27 parts Complete Mature"...If you dare to kill the Head of the Holy Synod, the Inquisition of all Europe will hunt for you. Even YOU can't get away from this, and Theodore knows it. He also knows that you are not a devil, you are nothing more than just a cunning guy who... who... several years ago, naked, moaned underneath him on a hotel bed, trembling and choking with excitement, pleasure and pain..."
Jack mustered the last of his strength and raised the revolver again. He cocked the trigger.
- I don't believe you, Your Holiness. Leave. Get on your horse and ride away.
... "
***
Synopsis, 5 chapters (20%):
Theodore (20), adored by ladies, a student of literature and languages, lives in the capital of Benefia, a 19th century European country. Both he and his close friend, aristocrat, Maxim Gorky (22) dropped out of catholic seminary. Theodore, born of poor class, works at his uncle's inn while Maxim and his father Count Mirabeau form a political opposition to the monarchy and Holy Synod, a powerful and elite branch of the church.
After saving the life of an imperial soldier, Theodore becomes attracted to him. The soldier turns out to be the king's bastard, heir to the throne. Because he's committed to another, Caesar (16) is unable to return Theodore's affection. The two become friends, but Theodore's desire torments him, adding to the pain of Caesar's departure to war and the death of Theodore's aunt.
Seeking escape from grief and hard work, Theodore takes part in a pagan celebration and lets traveling merchant, Jack (26) seduce him. Theodore loses control and hurts Jack during sex, bitterly regretting it. Jack disappears, leaving a scar on Theodore's heart.