EMPIRE REWRITTEN [Isekai ? Alt-History ? Strategy]

Chapter 20: Brothers at Odds

Elsewhere in Mystras

In the dimly lit chamber of the fortress, Despot Theodore sat at the head of a long wooden table, his fingers steepled under his chin. The flickering light of  lamps cast long shadows across the faces of those gathered—Alexios, his trusted advisor; Father Damianos and Father Gregorios, fervent priests opposed to the union; and Lord Demetrios, a nobleman loyal to Theodore. The air was thick with unspoken tension, the weight of their collective unease palpable.

Theodore's gaze was fixed on a parchment before him, its contents fueling the storm brewing within. His jaw tightened as he contemplated the implications.

"The monk acted too hastily," Theodore said, his voice a measured calm that belied the anger simmering beneath the surface. "His impatience may have jeopardized our meticulously crafted plans."

Father Damianos shifted in his seat, his eyes avoiding Theodore's. "Father Petros was deeply troubled by the production of the Latin Bibles, my lord. His zeal overcame his discretion."

Alexios nodded in agreement. "He believed he was serving the true faith by attempting to sabotage the printing press. But now, Constantine is aware that there are those who oppose him within his own domain."

Theodore's eyes narrowed. "And what of Father Petros now?"

Father Gregorios lowered his gaze. "We have received word that he was captured and... did not survive the interrogation."

A heavy silence settled over the room. Theodore clenched his fists, the knuckles whitening. "His sacrifice, though unintended, may yet serve a purpose. But we must proceed with greater caution. We cannot afford any more mistakes."

Lord Demetrios leaned forward, his expression thoughtful. "Despot Theodore, perhaps we can turn this setback to our advantage. News has reached us that Master Plethon is journeying to Glarentza at the Emperor's behest, accompanied by his student, Bessarion. They intend to discuss further steps toward the unification of the churches."

Father Damianos frowned deeply. "Plethon's influence is growing. His philosophical ideas sway many, and his support of the union strengthens Constantine's position."

Alexios added, a sly smile playing on his lips, "If we could place our own agents within Plethon's entourage, we might gather valuable intelligence on Constantine's plans. Perhaps we can even find a way to disrupt their efforts from within."

Theodore considered this, his gaze thoughtful yet steely. The flicker of the lamps reflected in his eyes. "Yes, information is our greatest weapon."

Father Gregorios spoke cautiously. "But my lord, Plethon is a keen observer. He may recognize unfamiliar faces among his attendants."

Alexios leaned back confidently. "We have contacts within Plethon's circle. Some of his servants can be persuaded—or replaced. Our agents will be carefully selected to avoid arousing suspicion."

Theodore nodded slowly. "Very well. Proceed with the utmost discretion. Ensure that these agents are loyal and understand the gravity of their mission. We cannot tolerate another failure born of impatience or incompetence."

Lord Demetrios interjected, "We should also continue to undermine Constantine's influence among the people."

Father Damianos agreed. "The people do not realize the subtle erosion of our traditions."

Theodore's eyes hardened, his voice firm. "Then we must enlighten them. Spread word of the dangers inherent in these new texts. Emphasize the sanctity of our faith as it has been handed down through generations."

Father Gregorios suggested, "Perhaps sermons warning of false prophets and the perils of embracing foreign practices would be effective."

Alexios added, "We can circulate letters among the clergy who are sympathetic to our cause, encouraging them to speak out against Constantine's actions."