Chapter 321 - 236: Royal Court Meeting

Then, from the seats of the three Levels, a representative from each arose.

Eric, representing the Nobility, rose. Along with the representatives for the Church and the commoners, he replied, "Your Majesty, we thank you for summoning us. We are deeply aware of your concern for the affairs of the Kingdom, and we will do our utmost to offer counsel for the Kingdom’s prosperity and security."

Then the Scribe stood and announced in a loud voice, "We gather here today to discuss matters of great importance to the realm. The topics His Majesty has proposed include: exemption from a Knight’s military service, strengthening border defenses, and revising existing laws."

Robert walked to the center of the space between the three delegations.

"I know that for a long time, due to frequent wars and long-distance campaigns across the sea, many Knights have grown weary and resentful of their military service.

This is the ninth year since the Conquest. Nine years ago, that war of conquest won unprecedented glory and wealth for all of you here, and for all the Normans of Normandy.

We came to reign over this island in the name of Conquerors. And what followed?

Endless wars. First the Saxons, then the Danish, and finally, ourselves.

We have had war nearly every year. Every year, Knights die. Every year, women are widowed, never to see their husbands again. They were granted land but had no time to enjoy it. They married beautiful wives but could not be by their sides. Some even had children, only to spend less than a year with them.

This was my father’s fault, and it is mine as well.

The Knights’ traditional forty-day term of service has been repeatedly extended, causing considerable losses for many of you here, especially the Barons of the north.

What England needs now is not war, but rest, development, and healing.

But we are constantly under threat, be it from across the Channel or from the raiders of the North Sea. The wars within England are largely over, but we must still face other enemies. Therefore, we still need Warriors to fight. Yet I am unwilling to cause my loyal vassals further loss, or even harm.

For you, who have earned so much glory and faithfully fulfilled your duty, deserve to live your own lives. There is no reason you should not.

Norman Knights are the bravest Knights in this world. We possess great Power and adhere to order and discipline, because we know therein lies the source of our strength.

We are not a rabble. We are Warriors. We are born Conquerors, innate rulers.

God granted us Normandy, and now He has granted us England. In the future, He will grant us still more, and we will have the right to enjoy it.

The strength of the Normans has never been in defense, but in attack—in conquest!

Therefore, before the next great war comes, let us rest and gather our strength. Let us joyfully await the future.

And so, on the advice of Eric, Earl of Gloucester, and after careful deliberation with the other Counts, I have reached a decision.

I have considered the financial circumstances of some Knights and Barons, and the need for campaigns across the sea to resist the arrogant King of France Island.

Starting next year, any Knight who feels unable to provide his military service can petition the Royal Court for a valid reason, whether familial or financial.

Upon payment of a sum, he may be granted an exemption from military service.

Whether this will be a temporary decision or a permanent law, we can let time be the judge. There is no need for us to argue the point now.

For England and Normandy belong to me, yes, but they also belong to all of you gathered here, and to the gentlemen beyond this hall.

Therefore, let me hear your voices, my beloved and loyal vassals."