William, the duke of Normandy: 1048 to 1060

King Henry remains encamped in the middle of Normandy while your emissaries journey to Rome to beg the ear of the pontiff. But which one? We have so many just now: first Victor dies; then Stephen his successor dies shortly after; Benedict (the "antipope") is put in by emperor Henry's faction, but is thoroughly unpopular amongst Frenchmen.

Unfortunately, time wasted has played heavily into king Henry's hands. He prevails the more, because his combined military strength exceeds yours, and you have given him all the time he required to bring it to bear: you have no choice but to surrender on terms. At best, you will retain your duchy only under severe restrictions upon your future actions.

Because you are perceived by all the churchmen chroniclers as an enemy, you go down in history as William the (wicked) Bastard.

Contemplate the heavenly city, you will have nothing more....