Chapter LXXV: Shadows and Lights in Rome  

People were extremely attentive to my words, and I could feel their agreement with what I was saying. Even the ordinary people in the Basilica realized that things were accelerating and that soon we would need a different approach to speak about God to our people. However, the only ones who felt offended were the Cardinals themselves. Well, some of them.

Anyway, after finishing the sermon, I felt a fleeting relief, especially when I saw Pope Alexander's hopeful paternal look. Yet, dark thoughts did not leave me in peace and began to distract me from the beauty of the ceremony. After collecting myself in silence for a few seconds, I regained composure and could appreciate that fascinating ceremony.