- ARCHIVE - Ducal Court of Venice

[unmerged(17500)]

The Doge sits in the senate room, looking across the vast floor he thinks of his son. Still too early for any man to be present, he returns to his treaties and plans. A map under his left hand, and a black ink stained hand resting, paving a path through the pages to his right.

After a few hours Berlusconi enters.

"Ah Franco I was hoping to talk to you. I'd like you to send 10,000 ducats to the Lithuanians immediately. As for the Timurids I think I'll create a treaty with them, however I do not know what I shall do about the silk road. I worry that this war shall turn the Muslim world into a land of civil war that will ravage our trade source.

Oh Franco before lunch I need to speak to you privately please. Here is the letter for the treasurer. I am sure you can handle the details of making safe passage for the money."​

_______________

"Your eminence it is good to see you in such elustrious health. I hope the trip was pleasant.

I shall of course immediately dispatch the orders. After I have made the arrangements I need to talk to you about some certain, personi near us that must be dealt with."
_______________

"That will be fine."
_______________

"Oh by the way I have Signiore Bosco here waiting to speak with you. He is the representative of one of the merchant guilds. He had some concerns that I thought you might like to hear for youself."​

Francesco really did not want to deal with people so early, but understands the importance of quality relations with the guilds.

"My friend, Signiore Bosco, I hope you are well. What can I do for you."
_______________

"Your honor, Doge Francesco Foscari, you are most respected amongst the guilds for being a most intelligent and wise ruler. We have followed your grace, and you have led us to such a great period of time that Venezia has never seen before. I am honred to say that the guilds have had a difficult time expanding fast enough, which is always a good sign. We have already replaced the Genovese almost completely. Your deals with the Mamelukes have been extremely prosperous, as well as the great trade we gain from Arabia. However we look for further gains. There has been no news from the Ottomans? As well as the Timurids have only given us minimal access. I hope that there are further gains to be made?

I also would like to discuss the Aragonese."​

The Doge listening to the Signiore Bosco is also scribbling points of contention in response. The Doge interrupts the good man when he speaks of Aragon.

"Well let me stop you there. The Aragonese will be dealt with. I can promise you that. There are deals that I have in place that will change everything. I only need the patients of the guilds, and the politicians. I am certain that you trust in your Doge for he only thinks of your profits.

As for the Timurids, I shall reaffirm a treaty with them. The Ottomans will also be a source of great profit for you. Let me assure you of that. I shall meet with my advisors to see how to best gain from such treaties and what exactly we wish to gain. In the mean time I hope that you can bring any further issues to Signiore Berlusconi. I am more then willing to speak with you understand, but my time is fairly limited. I shall call for you soon when I have some news that needs your attention, or if I need your help. Thank you, now if I may I'd would like to return to my documents."
_______________

"Of course yor excellency, I must also return. Thank you very much for your time."​

The man bows and leaves waddling his way out. After watching him exit, the Doge's mind returns in a flash to his son.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Now looking over the map he looks at exactly how to structure this treaty with the Ottomans.

"I wonder if the Sultan wouldn't just allow a colony of Venetians in Constantinople. Bosco would be unable to complain, and the benefits would be extremely rich form having thousands of Venetians already planted in the capital.

Not since Enrico Dondolo will there be so many Venetians stationed in Thrace, and this time it will not require the armies of Venezia to force them on the Ottomans. HAHA they will be glad to accept them. Mutually beneficial agreement.​

​

_______________
The Doge continues to write.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

The Doge looks at a guard, and call Franco Berlusconi to his chamber. Franco slowly approaches the he passes the guards in front of the Doge's door, and then enters the room. After presenting himself the Doge speaks.

"I'd like you to take a look at this document I have planned for the Sultan of the Ottomans. It outlines a plan to expan our trade hubs, as far west as Thrace, Aleppo, even the Trebizond coast if I wished. Firstly I'd like for him the Sultan to give Venezia a portion of the city. Our merchants shall colonize the area and in this manner everyone wins. The Ottomans gain increased trade, the Venetians get another forged, solid trade hub, and a way to increase everyone's profits." ​

The Doge passes the documents to Franco and then takes turns the map back rightside up so that he can study the areas of Constantinople.

"Interesting, Enrico Dondolo would be sure to see the irony in this plan, but it sounds very solid. I'm sure your honor has already planned to barter the ability to gain free access to the straits of the Bospherous. But your honor, I am not sure if the Ottoman's will accept this agreement as it is. There has to be some sort of incentive for their nation more then just increased trade, what trade tariffs do they expect?"
_______________

"We shall see what their price shall be but they gain more the you think my friend. They gain citizens under their control. Whatever local taxes they want I'm sur that they shall place on the merchants. I would think that in their position that they would lower the taxes so as to facilitate the growing economy in Constantinople. Please inform the guilds fo the possiblity. I am sure that that fat pig Bosco will relish the idea of not only gaining land but a new economic investment."
_______________
"Yesss, hahaha the lover of Jews unfortunately for him will never see the day. His fat weighs him down further with everyday. I am sure that within the year he will die of some sort of ailment.

Ahhh, well your honor if we have no othe rbusiness to discuss I'd like to speak to you about a certain person very close to us. I'd like to discuss Antonio Cornari."
_______________

"Yes he seems like a fine fellow. What is it."
_______________

"Well sir, I think he may be plotting against your lordship. I have seen him talking to many of the council members in private. I think that unfortunately your unexpected lengthy stay in Crete created an opporunity for him to undermine your authority. It may be best if we asserted some kind of control over him.

I have done my own research on his grace Antonio Cornari. It seems that his honor may have his weaknesses. I would be most happy to confront him with these, use them against him...even..."
_______________

"you mean blackmail?"
_______________

"Well sir whatever it takes to keep your position as strong as possible. There are many things that he can try to do, I wouldl like to just guarantee that he fails. If blackmail is an option then I think we should use it against him."
_______________

"Are you sure that he is not more of a risk for you then he is for me....

Well I think it best that you make it clear to him what limited options he has. Do what you must, but keep it quiet. We never had this conversation after all."
_______________

Yes of course.​

Both men being satisfied with the result of the conversation part. Franco for a meeting with Antonio Cornari, and the Doge for a midday nap. The Doge as he heads for his sleeping chamber finds it curious that Franco would approach him like that.
"Maybe just wanted assurance of no intervention from the powers above. Hmmm it might be time for me to wash out the council. The youn are becoming too involved."

 

[unmerged(18481)]

Turin

“This winter is harsh indeed,” Angelo Correano said, “and I hate this cold. May I ask you to throw another log on the fire? Good… Thank you, good Pastino, it’s a bit better now. So you say doge Foscari accepts the treaty without making any changes? Somewhat surprising… But anyway, it’s good.” He chuckled. “Now he is encouraged to accept the rule of the Emperor, hehehe--”

Giggling, he pulled out the ducal seal from his sleeve, and after some blundering with the wax, he stamped it on the document.

“It’s done,” he said, and smiled at Pastino.

 

[unmerged(18481)]

Turin

“Oh, good signore Pastino, don’t take my…hmm… giggling as an offense,” Correano said, smiling cordially at the Venetian. “I just couldn’t suffocate my… hmm… amusement upon this funny situation; I am very well aware of the fact that Doge Foscari will never bow before the Emperor. Personally, I perfectly understand this. Venice never was the part of the Empire of Charlemagne, even though she was paying some war-tax… And let’s admit it, our Empire is not the Roman Empire anymore, it’s the Empire of Charlemagne and the Franks. Or rather the Empire of Otto and the Germans.” He scratched his beard, and after a short pause, he said, “Again, I was just laughing upon the practical meaninglessness of that article. In my opinion, it’s totally unneccesary. However, I must respect my duke’s emotions toward the Empire. Also, nobody wants to take the lands of Venezia: the right of the Serenissima Republica to remain independent is by all means acknowledged and respected, as mentioned in the very same article. Venezia is just encouraged to accept Imperial rule, that’s all.”

Correano sighed, and said, “As for the Iron Crown of the Lombards… His Grace Antonio di Savoia is merely claiming to be the heir of the Kings of Lombardy, he doesn’t claim himself to be one of them.” He chuckled. “After all, the Iron Crown of the Lombards is currently on the head of Emperor Joachim, hehe… But seriously, this one is an old Savoyard claim, and as the Lotharingiainen branch doesn’t seem to press it--” He broke off and shrugged. “Anyway, you don’t have to worry: His Grace’s desire only to see Italia peaceful and strong.”

 

[Mettermrck]

Venice

Such a fair city....of wonders, of delights....of...riches. He smiled as he disembarked from the boat that had rowed him to the Palazzo Ducale. The crowds were boisterous and colorfully dressed and he felt an immediate attraction to the sophistication of this place. A perfect place for a man of taste. Lord Jayson Monteiro was dressed in a flashy canary yellow tunic with a purple sash, edged with gold lining. His hat was a burnt orange with a flaring pheasant feather that pointed skyward at a sharp angle. For show, he had a bulging coin purse which clinked merrily as he walked, though he always kept one hand over it. It was more for show...the bulk of his fortune was tied up in letters of credit and in a certain chest carried by his servants. And there were sixteen of these, each carrying a trunk of some form of baggage. After all, Monteiro had no attention of skipping any comforts in fair Italia.

Cousin Fernando had had to work hard on Her Majesty to get him this appointment. There were those fools who would talk ill of him at the palace, not appreciating what a man of fine taste could bring to the world. So what if he was involved in speculation schemes? Who cared if he enjoyed the most opulent of lifestyles. He felt these things were entitlements, for the enjoyment of a noble such as himself. Now, Venice...he planned to have a wonderful time in this city. The smells and the sounds...he would soon be adding his own notes to the cacophany.

He approached the main doors to the Palazzo Ducale, where a few guards were standing impassively. Grinning, he took off his hat and bowed, swinging the headpiece in a sweeping gesture. "Sir Guards! Standing in the hot sun, waiting for such as I to appear and seek audience. One of you lads wouldn't happen to be enthusiastic enough to tell whoever is in charge that I am here?" He stood expectantly and then laughed jovially at their confusion. "My dear fellows! But you don't even know my name yet. How awful for you...but you will, I guarantee it. I am His Honor, etc etc etc, Jayson Monteiro, envoy from Portugal and Queen Adalia to see your Leader. The Dog, uh Doge? Yes, well, tell him I'm here. And see if he wants to chat."

He turned to his servants. "Don't drop those, you fools! I have a fine spiced scent in their I intend to wear tonight. It makes the ladies weep...grrrrrrrrowl." Monteiro laughed at his own humor and turned back to the guards. "Ah, yes. For your troubles..." Making a grand gesture of opening his bulging purse, he took out a silver coin and flipped it to the guard.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

The guard ever sharp catches the coin in quick speed. Looking at it he responds.

"If you may, I think that consiglieri signiore Cornari would be most open to speaking with you. He seems to be the person at present that you should talk to. I shall lead you to him, and from there I hope your travels be marry." ​

The guard sarcastically snickers at that last line and then leads the man to the entrance of the Hall of the Four Doors where Antonio Cornari happens to be speaking with another senator. The guard stomps his feet at the arrival and presents Monteiro. Cornari then speaks.

"Ah good friend, Signiore Jayson Monteiro? Yes I hope your trip was pleasant for I am sure your stay with us shall be. I am curious about your arrival and whether you have been choosen as the official representative. For if this is the case the Doge should be allowed to speak with most immediately. His grace is currently napping from what I understand, but he should be awake fairly soon."​

As they walk through the halls of the Palazzo Ducale, Cornari beings to speak...softly at times so that no one but the two men can hear.

"yess..indeed I would guess that we personally could do very much to help each other...I do not know what your standing is with your Queen or your court, but as you know, if you are the official representative, then you hold a very important role. One that could....bring you great wealth and respect.

I am sure we may speak of such things at a later time, and see how we may help each other."​

_______________

While walking the halls they pass Signiore Bosco and Berlusconi who are confiding in themselves near a window. Berlusconi's eyes pierce through Cornari whilst they make eye contact; both knowing what the other is planning. Immediately after they pass, Berlusconi interrupts Bosco to find out who the man is and heads for the guard.

 

[Mettermrck]

Palazzo Ducale, Venice

What a massive palace...and all for a bunch of senators? Monteiro wished he had a building just this big...for himself, of course. The lavish parties he could throw. Wonderful indeed! He has humming one of the latest dances he had heard at court when he was shown into Cornari's presence.

"Con sig Cornari, sir! A delight to make your acquaintance..." Monteiro bowed dramatically in the same manner he had done so to the guards. "A pretty city we have here...and this Palazzo is its jewel, I can see that now. What's that? The Doge? Umm, yes, I suppose I need to talk to him. Well, of course I'm the ambassador, man! Who else could it be?" He laughed uproariously at this, his slight paunch bouncing along.

As Cornari is taking him to see the Doge, Monteiro grins broadly at his words, and merrily claps him on the shoulder. "My good man...of course I have wealth and respect...and we all know how much family helps you get these. And I hope to have plenty more before I die. If you know where to find it in Venice, you have my thanks...and of course my assistance in any capacity. With Monteiro, you need only get me five things. Wealth, women, wine, song, and a palace. With these things I am your man!" He spoke a little quieter as he said this but he finished with another large laugh.

"VENICE! Truly the fountain of paradise...come...let us visit your fountainkeeper."

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Slightly embarrased, Cornari looks around to see if anyone heard the bolsterous Portugese. He then looks at his shoulder where Jayson placed his arm. Cornari's eyes then make a path from the hand to his face, and at their final destination Cornari makes a foolish attempt at a full-toothed smile. Smiles come have always come very rare, and even Montiero can see this man was slightly more serious but loves to play with serious men none the less. Cornari calls for the Doge's assistant to see if he is up and to bid his honor to meet him in the Hall of the four doors where he shall be waiting with Monteiro. This would give him the time to speak to the Portguese man privately.

"Oh I am sure that in the coming days that you shall see the glorious and most enjoyable sites of Venezia. We shall even go out this very night.

But if you may good sir, I think that Venezia would greatly to speak to you about trade. We are most interested in your African expeditions. I was wondering what more you could tell me while we wait for the Doge." ​

 

[Mettermrck]

Palazzo Ducale, Venice

Monteiro took the hint and calmed down, though he marked Cornari as a man who could be useful. And a chance to enjoy himself that very evening...life was a provider of fits of joy. He withdrew his hand but continued beaming at the serious Venetian.

"Africa? A burnt place...the Lord's stove, if you ask me. But it has its uses. The refuse that collects there sometimes yields up the most delightful trinkets and such." He thought of his cousin who had investments there. Monterio had insisted on some for his very own, which came after enough bleating. Complaining always yielded results.

"I have a man down in...Marrakesh, yes. A frighteningly boring town, except for the camels that bring the goodies in from the south. A man could make a fortune there if you know where to look. Ivory...salt...slaves. You name it, it's there for the taking. You, con sig sir, look like someone of taste. I think you above all would appreciate what Africa coughs up." He giggled at little at his own bit of humor, stomping his foot for effect.

Then he spent his time gazing around the Hall of the Four Doors, waiting for the Doge to show up. "Now the question is. Did you name the Hall first, and had to provide four doors? Or did you have four doors, and had no other good ideas for a name? Because if it were me...I would say...Tall Room with the Pictures. Nah...I'll work on it."

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Finally reaching some kind of civility Antonio begins to speak business.

"Well of course I would be interested in purchasing some personal stock within these indeavors, however I think that Venezia would be able to finance much larger extremes.

This Hall of the Four Doors, has an entrance to four rooms of political business. If you may follow me we can head into the Anticollegio where he usually sees visitors. I hope that you would discuss these trade issues with his honor, and later tonight we celebrate. Ah yes here he is." ​

They head into the waiting room, and see the Doge approaching with documents in one hand and a glass of wine in the other. Behind him a servant with a tray of wine, and glasses. Stopping Francesco sees Antonio and thinks back ot his conversation with Berlusconi. He stares at him and then speaks.

"Your honor I hope you are feeling rested after your nap. you had a long journey from Crete. I'd like to present Signiore Jayson Monteiro, he is the ambassador from Portugal."
_______________

"Never mind how I feel, welcone signiore to the land of riches. I hope you enjoy yourself.

Now for business, what has Antonio been bleeding into your ears? Tell me immediately how your land of Portugal is behaving these days? How is my fair Queen?"​

_______________

The servant presents the wine to the Doge first, and then to the men.

 

[Mettermrck]

Palazzo Ducale, Venice

The Anti-College? Oh, these plucky Italians...always thinking of fancy names. Monteiro laughed to himself as Cornari showed him in to the see the Doge. He looked to be an old man, who looked dull and uninspired. Perhaps cheeriness would not go over so well with him? From the hint Cornari had given him, it sounded as if he wanted the conversation to go a certain way. Fair enough. He was anxious to get it all over with so they could entertain themselves that evening. If it required some words on Africa, so be it.

He bowed to the Doge, sweeping his hat. Bowing was an enjoyable art...the more important the man, the more dramatic the gesture. For the Doge, the hat smacked the floor. "Your Honorableness! You are too kind to allow me audience with your personage. And Queen Adalia thanks you for your inquiry. Yes she is quite well and sends fellow greetings to her illustrious Italian ally. Venice has done wonders for Portuguese commerce, and might I add coffers, in the Mediterranean."

Monteiro looked briefly at Cornari, thinking of what he had said. "Oh right, the African stuff..." he said, half to himself. "Yes, I was on my way through this wonderful exciting thrilling palace, and I thought to myself...Jayson...actually, I addressed myself as Your Excellency, because of my status. I said, Your Excellency, this Doge is a man who values the art of trade. Yes, the deal...and of course, money. Why not help the poor man out?"

Happily, he seated himself and gestured to the servant to top off his wine glass. Taking a large sip, he instructed the boy to refill it. Winking at him, he said, "Keep doing that to my glass..." and turned back to the Doge. "Um yes...money. We could use a man of means in Africa? It's a dreadful place but it can be rewarding if you know where to look...and I do!" he thumped himself on the chest.

"You just say the word, sir..I mean, Your Honorableness, and Venice can have a future in Moroccan trade...using one of our investment companies. Must keep things nice and tidy. What say you?" He sipped some more wine.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

_______________
Listening to the man, at one point stunned at the out right blatent nature the Doge actually had to stop, turn look at the man closely and then let him continue. When he finished Antonio interrupted and began.

"I have discussed some of the details, and seriously consider that this would be a wise investment. I have even gone to some lengths to research investment holdings."​

The Doge had to stop once again to stare this time at his council men and then spoke to him.

"Well I see that all has been taken care of. Bring me numbers, what kind of profit earnings I am to see within the first five years, what the financing will be used for, what routes, what goods, and what kind form this profit will reach my pockets. Please Cornari you have done the research please inform us!"
_______________

"I..I ..I clearly do not, have not done a good enough job with this research."​

Foscari clearly makes the stand and then turns and continues walking.

"Unfortunately my good ambassador some of my friends within the council speak when they should listen. They are very eager to win my favor but do not have the instruments to do so. Please now you can answer these questions better then anyone sinceyou...hmmm...have experience there."​

Cornari clearly displeased at the Doge's platent abuse in public tries to keep pace with his honor and the ambassador but now has to also plan his next move after such a crushing blow.

 

[Mettermrck]

Palazzo Ducale, Venice

Shameful...the old man beating down Cornari like that. Grinning, Monteiro shook his head as they followed the Doge. "Your Honorableness...the fault is mine, not Cornari's here. I was rather insistent on bringing the idea to your attention and did not permit him enough time to study the matter as thoroughly as it should have been. For that, I most tremondously apologize. Terrible form, sir...uh, Your Honorableness!"

He winked at Cornari. "Please...allow me to help your man here find out the proper figures and then we can bring these to your attention. He's a good influence on me and would help turn my excitable schemes into a seriously profitable arrangement." Bouncing along behind the old man, he thought the meeting hadn't been a total waste.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

A son's revenge

The weather hd just roled down from the montains earlier in the day. The markets had already closed in preparation of the increased winds.

A lone man walks the streets this night pushed by his father's challenge. A long and putrid life was his father's warning, but he only cares to be free to do what he wants, to love whatever he wants regardless whether that love is tainted with stains of lust or not. The man walks the streets tonight on a mission, hunting his pray. Ulitimately he realizes that his hunt is in vane and it would be easier to just go to his old trusted loose wench for one more moment of pleasure. He walks into the inn and heads for the stairs, hiding his face from the few straglers at the tables. One man comments to his cheery brother in ale.

"Hahaha he is back for more. Almost on a weekly basis he has followed his penis to this nest."​

Both men laugh a little just enough to make it quite clear to Giuseppe that they are obvious having a rowdy joke about him. He pauses on one of the steps, and then heavily walks up the rest of the way and to the door. The girl inside can already hear him coming and turns to the door wondering why he hasn't entered already. She watches the knob (different one) turn and then looks back to her desk.

Giuseppe notices that the only light is from the candle hidden behind her. Shards of light pierced past her shoulder, past her arm and onto his face. Even the light called to him, if his waist was not enough. He recognized that she was a tempterous wench, purely bent on gaining some respect within her own circles as the one person who would have succeeded in bringing the Doge's son to her bed. Of course his wench could not be completely poor, but had to look at least respectible, so he gave her a monthly allowance; a much more honest esplanation. In his mind a gift, in her mind payment, and so she was always more realistic about their relationship.

He stopped after he closed the door. Almost as if completely innocent and pure, never been touched by a women. She once again turned at him and with never speaking, they began their tumbling.

As he approached her, with every step his lacivious and evil nature began to consume him. His hands stroked her neck and then down to her bossom. Stroking and sliding off of her curves he flipped her around and they embraced. Their respiration loud and heavy even before they began the main acts of this play. From the opening narration to the close it would be a long night. He quickly ripped her cloths from her chest outward, bringing his entire frustrations in life to his lust, bringing pain and anger, and then turning it into passion. She slightly more petit loved the force of a strong man, and relished in his one method of release. He threw her to the bed and with her hands down he grabbed her wrists with each hand and burried them into the fabric of the bed. A slight pain came to her, but the elusion only caused her to use her arms as a foundation for her waist, calling for his. He forced himself down and quickly pulled her hands above her head, and then just paused. A moment of reflection for what they were about to enter into. A moment that only tintelized her more. The second of their eyes meeting only caused her further heat in preparation, like the calm before the storm. Almost as to signal the second half of the play and finish the intermission, she spoke two words, so softly as barely to be heard.

"don't stop..."​

He immediately abliged, starting the ascension to the climax. It was in the 6th act, of what some called a passionate love story, but both would later find to be a tragedy. Their pulsating body, created an enormous amount of sweat, that only skided off their bodies to be absorbed below. He continued the penetration, and in the mean time their lips met often. The breath of passion almost as noisy as the bed was at this point. Enter act 7, the point where they continued, more feverishly, stronger, harder, harder, HARDER until the release was achieved by both. After a few hard breaths a flash returned. She this time took control, to the surprise and delight of Giuseppe. She turned him over and then headed to his chest kissing him, knowing exactly where to go. A decline occured of the type he had never had before. So powerful was her control that he could not control himself. An encoure was required and most definately paid by the red lipped whore.


An hour later they had finished and reality ensued, however this time he was not satisfied. He stood up from his baren wench and after wiping down his body he put on his clothes. Before he left he began to feel out of breath. Somehow he was just unsatisfied, not sexually but emotionally. A fire did not still burn, but now it raged in anger. His face turned red and his fist pounded into the very veins of the door frame. Splinters cast into his arm, and the wood making way for his knuckles. It started the girl into shock but he only ignored her. The only sign left of the lapse in sanity was bleeding and cracked skin between his fist which made him feel at least slightly more refreshed; As if the suffication of the wet hot air had passed.

Stepping into the street he could feel the emptiness of the event. His maturity had started to envelope him. It would be the last time he would see the whore. The best sex of his life did not even satisfy his anger anymore. He was clearly in a position where he must do somethig drastic.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Then men exit the Anticollegio and head for Antonio's private chamber to o over some of the details before the day is over. Upon their arrival they look at a few numbers and a map.

"Alright let us say that Venezia puts up 10,000 ducats as an initial investment, I am sure the guilds with a little forcing would be inclined to match such a figure. So we'd be at 20,000.

Now I have to ask what would this moneu go to, and is it morally reprehensible to deal in slavery? I am not sure how to deal with that issue. I think financing the boats that would carry the supplies, but then again as speculation goes, if one sees that moeny is being placed in a company by the Venetians the demand for such stock would be high, if the case is that there are limits to said stock.

Now I think the Venetians would of course want a decrease int he price of ivory. The Doge has already noted to me that he greatly favors the pearly white of good ivory. What are your thoughts on these issues signiore Monteiro? Specifically on what way would Venezia profit."​

 

[Mettermrck]

Palazzo Ducale, Venice

Words and numbers. Monteiro was sure they were very important, but let them wash over him anyhow, as he waited for Cornari to subside. He knew had to placate the man, of course, but did he have to be so serious all of the time? "Of course, my good man! It shall be as you say! 20,000 ducats should more than do the job..." his eyes bulged as he spoke the sum out loud.

Monteiro found the nearest chair and plopped himself down into it with a dramatic sigh of relief. "This is such wearying business. I'm glad you know what you're doing, because I sure don't. Eh? What will Venice get out of Morocco? Haha! Wrong question, my good man! We should be discussing what YOU will get out of Morocco!"

He clapped his hands at the thought of it. "Venice already gets discounted ivory from Portugal with that...oh that...you know, the deal we signed? Queen Adalia might've mentioned it before I left, I can't recall. Anyways, I can make sure you get a special discount...just for you...and His Honorableness too if you want. That way you both get the benefits. And we're all happy!"

Monteiro stood up, walking around the room, staring at the furnishings. He laughed when he saw the bed. "I see you get enough use of this? Wink wink...slaves? A soul? My good man...the equator turns men's skins black. The Pope himself says they have no soul. They are dark beings of instinct, violence, and shall we say...passion? Grrrrrrrrrowl. Never mind them. They're hard-working, docile (when trained up good), and cheap to buy. And they're all the rage of the nobility in southern Portugal! Everybody wants one!"

He spreads his arms wide as he spoke, spinning in some farcical step of dance. Then he remembered something, and he gasped in mock horror. "Ooooooooooo! My chests?!? I simply must have someplace grand and pompous to stay in this evening...particularly since I hope to entertain Their Ladyships soon, eh? Where can I put them. I don't care about the servants of course. But the poor trunks might get damaged." He continued speaking in this vein.

 

[unmerged(17500)]

During dinner Berlusconi asks for a minute of ihs honor's time. The Doge swallows a large gulp of wine, shakes off the insueing couging tantrums and listens.

"Sir I was curious who the man with whom Signiore Cornari was speaking so intimately with today? I understand it was the Portugese ambassador. I was curious if could help in some way." ​

The Doge begins to smaile realizing that as long as both men fight against each other his own position is strengthened. He begins to explain the situation.

"Interesting, I love how you two constantly play cat and mouse. Regardless, I have been looking for a way to extend my reach in Northern and western Africa. It seems that the Portugese won't allow colonies to be established, and I do not intend to risk such investments, and also I am not willing to put a strain on a such a good relationship by invading their territory. Instead I'll use them to invest for me. I have planned to purchase supplies ans ships for the company that colonizes the area, in return for a share of the profits. I have been disapointed with the amount of ivory supply and the Lotharingia especially demands it highly. I think that it would be of great profit to concern ourselves with such an expansion. Cornari clearly beat you to the ambassador and they together are working on the details.

HAHAHA your face tells everything, worry not, Veneza may invest but someone must be the liaison with the guilds. I think that the guilds would be also very interested in investing. Go ahead and speak with Bosco and the others, including the ambassador. I do not know what his pans are for tonight but he seems a very merry type and I am sure he is enjoying himself thuroughly this eve.
_______________

"Sir I do not worry about myself as much as I worry for your position. He first champions the other councilmen against you through blackmail. Then he commands the attention of ambassadors before yourself. That does not seem like the workings of a loyal councilmen. I beg you to allow me to discover his plan."
_______________
"Signiore, do what you must but we never had this conversation."​

The Doge continues his dinner, making it clear to berlusconi that they are finished. Berlusconi leaves to find his compatriot and rival."

 

[unmerged(17500)]

Berlusconi walks knocks on the door, and then opens it to find absolutely no one inside. Clearly the men have left for the evening. Queer that Antonio Cornari of all people should be escorting the Portguese to the gradious spots of Venezia. He thinks to himself of how important it is to find the braggered, just to watch him if for nothing else.

Elsewhere Cornari is overseeing Monteiro's move into his villa.

"I hope that this will be of high enough quality. Only few people are fortuntae enough to stay in this beautiful house. I think that his holiness himself at one point may have rested here. But then again I doubt that holiness is an intrinsic trait of those who stay in this place...hahahha" ​

For once some sort of humor actually seeped out of the cracks that was the bureaucrat.

"Well if all is settled we can proceed to drinks and women.​

_______________

 

[Mettermrck]

Monteiro's Villa, Venice

Not bad...not bad at all, Monteiro decided as he inspected every corner of the villa Cornari was allowing him to stay in. Airy and open, with tall white pillars that soared skyward, mixing with the peach walls. Sculptures by many of Italy's best lined alcoves along the entire wall as well as a few pieces in the outside gardens - Monteiro particularly like the satyr, for it set him in the right mood.

It had eighteen rooms, which was not bad for such a modest size. The tall windows and vaulted ceilings made it seem even more roomy. It had only a single floor, with the main bedchamber in the rear of the villa, with two hallways dividing the entire place into thirds, like a great 'T'. Impressive, he thought. A nice start to his stay in Venice.

It hadn't cost too much, since he knew Cornari hoped to gain much from the 20,000 ducat donative. But Monteiro was no fool....using one of his letters of credits, he was able to obtain a suitable advance from one of the moneylenders in town - Lisbon would foot the bill - and now Cornari was a thousand ducats richer for his generosity.

He took his time savoring the lurid green curtains on the walls, along with the tall statues of...ahem...beautiful people. Monteiro cackled especially at these. There was a staff of six to eight servants, including three maids...one of whom he made a mental note to remember in case he got bored sometime.

Noticing Cornari watching him, he walked over and clapped the man on both shoulders, his face grinning delightedly. "I have arrived! Let Bacchus and fellows fear me, for I will challenge them in excess! Now, con sig sir...you know best...lead on!" And with hasty excitement, he practically nudged Cornari out the door, the faster to attend the evening festivities.

With any luck, he would back when the night was darkest...with a tasty morsel, or two, to sample. And he didn't mean the food.