Andrea Gritti smiled after signing the final agreement with the pirate lord - he had purchased Chios at far under cost and with an agreement protecting the Aegean from future raids. But now was time to defend the Republic's newest island.

Immediately criers and leaflets were distributed informing the citizens of Chios informing them that their bravery in defense of their island has so inspired the Republic, that the Serene Republic of Venice was able to make sure that not only would the pirates be forbidden from attacking them again, but also that the Ottomans could not threaten the island either, things the Republic of Genoa was unable to do. He also informed them that relief in terms of food and supplies for rebuilding was on its way, and that they would be seeing a nice influx of investment soon for their Mastic farms.

That being done, Gritti hopped back on his boat and sped back to the City of Bridges, where he recommended that they station the Venetian navy around the island in case Genoa gets any funny ideas. The senate agreed, and also approved the money for a further 500 mercenary musketmen to accompany the ships and secure the island in case of an invasion.

Leaving the Senate building, Gritti's last stop was to personally inform the Doge of his success. Walking into the grandeur of the Palaso Dogal, he could not help but smile. He hoped one day, he would have the great fortune of living within its beautiful walls, and help to steer the Republic forward. After all, events like today's were the ones careers were built on.

• Raising 500 merc musketment (70 per soldier a year, 35000 yearly total, 5833 total per tick)

• Entire Venetian navy is rerouting from Carrara to Chios