and we ask questions. We gather information, we make sure of our facts and we prepare our fleet. If we’re forced to protect Konstantinople, then we will do so on water. We must mobilise the Arsenale, gather new recruits for the navy.’
‘What about the threat the Ottomans pose directly to us, to Serenissima?’ asked Signor Maggiore.
‘As Pisano says, if we lose Konstantinople, then what’s to stop them?’ said Signor Errizo.
‘That is why we cannot allow that to happen. We cannot lose Konstantinople.’
‘What about Roma? Surely they will come to our aid.’ Sitting up straight, Signor Pisano put into words what was on everyone’s minds.
Signor Nicolotti nodded. ‘That’s what we hope. That is why I need your permission.’ His arm swept the table. ‘To include the Cardinale in our plans. Whoever we put forward as our new Doge will have to have his approval if we’re to be guaranteed aid from the Great Patriarch.’
‘It would help if we could find this Estrattore,’ added Signor Errizo.
There were murmurs of agreement.
‘It would,’ said Signor Nicolotti. ‘It would assure Roma of our loyalty; it would rid us of another threat so we can focus on the one growing in the East.’ He opened a small wooden box in front of him and pulled out a quill. Dipping it in a little inkpot he wrote a few notes on the topmost piece of parchment. ‘I will discuss this with the Cardinale as well. Learn how his hunt progresses. Offer whatever aid he needs to bring this matter to a close.’ He placed the quill back in its box and closed the lid, looking from one grim face to another. ‘Now you understand why we called this meeting. We must not only prepare for a change of leadership but, potentially, for war. You can see now that the two are very much related. Dandolo is incapable of dealing with this crisis.’
No-one responded.
‘And on top of all this is the search for the damn Estrattore,’ grumbled Signor Errizo. ‘You know they’re saying the popolani aren’t coming forward, that they’re protecting the creature.’
‘Not even the Cardinale’s punishments, the execution, the arrests and disappearances have loosened their tongues.’ Signor Maggiore lifted his chin and locked eyes with each and every member of the Council. A few turned away; others shifted in their seats.
‘I don’t understand how a boy like that can just vanish,’ said Signor Moronisini eventually. ‘My understanding was that Estrattore must use their powers or die.’
‘Perhaps he’s already dead and we’re all chasing ghosts,’ said Signor Maleovelli easily. They all laughed.
‘If only it were that simple,’ said Signor Nicolotti. He picked up his glass and drained the contents. ‘No. He is not dead. He is somewhere in the city and, the sooner we find him and execute him, the faster we can shore up relations with Roma and quell the damn popolani, and the sooner we can focus on the matters that concern us most: the Ottomans and the Dogeship. Capite?’
‘Sì,’ there were mumbles and nods.
‘Well, Signori, we have a great deal to think about. And much which relies on our complete discretion. If one word of what we discussed tonight should reach the Doge …’ He left his sentence unfinished. ‘I will take it upon myself to talk to the Cardinale. I am glad you agree we need his support in this, in everything we do from here.’
He paused. ‘Then, if that is all, we’ll reconvene at our usual time, which I believe is in ten days. Unless, of course, events force me to call another extraordinary meeting. Good night, Signori. May God bless you and our enterprises.’
Signor Nicolotti remained seated as the Council of Ten exited, each bowing to him as they departed. He couldn’t help but note that the spark of accomplishment he’d seen in Maleovelli’s eyes was still there. For years he’d under-estimated that man, that family. Why, watching him tonight, he seemed to thrive on what they were saying, enjoying the danger. It would be good to have his help, especially now he’s forged so many connections – including with Lord Waterford – and managed to do what no Serenissian had done before, breach the Contested Territories – he and Moronisini. They could yet be an important ally in this forthcoming battle, for he had no doubt that’s where the armament of the Ottomans would end – in war. And so long as they all profited, it would not be entirely unwelcome.
Rising to his feet, he poured himself the last of the