(giving Cesare a tour of Forli Castle) My son, Benito, longs for a soldier's career.
Mmm- It has much to recommend it.
You bear arms yourself, Signore Borgia?
No, my love- he wears a Cardinal's skirt.
(glancing at Cesare's military garb) But, your dress is that of a-
I am a civilian, today. An ambassador.
He comes bearing a message from his father, the Pope of Rome. (turns to face Cesare) Have I guessed correctly, Cardinal?
(smiles) You think so little of your charms?
(smiles back) Oh- you've come to sample them, perhaps?
Perhaps. (removes his cloak)
While bearing a message from the Pope of Rome.
The Pope does send his best regards, and would request your... beauteous presence at the Chair of St. Peter's.
He would sample my charms also?
(shrugs) Perhaps. He would feel your lips on his... Papal ring.
(pause, steps towards Cesare) He would have me kneel to him. Bow.
The whole world must bow to the Holy Father.
(doesn't take her eyes of Cesare) Whom does your mother bow to, my son?
(proudly) Nobody.
(smiles) You heard him, Cardinal. His mother bows to nobody.
And, if "Nobody" were to sit at her table?...
She would not bow. But there are other forms of obesence. (she walks into the dining room)
(follows her) Other, Mother?
Indeed, my son. There is a form of surrender which implies no submission. It gave birth to you.
... I confess that I'm lost, Mother.
(chuckles) Indeed, you are truly a soldier, made of hard wood! (pats his cheek, meets Cesare's gaze) But, the Cardinal must know... I only kneel when it suits me. As must the Holy Father.
If you do not come willingly-
Oh, hush, Cardinal, hush! You are our guest this fine evening- I'd have no discord between us. You can relay the Holy Father's message in its' fullness tomorrow.
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