Editing Second Radiant War (section)

== Prelude to War ==
For roughly three centuries following the [[The First Radiant War|First Radiant War]], a tense but functional peace had settled between the Holy Empire of Rodinia and the Undying Empire. The Undying Empire had honored the ancient accords, keeping the Holy Lands open and safe for Radiant pilgrims who came in peace. 

However, paranoia began to fester among the nobles, kings, and the Curia of Gallia. The Undying Empire's cultural and economic influence was slowly creeping across the continent:
In the east, the Magyar Khanate and numerous Steppe Elf clans had begun mass conversions, forging strong military and trade alliances with the Undying Empire.
In the west, the deeply pious Kingdom of Astur found itself geographically and economically pinched between the Pyrenean mountains and the prospering Emirate of Qurtuba.

Fearing eventual subjugation, the kings of the Radiantdom pressured the Pope in Avagnon to declare a Second Radiant War to "liberate" the Holy Lands and crush the perceived  threats. 

The Pope explicitly warned the assembly that provoking the Undying Empire would be catastrophic. This sentiment was strongly backed by King Gawain II of the Albion Empire. Gawain II argued that the war was redundant and economically foolish, pointing out that pilgrims had enjoyed safe passage for 300 years and there was no immediate threat to the faith.

Despite Gawain II's objections and the Pope's dire warnings, the Curia of Gallia and the allied kings forced the issue. With a heavy heart, the Pope officially declared the Second Radiant War.