Became The Sultan Of The Ottoman Empire [EN]: Chapter 184

More than a hundred people were executed for the assassination attempt on Yusuf, and the Sharif of Mecca, identified as the instigator, lost a significant portion of his original autonomy.

Considering the seriousness of the incident, everyone knew it couldn’t end there.

However, few expected the changes to ease the restrictions Muslims faced, including those related to Sharia [Islamic law].

Therefore, when this news was announced in the name of Yusuf’s Caliph position and the Sheikh al-Islam [the official in charge of Muslim affairs within the Ottoman Empire], confusion was inevitable.

“Does this mean we can drink alcohol now?”

“The new imperial law won’t include prohibition, so I guess so.”

Like an elephant that has lived its entire life tied to a leg rope, unable to imagine breaking the thin rope and escaping, there was resistance to readily accepting the sudden freedom. People struggled to grasp the implications of such a drastic shift.

Pushing these people along were Islamic figures who had become Yusuf’s allies.

“Allah is merciful, so even if you eat or drink forbidden Haram [forbidden] foods, you can simply ask for forgiveness and be forgiven.”

It was like creating a loophole for atonement, easily easing the resistance. This pragmatic approach resonated with many who were hesitant to embrace the new freedoms.

Of course, the idea that one could simply atone raised the possibility of it becoming a free pass, so it was emphasized that crimes against imperial law, not those based on the Quran, could not be avoided through religious atonement. This distinction clarified the limits of the new policy.

In the past, Islamic figures would have vehemently protested in this situation, but few were willing to risk their lives to oppose it after the assassination attempt. The atmosphere was too dangerous for dissent.

Those with such courage had either gone to Allah’s side due to their involvement in the assassination or were dragged to prison for insulting the Padishah [Ottoman Emperor].

With the stage set, news that more Muslims were indulging in alcohol reached Yusuf.

“Drinking, huh? Those drinking now are probably those who drank before.”

Historically, prohibition had been imposed for various reasons, but people always found ways around it. Human nature, it seemed, was resistant to absolute restrictions.

Whether it was bootlegging or smuggling, they always found a way. The desire for forbidden pleasures always found an outlet.

The same was true for Islam; some alcohol was allowed for medicinal purposes, so people would drink it under the guise of medicine. This loophole had long been exploited.

In the capital alone, quite a few people secretly crossed into Christian areas, pretending to be members of other religions to drink alcohol. The allure of alcohol transcended religious boundaries.

This meant that even before, Muslims could drink alcohol if they really wanted to. The new law simply made it more accessible and less secretive.

“Just in case, we should strongly warn against excessive drinking and increase patrolling forces.”

“Inspect the bars as well. Some might be selling intoxicated people as slaves.”

Even in modern times, you can’t guarantee safety if you pass out drunk on the streets, and it’s no different now. The dangers of intoxication remained constant throughout history.

It’s not uncommon to wake up as an oarsman after blacking out from drinking. The threat of exploitation was a real concern.

Shemshi, having received Yusuf’s orders, asked with slight concern.

“There will be quite a bit of turmoil ahead. Drinking isn’t the only issue, is it?”

“Change always brings pain. We must endure it.”

Haram foods, meaning forbidden foods, weren’t designated without reason. There was often a practical basis for these prohibitions.

Looking at how seafood that changes color or smells bad is prohibited as Haram, many things harmful to the body were often prohibited under the guise of Haram. Health concerns often intertwined with religious restrictions.

The only way to solve this is through education. Informing people about the reasons behind the prohibitions was crucial.

‘Actually, drinking isn’t good, and there’s no need to allow it.’ Yusuf mused on the ideal outcome.

It’s the best way to drive initial reforms, so there’s no choice. We can only manage it to minimize problems. A pragmatic approach was necessary to navigate the complexities of reform.

Now that the floodgates have been opened, if we can control the direction well, we can avoid the rigid Islam like Islamic fundamentalism in modern times, and now we just need to watch. The goal was to steer the reforms towards a more moderate and tolerant form of Islam.

This is a reform for the future, and there was something more important right now. Immediate concerns demanded attention.

“Hasan, what’s the reaction to the rumors?”

“The negative sentiment towards Portugal, which had slightly subsided due to the assassination attempt, is spreading faster and wider.”

“Good.”

Yusuf smiled coldly. The political game was afoot.

Soon after, an envoy from Spain arrived in Constantinople.

***

The Spanish envoy, who had been waiting for an audience for four days since arriving in the capital, looked grim. The delay was a deliberate sign of disrespect.

When he first departed from Spain, he wasn’t too worried. He had anticipated a smoother reception.

The public opinion within the Ottoman Empire to punish Portugal had subsided below the surface due to the assassination attempt on the infidel emperor. The assassination had temporarily diverted attention.

In this atmosphere, there were even talks about whether it was necessary to send an envoy at all when departing, but the situation changed rapidly while sailing here. The shift in sentiment was alarming.

-If not for the deceit of the wicked Portuguese, how could subjects of the empire even imagine harming the Padishah?! The accusations were gaining traction.

-It is said that valuables from Portugal were found in the homes of those who led the assassination! Isn’t it obvious where the assassination funds came from?! The rumors were fueling anti-Portuguese sentiment.

-Have they forgotten their crushing defeat in last year’s naval battle, and they must be coveting the empire’s sea again! We cannot stand idly by while those who try to block the empire’s prosperity, the canal, do so! The historical rivalry was being reignited.

The Spanish envoy anxiously watched the people shouting loudly in the square and those responding to them. The atmosphere was volatile and dangerous.

Judging by the angry atmosphere alone, they seemed ready to rush to the battlefield if given weapons, and the situation was worse than expected. The public mood was reaching a fever pitch.

“Hurry up.”

The Janissaries [elite Ottoman soldiers], raising their bayonets and urging them on, showed no consideration, unlike when they had visited before. The change in treatment was stark and unsettling.

A grim atmosphere flowed in the First Courtyard of the palace, the Janissary Courtyard, where the guillotine still had dark red bloodstains. The recent executions served as a chilling reminder of the emperor’s power.

Perhaps it was because he had heard that there had been an execution recently, but judging by the way things were going, there was no guarantee that he wouldn’t be standing on it himself. The envoy feared for his own life.

Although the notoriety had faded after a long time, he was even more afraid because he knew how much blood the infidel emperor had seen from envoys. Yusuf’s reputation preceded him.

Forcing himself to hide his fear, the envoy entered the audience chamber and quickly bowed to Yusuf, who was leaning back in his chair and skillfully handling a gun. Yusuf’s nonchalant display of power was intimidating.

Click!

“It’s been a while.”

Yusuf, having put down the handled gun next to him, asked the envoy.

“What brings you here this time? If it’s about Portugal, go back. I have nothing to say to you.” Yusuf’s hostility was palpable.

“…Are you waiting for an envoy from Portugal?”

“No.”

Yusuf twisted his lips at the envoy’s question.

“I will go there myself.”

The envoy was startled by Yusuf’s declaration. The implications were clear.

Since the empire’s Padishah would not visit Portugal as an envoy, it meant he was leaving for Portugal on a personal campaign. This was tantamount to a declaration of war.

It was practically a declaration of war, and the envoy said urgently.

“Padishah, there seems to be a misunderstanding between the two countries.”

“A misunderstanding? What kind of misunderstanding are you talking about?”

“The rumor that Portugal colluded with the Padishah’s assassins while staying here is false. That cannot be.” The envoy vehemently denied the allegations.

No matter how crazy Portugal is acting, claiming they don’t share a border with the Ottoman Empire, they wouldn’t be that reckless. The accusation seemed absurd.

Who would do that to a crazy country that mobilizes nearly a hundred pirate ships as escorts when sending a princess as an envoy to France? The Portuguese were known for their aggressive displays of power.

Yusuf stroked the gun, protesting the envoy, and asked.

“Can you take responsibility for that statement? If not, you and your family will have to be careful of the empire’s reach for the rest of your lives.” Yusuf’s threat was unmistakable.

“Padishah?!”

“Answer me. Can you take responsibility?”

The envoy hesitated to answer yes to Yusuf’s pressure. The stakes were incredibly high.

No matter how deep the ties between Spain and Portugal are, how could he be sure? He couldn’t guarantee Portugal’s innocence.

If it was a plan secretly concocted by some crazy nobleman, his entire family would have to suffer from the Ottoman threat for the rest of their lives. The potential consequences were devastating.

“Do you have any evidence?”

“We do have valuables from Portugal among the confiscated items.”

“But that much can come out easily.”

“Yes, so there was also a witness. But now he has gone to Allah’s side. We can’t keep the assassin alive until now, can we?” Yusuf’s logic was ruthless.

It wasn’t wrong, but if the witness was dead, the testimony was meaningless. The lack of concrete evidence was glaring.

He couldn’t possibly not know that, and the envoy bit his lip, seeing that he wasn’t hiding the fact that he was being unreasonable. Yusuf was clearly manipulating the situation.

Yusuf gestured with his finger and said.

“Only say what you can handle in this place.” Yusuf demanded honesty and accountability.

The envoy twitched his lips several times, wondering if there was real evidence besides what he had said, and Yusuf said as if he had lost interest.

“Let’s say the assassination is like that. Then, are the insulting words about me spreading in Portugal also a misunderstanding?” Yusuf shifted the focus to another grievance.

“Those are just words from foolish, ignorant people.”

“If only one or two people were saying that, I could have let it go.” Yusuf implied that the insults were widespread and systemic.

Since when was the Ottoman Empire a good image? The envoy couldn’t help but feel a sense of injustice.

The envoy felt wronged that he was only now bringing up the insults, but he couldn’t say, ‘Please bear with it, it’s not the first or second time you’ve been insulted in front of the person involved.’ Such a statement would be suicidal.

“The Portuguese royal family and nobles are trying to prevent ridiculous rumors from spreading, so please give us a little more time.” The envoy pleaded for patience.

“Time, huh? I can wait.” Yusuf’s response was ambiguous.

The envoy’s face was more tense than pleased at Yusuf’s words. He sensed a trap.

The person who had been acting like he wanted to go to war with Portugal right away couldn’t have changed his mind. Yusuf’s intentions remained ominous.

The envoy’s prediction was correct.

“I can wait, but I don’t know if the empire’s subjects can wait.” Yusuf hinted at the pressure he faced from within.

“If the Padishah steps in!” The envoy suggested Yusuf could control the situation.

“Subjects include not only those shouting in the square but also the empire’s officials.” Yusuf emphasized the widespread discontent.

He wasn’t running the country alone, and if the opinions of his subjects were in agreement, he couldn’t easily suppress them. Yusuf portrayed himself as constrained by public opinion.

The envoy clenched his fist, watching Yusuf raise the corners of his mouth while saying that. He recognized the manipulation.

“…Do you really have to start a war?”

“I will take that to mean Carlos is siding with Portugal.” Yusuf framed the situation as a choice between alliances.

It was something the envoy couldn’t give a definite answer to, but Spain couldn’t abandon Portugal. Spain’s strategic interests were intertwined with Portugal’s.

Even if they weren’t related by blood, there was nothing as terrible as the Ottoman Empire establishing itself on the Iberian Peninsula. The prospect of Ottoman expansion was a nightmare scenario for Spain.

In the end, the envoy couldn’t say either yes or no. He was caught in an impossible situation.

“I will return to my country to inform them of the situation.” The envoy requested permission to consult with his government.

As the envoy left after paying his respects, and the door to the audience chamber closed, Yusuf got up from his seat and walked to the huge map on the wall.

“Shemshi Pasha.”

“Yes, Padishah.”

Shemshi, who had been standing like a shadow, bowed his head, and Yusuf looked at the map with his hands behind his back.

“Can we absorb Portugal?”

“Occupation is possible, but maintaining it will be difficult.” Shemshi offered a realistic assessment.

It wasn’t possible to connect to distant Portugal by land, and to get to Portuguese land, they had to pass through the Strait of Gibraltar. The logistical challenges were immense.

Even if they managed to occupy it with difficulty, it would be hard to occupy it for a long time because the transportation of supplies and troops would be difficult. Sustaining a long-term occupation would be a drain on resources.

“You are right. Even if we occupy it this time, it is land that we will not be able to hold for decades.” Yusuf acknowledged the limitations.

They would try hard to reclaim the land, and the more intense the resistance, the more resources would be wasted rapidly. The Portuguese would fight fiercely to regain their territory.

It wasn’t good land for the Ottoman Empire to swallow, and Yusuf had no intention of occupying Portugal from the beginning. His true goals lay elsewhere.

He just needed a justification for invading Portugal. The invasion was a means to an end.

“In order for the empire to smoothly invade Portugal, we need to open a road, don’t we?” Yusuf revealed his strategic thinking.

“That is correct.” Shemshi, already knowing Yusuf’s plan, smiled slightly.

Yusuf pointed to the map.

“Malta Island.” Yusuf identified the first target.

It was an island where the Knights Hospitaller, who had been expelled from Rhodes, had settled and become an impregnable fortress, but the history of the Knights Hospitaller being shattered and disappearing during the Rhodes era had become history. Malta’s strategic importance was undeniable.

It was an island in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, and a significant portion of the coastline was made up of cliffs rather than beaches, making it a tremendous strategic point, and although it was Spanish territory, it wouldn’t be difficult to occupy without the Knights of Malta. Malta’s defenses were formidable, but not insurmountable.

“Tunis.” Yusuf pointed to another key location.

It is a North African region closer to the Italian Peninsula than Algiers, is Spanish territory, and is land that must be occupied to seize control of the Mediterranean. Tunis was crucial for controlling the Mediterranean Sea.

If Tunis can be absorbed, the safety of Algiers, which is even closer to Spain, can be secured. Securing Tunis would strengthen the Ottoman position in North Africa.

Yusuf’s hand, moving westward from North Africa, was stamped on one place past Algiers.

“And up to here. This is land that the empire must acquire this time.” Yusuf declared his ambitious territorial goals.

Yusuf said firmly, and a spark flew somewhere. The stage was set for a major conflict.

***

Two dynasties waging war over Morocco. The internal conflict in Morocco presented an opportunity for Ottoman intervention.

An Ottoman envoy visited the Wattasid dynasty and the Saadi dynasty. The Ottomans were playing both sides.

“You must open the way to invade Portugal.” The Ottoman demand was audacious.

It was like a bolt from the blue. The Moroccan dynasties were caught off guard by the Ottoman proposal.