Waleran and Regan Hamleigh in “Legacy”

If you wish Maud to make your son Earl of Shiring, I need to successfully trade Stephen with Gloucester.

I'll contribute to the ransom fee, if that's your concern.

No, my concern is Stephen. If he is redeemed, will the war continue?

Undoubtedly.

Therefore Queen Maud may not rule for long and then, whose side are we on?

We need to play both sides.

Oh, I intend to do that as negotiator, but your position is not as flexible.

You will have to intercede for us.

You presume our position is that of equals. I need you to serve me, not command me.

What would Your Eminence have me do? Whatever your wish, I am happy to obey.

I wish to be made Archbishop of Canterbury once Stephen regains his throne. The current one will have to be removed, of course.