The assembled church high-ups saw Archbishop Brienne racked by a fit of violent coughing, staggering so badly he nearly pitched over, and hurried forward to help him back onto the bed, urging him to wait until he recovered before saying more.
Meanwhile, at St. Prodo Brothers Monastery in the Eastern Suburbs of Paris, Archbishop Boulogne welcomed his own theology retake.
There were four other clerics retaking the exam with him, but for the archbishop's dignity, he was allowed to answer the paper alone in the Abbot's Office.
In truth, Archbishop Boulogne held the examination in utter contempt. His theology results back then had been among the very best in all the seminaries of France, and over the years he had often written works concerning the Bible. He counted as a standard academic cleric.
He had already made up his mind: once he obtained an excellent result in the assessment, he would continue calling on everyone to resist the committee sent by the Vatican. Soon, two Examiners placed the papers before him and bowed very politely. "You have two hours to complete them, esteemed Archbishop. If you have any requests, you may instruct us at any time."
Archbishop Boulogne ignored them and swept his eyes over the first question.
[But sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts; always be prepared to give an answer to those who ask you for the reason for the hope that you have, yet answer with gentleness and reverent fear.]
A smile immediately appeared on his face. This was a passage from the New Testament—First Epistle of Peter. He skillfully raised his pen and added after it—keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander your good behavior in Christ...
"The Vatican actually questions the theological standards of the church of France."
He gave a soft