The Empire Strikes Out

I regret to inform you that plans for the new Holy Roman Empire have been scrapped. Discussions broke down after I helpfully pointed out that the others were too stupid to run an empire. After I proclaimed myself emperor, one of the brothers volunteered to design my coat of arms, an offer which I graciously accepted. He returned with the following blazon:

Per pale sable and or, sinister a back on knife impaled argent, dexter south end of a horse passant north sable.

I, of course, ordered his immediate execution. For the sake of good order and the good of the citizenry, such mockery should not be tolerated. The discussions then descended into fisticuffs, at which point all plans were abandoned.

You will be even more upset when you learn that you were included in my plans. I had set aside important posts among my scullery staff for my faithful readers.