The Distinguished Mr. Rose Chapter 91: Chapter 90: A Gentlemanly Promotion

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Chapter 90: A Gentlemanly Promotion The room fell silent. Unlike before there was no chaos or discontent or anything of the sort; instead, there was only confusion, and some amongst the court glanced around to make sure that what they heard was well and truly correct. Out of them all, however, none were more perplexed than the aforementioned gentleman himself. “Me?” Lucius said, pointing to himself. “Well now, that is certainly a choice, but who am I to deny the good-hearted request of a fellow?” Before anyone could utter a word in reply, Lucius strolled forth and stood cheerfully next to Sir Renaud. The man greeted him with a shrewd grin and bowed his head. “I suppose you weren’t expecting this, were you?” Renaud chuckled. “You would be most correct, my friend. Whatever gave you the idea?” “Someone would have to take up my mantle eventually. Rather than one of Sir Ganelon’s faction, I would prefer to pass down this power onto you. None shall have cause to dismiss your otherworldly kindred from participating in the nation’s politics now.” That was true. One of the greatest hurdles for the players at the moment was their relative seclusion from inner castle affairs. They were treated as honored guests—which was pleasant to an extent—but such status also prevented them from truly wielding influence. If Lucius were to be instated as Peer, then the empire would have no choice but to include them in official matters. To put it simply, the players would have the ability to form an independent faction. They would have a voice to legally interfere. “You’ve thought this through quite deeply,” Lucius said to him. “Does Sir Roland know what this implies?” One would believe this to be of Roland’s benefit, having another Peer on his side, but that wasn’t necessarily correct. Yes, the man had supported the players ever since their arrival, and Lucius didn’t deny being on good terms with his ilk, but that changed not the fact that allegiances could sway at any moment. Should Roland ever revoke his aid or be put in a precarious situation such as imprisonment, then the players would return right back to how they were at the beginning of this mission. He had power over them whether knowing or not. That was why having Lucius serve in a formal capacity was paramount to gaining actual, real autonomy. Not even the leader of the Peers could strip the authorities given to the twelve, as evident with Ganelon’s bold meddling, and beyond even legal sanction was a much more influential variable: the common people themselves. For better or worse, the Franks were deeply traditional. To be a Peer was no different from being regarded as God’s direct subordinate. Roland and Ganelon both would require a most grave accusation if they wished to bring Lucius down. “Of course not,” Renaud replied. “Only one with such intelligence as I—and perhaps Ganelon—know the true significance of my nomination. Roland’s fault has always been his naivety in political matters. He likely supports you solely out of good nature.” “That is all and good, but why go to such lengths for my people?” Lucius asked. “Especially when you have just resolved yourself to rekindle your relationship with him.” “Such resolution is separate from my debt to you, Lucius. I wish to change, yes, but it is also I who knows full well how quickly people can turn against each other. I will support you, as I will also support the common people. You will make a good Peer. Pray do not refuse this chance.” Lucius bid him a wry smile. “I may not chase after power myself, but neither do I have reason to avoid it. So be it. I will become a Peer representing the otherworlders.” With that, the two nodded in agreement and then turned back to the court. Just in time! Ganelon had finally composed himself enough to spit out a response to Renaud’s declaration. “... Lucius Rose, you say?” Ganelon seethed. “My boy, do you hear yourself right now? Of all the choices, you would nominate someone not even of our world to inh