The Price of Progress (2)

I studied Witte's expression carefully, noting the subtle shift in his demeanor as understanding dawned. The ministers around us remained bewildered, but he had already grasped the implications of my proposal.

"Then what about the upper house?" he asked, his voice measured but eyes alert.

"We will follow Peter the Great's era as is. Representatives I appoint and various departments will share authority. There's no shortage of qualified candidates—high courts, the audit office, investigation office, universities."

Though I had explained only this much, confusion still marked the faces of most ministers present. But Witte's eyes sparkled with comprehension, already visualizing the complete structure taking shape.

Parliament with upper and lower houses.

A system that had existed in our past, now being revived. Yet there remained one position I had deliberately not mentioned.

The Prime Minister.

Father had avoided creating positions where power might concentrate outside his direct control. But such an approach was unsustainable for governing this vast empire. How could one possibly control and govern without delegating power? It defied common sense.

I looked at Witte, our unspoken understanding clear between us.

'Witte, I've created the fighting arena.'

His slight nod told me he understood perfectly.

'...Your Majesty.'

Even with these changes, the empire's laws could not be altered unless the Tsar decided to legislate them. I would open this arena for political combat, betting that my authority would remain supreme while the ambitious fought among themselves for influence.

Now they could fight each other instead of constantly bringing their petty rivalries and demands to me.

Stop tormenting me with endless requests and reports. Let them battle for position and policy while I focus on the broader vision for Russia's future.

As the meeting concluded and the ministers filed out, still murmuring among themselves, Witte lingered behind. We exchanged a knowing glance—the game had begun. Whether this would strengthen Russia or hasten its collapse remained to be seen, but at least now there was movement, the possibility of change.

And for the moment, that was enough.