His Holiness was seated behind a large oak table upon a tall gold chair covered in red velvet. He too had caught wind of the rumour that his errant Inquisitor had attempted to have Leonardo da Vinci assassinated by the lunatic who was being painted as Judas. Beside His Holiness, and engaged in some matter of a private nature, stood his mistress and mother of four of his children, Vannozza die Cattanei.
‘Father Rodrigo, come,’ His Holiness said, indicating for him to step forward. The Spaniard kissed the Fisherman’s ring and bowed grudgingly to Vannozza, who smiled politely before she departed. ‘How was your journey from Milan? Not too taxing, I hope?’ His Holiness said, insincerely.
‘No, your Holiness,’ replied Father Rodrigo.
‘I am glad,’ responded the Pope with even more insincerity.
