December 1500

Cephalonia, off the coast of Graecia

My Liege,

Our first expedition against the Turk has been a great success. We have taken the enemy by surprise, and many Turks were killed by an ambush lead by our valiant troops. Many among the Venetians and their allies are enamored by the ancient history of this place; they claim is the legendary island of Ithaca. Perhaps we have claimed some of the cunning of the legendary Odysseus in our endeavor.

Word has reached me that His Holiness has declared a new king of Naples, and I am sure to be as shocked as you at such a development. Yet, perhaps there are other ways that France may claim glory in these days. While the Venetians and the Italians dream of ancient days, my thoughts are of more recent conquest in these sunny climes. When the knights of France, supported by the fleets of Saint Mark, conquered the Empire of the East. While the Turk controls these lands, many among the populace have not submitted to their faith. I cannot say for certain, but perhaps a Christian king would find support among them. While we fight as a mercenary, we think it more noble to fight as a crusader and reclaim these lands for Christendom.

With more men, we could make a campaign here to strike fear into the hearts of the heathens. With the blessing of the Holy Father more banners would rally from across Christian lands to join us. In the mean time, I shall remain in service of Venice until recalled by my liege.

Vive le Roi!

Louis d'Armagnac

Duc d'Nemours, Comte de Guise, Castres, l'Isle-Jourdain et Pardiac