Then Rome Shall Answer, Muster the Legion!

John briskly strode toward the Sacred Palace, a whirlwind of thoughts racing through his mind, each one a potential avenue for capitalizing on the impending reconquest of Bulgaria.

At the forefront of his ambitions was the imperative task of securing the northern expanse of the Balkan region from Ottoman dominance.

Only once this vital foothold was secured could he orchestrate a swift and decisive campaign to reclaim the entirety of the Balkan peninsula.

Emil's arrival carried significant implications, encompassing two critical aspects:

Firstly, it marked a pivotal juncture demanding the collaboration of both nations in the face of the looming ascent of the Ottoman Empire.

Secondly, for John's initial plan to thrive, a skillful and comprehensive diplomatic approach was imperative when dealing with the Bulgarians, ensuring their allegiance and integration into his domain.

In order to further enhance the prospects of the slowly recovering Byzantine Empire, as its full revitalization within the capital approached in the next four years or so, John recognized the imperative to explore new avenues for his people's advancement.

It was clear that additional measures were necessary to ensure their continued prosperity.

This was the driving force behind his decision to embroil both himself and the empire in the conflict with the Ottomans through support for the Bulgarian revolt. This calculated move was deemed essential to safeguard the empire's overarching interests and secure its future.

It was a situation of all or nothing. John understood that if he were to involve himself in the conflict at this juncture, with the Ottomans fervently fortifying their borders against the encroaching challenges from both within and outside their realm, swift action was imperative.

This urgency was heightened by the fact that he was, to a significant extent, the instigator of the Mamluks' recent engagement in Anatolia. The purpose had been to divert Ottoman attention eastward, creating a distraction from the imminent Bulgarian uprising that loomed as a formidable threat.

John had strategically yielded ground to the Sultanate of the East, opting for a subtle and cautious collaboration aimed at curbing the burgeoning threat posed by the Turkish state.

However, this delicate entente with the Sultanate inadvertently tethered John's bargaining power when it came to negotiations with the Mamluks, should his schemes take a favorable turn.

In this intricate diplomatic dance, John found himself compelled to relinquish his aspirations for the Anatolian reconquest, at least for the forthcoming decade, bowing to the Mamluks' dominion.

Yet, a glimmer of hope shone through – the Sultanate's backing awaited John's potential foray into the Balkans, a calculated maneuver designed to exploit the distraction they masterfully orchestrated in the eastern theater.

However, this scenario hinges on the Mamluks successfully luring trouble their way.

This left John with a contingent of 5,000 troops at his disposal. While the Mamluks concentrated their forces to confront the majority of Ottoman stationed troops in Anatolia, the vulnerable condition of their capital in the western region offered an opportunity for John.

Despite commanding only 5,000 soldiers, he had the potential to unleash significant chaos within Bulgaria, particularly with the support of the insurgent Bulgarian forces.

As John stepped into the guest hall to meet the Bulgarian dignitary, his aspirations for the future materialized before him. The canvas of his vision unfurled, where diplomacy would serve as the brushstroke to maneuver the chess pieces he had strategically positioned.

Thus commenced the encounter between John and Emil, a carefully orchestrated performance that had been meticulously arranged. The curtains were drawn, and the stage was illuminated, inviting the audience to partake in the unfolding drama.

Emil, who had anxiously awaited the co-emperor's presence since his early morning arrival, rose from the sofa as the individual he had anticipated for hours finally entered the room. In that moment, he was utterly taken aback by the commanding presence of the co-emperor.

Radiating an air of regality befitting a monarch, a palpable aura of confidence and magnanimity enveloped him. Emil found himself struck by the imposing figure before him.

Adding to the intrigue was the fact that John held the title of co-emperor, rather than full emperor, a distinction that left Emil even more puzzled.

"I hope that the wait hasn't caused you any discomfort, esteemed dignitary," John began as he arrived, adopting an apologetic stance that prompted the Bulgarian monk to hurriedly gesture for the co-emperor to dismiss any concerns.

"Ah, Your Highness, there's no need for apologies. It was my oversight as well for convening this meeting without prior notice. Urgency compelled me to address matters before arriving in this splendid city,"

Emil replied with humility, his Greek accent flowing smoothly as he showcased his profound familiarity with Roman courtly etiquette.

As both of them settled into their seats, John turned his attention to the Bulgarian monk, eager to hear Emil's first impressions of the magnificent city of Constantinople.

"I trust the view that envelops our great city has left you utterly captivated," John inquired with genuine curiosity, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

Emil responded with a gentle smile of his own, his voice carrying a tone of humility.

"Your Highness, if I may, please address me as Emil. I am but a humble monk, sheltered within the monastery's walls and thus unfamiliar with your esteemed presence. As for your question, I must admit that the city's grandeur surpasses even the lofty tales that reached my ears. Your dedication to the revitalization of this city is evident, a testament to your remarkable potential as a monarch. The honor of meeting a person of your caliber is truly mine."

Emil's words were imbued with respect and admiration, his tone reflecting his genuine awe at John's accomplishments.

"I see. In that case, I extend my gratitude to you, Mr. Emil, for your kind assessment. However, as you've rightly noted, I am but a young co-emperor, not yet an emperor. I appreciate your recognition, but how can you be certain that the contributions you speak of are solely mine and not those of my father, the reigning emperor himself?"

This time, John's gaze fixated upon the monk with careful consideration. It wasn't born of suspicion, but rather a blend of astuteness and sincerity. He understood the importance of establishing a foundation of trust and mutual understanding before delving into their negotiations.

His intent was to avoid a repeat of the unfortunate incident with the princess of Trebizond, an episode that had left a bitter aftertaste in his previous dealings.

"In that regard, Your Highness, the source of my knowledge stems from the renown that has echoed through my hometown. Additionally, my encounters and conversations with the people within this city have further substantiated the accolades they bestow upon you. They speak of your praise and your impactful contributions. Curiously, while the name of the emperor has yet to grace their words, the undercurrent of loyalty and devotion to the crown is undeniable. From this perspective, I dare say that their respect for the royalty of this illustrious empire is undeniably genuine."

Emil chose his words thoughtfully, acutely aware of the intricacies embedded within John's inquiries.

"Is that indeed the case? In that regard, I extend my gratitude for your candid and benevolent sentiments, Mr. Emil," John responded, his tone appreciative.

"Now, may I inquire about the purpose that has led you to seek this audience with me? I ask with the utmost respect, keen to understand the nature of your visit." With these words, the stage for substantive discourse was set.

"Please, do not worry, Your Highness. Your inquiry has prompted my visit, and I come bearing a heartfelt message from the leader of my people, Stefan Stoyanov. He is a revered figure among our community, tirelessly striving for our independence from the clutches of the malevolent infidels."

Emil's earnestness and sense of purpose infused every word he spoke, his hope resting on the resonance of his message with John. He yearned for the co-emperor to understand the gravity of their situation and to offer his empathetic support.

"He seeks Your Highness's aid and solidarity in our impending struggle against the tyrannies that have drained the spirit of our people. This plea arises from a recent incident where the Ottomans, in a grievous act, seemed to deride the very day that signifies the crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord,"

Emil continued, his voice carrying the weight of the profound offense.

"Moreover, their blasphemy extended to the cruel sentence of crucifixion imposed upon the men of our community. This act not only aims to suppress our people's spirit but also mocks the very essence of our Lord's sacrificial offering."

Emil's demeanor grew somber as he recounted the chilling details of the Ottoman transgressions. Despite his monkish disposition, an unyielding fervor emanated from him, underpinned by a deep, transcendent faith.

John descended into deep contemplation, the words spoken by Emil resonating with the reports provided by his spies and Pavlos. While empathy welled within him for the plight facing the Bulgarians, his emotions surged into a cauldron of rage at the heinous acts committed by the Ottomans.

"The Sultan and his wretched Grand Pasha," John seethed inwardly. "The day I apprehend them, their very flesh shall become a feast for vultures."

The depth of his curse spoke volumes of the profound fury he harbored. There was no doubt in his mind that these individuals were the architects of the grievous atrocities that had transpired.

Before he could offer his perspective on Emil's words, John found himself immersed in strategizing how best to leverage this negotiation. He recognized the need for this negotiation to succeed on his terms, rather than yielding to the desires of the Bulgarians.

While his genuine intention rested in liberating the people of Bulgaria, he also understood the necessity of ensuring that such liberation would serve his own interests. However, even in the pursuit of subjugation, he remained committed to a path of diplomacy and compassion.

He held no desire for a tyrannical rule akin to the reigns of his predecessors over the people he aimed to subjugate.

Emil waited with bated breath for the young co-emperor's response.

He could discern John's reaction from the flicker in his eyes and the telltale flush of blood vessels forming in his hand the moment he mentioned the Ottomans' atrocities.

While he inwardly rejoiced at eliciting such a visceral response, Emil also understood the need for caution in interpreting the co-emperor's words.

He recognized that if terms were to be agreed upon with the Byzantines, he must deftly navigate any potential disparities in their proposed terms.

Despite his limited experience in the intricacies of diplomacy, Emil possessed enough insight to recognize the importance of this delicate dance.

He could clearly see that a negotiation between them would not necessarily favor Bulgaria outright, considering their appeal for external assistance.

Yet, he couldn't help but find a measure of relief in the current state of the Byzantine Empire, given its prevailing dynamics. Still, a lingering sense of caution tempered his thoughts, reminding him of the potential risks inherent in the negotiation process.

"I am in full support of your leader's call for aid, yet I find it necessary to tread delicately as I engage my fellow noblemen and advisors in sharing this conviction. In this respect,"

John paused, his gaze locked on the monk's countenance, observing the initial flinch transform into a steady calm, his smile a beacon of reassurance.

"My inclination is to extend my personal assistance without invoking formal court proceedings."

"You can trust in my ability to sway the various factions within the court to align with my viewpoint. However, for me to provide this support, I must first gain a comprehensive understanding of the particulars of your request."

"It is only through this clarity that I can confidently navigate towards a decision. I am compelled to ensure that any action taken does not lead my people into unnecessary sacrifices on foreign soil, particularly when it concerns my elite retinues."

The moment had arrived to address the terms, but John, in his strategic acumen, chose not to lay them bare. Instead, he artfully shifted the responsibility to Emil, a move calculated to work in John's favor.

This calculated maneuver presented Emil with an initial opportunity for collaboration that subtly played into John's hands.

Initially, Emil's spirits waned upon learning of the co-emperor's commitment to provide a limited contingent of troops for reinforcement.

However, as the realization dawned that these forces would operate under the direct command of the co-emperor himself, Emil's heart soared with elation.

While the precise number of troops stationed within Byzantine territory remained beyond Emil's knowledge, and the impending conflict's outcome hung uncertain, the prospect of elite forces aligned under the co-emperor's orders was a boon of considerable magnitude.

Though the troop count might appear modest, it was apparent that this force held a strategic value tantamount to a host of 20,000 men, an assertion bolstered by their elite status.

"I cannot, at this juncture, definitively delineate our terms, Your Highness. However, I wish to assure you that our leader would indeed welcome your support. Yet, if I may respectfully inquire, could you kindly disclose the precise number of troops you envisage for this undertaking? With this crucial information in hand, I would be wholeheartedly inclined to furnish you with our preliminary proposal," Emil expressed, his words laced with caution.

"Why not indeed? The estimate of troops I am capable of providing falls within the range of 2,000 to 5,000, contingent upon the degree of certainty and subject to further negotiations, naturally. This represents the upper echelon of troops I can personally commit," John replied with a genial smile.

Emil pondered for a moment, acknowledging,

"That contingent may be smaller than anticipated. However, considering its elite nature, it possesses the potential to significantly bolster the strength of our humble militia."

"In light of this, may I present my preliminary proposition? Should you find it suitable to provide us with these troops, I pledge that your majesty shall receive our solemn assurance. We stand ready to repay your gracious support with the treasures of our realm – gold and silver – throughout the duration of the campaign. Naturally, this arrangement would be proportional to the territories we secure and the number of troops we commit to the cause,"

Emil articulated his proposal, unaware of the depth of consideration that John was about to bestow upon his words.

"You appear to underestimate the strength of my personal retinues, Mr. Emil," John remarked with a chuckle, his initial response to Emil's proposition causing the monk to break into a nervous sweat, unaware of his own unease.

"Here's an alternative approach: if I were to commit my retinues fully, I would expect your leader and your people to solemnly vow their loyalty to my empire. The specifics of this arrangement would be determined later, should I have the opportunity to meet with your leader,"

John proposed, introducing his own counteroffer with a confident tone.

"Forgive me, your highness, but that proposition is utterly unfeasible. To pledge our loyalty to you would be akin to offering our lifelong pursuit to the jaws of Leviathan. I must firmly object,"

Emil stated with unwavering conviction, his anxiety visibly manifesting.

He struggled to comprehend the audacity with which this co-emperor put forth such a term, particularly when his own empire grappled with the challenge of reigning over vast territories, let alone vassalizing another realm atop that burden.

"It appears there might be a slight misinterpretation of my intentions here," John responded, his voice maintaining a calm yet ominous undertone.

"I am not seeking dominion over your people; rather, I am advocating for a shared endeavor. In the current juncture, if I were to choose, I could easily gather forces to bring down the Balkans. The Ottomans would be disinclined to challenge my decision while they grapple with the defense of their eastern territories," he continued.

"My current proposition revolves around the idea that if I personally engage in the conflict alongside my troops, and if the outcome aligns with my expectations, then your people would find it mutually beneficial to unite under the banner of my empire. Please do not construe this as an act of subjugation or tyranny; it is quite the opposite." John then further emphasized,

"My vision is lucid and profound. I can offer substantial assistance, and your people can perceive victory with the knowledge that my support is steadfast. I assure you of this with the utmost certainty, having discerned the vulnerabilities that the Ottoman Empire currently faces."

"However, your willingness is inconsequential, as I have the means to assume control of Bulgaria once the Ottomans are brought to their knees. Understand that this isn't a threat, but an offer of the freedom you yearn for. I have pledged not to govern through an iron fist, but through compassion and humility. While I am reluctant to make such claims, I assure you I am not a creature that would recklessly consume others for personal gain."

John's determination surged through his words like a gust of wind. His resolute declaration and motivational fervor permeated Emil's mind, leaving him astounded by the depth of ambition harbored by this co-emperor.

The magnitude of this aspiration seemed unfathomable to Emil – a young co-emperor, not yet fully matured in his reign, governing over territories that scarcely equated to a fifth of Bulgaria's entirety.

Emil found himself grappling to comprehend whether the co-emperor was possessed of madness or simply possessed an audacious vision with his counter offer. The distinction eluded him. Yet, in an inexplicable twist, the co-emperor's words wove a bond of trust and empathy around him.

It was as if those words endeavored to secure him to the mast of a ship, instilling confidence that the vessel would emerge unscathed from the tempest, even as he stood amidst the billowing sails.

He attempted to muster a retort against that unwavering confidence, yet the words of wisdom eluded him, failing to take shape. Emil found himself caught between the heavens and the abyss, a place where the profound eloquence of the Byzantine co-emperor, John VIII Palaiologos, held sway.

In the end, Emil was left with no choice but to yield. Yet, a spark of resistance persisted within him, a feeble resistance that managed to dispel some of the suffocating weight that hung in the air of the illustrious hall.

"I must extend my apologies, Your Highness. I find myself bereft of further words to counter your audacious confidence, except to concede until you can directly converse with my leader,"

Emil admitted with a hint of defeat, though the lingering sense remained that the co-emperor possessed the authority to fully materialize his unshakable assurance.

"If that is indeed the situation at hand," John remarked with a genial smile, his form rising swiftly from the sofa. He extended a hand towards the stunned monk, who instinctively rose from his seat, his fingers reaching to meet the proffered gesture.

"Should your responsibilities permit, then accompany me," John continued, his tone projecting confidence.

"Together, we shall chart the course of our endeavors, much like strategic players maneuvering their chess pieces across the board. I shall lead my retinue into this alliance, dedicated to this cause. The Byzantine Empire embraces the call of the Bulgarian people with open arms."

Concluding his words, a note of elation resonated within John's voice. The prospect of initiating his envisioned plan filled him with a sense of contentment, as if the curtain was being drawn back on a grand theatrical performance—the world itself as the audience—ushering in the emergence of the resurging Roman Empire.