diocese. At the same time, three of the Dominion’s current diocese had been upgraded to provincial archdiocese, for a total of four. Three of the Dominion’s established Bishops had been elevated to the new Archbishoprics. The expanded Ecclesiastical Council was now preparing for elections, and Battista looked like an easy call for the Presidency.

Which made it no surprise when Arrivabene received a special packet under the Papal seal, containing Leo’s appointment of the Legate to a special Ablegacy for the purpose of delivering the enclosed scarlet biretta to one Giovanni Battista. An attached note from the Pope’s personal secretary, Monsignor Kwan, indicated that a special Noble Guard courier would be dispatched with the matching scarlet zucchetto as soon as Arrivabene could arrange for the appropriate diplomatic clearances from the Dominion.

The Archbishop, who had his own sources in Rome, nodded thoughtfully. The appointment itself wasn’t unexpected. Leo had indicated an intention to bestow a red hat in the Dominion more than a year ago. The timing, however, was interesting. Arrivabene had been hearing that something big was in the works…

He called in his secretary and dictated a note to Chancellor Calabrese, requesting the appropriate clearances for the Swiss Guard messenger.

Calabrese had been surprised at the request, but assured the secretary that all due consideration would be paid. As it was. An official escort would meet the courier, in full uniform, politely welcoming and escorting the Guard to where they needed to go, any accommodations or needs would be taken care of, and their expenses would be paid, courtesy of the government.

A meeting of the staff was of course, called immediately to discuss the shift in power - for there was no mistaking, this was just such an occasion. There had been no Cardinal from the Dominion for many, many years. None in modern history, to be exact.

"You can not allow this to happen," Giraldi snaps, his eyes blazing. "Giving the Catholic church more of a hold, and allowing one of ours to be so closely indoctrinated into their system is a dangerous move. You know how devious they can be. It's bad enough the troubles we've had lately with the students and protesters. How much more are you going to allow? Allow Battista this, and he'll be speaking out publicly on things he's mentioned quietly before. Too much legitimacy, mark my words. We've been too lax by half as is."

"Calm yourself, Minister," Nathicana says, waving a hand dismissively as she reaches for her ice water. "I'm already quite aware of your personal issues with Battista, and I--"

"This has nothing whatsoever to do with that! Are you blind?" The man cut in, rudely interrupting without a second thought. One of the woman's sculpted brows arched ever so slightly, her expression cooling.

"We have not had any problems with the Church perse, Minister. In fact, we have not had any problems with any of the religious factions in the Dominion of any consequence for many, many years now. I hardly think this the time to start mixing church and state to the degree of telling Rome itself that it cannot appoint whom it chooses to a position of ecclesiastical authority." She watches him closely, her eyes not blinking as she takes a slow sip of her water.

"Besides, Battista has worked quite well within the framework of proper government proceedures," Calabrese interjects, his expression thoughtful. "He's done this for some time know. He knows the rules, how things work. The fact that they intend this appointment could in turn give us a bit of control within Rome. I suppose you hadn't thought of that? Having a voice there could be quite helpful, my friend."

"Think for a moment on the 'why' behind the relative quiet of the religious zealots," Giraldi says flatly. "How many did Morosini butcher when he saw them as a threat to his rule when the church would not bend and sanction his divorce?"

"Now Niccolo, that was a very long time ago--"

"--I don't believe they ever did get a proper count, now that I think on it." Both Nathicana and Calabrese spoke at once, each one looking at the other with a bit of consternation.

"A long time ago, yes, but we all know how long Dominion memories are. We have not forgotten. Neither have they. Just as your last local action settled things across the board for a good long time," Giraldi replies with a very pointed look. "The balance is about to shift if you allow this to procede. I want to make certain we are all prepared for the possible consequences."

Nathicana and Calabrese exchange looks again, both thoughtful. "I'm no fool, Niccolo. Of course I plan on keeping a close eye on the situation. I simply do not think that Battista himself is as much a threat as you would make him out to be. He's a decent enough man, and he has a solid understanding of how things work here. I think that this is an excellent opportunity, as the good Chancellor has mentioned, to have our own voice, our own possible agendas, heard in Rome, not so much the other way around. The truth of the matter is, that as long as the Church and its followers continue to mind their own business, they can continue to worship as they see fit. It doesn't matter one way or the other to me what version of God my citizens pray to, so long as they pay their taxes, obey the laws, and do not rebel against our rule."

"Our nation's heritage is tied rather closely to Rome and the Church, after all. It is, like it or not, part of our cultural identity, Minister Giraldi," Calabrese reminds the other man, shrugging gently. "This appointment will do wonders for national pride - nevermind taking the people's minds off other less pleasant topics, especially if we put the proper spin on it all. It would be in our best interests to encourage this, I would think."

Giraldi shakes his head, then gathers his things as he readies for his departure. "The time will come when you will wish you had nipped this in the bud, Imperatrice. I cannot help but think this is a poorly-thought out decision - but, do as you will. I meanwhile, will continue to watch. By your leave, of course."

"Of course, Minister," the lady replies, her expression still thoughtful. "We'll discuss this further after seeing what all they have planned concerning this investiture. Ciao, Niccolo."

They both watch the tall man leave, making his goodbyes in a clipped, irritated manner, turning to each other once the door has shut completely.

"This will mean trouble of one sort or another, Nath."

"Yes, Cesare. I know. In the meantime, lets look at the options ...."

----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----

Things had been progressing, slowly but surely. Battista had to admit, he was pleased. The renewed contact with Rome had revitalized the faithful throughout the Dominion, seeing an increase in church attendance, involvement, and indeed, contributions. He had found working with Arrivabene and his staff like a breath of fresh air - and a relief to have someone with whom it was so comfortable to work with, having no awkward moments on account of a lack of understanding or relation to Dominion society. There were indeed differences here and there, but the man had proven himself time and again with his tact and natural savvy, that he was more than suited to the task His Holiness had assigned him.

The work had been rewarding, and Battista had discovered to his surprise that his own faith had grown on account. So wrapped up was he in the task of rejuvenating the Church within the Dominion, and looking towards expanding that to the colonies, that the news came to him as somewhat ... unexpected, though admittedly not unhoped for.

"They're what?" he says, nearly dropping his coffee, then setting it quickly and clumsily aside to dab up the spilt bits with a napkin.