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Pope Innocent VIII panicked and, in a desperate move, sent peace proposals to both countries, requesting a ceasefire once again.
Just like his predecessor had done four years ago.
He had recklessly stirred the flames of war and even started it, only to be forced into an embarrassing attempt to force an end to it. But this time, things weren’t going to be that easy.
Lorenzo, who had long coveted the eastern territories, seized the opportunity to capture multiple cities. He advanced from Urbino to Pesaro, plundering towns along the way.
Though these villages and territories were guarded by some mercenaries and militias, no one had ever seen such terrifying artillery and firearms. Some of the forces, upon hearing the roar of cannon fire, began to scatter in panic, showing no intention of defending.
At this juncture, the pope again appealed to envoys from Venice and other city-states, hoping to negotiate peace.
Although the youngest son of the Medici family was in Rome, it was clear that the lord had many sons, and this one did not pose a real threat.
The peace treaty not only required the papacy to recognize the Medici family's status but also granted Lorenzo the title of papal authority in the region.
This dual honor of political and religious power was like giving Lorenzo even sharper fangs, and the coronation ceremony was held immediately after the treaty was signed.
This war had transformed Florence's territory, stretching across the central islands, and many of the cities that had been conquered were reassigned to new governance. Even the Duchy of Ferrara, to the north, anxious about the outcome, sent ambassadors to offer their goodwill.
When the war ended and the army returned victorious, Florence plunged into five days and nights of wild celebration.
Mercenaries and blacksmiths danced joyfully, actors dramatically reenacted the glorious moments of battle, and the choir in the church began composing new songs to praise the lord’s numerous achievements. Several artists even started creating fresh paintings, attempting to elevate more Medici family members to the status of gods.
Now, Lorenzo de' Medici was not only the supreme political leader but also the pope of the city.
Even the indulgences, clinking in the treasury, illuminated the Medici family crest with the shine of gold coins.
After a long absence from drinking, Lorenzo raised a cup to the crowd, greeting everyone, and the people cheered loudly, wishing him a long life and the eternal spring of Florence.
The banquet went on so late that when the guests began to leave the Doge’s Palace, the first light of dawn was already breaking over the horizon.
Lorenzo had indulged in wine more than usual, and by the time he was walking out, he was swaying slightly.
Clarice and the children had gone to sleep at midnight, and Cosimo, seeing Lorenzo unsteady on his feet, had to help him to the study to rest, so as not to disturb the nervous lady of the house.
Seeing him struggle alone, Hedy approached and offered to help him.
Drinking so much, he would surely suffer from gout later.
The man’s expression was a mix of intoxication and clarity. As he stumbled into the study, he nearly fell, catching himself just in time.
He managed to steady himself, then turned to Cosimo.
"Wait at the door. I have something to discuss with Miss Kiesler."
The servant nodded and stepped outside.
Hedy instinctively poured him a glass of water and gently said, "Drink some, you should wake up a bit."
Lorenzo didn’t take the water, but instead furrowed his brow and looked at her.
Lorenzo had originally wanted to express his gratitude to her for everything she had done for Florence, especially her excellent skills in bandaging and stopping the bleeding during the war. Without her, perhaps this city would have already been taken by the pope, and he and his family might not have survived.
But at that moment, as he gazed at her in the darkness, he felt a sense of unwillingness creeping into his heart.
He had grown accustomed to giving up so many things. From letting go of his first love in his youth, to sacrificing his own freedom for marriage and political stability, to abandoning many desires and obsessions for the sake of his family and the balance of the city-state—
As a lord, he was supposed to remain calm, always rational. He should always be able to let go of anything without showing a hint of emotion.
