Herzog, who had been quiet about the derailed meeting so far, finally spoke up, his voice calm and measured. “You were not informed because this is business for Dukes, not Counts.”
image [https://i.imgur.com/CqFWi7Y.jpeg]
“The King only appoints Dukes who have made enormous contributions to the guild’s prosperity to become High Council members. Between Claudius being a founding member and Sofia leading the armed forces, what has that Baron child achieved? What have you done?”
For a quick moment, Herzog’s face darkened. “Do I really need to remind you?”
Count Mikhailov flinched for a second, but then pressed on. “Is this one of your tricks again, Herzog? Like the LVL 25 Praetorian roaming the palace you call your son?”
“It’s not a trick. A Praetorian’s duty is to protect the Upper Echelon, Count. He’s learning, just as all of us must learn. Even from failure.” Herzog was back to his calm self.
“How can he protect anyone if he can’t even set foot outside the capital? A simple mob could eat him alive. At that level, he should be a Soldier at best.”
“A Praetorian’s role goes beyond physical defence. Just by looking after the rulers of a country, they gain insight into the politics of running it. They wield political power, as they did in Ancient Rome. My son may be struggling, but he’s gaining experience, shadowing his brother when possible.” Herzog’s response was patient, almost weary, until he added the last bit. “Plus, it’s quality time with the family, whenever Lucio visits.”
The Jester rolled his eyes. Of course. Quality time with the family. Never change, Alois.
“Experience as in handling an NPC revolt at their Estate?” the Baroness quipped. “I heard that was caused by a LVL 1 Player. How does something like this even happen?”
The Jester laughed again, louder this time, his enjoyment of the tension in the room palpable.
“We don’t know the truth of that yet. That’s what we intend to find out today.” Herzog had remained unfazed. “What we do know is that failure often hides valuable lessons. One day, when this war with the Heavenly Union is over, people will rise to LVL 50 again. When that happens, Carnifex will need experienced leaders. My son will be ready, even if we are not here to guide him.”
A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.
The Count glared at Herzog, suspicion darkening his features. “Is that a threat?”
Herzog smiled faintly. “Merely a warning: don’t ignore the future, or it will come for you. That’s all.”
The Count’s eyes flashed with rage. “The kingdom is sitting on a powder keg of problems and instead of removing it, you’re distracted fathering someone else’s children that play with matches.”
Herzog had paused, then spoken with quiet authority. “Vasili, I met with the Duke of Tovenir last week. We’ve arranged a transfer of 35 servants from his lands to yours. It’s already been approved by King Ahlgren.”
The Count looked over to the Jester Claudius in disbelief. “Is that true?”
The Jester had to find his bearings for a moment. He was a bit out of it, as the whole discussion to that point had felt like a stage play he was completely enthralled by, but that suddenly called out into the audience to get involved, shattering his suspension of disbelief. Some fools just never learn that questioning authority can end badly for them.
“Why yes, dear Count. As the King’s right-hand man, I can assure you that I was the King’s right-ear man when I bore witness to the negotiations like the King’s right-eye man. And let me tell you as the King’s right-mouth man that the Duke is speaking the truth on that matter. Is your doubt quelled now?”
The Count didn’t want to respond to that, so Herzog continued: “Additionally, I secured an agreement with Baron Bonatelli to increase food production for the frontlines. The rations you need will arrive shortly. I’ll also have you know that my visit to the Blitz Estate wasn’t of a personal nature, but to ensure that Baron Bonatelli increases the production of food supplies to send to the front lines, which he agreed to. That should help with the lack of rations in the Dragon’s Spine.”
The Baroness had raised an eyebrow, surprised. “One step ahead…”
“I’ll send a letter to Commander Steiger,” Herzog had replied. “He’s a resourceful Elite. I’m confident he can spare some officers to assist with the Scornix.”
He turned to meet Sallow’s eyes.
The Baroness nodded, satisfied. “The future can come.”
Herzog turned back to the Count. “Now, remind me, Count, what have you done so far except complain?”
The Count, caught off-guard, had sputtered but said nothing. He is the Ministry of Commerce after all.
Herzog’s expression had remained cool. “Well then, I suggest you return to Prye and begin managing your new arrivals. The frontlines won’t fix themselves.”
Before the Count could respond, General Sofia had interjected, her tone sharp. “Enough. We’ve convened today to solve another matter—the LVL 1 Player. Take your seat, Herzog.”
Herzog sat down, unchanged. The room had fallen silent as the General’s command had hung in the air.
“Right.” Herzog said, resetted, as if the conversation had never happened. “Let’s start with a quick summary of what we know.”
Eerie. That man is not human.
In an instant, the mood had shifted from bickering to anticipation. The council braced itself, awaiting to hear the story of the mysterious Player who could change everything.