The Emperor’s figure could be seen in broadcasts from every corner of the Empire. Despite his figure being that of a youth barely out of their childhood, he displayed the prowess of a mighty warrior.

They had just witnessed him end of the man who suppressed them all and displayed the might that felled him.

Especially those in the Capital.

They've themselves had witnessed the battle that had taken place in the skies above Olympia.

Many were in awe. Especially the children whose eyes were wide with admiration. Like that of a hero in a tale.

Others were of fear of his power and skill.

But everyone waited with bated breath at what their new Emperor would demand from them.

But then he did something utterly bizarre.

He took off the black cap and bowed.

“On behalf of the Monarchy, I sincerely apologize. to you...my people...”

Did the Emperor just bow and apologize? The citizens stared dumbstruck.

The lowest and kindest of nobles wouldn’t dare to show such for the sake of maintaining their dignity yet the Emperor himself had done it.

“For ten years, you’ve suffered under the yoke of Adolv Stahlin. Many have fallen victim to his schemes to seize power. It would be foolish for me to say that I know how much you’ve suffered. Your natural response would be “How would you know?! You’ve been living in a palace full of luxury!” Those words would surely come to mind.”

It was true.

Some did feel that resentment. Now that Stahlin was gone, they only had to turn their resentment of their sufferings to the next figure. It was, of course, the Emperor. A lot of them were about to launch riots across the Empire.

The Emperor stood up and stared through the broadcast as though he were looking at them with an intense gaze.

“However, given the circumstances wherein I wasn’t even allowed to do anything for the Empire since I wasn’t an adult is still a fact. As a child, I had to seize strength and power to reclaim what was stolen and to put an end to the villain’s screams. But in the process, I had been unable to do anything for any of you. You can blame me all you want since Stahlin is no more. You can shift your resentment and anger towards me. But I ask you... WHAT GOOD, WILL THAT DO?”

His sudden loud words snapped at them.

It struck a lot of people dumb when they heard that.

In their anger, they wanted to turn on the Emperor for negligence. Completely ignoring the crucial fact that he couldn’t do anything for the Empire even if he wanted to. Primarily, they just wanted to vent their anger.

But his words were sharp enough to put the breaks on that.

WHAT GOOD, WILL THAT DO?

“Will it bring back what is lost? Will it overturn what has happened? Will it bring you happiness? Will overthrowing the monarchy work? Perhaps it may relieve your negative feelings, but what next? Ask yourselves this…WHAT NEXT? What can we do to remedy the situation? What will happen next? Who will lead you after?”

He kept firing question after question. It was a rather dangerous set of questions. He was asking everyone to imagine a revolution with him being overthrown. But then he was also asking them what will happen next?

They might stand united in causing a revolution.

It might satiate their feelings of resentment towards the nobility and the monarchy…but once the monarchy is overthrown, who will lead them?

Once the revolution ends, the Empire would be just a landmass full of strife and arguing lords vying for dominance. There may be some crude government that could be formed but it will take decades to restructure everything.

And that’s just one of the many problems.

Food? Security? A future?

The Emperor bringing up the thought of uncertain times to follow had doused the flames of revolution in the people’s hearts.

“If our people chose to abolish the monarchy and its nobility, I will step aside if that was what you all wish. But I wonder if that is the best decision for the Empire…no, for this land’s people?”

The people looked at the broadcast. Even the nobles in the hall were silent.

The Emperor was just a young man. Their earlier impression of him was changed. There was a determined look on his face. It wasn’t from hot blood or fierceness. It was as if he had already laid out a plan for all of them.

And he had a determination to settle it.

“Right now, we have centralized control of the government, and with me officially taking full power you have a leader at least for now. I must bear the responsibility to clean up the upper echelon’s messes. First, we need a lot of restructuring on the government side. With Stahlin and his allies out of commission, a lot of vacant positions have been opened. Right now, I shall announce who shall replace them.”

***Will's POV***

Alright. I carefully wrote that spiel as an opener.

I turned to face my friend.

“Wynston von Vismark, come forward.”

The blonde, pony-tailed glasses gave him the classic look of an intellectual ikemen. As though to match his appearance, he had a rather cold and calculating demeanor.

“Your assistance in gathering evidence and investigating all of Stahlin’s crimes is praiseworthy beyond commendable. Despite the dangers and risk of going against such a powerful man, you’ve skillfully attained the necessary information and done what I’ve asked.”

“This unworthy me is undeserving of such praise, Your Majesty.”

“However, I also recognize your other talents in law and politics. As well as your integrity, determination, and good moral character. Now that we have removed an obstacle from the way, I would like to make use of your talents in the bigger field. I hereby appoint you as the new Prime Minister. Will you accept?”

He was silent.

Meanwhile, the surroundings began to become noisy.

Some of the nobles were voicing complaints and protests about Wynston being appointed as Prime Minister. Well, a mere third son of a low noble suddenly becoming Prime Minister was certainly unheard of.

However…

“SILENCE!”

I said in a loud booming voice that echoed throughout the hall which quickly silenced them.

“I have individually assessed all nobles present as to who is capable of handling the post. As it stands Lord Wynston is the most suitable to work alongside me for our goals. If you wish to complain, do it after showing your results!”

I gave them a cold stare that seemed to work.

“Now Lord Wynston, what shall it be?”

Wynston took a moment before taking a bow.

“If His Majesty wills it then I shall obey. During my tenure, I swear allegiance to you and the Empire.”

Oi...you’re making it sound like I’m not giving you much of a choice and ordering you to be Prime Minister.

The nobles were flabbergasted. I also caught the gazes of Baron Alexandria and his two older sons whose jaws completely dropped to the floor.

“I’m glad to hear that. I’ll be working with you and expect good things from your efforts.”

"Ha!"

And now I turned to the other most important person.

“Leofold Schweiz, step forward.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

The Vice-Captain of the Imperial Guard, Leofold, approached me before making a standard soldier’s salute.

“As the fool is no longer the Captain of the Imperial Guard. With the position open, I promote you to Captain of the Imperial Guard.”

“I beg your pardon, Your Majesty, but I am unworthy.”

Ah, we only agreed he would follow my orders when I convinced him in secret.

“Oh, and why so?”

I expected this response.

“I may be the Vice-Captain…I failed miserably to rein him in.”

"It would have been impossible for you given the circumstances."

"Guh!"

Okay, I didn't mean to roast him.

I'm sure you've noticed it when I called his last name Schweiz.

It was hard to believe but Leofold was Wulfric’s half-brother. He was the son of a mistress who died in childbirth. Due to his status as beastman, his human-supremacist stepmother and half-brother tormented him. His father did hold some affection by legitimizing him but never really connected with him even till the day he died. When the Marquis passed, however, Whulvric became the new head of the family. He and his mother immediately revoked Leofold's legitimacy. This was why he doesn't have "von" in his name. They kept him around simply because he was useful as a "guard dog."

When Whulvric became Captain under Stahlin's suggestion (in other words, his meatheaded stooge), his mother made him use Leofold as his Vice-Captain. Not because of any affection. She was at least smart to acknowledge that her son was rather incompetent. Leofold would do all the work for her brat.

I convinced him to join my side by reminding him that he swore an oath of loyalty to the Emperor and not to his brother.

And after I beat him and his loyal comrades to a pulp.

“That is why I am “punishing” you by promoting you to his position as Captain.”

Leofold blinked. It was amazing how a good-looking, dog-eared man can remain dazzling even when confused. Tch.

“Forgive me, Your Majesty. I do not understand.”

Seriously, don’t give me that upward dazzling look.

“You need to rectify his mistakes that have tarnished the Imperial Guard’s reputation and the House of Schweiz. I need someone who has the skills, abilities, and the leader to fill in the position. It just so happens you can fill both roles. Think of it as doing your duty. Unless you want to make the situation even worse than it already is.”

“I wouldn’t dare Your Majesty!”

“Then, give me your answer!”

Leofold closed his eyes and got to his knee before me.

“I, Leofold Schweiz, accept this role and duty, Your Majesty. And I swear upon my sword and life, to be of service to you and the Empire.”

A simple “yes” would have worked. I guess the Knights still need their love for flair.

“Do not betray my trust and this chance to rectify the mistakes of your brother. Serve our Empire well.”

“Ha!”

Vice-Captain…no, Captain Leofold salutes me.

I return my gaze to the broadcast crystal and by extension the people and towards the nobles who were present before me.

“Now, two major positions have been filled. However, even with these two excellent figures by my side, I still require more to help me govern this country. I have already scouted several candidates with the appropriate skills and characters but many more positions are empty and/or are soon to be established. And not just in governance but in many specializations that help stabilize and develop Atlantasia. I need your skills and abilities.”

Then with a grin, I raised my hand as though to emphasize my next words.

“Therefore, I call on my subjects, both nobles, and commoners, to present to me what you’ve got! Regardless of whether you are nobles or commoners…if you are Human or Beastkin or Fantasyfolk… If you have the talent and skills we need! Show it to us! If you are useful I will welcome you!”

My announcement has caused quite the stir.

The Empire had primarily been run with government positions and many prominent positions exclusive to those within influential Noble families. A clear case of Nepotism.

I intend to change all that.

“Further details will be explained further in upcoming broadcasts. Apart from that, there will be other important announcements including reforms and agendas that I will enact in the coming days. Prepare yourselves as we all walk into a new era. With this, I bid you all a good evening.”

And with that I had one of the servants switch off the Broadcast Crystal.

“And that goes for all of you.”

I say once more to the Nobility present in the hall. All of them jolted at my words.

“If you have the skills we need, show them to me. But know this, you are not allowed to flaunt your nobility prestige or the past achievements of your families. I don’t care about your status. Whether you are amongst the ranks of Dukes or mere Baronets, I want results rather than your court standing. I want to see what you at the present can do! Not what the people of the past have done.”

Some of the lesser nobles seemed to think this would be a chance to rise. A number of the higher-rank nobles looked a little threatened.

“And one more thing. If you try anything to cut the competition, directly or indirectly, upfront or through underhand tactics, and even more so to the commoners who will also be vying for this chance. Know this.”

I released my Magic Power once more which caused everyone to back away.

“I will know. And I can do worse to you than what I did to Stahlin. Do you understand?”

Everyone went to their knees and bowed low.

“And with that, I call tonight’s events to a close. Enjoy the rest of the evening. The remaining Knights will escort you to your carriages.”

Knights saluted as they began escorting everyone out.

There was still another matter. I made a simple hand single.

Tell your Commander to meet me at the appointed time.

Although you can’t see him, I know he was there and with a nod, he vanished into the shadows.

“Your Majesty. About those Night Lurkers. What’s your relationship with- '' Leofold began but I cut him off. This wasn’t the place to ask questions.

“I will explain in due time. For now, Wynston…go clear things up with your family. I am sure they have a lot of questions. Once you’re done, start preparing those documents we’ve discussed.”

“Understood.” He bows to me.

“As for you, Leofold. Have your men escort Antoineth and confine her to the Bohrbon Archducal Palace. Then start assembling the troops at sunrise to formally announce the change of command.”

“A-As you will...”

“Wilthelm?”

I turned and saw my mother approaching me while being escorted by the Knights.

“Mother…”

“Wilthelm...what is going on? I...I don’t understand.”

“Mother, I’m sorry. I am sure you have a lot of questions but...I think we should both rest for now. I will explain everything once all is settled.”

“B-But-”

However, I already turned my back.

“Knights. Escort the Dowager Empress to her rooms.”

“By your will!”

The Knights said with a salute and began to escort my mother away.

“W-Wait! Wilthelm!”

“Mother...It’s been a long day. I’ll see you soon. Good night.”

For some reason, as soon as she saw my face her eyes widened. With a sad sigh, she followed the knights. I turned my attention back to Wynston and Leofold who both complicated looks.

“Once you’re both done, come to my office first thing in the morning. We have much to discuss.”

Both my new Prime Minister and Knight-Captain bowed.

With a sweep of my mantle, I exited the hall. Or at least, I tried to until Leofold alerted me that he was still holding onto the Imperial Crown.

Instead of wearing it on my head again, I stuffed that thing back in my Hammerspace.

Now that I think about it, why didn’t I just stuff that thing earlier? Ah, I guess it’s because I wanted some bit of dramatic flair earlier when I tossed it.

Plus, I wanted to see Leofold make that sliding dogeza…

Several servants and Knights attempted to escort me as I made my way out to the hall. Well, it was always set that I had to be accompanied by them all the time. But those were orders from Stahlin. It’s time for some changes and one order from me had them stay put.

After all this, I need some peace and alone time!