In 1328 the young and energetic Andronikos III Palaiologos succeeded his grandfather on the Byzantine throne. One of the leading Chian nobles, Leo Kalothetos, went on behalf of the Chian population to meet the new emperor and his chief minister, John Kantakouzenos, to propose a reconquest of the island. Andronikos III readily agreed, and, finding a pretext in Martino's unauthorized construction of a fortress, sailed with a large fleet against him.
In 1328, Andronikos III Palaiologos, a young and vigorous successor to his grandfather on the Byzantine throne, took office. One of the prominent Chian nobles, Leo Kalothetos, represented the Chian populace in meeting with the new emperor and his chief advisor, John Kantakouzenos, to suggest reclaiming the island. Andronikos III enthusiastically agreed, finding a justification in Martino's unauthorized construction of a fortress, and led a substantial fleet against him.