Cardinal Francis donned a flashy white robe with a crimson embroidered pattern and a red hat. Rings adorned his hands, and his expression was serious.
King Nine (on the other hand) donned a kingly robe since he was a feudal ruler. The supreme pontiff (Pope) is first in the Kuju world's authority structure, followed by the cardinals, archbishops, bishops, and priests. They were all dressed in religious attire and seated around the circular table. The feudal kings (on the other hand) were higher than the priests, who were higher than the area lords. The area lord reported directly to the monarchs.
That was the power structure.
Pope Vincent III invited King Nine to speak.
"Cardinal Francis scowled as his holiness revealed his choice. He didn't appear to be willing to respect your decision."
"When did I do it?" Cardinal Francis talked solemnly and unafraid.
His demeanor made his younger brother nervous, but he persevered.
