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It was no longer unusual for women to be involved in politics.
In fact, some of them might do it better than men.
When Hedy attended the Consul's Council meeting, she maintained a calm and graceful demeanor, with a gaze that conveyed strength.
In the previous meetings, she had refrained from speaking or raising objections. Instead, she had observed the attitudes and inclinations of the majority and the key points of discussion.
After Leonardo da Vinci had improved the waterway systems around Florence, both the city and the surrounding irrigation and drainage systems became much more efficient.
The city’s defensive structures, built by da Vinci, had also been greatly enhanced, with well-thought-out elevators and mechanisms for defense.
At this point, the discussion turned to trade and diplomatic matters in the surrounding regions.
When the aimless conversation was about to conclude, someone looked towards the quiet Medici lady and, half-jokingly, spoke up, “It seems we have gained a devoted listener.”
Hedy did not speak impulsively. Instead, she unfurled a map before slowly standing up.
“My suggestion is to strengthen control over Pisa, develop military forces, and seize Luca.”
As soon as she spoke these words, many people showed surprised or mocking expressions, clearly not in agreement with her.
But she did not pause. Instead, she presented the surrounding situation.
“Everyone here is well aware of the bloody Massacre a few years ago.”
The Archbishop of Pisa had colluded with the Pazzi family to carry out an assassination, during which the lord’s younger brother also perished in the tragedy.
“The geographic position of Pisa is very close to Milan, Genoa, Modena, and the country of Luca. It is not only subject to theinfluence of multiple duchies but also controls Florence’s only seaport.” She raised her head, her gaze firm and voice steady. “If we do not strengthen management here, if Pisa rebels, the entire Florentine fleet will be at risk.”
Her words prompted an attempt to counter her: “But we shouldn’t be thinking about expanding the military either. You know how uncontrollable mercenaries can be.”
In times of war, mercenaries were motivated by profit, fighting for whoever paid them.
And in times of peace, they were a disaster in and of themselves.
Mercenary bands were inherently large and complex, with diverse sources of manpower, and even their leaders often struggled to maintain control.
In times of peace, these mercenaries would wander aimlessly through the city, causing disturbances, infringing on property or women, and sometimes creating such a ruckus that they would later deny any wrongdoing, sticking to a unified narrative.
They were more formidable than petty criminals, but they would demand absurd rewards, threatening to escalate chaos if their demands were not met.
Though they were bound by contracts, mercenaries were not suitable for large-scale development. For example, the Duchy of Milan had risen to power through a bloody coup and was now forced to imitate the Medici by organizing various festivals and performances to further court the support of ancient noble families, attempting to control the political balance.
“Mercenaries could be handled in a better way,” Hedy said without hesitation. “They can also become defenders of peace.”
Lorenzo, seated higher up, raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”
“Land and farming.” Hedy pulled out a detailed report and began explaining. “In the research report I submitted, many mercenaries requested resettlement and land after the war.”
“If they are given fixed farming or grazing areas, and contracts are signed to control the division of proceeds, it would effectively reduce unrest.”
The revenue from the land would be partly paid as rent to the lord, and the rest could go directly to the mercenaries.
In times of peace, reducing their fees or converting those fees into more tangible work would be possible.
Horse breeding, livestock, farming—there would be plenty of appropriate tasks for these rough men to do.
During wartime, they could surround the territory and earn a portion of the proceeds as a reward.
