Commencement of Disharmony

Amid a turbulent period of territorial disputes among the ruling class in Western Europe, the Roman Catholic Church calls for these fighting nobles to Crusade in the Holy Land and ensure free access to Jerusalem for Christian pilgrims. The stress of this expensive endeavor, against the tensions of territorial quarrels, tears at an already fragile relationship between the Pope and the bickering monarchs. Underlying this chaotic state of affairs is a culture that places a high value on honor and loyalty which are continually put to the test. Effective leadership is at a premium in a period where Kings and Popes may lack the skills to imbue loyalty among followers. One knight, William Marshal, The Flower of Chivalry, exemplifies the character of true reliability and its fortune. Along with other historical figures such as Richard the Lionhearted, the story features friends and family who are knights errant, Templars, priests, and ladies in waiting faced with these vexing choices. Finally, arising out of the discordant nobility in England, a great charter, the Magna Carta is presented to a recalcitrant King John and Pope Innocent III begins reforms that separate the church from the interfering state.