Temple of the Grail(40)
‘And is it an infernal trait?’
My master gave me an annoyed look. ‘It is utter nonsense, of course!’
‘What about the poisons?’ I pressed. ‘The lead and mercury, and the cleaning agent used on the instruments? Do you think one of them killed the old brother?’
‘Perhaps, and for this reason I shall have to consult some books on the topic of poisons, but for now, it is only a possibility. Despite what Macabus says I don’t believe that the repository of these substances is a great secret. After all, it is a small monastery . . . no . . .’ he trailed off. ‘But the powder . . . the salt could be a compound known as serpent de pharaon.’
‘Is that a poison?’
‘A very potent one.’
‘Then Brother Macabus is our best suspect,’ I said, changing my mind like the wind changes direction. ‘For he not only speaks Greek, but he also has unlimited access to the repository.’
‘Let us not forget,’ Andre added with caution, ‘how many others speak Greek and have also handled the keys.’
Just then the bells tolled, announcing the opening of the inquiry, and with these considerations weighing heavily on our souls we entered the chapter house, my head feeling even lighter than before.
7
Capitulum
Some time after Terce
Beloved brothers of the monastery of Saint Lazarus,’ the inquisitor Rainiero Sacconi’s words echoed in the chapter house. ‘My colleagues and I have journeyed here at the pope’s request, having come a great distance, as you know, to substantiate accusations of heresy which have been directed at this community of monks.
‘Dear brothers, it is the duty of the holy inquisition to seek out even the smallest or indeed insignificant speck of evil. To root out the Devil wherever he is evidenced or, on the other hand, to bless and sanction those who walk according to God’s laws. Do not, then, be afraid, my children, for the wrath of God is tempered by a powerful and fraternal love for his people. He seeks not to punish the innocent, but to vanquish the guilty. As a shepherd seeks to nurture his flock and keep it from harm, so it is for your good that we are here.’ He motioned to the bishop and the other prelates of his legation who sat flanking him. ‘Is it not better to die repentant than to live a life of sin?’ He stood motionless. ‘As you know, this legation is not bound by the precepts of ordinary law, and is exempt from all common jurisdiction. And although it is customary for those found guilty of crimes against God to be turned over to the secular arm, let it now be known that, because of this abbey’s seclusion, I have been given a special dispensation from our lord pope to carry out all sentences in order to save the souls of innocent people, should this investigation lead to inquisition.’
‘The scoundrel,’ my master said to me in a whisper.
‘Let it also be known that all those who recant, through fear of death, will be thrust into prison for life, there to perform penance until their last days. All communal property will be confiscated. Those who defend the errors of a heretic are to be treated as conspirators to heresy and will, therefore, suffer the same punishment!’
A low murmur went through the assembly.
‘And as we punish ordinary people whose ignorance is no excuse for committing sin against the holy laws of the church, how much greater indeed should be the punishment of a monk who – having known the eternal light of heavenly laws – still chooses to offend the rules of his church. And so I call this inquiry to order, so that all matters called into question may be thoroughly investigated and I therefore summon all those who know of any matters of interest to this inquiry to come forward without fear, for we are the ears and eyes of God, and will listen with fraternal love, devoid of prejudice. Those of you who choose to come forward and confess their sinful heresy will be treated with leniency. Those who do not will suffer to the letter of the lateran canons.’ He paused, and in his eyes there was an intentional hostility. He wanted all to know this: you are in my power, and you had best act accordingly. Then he smiled, ‘Friar Bertrand de Narbonne has kindly travelled from the priory of Prouille to assist in these inquiries. He is, as you may know, an esteemed theologian.’
The friar stifled a yawn and nodded without standing.
‘He will act as judge, along with father Bernard Fontaine, our emissary from Citeaux, whose wisdom is renowned.’
Bernard looked unblinkingly at the gathering, his square chin tilted up a little in a gesture of disdain.
‘And finally, as there must always be two inquisitors at any trial, the Bishop of Toulouse shall aid me in this grave and yet necessary duty.’