The Distinguished Mr. Rose Chapter 125: Chapter 124: What the Ripples See

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Chapter 124: What the Ripples See Young Emperor Karolus was met with many long, restless evenings following Ganelon’s trial. With the evidence provided by Lucius, Sir Olivier and his administration immediately apprehended all those complicit in the prior rebellion, as well those who contributed in the former High Tribunal’s sordid dealings. They complained at first and demanded to be released, but without any backing they quickly found themselves sentenced and summarily imprisoned. Perhaps it was precisely because the nation was undergoing such great change that the proceedings went smoothly — none had the patience nor energy anymore to tolerate these rotten links, most of all Karolus who delivered his judgement swift and fair. But unfortunately for the castle, with many arrests came also a lack of personnel. Every faction, from the judiciary, to the priesthood, and the paladin order, found themselves scrambling about in a mad dash, frantically doing the work of what would ordinarily take twice their number. Yes, the hole left behind from their absence was sorely felt, and yet it also provided an opportunity for those previously shunned and intimidated by Ganelon to make themselves known. A new age was dawning on the empire of Francia. As buildings were erected and the people, ever slowly, returned to their normal lives, they looked up toward the hill where sat their holy site; and they bowed in reverence, singing prayers and giving thanks to their new lord. In the rare chances Lucius spotted the boy outside his room, a gaggle of advisers would follow him wherever he went, practically suffocating the poor fellow in all the duties and matters that needed to be attended. His once bright and curious disposition had all but disappeared, making way for a boy with dark, saggy eyes and a quiet sigh. Roland and the other Peers did their best to lighten his workload. But unbeknownst to them, it was not physical exhaustion that truly weighed on his weary heart. It was the expectations, the hopes thrust his way, the people outside still uncertain about what tomorrow would bring. Even after another week had passed, he still found it difficult to leave the castle and venture beyond its confines. So it was that, on one faithful day, Karolus snuck away from his ever persistent entourage and shyly approached Lucius with a request. “Hoho, whatever is your concern, my friend?” Lucius asked. The boy hesitated for a moment, his small frame covered head to toe in bulky armor and regal attire, the front of which was covered in a myriad of gold, black, and white emblems to signify his royal status. He now wore the crown wherever he went, along with the Joyeuse which rested blandly in a decorated scabbard. When he finally found his voice, he said, “Um, is it okay if you come with me to tour the city? It’s the emperor’s duty to inspect the reconstruction efforts, and Grandpa Turpin said it’d make the people happy if they could see my face for a bit.” Lucius smiled and gave the boy a reassuring pat on the head. “Of course, of course! I’d be delighted to, but may I ask why you sound so apprehensive? Such a jaunt should be a simple matter for a fellow of your strength.” “Well, it’s kind of embarrassing to admit, but… I’m nervous about seeing them. My citizens. What if I’m not what they thought I’d be? What if they’re disappointed? I know it’s silly to think about, but still it’d be nice to have someone I know with me.” “What about the others? I’m sure Roland or the other Peers would happily serve as your escorts.” A somber look flashed across Karolus’s face, and he awkwardly stood in place before replying, “Yeah, they probably would. But it wouldn’t be the same.” “Whatever do you mean?” “They’re… different now. Before, Grandpa Turpin would always hug me with a smile whenever I saw him, and he’d give me all kinds of little treats or candies to snack on. I liked that about him, how warm he was, but now I feel like there’s this distance between us. It’s alm