Chapter 4 Arthur's Plan

As Arthur delved into the myriad challenges confronting the Elmsworth estate, he grappled with the realization that devising a strategy proved more formidable than mere contemplation. Nestled in the north-western expanses along the coast, the Elmsworth estate boasted a lineage interwoven with the Imperial Dracon, establishing their aristocratic standing through the corridors of seniority.

Despite this historical gravitas, their relations with neighboring counties had perennially strained under the weight of past grievances. Now, the looming predicament materialized as a coalition of avaricious neighboring counties united against Elmsworth.

Positioned as one of the two northern realms blessed with a coastline, Elmsworth held a strategic advantage offset by an antiquated navy that struggled to contend with the demands of the contemporary era. The specter of piracy further marred their maritime pursuits, compounding the challenges they faced. A recent outbreak of plague had cast a shadow on their fiefdom army, substantially weakening their military might—an affliction only subdued shortly before Arthur's birth.

Crown Prince Johannes, in his prime, had once lent his aid to Elmsworth, forging an allegiance that prompted their unwavering support for his claim to the throne. However, with the untimely demise of the Crown Prince, the Elmsworth family found itself thrust into an isolationist state, stripped of official backing. In this void, neighboring counties and the Earldom of Theanbe seized the opportunity to exploit Elmsworth's vulnerabilities, their eyes set greedily upon the coveted coastline that promised personal enrichment.

At the forefront of the Elmsworth family stood Grafield Van Elmsworth, a revered patriarch and Ginny's father. His illustrious past included leading soldiers into battles against southern nations and engaging in skirmishes with the Nadur Republic. However, the resurgence of his estranged elder brother in the Theanbe region posed an imminent threat. Discontented vassals left Grafield to join his brother, creating division within the once-united Elmsworth family.

Caught in this perilous position, Grafield found himself entangled in a formidable predicament. To champion Elmsworth's cause, Arthur recognized the imperative need to confront not only the rebellious vassals but the entire Theanbe region. Yet, the political strength required to undertake such a monumental task remained elusive, shackled by the puppetry inherent within the Imperial Palace.

However, Arthur, in his contemplation, discerned a latent potential within this vulnerability. His puppet status, generally perceived as a limitation, emerged as an unexpected strength. The confines of the palace allowed him to operate discreetly within the shadows, shielded from the prying eyes of external forces. If he could navigate the intricate chessboard of politics covertly, he might discern and exploit the weaknesses of those seeking to exploit Elmsworth.

Arthur envisioned a strategic dance, akin to a ballet of manipulation and secrecy. His political impotence within the palace could function as a smokescreen, permitting him to maneuver without arousing undue attention. While direct confrontation might be beyond his immediate reach, subtle machinations and clandestine alliances formed behind closed doors could potentially tip the scales in favor of Elmsworth.

As the puppet emperor, Arthur comprehended that his true power lay not in overt displays of might but in the delicate orchestration of political maneuvering. The palace, once perceived as a gilded cage, now transformed into the shadowy stage where Arthur, the puppeteer, could deftly pull strings unnoticed. To salvage Elmsworth from the encroaching threat, he recognized the need to engage in the intricate game of thrones with finesse, exploiting the vulnerabilities of those who underestimated the ostensibly powerless emperor.

~Arthur's Pov~

I've decided to seek help from Duke Raul and Duke Aquila, the two influential old men running things in the empire. They've got a lot of power.

I'm thinking, what if I use their ongoing political competition to my advantage? Yeah, let's try it! This plan will compel both of them to help Elmsworth.

__ __ __ __ __ __ __

Arthur has devised a shrewd plan to enlist the support of Duke Raul and Duke Aquila. His approach involves individually approaching each duke, seeking their opinions on a particular matter crucial to his cause.

Should either duke display hesitation or decline assistance, Arthur has a strategic move up his sleeve. He plans to deftly introduce the prospect of consulting the other duke, subtly pitting them against each other.

By leveraging their existing political rivalry, Arthur aims to exploit any underlying tension or competition between Duke Raul and Duke Aquila.

The mere suggestion of seeking the other's counsel is intended to compel them into action, each trying to outmaneuver and undermine the other in their bid to win Arthur's favor.

In essence, Arthur strategically turns their political differences into an advantage, using their rivalry as a tool to secure the support he requires. It's a calculated move that navigates the delicate web of political dynamics, showcasing Arthur's ability to play the game of power with finesse.

 __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

A/N

Sorry for short chapter...

From now on, Updates would be on Friday and Sunday everyweek.