EMPIRE REWRITTEN [Isekai ? Alt-History ? Strategy]

Chapter 35: Dreams and Duties

The room stilled, the weight of the figure settling over them. Even Plethon allowed himself a faint smile at the news. Constantine nodded, letting the triumph sink in before responding. "A remarkable achievement. Let us ensure it is reinvested wisely."

George Sphrantzes, always cautious, cleared his throat. "Indeed, Despot, the successes are undeniable, but I must bring to your attention a growing concern. The shortages in our grain stores are worsening. The constant influx of people to Glarentza is putting pressure on our supplies. Even with the new water mills and plows, we must import grain from abroad to avoid famine."

Constantine frowned, his thoughts already turning to potential solutions. "Petros, begin looking into securing grain from reliable suppliers."

Petros nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Of course, Despot. The Genoese seem to be our best option for now. However, there is another pressing issue—our port. The current volume of trade has exceeded its capacity. If we wish to sustain this momentum, expansion is essential."

Constantine straightened in his chair, weighing the implications. "Prepare an estimate, Petros. I need a clear understanding of the costs, required labor, and the timeframe for the work. Also, investigate where we can find a skilled architect, perhaps from Constantinople or even Venice if necessary. This port is critical to our future, and it must be expanded properly. A proper shipyard will also be a necessary addition."

"Yes, Despot," Petros replied. "I will begin the preparations immediately."

The conversation naturally turned to the ongoing threat posed by the Ottomans and the status of repairs on the Hexamilion Wall. After a lengthy analysis of reports and intelligence, the council agreed that it was unlikely for Murad to assemble his main force for a campaign in the Morea so late in the season. It was early summer, and the logistical challenges of mounting an extensive invasion force before winter made such an endeavor improbable.

"If we do not receive any worrisome reports by late August," Constantine concluded, "we can be reasonably assured that this year will pass without a major Ottoman offensive. However, we cannot afford to grow complacent. The Hexamilion Wall is our first defense, and its fortifications must remain a priority. The more we strengthen it, the better prepared we will be for whatever comes next year."

The conversation then shifted to the internal threat posed by Theodore. George brought up the newly completed small fortress at Karytaina, situated strategically in the middle of the Morea.

"This new fort," George said, "will give us an early warning of any movements Theodore might make. Its position allows us to monitor his forces and secure the region should he act against us. That said, it seems highly unlikely he would risk open hostilities at this time. His position is tenuous enough as it is."

Constantine nodded. "We'll remain vigilant, but I agree—Theodore will not risk a direct confrontation, he is weak and with limited forces. Still, the fort at Karytaina is a reassurance. It gives us a crucial edge in maintaining order within the central Morea."

The conversation soon after turned to the matter of the new Pope. Plethon cleared his throat and leaned forward slightly. "My Despot, as you are aware, Pope Martin V has passed, and his successor, Pope Eugenius IV, is now consolidating his authority. Bessarion has already made initial contact on our behalf and has begun laying the groundwork for further discussions. In his letter from Rome, he reports that the new Pope has expressed interest in our proposal for a book trade agreement. This could present an opportunity not only to advance economic ties but also to garner support for the union between the churches."

Constantine nodded, his fingers tapping lightly on the table. "Then it is time I make the journey myself. The Pope will need to see that we are serious in our efforts, not just for the union but for securing the survival of the empire. Direct negotiation could yield benefits far beyond mere manuscripts."

Plethon's expression shifted, becoming more contemplative. "The journey to Rome would indeed be critical," he said. "But there is another opportunity we must consider before you embark."

He straightened, his eyes fixed on Constantine. "I recently received a letter from an old acquaintance, Stylianos —a priest on Zakynthos. He and I knew each other well during my early years in Mystras. He writes of growing turmoil on the island. The Catholic bishop holds sway over a predominantly Orthodox population, and the people grow restless under his authority. With the war between Tocco and Memnone ravaging the region, Zakynthos is essentially up for grabs. Tocco's rule has all but collapsed beyond his stronghold in Arta. On the island itself, there remains only a small guard of Tocco's troops—hardly enough to hold the territory if we act quickly. If we move now, we may establish influence there before Venice steps in."

Plethon paused, his eyes flickering toward Constantine. "This priest, knowing my views and connections, has reached out to us directly. He believes our intervention could stabilize the island and restore Orthodox leadership to its rightful place."

Constantine's eyes narrowed as he processed the implications, his mind racing ahead. Before he could speak, George interjected, his tone deliberate. "Zakynthos," he said slowly. "A foothold in the Ionian, so close to Glarentza. It could serve as a vital stepping stone for expansion."

Constantine nodded, the idea taking shape. "Exactly. If we act quickly, we can sail there, stabilize the situation, secure the priest's support, and bring the island under our control."

He leaned back, considering. "From there, we continue to Rome. I will negotiate directly with the Pope for a potential book deal and gauge his stance on the union. Simultaneously, we can explore the possibility of hiring mercenaries with the funds we've amassed. A strong mercenary company could bolster our defenses against a potential Ottoman attack next year."

Plethon leaned forward, his expression cautious. "A bold plan, Despot, but tell me—have you consulted your brother, the Emperor? Such an action may risk overstepping your authority. If John feels undermined, he may not support your larger goals."

Constantine met his gaze, his voice calm but firm. "I have already sent word to Emperor John, detailing our plans, including the schemes of our brother Theodore. However, no reply has yet reached us. Rumors suggest the Ottomans may be closing the straits near Constantinople, which could explain the delay. For now, we must act decisively."

The council exchanged uneasy glances but nodded in agreement. There was no room for hesitation. The empire's survival depended on their ability to seize every opportunity.

Constantine rose from his seat, his presence commanding. "Let us move forward on all fronts. Petros, George, Plethon, Theophilus, Andreas—coordinate your efforts and report to me within the week."

He paused, his gaze sweeping the room before continuing. "If by late August we see no sign of movement from Murad's forces, we will proceed with the expedition to Zakynthos. From there, we sail to Rome to finalize our negotiations with the Pope. Time is short, so ensure all preparations are in place."