 Nicholas II proceeded towards Rome, along the way holding a synod at Sutri, where, in the presence of the Tuscan ruler Godfrey the Bearded and the imperial chancellor, Guibert of Parma, he pronounced Benedict X deposed and excommunicated.The supporters of Nicholas II then gained control of Rome and forced Benedict X to flee to Gerard of Galeria.Having arrived in Rome, Nicholas II then proceeded to wage war against Benedict X and his supporters with Norman assistance.