Chapter 26: The Turning Tide
The Emperor's intervention proved decisive in shifting momentum at the Imperial Diet—as delegates recognized that a fair and impartial review of evidence was necessary to resolve such complex allegations. Leon seized this opportunity to present additional documentation he had gathered through covert channels while ensuring all proceedings remained transparent and accountable.
One particularly impactful disclosure came from Marco Bellini, Venice's former intelligence officer who defected to the empire—Bellini provided detailed testimony about how Venetian agents systematically manipulated trade data, spread disinformation, and cultivated political allies within imperial institutions to advance their economic interests without detection.
His insider account exposed a sophisticated network of covert operations that had been concealed for years—demonstrating Venice's deliberate strategy of undermining imperial sovereignty through indirect means while maintaining plausible deniability.
Meanwhile, Isabella uncovered evidence that several prominent merchants in Aachen who publicly defended Venice were secretly receiving substantial payments from Venetian trade houses—further exposing the conflict between their stated positions and actual interests.
As more information came to light, support for Leon's proposals gradually increased within the Diet—with delegates from smaller kingdoms and free cities expressing particular concern about how Venetian economic dominance threatened their own autonomy and prosperity.
Even some previously skeptical voices began to change as they realized the extent of foreign interference in imperial affairs—recognizing that defending national sovereignty required collective action regardless of short-term economic considerations.
However, Venice's allies remained determined to obstruct meaningful reform—filibustering proceedings, challenging every decision on technical grounds, and attempting to discredit Leon through personal attacks and disinformation campaigns.
Recognizing he needed additional support to overcome this resistance, Leon reached out to several influential figures beyond the Diet—including representatives from merchant guilds, religious orders, and even rival European powers who shared concerns about Venice's growing influence.