EMPIRE REWRITTEN

Chapter 26: Prosperity or Peril

Glarentza, early 1431

The soft light of dawn filtered through the tall windows of the newly constructed Morea Publishing headquarters in Glarentza. The building, an expansion of the original bookstore, stood as a testament to the town's transformation over the past two years. Once a quiet coastal settlement, Glarentza had blossomed into a burgeoning center of trade and learning. Its streets buzzed with the footsteps of merchants, the chatter of scholars, and the rhythmic hammering of artisans—all drawn by the promise of innovation and prosperity that radiated from the heart of Constantine's endeavors.

In a spacious chamber lined with shelves of freshly bound books, Constantine sat at the head of a long oak table. The room, designated as the council chamber, exuded an air of purpose and ambition. Around him sat his newly formed Morea Publishing Council: the venerable philosopher Plethon, the insightful monk and Plethon assistant Bessarion, Theophilus Dragas—the overseer of the Morea Company—and Petros, who had effectively become his finance minister.

Plethon, who had settled permanently in Glarentza just weeks prior, adjusted his robes. His eyes gleamed with enthusiasm as he gazed around the room. "Despot Constantine," he began, his voice resonant with a blend of wisdom and passion, "your vision here is not merely remarkable; it is transformative. To witness the convergence of ancient wisdom and modern innovation warms this old philosopher's heart."

Bessarion nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed, Master Plethon. The harmony between the scribes, printers, and artisans reflects a unity of purpose that is both rare and inspiring. Despot, you've cultivated an environment where knowledge flourishes."

Constantine offered a modest smile. "I am grateful for your kind words. Yet, we've achieved such progress through the collective effort and shared dedication of all present. When merit is recognized over lineage, when ideas are valued over titles, great things become possible."

Theophilus leaned forward, unrolling a paper filled with meticulous figures. "Our production capacity has more than doubled with the addition of the new presses," he reported pragmatically. "We've produced substantial quantities of the Latin and Greek Bibles and the new Latin and Greek Psalters. And soon, we will commence printing Plato's Dialogues."

Constantine tapped the table thoughtfully. "The inclusion of a luxurious Latin edition of Plato's Dialogues is a masterstroke. Master Plethon, your contributions have been invaluable. Western Europe longs for direct access to the wisdom of our ancestors; this could ignite a renaissance of classical thought."

Plethon's eyes sparkled with a mix of pride and humility. "Despot, seeing Plato's teachings find new life brings me profound joy. By disseminating these texts, we do more than meet a demand—we rekindle the very spirit of Hellenic philosophy. Perhaps we might guide others toward a greater understanding of truth and virtue through this."

"Moreover," Bessarion added gently, his voice measured, "this endeavor may serve as a bridge between East and West. By sharing our philosophical heritage, we foster dialogue and mutual respect, which could, in time, lead to a deeper unity—not just of intellect, but of spirit."

Petros pointed to the sales projections, his expression a blend of caution and optimism. "If the spring trading season unfolds as anticipated, we could see profits exceeding thirty thousand gold ducats in the initial months alone."

A murmur of appreciation rippled through the room.

"Such resources would significantly bolster our capacity for future projects," Theophilus observed, ever the pragmatist. "However, we must address a pressing concern—the sustainability of our cotton supply for paper production. Once again, our current sources may not suffice as demand grows."