Chapter 183

Words : 697 Updated : Oct 1st, 2025

Chapter 183 “Truly wise, Your Majesty.” When the prime minister, Roberts Floyd, bowed his head with these words, all the ministers in attendance at the state council similarly bowed their heads to express their respect. A familiar sight. It would have been perfect if it had ended there. But the same phrase was always added. “Then I shall discuss this matter with Count Logan and bring it back to the agenda in the next meeting.” Twinge. King Rogers felt that today, of all days, this was particularly grating on his nerves. Usually, he would have laughed it off, but today he found himself raising his eyebrows unintentionally in annoyance. Trying to calm his mind, he closed his eyes. “Your Majesty, are you feeling unwell?” Being poked at by an idiot who couldn’t even detect the mood of the monarch was irritating indeed. Or maybe, he knows exactly what he’s doing? ...No, that wouldn’t be the case. ‘It couldn’t be that serious.’ The King let out a sigh as he opened his eyes again. “No, no. I’m just a bit tired, Prime Minister. We shall end today’s meeting here.” “...Understood, Your Majesty.” As the Prime Minister bowed and retreated. Unnecessary voices carried on the conversation. “We must find a queen for Your Majesty soon.” “That’s right. It must be lonely during the long nights; no wonder you feel tired.” “Hahaha. Indeed, we must.” The ministers could joke like this if they were close to the monarch. But were we ever close? ...Since when? Crunch. Bang! As Rogers slammed his fist on the desk, overwhelmed by rising emotions, the hall fell silent. However, faced with the startled gazes of his ministers, he immediately regretted his actions. ‘Damnit...’ What a foolish act. A ruler should not show such emotional outbursts, especially for such trivial reasons. “Hmm. I will mention the marriage when the time is right. The affairs of state need not be rushed, especially since the heir is still young.” He managed to speak calmly. Then someone unexpected spoke out of turn. “Earl Palmer’s words are not entirely wrong, Your Majesty.” Roberts Floyd. What scheming is this now? The King struggled to keep his thoughts from turning negative and tried to maintain a benign expression. “What do you mean?” “Yes, Your Majesty.” The faithful servant immediately bowed his head from a distance. “What was the name of this drink? It tastes particularly good today.” “It is one of the empire’s famous liquors, called Flamara, Your Majesty.” “Flamara?” “Yes. It is said to mean ‘flame’ in the ancient language.” Pause. “...Right. It’s fitting. Is this the one you recommended?” “My apologies, Your Majesty.” “Apologies? I’m praising you. Ha ha.” “It’s an honor, Your Majesty.” “Honor, nothing. I am thankful. This drink, if nothing else, brings me comfort.” *...* Once again filling his glass, he found pleasure in the sight of the newly risen moon. But. ‘Flame, huh...’ The name reminded him of someone. Maybe that’s why he found himself saying something he usually wouldn’t. “What do you think of Logan Maclaine?” Had the question come too abruptly? Cleo’s face tightened slightly, but then. “He is the chief contributor who ended the civil unrest and supported your ascension, Your Majesty.” It was the typical answer anyone in the kingdom might give. Perhaps even adding that he was a hero who saved the nation. “Yes. That’s true...” Someone not much older than himself, who had changed the kingdom. The man who made him king out of nothing. He should be grateful, and indeed, he was supposed to be grateful. “Then why...” Why did that man bother him? A self-deprecating mumble. Almost hoping no one heard, he swallowed the rest of his thought. But then he thought, why should a king feel troubled about expressing his feelings? “Louis.” “Yes, Your Majesty.” “If I were to die now, who would become king?” Louis couldn’t answer that question, and the king’s expression only hardened. Days later... Logan Maclaine arrived in the capital.

Chapter 183

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