In the Ottoman Empire's capital, Edirne, Sultan Bayezid I was receiving updates in the war room. Having ascended to the throne a year ago after his father, Murad I, was assassinated, Bayezid swiftly had his brother, Yelqub, executed to thwart any coup plans.
In retaliation for his father's assassination during the Battle of Kosovo, Bayezid ordered the massacre of numerous Serbian prisoners of war. He cemented an alliance with Serbia by marrying Oliveira Dispina, the daughter of Serbian King Lazar Hrebeljanovic, granting his descendants a dynastic privilege. Stefan Lazarevich was appointed as Serbia's leader, enjoying considerable autonomy.
"Great Sultan, those behind the city walls are seeking aid from Hungary and other nations, disregarding our warnings. I propose an immediate attack on Constantinople to show our resolve," a subordinate suggested, a sentiment echoed by the assembled generals.
"Yes, those Christians cower behind the city walls. We've been too lenient; we should treat them with the same determination as the enemy," agreed the generals.
However, Grand Vizier Chandar Ali Pasha remained silent, prompting Bayezid to inquire about his thoughts.
"Honored Sultan," Ali Pasha began, "I've heard everyone's input. Considering Constantinople's location within our territory and their limited troops, we could plan an attack in the coming years."
Bayezid found Ali Pasha's suggestion reasonable and instructed his advisors to strategize an assault on Constantinople, asking about Ali's earlier silence.
Ali Pasha explained, "I have concerns about Wallachia, a small northern country reorganizing its army. It appears they are preparing for something significant."
"Wallachia? Where is it?" inquired Bayezid.
Ali pointed to the location on the map, which led to laughter from the officers.
"Such a tiny place! The Grand Vizier need not worry," they scoffed.
Ali decided to clarify the situation. "Please, listen. Wallachia, though small, recently executed nobles, formed a large army, and annexed North Dobroga. We should not underestimate them."
Some doubted Ali's caution, dismissing Wallachia's threat due to its size.
Ali emphasized, "We should not underestimate any nation. Wallachia has potential, and its ruler's involvement is concerning. They've also established a profitable chamber of commerce."
The generals remained skeptical, believing rumors were unreliable.
As a seasoned general, Suleiman Pasha saw Wallachia as inconsequential, confident in the Ottoman Empire's invincibility.
Bayezid interjected, "Let our vizier finish."
Ali continued, "While they broke from Hungarian rule sixty years ago, Wallachia's recent changes warrant attention. We should not dismiss them lightly."
Suleiman Pasha and others remained unconvinced, underestimating Wallachia.
Bayezid concluded, "Let's focus on our immediate concerns. Wallachia's threat seems minimal. We'll deal with them when necessary."
After Ali's failed attempt to highlight Wallachia's potential threat, the meeting concluded, leaving Bayezid with lingering doubts about his empire's future challenges.