The reclamation of the Peloponnesus was an encouraging achievement, but it alone could not stand against the Ottomans.
Reorganizing the collapsed systems and laws due to long-lost territories and training a regular army—this was the enormous task given to me at the age of fourteen. Despite numerous challenges, one issue stood out as particularly concerning.
The geographic nature of the mountainous Peloponnesus made it difficult for the central government to exert control.
Local lords, long accustomed to feudalism, no longer wished to be subjugated under a strong central authority. Their persistent political struggles to maintain their rights often threatened Morea’s political stability. Even if military force subdued them temporarily, it was clear that separatist movements would eventually resurface.
This was a moment requiring concession and compromise. My first resolution stemmed from this realization.
“Starting today, I will reinstate the public assemblies in each major city. We will begin with small projects in Mistra and Leontarion and gradually expand as conditions permit.”
The decree spread quickly, and discussions about the composition of these assemblies followed in the court of Mistra.
While I desired to exclude the influence of local nobles as much as possible, such an action would provoke a severe backlash. The public assemblies needed to serve as both a symbol of tolerance, accommodating local autonomy to a degree, and a means to control the local lords. Ideally, they would evolve into a governing body with immense potential for development.
After much deliberation, it was decided that each city would have an assembly composed of seven members elected every five years. Members could serve up to five terms, and significant achievements would bring tax reduction benefits to the entire city and further appointments for assembly members.
Alongside expectations that this merit system would positively influence urban development, I resolved to simplify the cumbersome tax system, which had long burdened the citizens.
Of course, rushing to implement changes without alternative revenue sources would be a grave mistake. The tax system’s reform needed to proceed gradually. Unfortunately, Morea’s fledgling surplus budget left little room for tax abolition. For now, I had to be content with identifying taxes to be addressed in the future.
After setting the direction for administrative and tax reforms, the need for legal reorganization became apparent.
“Your Highness, Morea has been under Latin rule for a long time, and many aspects conflict with the empire’s laws. We must address these inconsistencies or reassert the dominance of imperial law promptly.”
This advice came from Demicleos, an imperial judge recently promoted as a key figure amidst a shortfall of talent. His counsel was sound. Having served as a competent aide under my father, Manuel II, for years, I would not foolishly disregard his advice.
“In times of chaos, fundamental guidelines are crucial. Following the long-standing tradition of the separation of powers, the task of legal reorganization will be entrusted to Judge Demicleos, with my full support.”
Although the separation of powers in this context was not the democratic administrative, legislative, and judicial branches, imperial authority historically stood above this. Still, a system of checks and balances was essential to prevent the potential tyranny of future rulers. In Morea, where imperial authority was at its rock bottom, having Judge Demicleos, an imperial judge, lead the initiative was more appropriate than my direct involvement.
However, the local lords remained a concern.
These were individuals who might defy the central government. Since the assembly’s reconstruction was still incomplete and experimental, there were practically no means of control except for military force.
Reluctantly, I would have to send the Ivania mercenary corps as escorts…
I was apprehensive about deploying Morea’s only military force from Mistra. Yet, recognizing the necessity, I made a decisive choice. It was not due to Ivannia’s increasingly perverse tendencies or any intention to overcome a moral crisis.
“However, to prepare for any unforeseen rebellion, I will accompany Captain Ivania and two hundred mercenaries as escorts.”
“…..!”
A woman’s silent cry echoed hollowly, but I mercilessly ignored it. Is this the coldness of a ruler? It seems I’ve taken another step into the harsh world of politics.
With this, the reorganization of administration, taxation, and law was left to time.
My plan was to organize a regular army once my influence extended throughout Morea, but there was a more urgent task ahead.
“Prince of Morea, the wise ruler Constantine Dragaš, I greet you.”
It was the negotiation with Venice.
Following the complete reclamation of Patras and the expulsion of the Latins, Venice soon proposed negotiations. Despite my disdain for those who had once thwarted the reclamation of the Peloponnesus, I endured, knowing who the real enemy was.
Everything was for the national interest.
Venice sought to maintain its dominance in the Aegean Sea and secure the newly emerging Morea as a lucrative market.
Likewise, I needed an ally against the Ottomans and had to extend my hand to them to protect Morea’s trade and trade routes.
The outcome of the negotiations:
Morea recognized Venice’s ownership of Modon and Coron ports, granted Venice trade monopoly rights, and abolished taxes. In return, Venice provided five military experts and a substantial amount of wealth under the pretext of celebrating Morea’s successful progress.
“We are grateful for the Prince’s generous concessions.”
As I watched the scoundrel’s back as he left with a smile, I could do little but grit my teeth in frustration. The disparity in national power and the sensitivity of Venice’s senate to gains and losses necessitated such compromises.
Still, the frustration was immense.
Those despicable bastards.
Nonetheless, the adversary would one day turn their blade toward us.
To prepare for that day, funds were needed to raise an army. Neither Morea nor the empire had the luxury of preparing for the future.
I had to sell the future to overcome the present.
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