"…Does Cardinal Siegfried know of this?"
Allegro III fixed his crimson gaze on Jacopo. Though his voice was low, it carried a commanding presence that seemed to shake the entire hall.
Jacopo hesitated briefly, lowering his head. A report freshly received was gripped tightly in his hand.
Having served the pope longer than anyone else, Jacopo knew full well that the answer he gave now would determine his fate.
From this moment on, not a single misstep could be allowed.
"He is not yet aware, Your Holiness."
He spoke in a soft, measured tone.
Allegro III's shoulders seemed to relax ever so slightly. Jacopo, sensing his judgment had been correct, lowered his voice even more.
"I came straight here after hearing the news at the port."
At that, the pope let out a long sigh and leaned back into his chair.
His hand still gripped the golden armrest, but the force had eased.
His gaze slowly drifted to the tall windows across from the throne.
