No Terror of Justinian - Glory Instead! (The Roman Emperor Who Lost His Nose - A TL of Justinian II)

[Sargon]

Very good timeline, on one of the most overlooked characters in Byzantine history. Keep up the good work.

Many thanks Midgard. For a long time now, I have been interested in this individual, and the potential for change had things panned out differently. If you like it, then I must be doing something right

This is one of my favorites right now, Sargon. In fact, its probably tied for first with the Franco-American War.

High praise indeed, since that is a very good timeline. Very happy to know you are enjoying it, and hope you'll enjoy what's coming too.

Just to let people know, I have received another book with material about the Rhinotmetos just recently, so that is helping in my research for the next parts as it has a few new details that will come in useful (and complement my plans) for the next chapters.


Sargon

A Timeline of mine: The Roman Emperor Who Lost His Nose

 

[Sargon]

Part VI

The Roman Emperor Who Lost His Nose

A timeline of Justinian II - The Magnificent Rhinotmetos

Part VI: Victory, Trouble and Gifts

"We must move with more determination. What sort of Caesar would I be if we gain little?", Tervel, Khan of the Bulgars to his Tribal Chiefs
​

708 The cardinals finally manage to elect a Pope in January. He takes the name of Sisinnius, and although suffering from gout, this strong-willed individual appears to have big plans for the future.

Theodora, mindful of the fact that Myakes is not married, decides to subtly introduce some ladies into his life. Justinian knows that the chief of his bodyguard is not a man who desires riches in terms of gold, and has been thinking of a better way to reward his intense loyalty than just promoting him. He is pleased with Theodora’s idea, as he knows that Myakes had sometimes mentioned to him that he thought about having a family whilst in Cherson.

After just 21 calendar days on St. Peter’s throne, the Pope dies. It is one of the shortest pontificates in history. Once again, the cardinals go into conclave. It will be another 6 weeks before a Syrian is consecrated as Pope Constantine on the 25th of March.

All is well in the camps set up by Justinian’s commanders for the winter. Mindful of what befell the Emperor Maurice, and how his disgruntled troops had revolted against and killed him when they had been forced to winter without pay and adequate supplies, Justinian has made sure that his troops are paid well, and that they do not wont for supplies. However, the precaution was taken to send a large number of the troops back to Dyrrachium and other nearby cities, whilst leaving the veterans in the camps, should there be any Slav or Bulgar moves. In this regard, Justinian keeps a good number of satisfied troops in place surrounding the tribes, whilst making sure his less experienced soldiers are spared the harsher condition of the camps for the winter. The success of this plan will not be lost on Justinian and Heraclius who will come up with a startling idea on the use of troops in the future.

The Empire’s eastern border remains quiet, Justinian’s diplomacy with the Caliph and the Prince of Armenia bearing fruit. The Emperor receives reports of the progress of his urban and rural resettlements there, and things are going well. However, there are banditry problems, which whilst not very serious, are proving an irritant to his otherwise smooth plans. The stratēgoi of the various themes are told to pay attention to this matter, as he wishes nothing to put off the settlers from making their new lives there. Things will be better once the new peasant farmers have established themselves and are able to form the complete routes of escorts designed to solve the issue. Leo, his family already from the east, as he is one of those who had been resettled in Justinian’s first reign, has a good knowledge of Arabic, and uses this to the Empire’s advantage in monitoring the situation in the east as well as cultivating contacts who keep him informed of events in the Caliphate. (Historical note: OTL, Leo later became Emperor Leo III the Isaurian, who would bring about Iconoclasm; however I have other plans for him in ATL.)

The Caliphate continues to expand into Central Asia, the addition of troops formerly stationed in Armenia proving useful. The Caliph makes moves to greatly strengthen his already impressive naval power. The entire tax revenues of Syria have been diverted to construction and embellishment of the Great Mosque since 706, a measure of how financially sound his Empire is at this time.

The spring arrives, and the campaign against the tribes resumes. Troops arrive from the surrounding towns and cities to bring the armies up to full strength. With confident, well supplied forces at his command, Heraclius co-ordinates the advance against them. Tervel, for his part, moves forward as well. Although not all the Bulgarian tribes are allied to him, he has much to gain from this campaign, and hopes to achieve dominion over some of them instead, increasing his territory. Things are looking very favourable for the Romans and their allies as they close the knot.

In Italy however, trouble is brewing. The new Archbishop of Ravenna, Felix, starts a disagreement with the Pope. Ravenna and Rome have had a rivalry for a long time in terms of prestige in Italy, with the Archbishop of Ravenna traditionally required to swear fealty to the Pope. This never goes down well with the capital of the Exarchate of Italy, and violence has broken out on this issue more than once in the past. However, the issue has been quiet for the last 30 years or so. This time, the new Archbishop refuses to agree to a document where he is supposed to guarantee to do nothing contrary to the safety of the Empire or the unity of the Church. Each Archbishop is traditionally required to sign this, but Felix has no such intention, viewing Rome as a backwater and Ravenna the place of true importance in Italy. In his assertions, he is backed up by the Exarch Stephen himself, assuming that Justinian will have the same view.

Constantine tries to reason with the furious Archbishop, who finally draws up a revised document of his own, and sends it to the Pope. This new document is not satisfactory to the Holy Father, and the dispute rumbles on, threatening to spill over into actual armed confrontation. News reaches Justinian of the crisis, and he sends off letters to Stephen and Felix, reminding them of their duties to him, to God and the Empire, and suggests they be reasonable in the matter. (Historical Note: OTL, he fitted out a fleet, sent it under the command of a certain Theodore to arrest them both, bringing them back to Constantinople, where Felix was blinded and sent into exile, and Stephen was executed along with others who had supported Felix. He had originally intended to execute Felix as well, but after having a dream about the Archbishop as an old man, took it as a sign from God that he should spare him from death. Blinding was considered an act of comparative mercy instead of death in those days.)

Back in Thessaly and the areas above it, the Roman forces close in rapidly on the tribes, and resistance is eventually crushed by midsummer. There is one nervous moment when a formation of Bulgars smash into the supply train of the stratēgos of Thrace’s army, and nearly cut him off, but he manages to swing around and fight them off. The stragglers are mopped up by Tervel’s forces. Justinian is left with tens of thousands of prisoners that he starts resettling in Anatolia. Conversely, a large number of the prisoners taken in campaigns against the Arabs, who have not been returned to the Caliphate, are to be resettled in Thessaly. The further away from trouble, and at least free to live their lives, the better for everyone the Emperor reasons. The same system of hereditary landed soldier-farmers is reinforced in Thessaly too as a consequence. Elias is put in charge of building a series of forts in this area similar to those on the eastern border, although not as grand in scale. The same system of supply routes to be escorted by soldiers in the area is also started up. The Emperor is determined to consolidate his gains, and make them defensible in the event he carries out plans of a military nature elsewhere.

Elias is assisted by an officer in his army called Bardanes, who had previously been imprisoned by Apsimarus as a precaution on the island of Kephallenia since he had been heard to have a dream about an eagle (a dream traditionally seen as a portent for imperial ascension). Justinian had decided to release him the previous year on the reckoning that the dream had been invalidated by his own return. Myakes and Apsimarus had not been convinced of the wisdom of this, but both had agreed that he had been a competent commander of men under Justinian in the past, and Apsimarus, eager to show his loyalty to Justinian, had agreed that it might have been a rash move on his part to lock him up, and that he may be useful to have as the Empire requires all the men of ability it can find. Privately, he remains worried by Bardanes, but remains loyal in his vow to the Emperor. Myakes has said his piece, and very grudgingly agrees with his Emperor about the officer’s release. However, he is even less convinced than Apsimarus. However, Justinian wishes to give men with talent a fair chance to prove themselves, and he remembers Bardanes’ affable manner from when he was an officer in his first campaigns against the Slavs.

Tervel receives land gained in the campaign, whilst the Romans also considerably extend their holdings in the area. Justinian is well pleased by the results, and his troops satisfied with the booty they have captured, return to their homes. Heraclius makes his way back to Constantinople, where he is richly rewarded by Justinian along with Apsimarus for their good planning and execution of the campaign. Each receives thirty pounds of gold for their efforts, as Justinian is true to his word in his promises to them. They, in their turn are more than satisfied, and are now convinced of the worth of proving themselves to the Emperor. Justinian has further plans for the tribes further north, but at this time, the immediate problems have been solved and he wishes to turn his attentions to the situation in other parts of the Empire, most notably North Africa.

Construction of the new inner sea walls in the capital continues apace. It is a massive project, and will take some time. The original walls have been successfully heightened, and the Walls of Constantine are almost restored. The citizens who lost their homes as a result of all this work have been for the most part successfully re-housed, and many participate in the construction project now that their grumbling has softened and they are settled in their new places. Theophylactus reports the new taxes coming in from those who have been resettled are more than enough to fund these and other projects, and adds that the coffers are in good health, and those he has promoted are carrying out the new policy effectively and fairly in accordance with the Emperor’s wishes.

However, those elements of the aristocracy who do not welcome Justinian’s return are starting to make plans of their own. Some plots are discovered by Leo’s security network, and are dealt with as he deems appropriate in each case. The punishments handed out are not violent, but rather financial, property based, or position based in nature. An effective way of dealing with them is to demote them and strip them of privileges if they are involved in something serious, but for the most part a severe warning and notification they are being watched is enough to discourage them. This deals with those who are not so hardcore in their opposition, but not those who are privately adamant that the Emperor must be dealt with. However, they keep quiet, and to all outside appearances seem to toe the line, but are in fact making secret contacts with others who are disaffected. Leo’s agents, whilst efficient, cannot hope to discover all these contacts, and thus a resistance slowly builds up. It will take some time to become effective though.

Word had earlier reached Justinian that his brother-in-law Ibousiros Gliabanos wished to travel to Constantinople and visit his sister and the Emperor. Justinian still feels a little cautious about him, as he had betrayed him (albeit under pressure by Apsimarus in the past). However, having seen how his generosity has worked out with Apsimarus, he decides to honour his request to visit, and arrangements are made.

Not long before the campaign in Thessaly ends, Ibousiros Gliabanos arrives by ship after departing from Phanagoria. Justinian greets him with great honours, and lavishes gifts and attention on him. It always pays to have good allies the Emperor figures, and the Khazars are important ones for the Empire. Showing no sign he is upset with his brother-in-law, he does his best to be accommodating, and this pleases his wife and puts the Khagan at ease. The Khazar ruler during his stay in the city develops the habit of sitting at the foot of a recently erected large statue of his sister erected by Theophylactus in the palace grounds. It is paired with another of Justinian himself, and between them, oddly enough, is a large statue of an elephant, Gliabanos wonders that perhaps represents the strength and courage of the imperial couple in all their adversities. (Historical note: These statues actually appear to have existed, and Gliabanos actually did make this his habit during his OTL visit, although he was perhaps received somewhat less effusively by Justinian with few deals agreed upon.)

The visit goes well, and as a result the Khagan promises to supply Justinian with 5000 Khazar horse archers for his army in return for all the gifts which he had been loaded down with. The Emperor enquires if their families may be allowed to come with them, his idea being to settle them in Thessaly. He also has concerns about them being able to adapt to their new surroundings which are quite unlike the steppes they are used to. The Khagan says they can indeed travel with their families, and is pleased Justinian has requested this, since it will make it even easier to sell to his horsemen, and puffing out his chest, proudly remarks they are hardy enough to adapt to the new climate and geography. In addition, a secret agreement is reached that in the future, should it be necessary, the Khazars will join in offensives against the Arabs, attacking from their borders with the Caliphate in support of Roman moves, and will have territory divided between them.

With the visit over, the Khagan takes ship back to his domains in the autumn before the stormy season returns. Both he and Justinian can be well satisfied with the outcome of their talks, and Theodora is happier still, and indeed very relieved her husband has seen fit to forgive her brother fully for his past actions. For Justinian himself, these are very pragmatic things, but also appease the Will of God, as they are merciful actions which also have the added benefit of aiding the Empire in no small measure. As Myakes puts it, “He looked plenty nervous when he arrived, and no mistake. Emperor, I’d say you’ve just made him a very happy Khagan who’ll be eager to knock those Arabs into shape, if only with his bad breath!”.

Justinian cannot help but laugh out loud at his loyal friend’s remark, and replies, "Aye, I don’t care to think will happen to any enemy of his after they meet his horsemen reeking of that fermented mare's milk they make their beverage of inebriation, and never mind their arrows!”.

Myakes starts to wonder why there are so many ladies in his life. Looking in a mirror, he can discern no physical changes to his advantage, and puts it down to his increased influence at court. Still, all being fair, he does not mind the extra attention, and silently mouths casual thanks to God as he attends another one of Justinian’s court banquets with a lady on his arm, Justinian insisting that he shouldn’t be permanently on duty as captain of the guard, something that Myakes had been loathe to spend less time on. However, he had relented under pressure from both the Emperor and the Empress, with Justinian wagging his finger at him earlier in the year, saying, “You have served me faithfully ever since I was a boy looking out on those followers of the False Prophet attacking the Queen of Cities, something that is greatly appreciated, and you have rarely sought to attend to personal matters since I became your sovereign. It is the feeling of the Empress and myself that you spend some time on yourself, lest we feel guilty, and God chastise us for not allowing you to do so after all your years of loyalty. Here’s a bag of nomismata, now go out and treat yourself to some of that fine wine I know you are fond of, and make merry with your acquaintances. After all, we did the same in Cherson, and I know you like to do so as much as any man, so no excuses.”. The Emperor was careful however not to mention anything about the ladies being anything to do with him and Theodora, although he feels it is only a matter of time before Myakes twigs it.

Supplies are still building up in Sicily and the Balearics in anticipation of a future campaign. Heraclius and Apsimarus continue to pore over plans with the Emperor in what they hope will be a well organised campaign. However, Justinian feels there should be no hurry to race into it, since he wishes to build up his defences and allow his new settlers to firmly establish themselves in Anatolia and his newly captured territories in the west. Also, he is still crafting his diplomatic plans, preferring to make allies of the Visigoths if possible. But there is a problem, as information has reached him that their King, Wittiza, is ruling in a most un-Christian way, surrounding himself with women of ill repute, and said to indulge in all sorts of unsavoury activities contrary to God. However, it seems the King has a rival in the form of his relative Roderic whose father Theodofred was blinded and imprisoned by Wittiza and who is of far better virtue. There is also another contender called Pelayo whose father was also a relative of the King, yet was executed by the decadent ruler. Justinian decides to wait before sending an embassy, sensing that there will be a civil war before long, and not wishing to become too embroiled in a possible three way struggle. (Historical note: Wittiza has such a colourful reputation, that later chroniclers would say of him: “Wittiza the Wicked taught all Spain to sin!”.)

As the year draws to a close, matters in Ravenna are still not resolved, Felix still thundering against the Pope despite Justinian’s letter to the contrary. It looks like stronger measures may be necessary…

**************************************​

As you can see, Justinian is concentrating on consolidating things with his continuing view to being well prepared for future operations and plans. But there are those who are plotting against him with a longer term view of dealing with him, so trouble is brewing over time for the future.


Can't believe Abdul hasn't commented here yet....


Sargon

 

[G.Bone]

Well at least TTL's Justinian II has some wisdom about a stronger realm...

Good stuff - though it does seem like a list than a segment...

How's the Bulgarians faring under the "bond" between the Eastern Roman Empire? (i.e. any changes from OTL at the time of the segment)

 

[Sargon]

Well at least TTL's Justinian II has some wisdom about a stronger realm...

Good stuff - though it does seem like a list than a segment...

How's the Bulgarians faring under the "bond" between the Eastern Roman Empire? (i.e. any changes from OTL at the time of the segment)

There is evidence that he did have genuine concern for the Empire OTL, the problem is that his reputation had been blackened so much by his successors, in what we would recognise as propaganda, the good things he carried out have been whitewashed by history. Not only is he mostly forgotten, but even when remembered, a lot of historians trot out the standard mantra of all the bad things he did, without bothering to delve deeper into the sources and analyse them. I have several books in my collection that luckily examine things more deeply, and it emerges that even in his second reign, he was not totally without concern for things in his Empire. So there are plausible aspects to all of this, and with his epiphany in ATL it is entirely credible that he could become very much more concerned with things.

I am not entirely sure what you mean by 'list'. There is a structure here, albeit in a timeline-like way which does impose some limitations which I guess is what you mean. Previously, I had several years per chapter, but as I wish to go into detail, and so much more is happening, I am doing one year per chapter at the moment. Perhaps it is best just to see it as a continuation of the previous format, except longer, with events throughout the year being noted in a more or less linear fashion, so it appears list-like. I would Blame Thande, but my logic of putting things down prefers it this way, so I'm to blame here

The Bulgarians are now faring better than they were OTL. Tervel never had control over all the Bulgar tribes, but here he is able to exert more control and enlarge his domains, which did not happen so much in OTL. The alliance between them is quite firm, as both know they can benefit greatly from each other, and there is a good measure of trust to work with by this stage. Justinian is mindful of the fact that without Tervel's help, he might never have got his throne back, and for his part, Tervel has seen Justinian's promises to him scrupulously kept. Therefore the association is more than beneficial for both of them.

Appreciate your comments, and glad you continue to make them, and are liking things here.


Sargon

 

[Sargon]

Nearly 200 more views since I posted this yesterday, and only one person has commented so far on the latest part? What's going on??

C'mon, feed the hungry writer! Comments and observations please


Sargon

 

[trajen777]

Hello Sargon

This is very well done - I read a book a long time ago about J2 and found his story to be compelling. The issue I always felt about him was his rashness - the need to do to much in too short a time - 4 treatys made in 5 yrs and 4 broken.

Questions
1. Sea walls - triple wall ? - Bridge - forts ina Galata?
2. Cartage ?

This is well done and i look forward to next segment

 

[stevep]

Sargon

Just catching up with the story and looking good. Just wondering with the 5000 Khazers and their families will there be religious implications? Most of the nation were Jewish I believe and while allying with them may be one thing settling a sizeable number in the empire might prompt some criticism.

Otherwise looking very good and going to be interesting when the empire clashes with the caliphate. If it all comes off with Justinians plans then its going to be a hell of a conflict.

Steve

 

[Sargon]

Hello Sargon

This is very well done - I read a book a long time ago about J2 and found his story to be compelling. The issue I always felt about him was his rashness - the need to do to much in too short a time - 4 treatys made in 5 yrs and 4 broken.

Questions
1. Sea walls - triple wall ? - Bridge - forts ina Galata?
2. Cartage ?

This is well done and i look forward to next segment

Glad you are liking it trajen, and thanks for posting.

Yes, he was rather impetuous...most of it put down to his youth some would say. He did have a habit of breaking treaties, especially with the Arabs in his first reign. At Sebastopolis for example, the Arabs carried the words of the broken treaty on a banner attached to a lance into the battle. Although, once one delves deeper, there is more to this than meets the eye, when the issue of the relocation of a number of Cypriots taking them out of the joint tax system there, and angering the Caliph in the process is considered.

However, it is unlikely he broke his later treaty with Tervel in OTL as some suggest. A closer scrutiny of the records strongly suggest that he did nothing of the sort, instead warring against other Bulgar tries that were not under Tervel's control, and when one takes into account the hostility of some of the sources against him, it is not surprising he accumulates blame for things that most probably did not actually happen. I bet he wished Thande was about back then to take some if it

The sea walls will end up being a double wall in ATL, changed from a single wall in OTL. And the outer wall is higher than before, with the inner wall of course higher still.

The triple land walls still remain, albeit with some modifications and improvements, which will be covered in a future part. At this moment in time, not much has been done in Galata, although you will have to wait and see if something does. Obviously, because of the great chain, and the critical nature of making sure it is secure, there are possibilities there.

As for Carthage, Tunis and North Africa, wait and see.

Sargon

Just catching up with the story and looking good. Just wondering with the 5000 Khazers and their families will there be religious implications? Most of the nation were Jewish I believe and while allying with them may be one thing settling a sizeable number in the empire might prompt some criticism.

Otherwise looking very good and going to be interesting when the empire clashes with the caliphate. If it all comes off with Justinians plans then its going to be a hell of a conflict.

Steve

Appreciate the comment, and glad you are enjoying the ride.

At this time, the Khazars had not yet converted to Judaism, so they are still pagan in nature. The did not convert en masse until around the end of the 8th Century or the beginning of the 9th Century, when the ruling family and nobles did so. This of course means that those that settle in the Empire could well become Christians....

And yes, it is panning out to be something big. There will be a number of events happening later. Continue to watch this space.


Sargon

 

[Midgard]

One thing I was thinking about, there is a definite potential for the Khazars to become Christian here, if links between them and Byzantium are further cultivated. This has huge implifications for what would have become Russia - may we see a Khazar-descended state in Russia in the long run, occupying similar geopolitical role?

 

[Sargon]

One thing I was thinking about, there is a definite potential for the Khazars to become Christian here, if links between them and Byzantium are further cultivated. This has huge implifications for what would have become Russia - may we see a Khazar-descended state in Russia in the long run, occupying similar geopolitical role?

Yep, there is definitely potential there for that to happen. What with all the butterflies that are flying about with Justinian affecting history in a very big way, I'd say there will be some changes of note. Heck, with him being around longer, Iconoclasm gets the boot for a start as the Heraclian Dynasty were rather fond of their icons. And since there will be no 'Emperor' Irene....well I don't need to tell you what massive implications that has...

This is precisely why I feel Justinian is so overlooked in AH...the potential for changes affecting entire peoples and the whole political map of the region as well as beyond with him just being around longer are absolutely huge. I sometimes wonder why it has not been explored further.


Sargon

 

[Sargon]

I believe I mentioned that I was working on a map along with the last part, so here it is. It covers the campaigns against the tribes. I hope it provides a helpful visual reference for what has been going on.


Sargon

 

[Dachspmg]

And since there will be no 'Emperor' Irene....well I don't need to tell you what massive implications that has...

Good. I never liked the idea of there being a "Holy Roman Empire" anyway...

Excellent map.

 

[Sargon]

Good. I never liked the idea of there being a "Holy Roman Empire" anyway...

Excellent map.

Glad you like the map

Yes, things will certainly be very interesting if there is no Holy Roman Empire....


Sargon

 

[Shadow Knight]

Glad you like the map

Yes, things will certainly be very interesting if there is no Holy Roman Empire....


Sargon

No Holy Roman Empire but certainly still a Kingdom of Germany and a Kingdom of Italy...hmmm...interesting times for middle Europe.

 

[DominusNovus]

Must have more!

 

[Sargon]

Next part has been started, but as it is Christmas-time, expect it to be cranked out slowly. Sadly, I am not a writing machine like Chris is


Sargon

A Timeline of mine: The Roman Emperor Who Lost His Nose

 

[Sargon]

My writers' block seems to have lifted (temporarily at least), and the next chapter is imminent....


Sargon

 

[Sargon]

Part VII: Crisis in Italy

The Roman Emperor Who Lost His Nose

A timeline of Justinian II - The Magnificent Rhinotmetos

Part VII: Crisis in Italy

"Popes have a tendency of not lasting long these days. No doubt I will see this one off as well.", Archbishop Felix of Ravenna, Personal Journal​

709 The year opens with the Emperor concerned by events in Italy. Apsimarus advises arresting both Felix and Stephen, but Leo advises caution since he feels the populace of the city would rise up if this was done without some effort at being reasonable. The situation is not an easy one to deal with. It is decided that the Emperor should show patience and negotiate; this will at least show the concerned parties that he is prepared to listen whilst buying time for other measures. Leo is given instructions to covertly head west and prepare a plan he has in mind in case things don’t work out.

The Umayyad Caliphate continues its eastward expansion. For a few years, the army of the Governor of Khorasan, Qutayba ibn Muslim, has been making gains, securing lower Turkharistan, and capturing its capital Balkh. Last year, the army had crossed over into Sogdiana, and captured the city of Bukhara (Historical note: this happened later OTL, but with extra resources, the Caliph has moved faster). With increased resources at his command due to the agreement between the Caliph and Justinian freeing them up, the Governor can look forward to more conquests.

Construction of forts in Anatolia has been continuing, the system becoming more deep and comprehensive in terms of defence. Banditry on trade routes is dropping significantly to very few attacks as soldiers escorting the traders prove effective at protecting them. In Thessaly, construction also proceeds, although not quite as fast as in the east, the area not entirely pacified as there are still holdouts venturing out from hiding places in more inaccessible areas. This ties up some forces in terms of hunting them down, but it is not a major irritant. It will only be a matter of time before they are all dealt with completely.

Justinian starts to pay more attention to his navy as reports reach him of the Caliph’s strengthening of his own fleet. The shipyards of his major ports are busy with building more vessels, with an emphasis put on fireships embarking Greek Fire. Realising the Umayyads are quite possibly richer than the Empire, it may not be possible to match their numbers ship per ship, but the fireships make up for that, being a very important element in tipping the scales of battle if properly used. However, much depends upon how they are handled in battle, wind direction being crucial if the Romans’ own ships are not to be caught up in the flames.

Springtime approaches, and the seas are calm enough for the Khagan’s promised 5000 horse archers to cross the Black Sea. Camps are made ready outside Constantinople to receive them, whilst arrangements are made for them to be escorted down to their new home in Thessaly. However, Justinian and the Patriarch are determined to impress them with the wonders of Constantinople – not least the allures of Hagia Sophia which have astonished many a previous visitor into becoming a worshipper of Christ. They both sense an opportunity here, the Khazars being pagan and ripe for conversion if things are planned well enough. What better way to cause the enemies of Christ to tremble in fear when more and more peoples come under God's sway? And what better way to bring God’s blessings upon the Empire, especially if they are as fierce as the Khagan claims.

Whilst the Emperor awaits the arrival of the Khazars, continued strengthening of the fortresses and laying in of supplies continues in the territories near North Africa. However, particular emphasis is concentrated on one place – the fortress of Septum in North Africa itself, located near the Southern Pillar of Hercules. It is the last Roman possession on the mainland of North Africa, and as such, Justinian reckons it must be defended at all costs. Extra and frantic efforts are made to reinforce its garrison and drastically improve its defences. The Governor there is a certain Julian of Visigothic descent who seems a capable enough individual, however the Emperor sends his old supporter Theophilos of Doros there to gain some experience from working with the governor, and relay developments back to him. Promoted to Prōtospatharios, he is made the Emperor's Personal Emissary for this task.

Leo has headed west, and soon received reports from his agents in Ravenna. Felix has no intention of yielding to Justinian’s calls for restraint, although the Exarch seems less sure of his own position now. News of this will not reach the Emperor for a while due to the distances involved, but this does not stop Leo from his mission of finding out as much as possible about the Archbishop’s personal affairs.

The Pope, still alarmed by the situation in Ravenna sends off another letter to Justinian appealing for help as Felix’s rhetoric causes more and more instability in Italy. The situation is rapidly turning into a powder keg because of the two cities' rivalry.

Not long after, the fleet bearing the Khazars arrives in Constantinople. A lavish reception is put on by Theophylactus to welcome them all, the camps being stocked with some of the best produce the Empire can offer. Whilst the horse archers and their families enjoy the hospitality set out for them in the camps, their Tarkhan (General), along with his entourage are received in audience by the Emperor. The general introduces himself as Bugha (which translates as bull) and declares that he bears a special gift for the co-Emperor Tiberius, nephew of the Khagan. Intrigued, the court gathers round to see what it could be. An attendant of Bugha’s steps forward and from underneath a fabulously embroidered cloth bright with colours of an intricate design, a beautiful golden bow is carefully produced along with a finely crafted quiver of arrows. The Tarkhan proudly explains that it has been made by the finest craftsmen in the Khaganate especially for the young emperor. The Khagan, he says, hopes that young Tiberius will learn some of the warrior ways of his mother’s people, the better to defend himself in battle. And that is not all – there are a set of bows ranging from small to full size so that as he grows, he can learn to handle the full size bow through a system of graduation. The Khagan has also sent along some fine horses for which to practice on and a cadre of tutors to teach the young prince, as well as bowyers who can supply him with arrows and make repairs to his bows, or even craft new ones if necessary. There is also a set for Theodora as well, so she can spend time with her son as she already has knowledge of the ways of the bow. Theodora is delighted, but she and the court look apprehensively at Justinian – how will he view this gift which will teach his son essentially barbarian ways in most Roman minds?

She need not worry, Justinian’s court has seen so much departure from tradition, and the Emperor himself has experienced so much during his exile that he is not bothered by things easily anymore. Rather he is somewhat amused, “As I wield a sword with the skill my father’s tutors impressed upon me, so shall my son be instructed in the use of the sword AND the bow. An Emperor who can personally dispatch more of his enemies is one who will further inspire his troops to victory, and put the fear of God into His opponents even more. What could be better to astonish all those who face our Empire than a young Prince who can spring such an indelicate surprise?”, to which he laughed, with the courtiers and Khazar dignitaries joining in, appreciating the image of the look of shock that would appear on grown men’s faces as the little co-Emperor charged at them loosing off arrows and waving a little sword.

A great banquet is held for the Tarkhan and his retinue, to which Myakes brings another young lady. “He’s certainly taking his time going through many of those fair maidens before making a choice!”, mutters Theodora half in jest and half in exasperation. Justinian is not worried, he knows Myakes’ nature, and realises that it takes a special women to catch his heart when it comes to the serious matters of marriage, but has no doubt that in Constantinople there is such a lady. As he savours the seafood on his platter (personally caught by Moropaulos no less, whose new fishing business operates from the Emperor’s private harbour of Hormisdas near the Bucoleon Palace), he muses about whether it would be useful for himself to learn some matters of the bow. At the very least he can join in with some of his son’s sessions if he can spare the time he decides.

In the coming days, groups of Khazars and their families are allowed into the city and shown the wonders there, the like of which they have never seen before, and could have scarcely imagined. Last of all, they are shown the Hagia Sophia whose magical beauty and impressive dome which appears to float mysteriously on the light from the windows below it has the desired effect, enchanting most of the Khazars with many uttering they believe such a place is where gods would make their home. The Patriarch, not entirely happy to hear the word ‘gods’ is nevertheless reasonably satisfied, this is but one step towards their conversion he feels. He is making sure there are enough priests to descend upon them in their new home, and eventually to their homeland itself in order to help bring the light of the one True Christian God to them. “There’s no way those damn followers of the False Prophet are getting their hands on the Khazars first, God willing they will rush to join us, and rightly so!”, he whispers under his breath whilst rubbing his hands together in anticipation of all the new souls he can bring into the faith for the Glory of God. Cyrus cannot resist a smile for himself as he moves off to his apartments with a jauntier walk than normal.

Not long afterwards, the horsemen and their families head off to Thessaly escorted by a reasonable number of Imperial soldiers from the Thracian Theme, and a number of officials, translators, priests and lastly merchants attaching themselves to the retinue, eager to make some profit from the newcomers.

Word finally arrives from both Ravenna and Rome of event and opinions in Italy. Felix’s continued flat refusal to recognise the Pope’s document exasperates the Emperor, and Constantine’s letter with warning of how potentially explosive the situation is worries him. Justinian is beginning to lose his patience, but decides to wait until he hears back from Leo before taking action. Theophylactus advises Justinian to prepare a fleet, possibly under Elias, or a certain patrikos named Theodore in case it is needed to deal with the situation there. "Stephen and Felix must be contained Emperor, or other parties such as the Lombards could take advantage, and we do do not need that lest it put back our plans elsewhere.", Theophylactus warns. The Emperor agrees to this contingency if only for reasons of prudence.

Leo is investigating all aspects of the Archbishop’s life, but annoyingly can find nothing about his personal life which can be used against him, Felix being a devout man with no improprieties of use. However, there is one thing he does learn that may be of interest: the priest is very short tempered and prone to blurting out things before his mind can stop him. If the right kinds of words are put to him bringing out his true feelings - then there are possibilities Leo surmises. In other words he could well put his foot in it.

With this in mind and knowing that Felix will be appearing in his great church to give a sermon to a large number of people, and doubtless stir up their support for his cause, he arranges for his agents to be there to stir up certain comments and find out Felix’s reaction. Sure enough, on the second Sunday in June, a large crowd gathers in Felix’s church. The sermon is fiery and delivered with his usual gusto. However after the main sermon, Felix takes his opportunity to vent his anger at the Pope. Suitably worked up, he leaves little to the imagination, thundering about the “pompous ignoramus in Rome”, and warning that “Hell will gobble him up for his arrogant presumptions!”, amongst other colourful turns of phrase. The congregation are being worked up, and Leo’s agents take their opportunity to strike.

“What of the Emperor? He does not listen to you, and he will visit his wrath upon this city if we so anger him.”, calls out one agent, to which murmurs of agreement echo around the church.

“The Emperor will see reason.”, replies Felix fairly enough

“But what if he does not, those surrounding him will persuade him otherwise, and we will all be punished!”, yells out another agent.

“The soldiers here will not lay a finger on us!”, the Archbishop cries out, “We will be safe and God is on our side.”.

Leo’s agents don’t get a chance to say something this time - someone else does it conveniently for them. “He will send more troops here if they do not carry out his will, and then there will be a fight. We will have to defend ourselves, and God will show He is not on the side of those troops!”.

It is a dangerous thing to say, but the crowd are so worked up, no one cares, apart from Leo’s agents who are interested in where all this will lead. Many in the crowd cry ”Fight!”, and thrust their fists into the air.

Felix sees the crowd swinging his way, “Then fight we will and cast down the Emperor’s forces if they come!”, which raises a cheer.

Now the agents slip something else in, “And what of the Emperor? If God has forsaken him then may he not be cast down too?”.

Caught up in it all Felix cannot help but blurt out, “Yes, yes he will, and down to Hell with him for all eternity for opposing God’s will! He will be cast out from his throne and rightly so! That is the fate of all those who lose the confidence of the Almighty, and he of all people should be sure of that. Maybe he'll lose more than a nose next time!”. Too late, Felix realises what he has said. To fight against the troops is one thing, to call for the Emperor to be dethroned is another. The crowd go mostly silent at this as they realise the implications, but still others cheer on the priest, some even laughing at the remark about the nose.

Felix tries to reassure the crowd, “God does not support the unjust, He throws his might behind the just, and we are THEM. We have nothing to fear whatever happens. God’s will is merciful and knows the difference.". The crowd cheers up a bit at this, but there is the feeling amongst many that too much has been said. The congregation files out of the church chattering excitedly for the most part about everything whatever the implications of what has been talked of.

Leo’s agents are more than satisfied; they have the information that they need. They set off to send reports to their master. It appears that the Archbishop’s tongue has wagged a little too much today.

When Leo receives the reports, he grins. Plenty of witnesses and incriminating enough things have been said. He dispatches his account of everything to the Emperor with all due speed.

Whilst this has been going on, and the missive makes its way to Constantinople, Justinian has been watching events in the Visigothic Kingdom with interest. Reports have reached him that Wittiza sits more uneasily upon his throne as Roderic starts to makes moves against him, utterly appalled by his un-Christian manner of rule. Pelayo joins the bodyguard of Roderic. Justinian sends a delegation headed by his old friend Stephen, who has also been promoted to Prōtospatharios, to make secret contact with Roderic with the offer of assistance against Wittiza in return for future help against the Arabs. Should Roderic be agreeable to this, Stephen has authority to request troops to be sent from the Balearics and from Corsica to assist them.

In Ravenna, the Exarch has received news about Felix’s explosive sermon, and is having second thoughts about supporting him. He has no desire to see his head on a spike for being associated with a man who has just said the Emperor will burn in hell and be cast off his throne - never mind the comments about his nose. However, neither does he wish to be lynched by the city’s populace for not supporting the priest. He has a lot to ponder. The latest reports from the streets indicate that the populace is divided. One lot fired up by the Archbishop, the others too afraid of incurring the Emperor’s wrath once he knows the priest’s words. He decides to hedge his bets and wait things out. (Historical note: Some sources note that the Exarch’s name was Theophylactus, whilst others note it as Stephen, and accounts of his eventual fate are also mixed. I have decided to go with Stephen since I do not wish to confuse things with the other Theophylactus in Constantinople.)

The Khazars reach their new territory, and settle in, building homes for themselves with aid from the soldiers and resources provided by the Empire. A large group of them, so impressed by what they have seen in Constantinople, start work on building a church, which will signal the start of a large number of conversions amongst them. When news reaches Cyrus of this, he almost dances with joy, and relays it to Justinian who is also very pleased with this development.

By the end of the summer, Leo’s missive has reached Justinian. The situation, whilst being serious is not as bad as hoped with the revelation of Felix’s traitorous utterances. Leo has also included in his report his assessment of the Exarch, who he mentions has been distancing himself from Felix, but that his loyalties are not yet fully clear. Justinian ponders this, and decides negotiation has run its course, and worries that if he delays further, elements in the Lombard court who wish for a more aggressive policy against the Romans may well take advantage of the situation, and this is too risky to be allowed. He sends a direct order to the Exarch to arrest the Archbishop on grounds of treason. Just in case the Exarch defies him, the Emperor orders the fleet under Elias and with Theodore embarked as well to make ready to sail from Dyrrachium to put down any rebellion. The Exarch is told that ‘reinforcements’ will arrive to assist him if necessary, the clear implication being that they can deal with any disloyalty on his part just as well. Justinian feels this should be enough of an incentive to cause him to carry out his orders. However, he is not happy with his support of Felix, although he has sensibly moved away from Felix somewhat after his outburst. The Emperor realises matters there are sensitive, and the Exarch’s situation is not the best in the world, but the fact that the Exarch has not been more pro-active in sorting the issue out disturbs him. He is left wondering about Stephen’s loyalty, and gives consideration to stripping the Exarch of his office afterwards. He wonders who he could replace him with - Theopylactus briefly crosses his mind - as good an administrator as any ruler can desire, but he is too valuable to let go so far away. Maybe Leo might have some suggestions he thinks.

The fleet arrives in Italy a few weeks later with Elias in command supported by his deputy Theodore. By this time, the sight of the fleet and misgivings about Felix’s words have convinced Stephen to deal with the Archbishop. It is not just the Exarch whose views have been changed, the majority of people are also starting to feel the same way, but that still leaves a large number of people who support Felix. Stephen orders troops to arrest Felix for treason, however he barricades himself in his church, and exhorts his followers to resist the troops. Fighting soon breaks out, and before long there is a city-wide riot in progress. The Exarch decides to go out on the streets and personally crush the rebels in what he hopes will prove his loyalty decisively to Justinian. The fighting goes on for a couple of days before the rebels are defeated and the troops finally lay their hands on Felix. Unfortunately for Stephen however, he is struck on the head by a piece of masonry hurled from a rooftop during a skirmish, and dies shortly afterwards. Elias takes temporary charge of the city, until a new official can be installed to replace Stephen. Theodore having distinguished himself well in the fighting, is given Felix who is put on a ship and sent back to Constantinople for judgement. Although the riots were quite bad, support had slipped away quite rapidly, and despite some damage to the city’s infrastructure, things calm down reasonably quickly, although there is an undercurrent of resentment which will take some time to disperse. There will still be instances of attacks on the city’s garrison by disgruntled groups who are angry with the Roman crackdown, although to be fair, the Roman suppression of the riotous population was reasonably lenient as such things go. Still, Italy has a reputation for being an unsettled area to govern, so that is to be expected.

The Pope hears the news and writes off a grateful letter to Justinian, thanking him for his assistance in which he offers to look at the articles of the Quinisextum and promises his approval to all those he can accept, with further discussion of those that are more problematic. Elias also sends a report back along with the unhappy Felix who fears the worst for himself.

It is very late in the year when the Prōtospatharios Stephen meets with Roderic. Negotiations start, but Roderic feels he can defeat Wittiza without Roman help. Stephen decides to remain there for the time being in case the situation proves not to be so advantageous to the Visigoth rebel.

Leo arrives back in the capital where he shares all the intelligence he has gathered on the situation in Italy. He has been busy digging into the personalities of not just Stephen and Felix, but other persons of note. All the records are assiduously filed in case they prove useful in the future, whilst Leo continues to receive updates from his agents.

At around the same time, Felix is brought into Constantinople by the patrikos Theodore and flung at the Emperor’s feet. Justinian decides that treachery must be punished quite harshly in this case. He decides to exile the unfortunate priest to a nondescript monastery on Chios where he will hopefully be forgotten. Guards will be assigned to make sure he does not escape. Felix, who had feared blinding at the very minimum, can at least console himself that he’ll be able to read the Holy texts, for which he thanks God, even if he is less enthusiastic about thanking the Emperor for his mercy.

With the troublesome priest packed off to somewhere harmless, Justinian is left with finding a new Exarch and new Archbishop. He selects a certain John Rizocopo who becomes the third of that name to become Exarch. As for a new Archbishop, Cyrus recommends a bishop local to the area who is loyal to the Empire called Paul. With these appointments in hand, the Emperor sends off his orders to Ravenna. They will not reach there until early in the following year.

As the year draws to a close, the Imperial Court in Constantinople can breathe a sigh of relief that the situation in Italy has at least stabilised, even if it has not been resolved completely. It is just as well, since the following year is going to contain a lot more action of a serious nature…

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That took me quite a while to get done so, comments please!


Sargon

 

[DominusNovus]

Looking good, nothing more to say. Just, looking good.

 

[Sargon]

Thanks Dominus. Glad you are continuing to enjoy it.


Sargon