BETRAYAL OF DIGNITY
Part 29 ~ 1
The Mad King
The coronation ceremony was a magnificent spectacle.
Damien solemnly pledged before God to devote his life to the prosperity of Swanton. A substantial reward was offered for the capture of Johannes, who had abandoned the throne and fled. Thus began the reign of the Thisse dynasty.
Instead of extravagant balls, daily court meetings became the new norm. Nobles and citizens alike flocked to Swane well before the social season began to attend parliamentary sessions. As they perused the policies outlined by the new king, they tensed in anticipation. While there wasn't a question the King couldn't answer, there were many who were caught off guard by his inquiries.
It was proof of how much insight one could gain after repeatedly pondering their thoughts, for they could see that Damien had a clear vision for the nation firmly established in his mind. The members of parliament quickly realized that his preparation for ascending the throne had not begun a mere year or two after the war. Recognizing that he was a natural-born leader, they admired the patience he had displayed while silently tolerating the absurd actions of his own kin.
The kingdom, which had spiraled into the worst state of disarray since its founding, quickly found stability. Feeling threatened, the Duchy of Carter attempted to exert pressure by increasing tariffs. However, Damien firmly countered this move by withdrawing from the trade negotiations.
He had reached the conclusion that Swanton's relations with Carter, which had alternated between war and truce for half a century, could not possibly worsen. His decision was also heavily influenced by the recent rise to the throne of Carter's heir, a despot unlike any the Duchy had seen before. Damien had concluded that it was inconceivable to form an alliance with a man who had shot dead his subordinate in front of his pregnant lover for disrespecting her. Given Damien's distrust of irrationality and disdain for vulgarity, it was best for him to avoid meeting with the King of the Duchy of Carter.
"Do you think Johannes has sought refuge in the Duchy of Carter?" Weiss asked.
"Yes, undoubtedly," Damien replied drily. "Johannes would have been incapable of escaping on his own."
If the newly crowned King of Carter happened to be a dim-witted madman, he would be a perfect counterpart for Johannes. Yet, should he turn out to be a cunning lunatic, it was clear that he would exploit Johannes as leverage against Swanton.
"Restrictions may be imposed on travelers going to and from the Duchy of Carter, so I will act as swiftly as possible," said Weiss.
"I should have followed your counsel and had him assassinated earlier."
"You are not one to dwell on regrets."
"Perhaps I am getting older, after all," Damien mused, dipping his quill into the inkwell.
Weiss frowned. The subtle note of weariness in the voice of a man known for his unwavering determination was uncharacteristic.
"If my father had heard that, he would be astounded," Weiss remarked.
"Send my regards to the old count," Damien replied, chuckling. "Tell him I am grateful for the support I received in the war from his youngest son, whom he fathered at the ripe age of fifty."
Weiss hesitated before asking, "When do you plan to hold Her Majesty's funeral?"
Damien's blue eyes grew dimmer, and his long eyelashes quivered slightly, betraying his inner turmoil.
"You must understand better than anyone else that there are countless prying eyes within the royal palace," said Weiss in a hushed tone.
Damien's lip twisted in amusement. "What makes you think I do not enjoy sleeping next to a coffin?"
