The young Andronikos finally forces his grandfather…

The young Andronikos finally forces his grandfather to abdicate in 1328 and enter a monastery, and becomes sole ruler as Andonikos III.

It is in some ways a victory for the younger generation of the aristocracy, of whom the leading light is John Kantakouzenos.

As emperor, Andronikos relies heavily on the guidance of Kantakouzenos, who encourages reform of the law courts and initiates the rebuilding of the imperial navy, which had been neglected in the reign of Andronikos' predecessor.

Under Andronikos, the Orthodox monasteries take a more active role in both ecclesiastical and civil affairs.