EMPIRE REWRITTEN [Isekai ? Alt-History ? Strategy]

Chapter 25: Bonds and Betrayals

Constantine stood among the guests, dressed in finely woven garments befitting his station. He approached Thomas, who was resplendent in ceremonial attire, a broad smile upon his face.

"Brother!" Thomas exclaimed, embracing Constantine warmly. "You've made it!"

"I wouldn't miss it for the world," Constantine replied, returning the embrace. "Congratulations on your union. May it bring prosperity and happiness."

Thomas's smile softened, though a hint of wistfulness flickered in his eyes. "Thank you, Constantine. It's a joy to have you here. I only wish Theodore could have joined us."

Constantine nodded, a shadow passing over his expression. "Yes, his absence is felt. "

Thomas sighed lightly. " It's unfortunate, but perhaps we can all be together another time."

"Let us hope so," Constantine agreed, though inwardly he wondered at his brother's true reasons.

Thomas gestured to his bride, Catherine, who stood gracefully beside him. "Allow me to present Catherine."

Constantine bowed respectfully. "It's an honor to welcome you to our family, Catherine. May your days be filled with joy."

"Thank you, Despot Constantine," she replied softly, her eyes reflecting kindness. "I've heard much about you."

"All good things, I hope," he replied with a gentle smile.

"I have brought a gift to commemorate this occasion," Constantine announced, signaling to a servant who presented an ornately bound Greek Bible. The cover was embossed with gold leaf, and the pages were edged with intricate designs.

Thomas's eyes widened appreciatively. "This is magnificent! Your reputation for fine books does not do it justice."

"It's a symbol of our heritage and faith," Constantine said. "May it guide you both in the years ahead."

Catherine smiled graciously. "We are deeply touched by your generosity."

As the evening progressed, music filled the hall, and guests took to dancing. Yet, beneath the merriment, Constantine couldn't shake a subtle melancholy. The celebration, though grand, paled in comparison to the opulence of past imperial festivities. It was a quiet reminder of the empire's waning glory.

Later, in a more secluded chamber, Constantine and Thomas sat together, goblets of wine in hand. George and one of Thomas's advisors, a stern man named Andronikos, stood nearby, engaged in their own conversation.

"To your health," Thomas toasted, raising his goblet.

"And to yours," Constantine replied, clinking their cups.

Thomas leaned back, a hint of frustration flickering across his face. "I must say, it stings that Theodore didn't deem it important enough to attend my wedding."

Constantine nodded sympathetically. "Indeed. Did he offer any explanation?"

Thomas sighed, swirling the wine in his goblet. "A letter arrived claiming urgent matters kept him in Mystras. But I can't help feeling it's more about his stubbornness regarding recent developments—like your Latin Bibles."

"He has been quite vocal against them," Constantine acknowledged. "His stance on the unification efforts is well known."

Thomas shook his head. "It's disappointing. At a time when our family should stand united, he lets old grievances and rigid views keep us apart."

"Perhaps in time he'll come around," Constantine offered. "The pressures we face might eventually make him see reason."

Thomas managed a thin smile. "One can hope. Speaking of which, I've been meaning to visit Glarentza. Your achievements there have piqued my curiosity. The Bibles you've produced are the talk of Morea."