April 1500

Cesare’s campaigning had brought his forces to stand against the Da Varano family that had ruled in Camerino for the last century or so. The army marched under the papal banner of the keys of St Peter, lead by Sigismundo d’Este. However, Cesare had been busy in Rome and Naples meeting with Alexander and greeting Ferdinand for his coronation. He had full confidence in his captain in defeating the enemies of the church, but there was a letter he was awaiting a response from. Right before he had set off from Rome, he had sent a personal letter to the Abbess of the Olivettan Order of the Abbey of Camerino.

To the venerated Abbess Camilla Battista da Varano,

I hope this reaches you without issue. As you are certainly aware, your family has been found guilty of avoiding papal taxation and hosting enemies of the church. This only extends to that which surrounds the vicar and the vicar himself. As Gonfalonier of the Church, I still count myself as a lover of the arts and a man of pious practices. In what time I may have to myself, I listen to and read of the stories of the saints and holy men that have come before us. Knowing this, you learn of the power of vision and the love of God that is given to those that have it. I do not pretend to know intimately of these things, but I wish to one day be able to say I do.

This is why I write to you. I wish to hear of what you have seen and support you in your relationship with God. Your writings are exquisite and your word choice impeccable. I may be a cardinal no more, but I can appreciate works such as yours. I will protect your Abbey and ensure all those who are present are supported as one of such fame should be. The sins of your family will be washed away from you and violence will be pushed away once more. However, I must ask that you join me for some time so that I may be a part of your process. Should you accept, I will ride to the Abbey once I have finalized my work in Naples and you will join me.

Gonfalonier of the Church, Cesare Borgia