The only thing he couldn't accept was Gregory's belief that, on a material level, merely stopping at money was too conservative. The Pope felt he could go much further—for instance, by personally leading the Crusaders on an expedition against the heretics.
Ultimately, thanks to some smooth-talking from Gerard's Otto, the increasingly absurd conversation was brought to a close.
Henry and his Empress stayed one more night in Canossa, as they still needed to maintain their humble posture.
Of course, the more important reason was that Henry had to ensure Rudolph left first. Otherwise, he couldn't be sure what tricks that snake would play before the scorpion, Hilbrand, to land him in another difficult situation.
Fortunately, Rudolph departed the next morning. He had clearly failed to change Hilbrand's mind the previous night. In stark contrast to the excitement and joy of the others, he left filled with resentment and bitterness.
