basil

What if Otto III of the Holy Roman Empire lived longer, married Zoe Porphyrogenita, and was later nominated by Basil II to be Eastern Roman co-emperor? Otto III seemed to be a capable Holy Roman Emperor, despite only reigning for 5 years. He also admired Greek and Roman culture. With Basil...

Historically, the Byzantines were only really able to start gaining territory again in the 10th and early 11th centuries, and that was quickly undone after the Battle of Manzikert. Were there opportunities for Roman reconquests before this? Perhaps attacking the Abbasids during the Zanj Rebellion?

It is 1025, and Basil II the Bulgar-Slayer has died. Unlike in OTL, he has capable successors--several "Good Emperors"--in command of his 250,000-man army over the next few decades. During the reigns of these powerful emperors, the Eastern Roman Empire destroys most of its rivals, playing them...