Constantinople, 1096
Michail sits down at the counter of his favourite tavern and orders an ale. Sitting next to him is his right hand man, Efstratios.
“How slow the Magnaura has become of late Efstratios” Michail remarks.
"I agree. And I find the Senate to be nothing more than a group of squabbling delegates, unprepared for the awesome responsibilities of running an empire. I don't think they realize I am among the most experienced and hardened among them.
I am ready for these outlaws which have sprung up along the countryside since the good Methodios Tagaris took Zagreb. My sword has not been swung in some time, and I am anxious to cut down some fools who dare oppose the emperor."
“True, Efstratios, true. However, I am not too eager to find a fight, but I can handle myself well enough if one comes to me. But you are right. We have no future here in the west. I have been thinking. It may be time for some changes, I was thinking towards rescinding control of House Tepaki to you, as you have more experience in that area than me. It also seems that a re-organisation is needed. I propose that we form into more of a mercenary company orientated house. We can hold certain settlements, providing a steady income, but let us sell our services out! In exchange for whatever we please. I will move back towards the second-in-command as a treasurer and after we have made some advancement, we may reform again. What say you Efstratios?”
"I think it's a splendid idea. I admit I have often wished I were the ruler of one of the houses of the realm... I am honoured by your plan and think it's a good idea. Your father would have been very proud of your wisdom."
“My father…” Michail trails off, lost in thought.
1075: The Shanty Seaman:
A small boy gathers his cloak up around him, backing into the corner, hoping to hide himself amongst the shadows, afraid of the men that are trailing him. His loot hidden in the cloak’s inside pocket, this young Michail holds his breath, knowing that the officers after him will enter his father’s shop. As the men fan out, a lantern is lit and Michail hears his fathers voice “What are you grunts doing? Get out of my house!”
“Sir,” the officer spits out “Your son has been stealing again. This time we are going to get him.”
Michail’s father sighs, and reaches into his pocket, digging out 5 golden coins.
“Will this get him out of it?”
The officer steps forward and examines the coins.
“Good enough. Just don’t let him do it again.”
As the officers leave, Michail comes out of the shadows.
“Michail, you have to stop stealing. Remember what our plan is. The only future for you is the Magnaura. Us Romans will thrive again, just make sure we go to the west. The west has more sea, and more profit for us Michail. We need you to do this, for our family”
Michail remembered his father’s speeches about the west, and knew for the survival of his family that expansion that way was needed. The more boats needed building, the more the Shanty Seaman would be hired.
“Michail, just 6 more years and you will reach your majority and be introduced to the world of politics. That position awaiting you cost a lot, but not more than we stand to lose. This is for your family son. The Arianitis name must live on.”
Efstratios shook Michail to snap him out of it.
“Your mind seemed to be wandering. Now about that reform…”
“Yes, yes Efstratios. It will happen. I’m not sure I want to give up the vow or my title as Despot of Epirus. My head aches, and I’m covered in ale. We shall meet tomorrow and discuss this more Lord Efstratios.”
“Lord Efstratios….I like the sound of that.”
Re: Stories Thread
Originally Posted by TosaInu
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