＜Nobles’ POV＞
At a gathering among nobles,
「This is outrageous!」
One noble exploded in anger.
He had just finished reading the contents of the policy proposal put forth by King Henry.
Among the gathered nobles, discontent over Henry’s policies was mounting like a storm.
「He wants to stimulate the economy by favoring merchants…?」
「What is that king thinking?」
「Does he intend to strip us of our authority as lords?」
Their power had been built atop the foundations of a feudal society.
Sensing the looming threat of that power being swiftly dismantled, the nobles all wore grim expressions.
「An economy-focused policy… While I can understand supporting merchants for the nation’s growth, stripping us of our governing rights is unacceptable」
One noble voiced his opinion, and the others nodded in agreement.
「And to abolish tolls and eliminate tariffs! That would be a matter of life and death for any lord!」
Most of a noble’s income came from taxes.
These could be divided into three major categories.
First, the annual tribute from peasants.
Second, tolls.
Third, tariffs.
Removing tolls and tariffs would be a devastating blow.
For some lords, it could even mean total ruin.
「This isn’t just about favoring merchants. He clearly aims to weaken noble power. It’s as if he’s trying to reduce us to mere governors, not lords」
「Is he trying to bring an end to local rule? And then what?」
「He means to usher in a new era. One ruled by the king and the merchants」
「Absurd! Those who rule over others must be defined by bloodline and combat strength!」
In most countries, “bloodline alone” might be the answer.
But in the warrior nation of Bernada, combat prowess was also essential.
「Well, I suppose defeating Glaston proves he’s strong enough… but as for politics, he’s clearly an amateur」
「And from what I’ve learned, Henry isn’t even from Bernada. He’s a drifter, with no known background. That explains why he lacks any respect for us, the ones who built this society」
Voices of dissatisfaction and fury spread among the nobles.
「This system of choosing a king through the Grand Martial Tournament is deeply flawed. It’s because of that ridiculous tradition that a fool like Henry could become king」
「Careful. That system was established by the spirits. Criticizing it too openly, even for us, could be dangerous」
Even nobles were cautious about voicing complaints against the spirits.
「Tch. Still, we can’t let Henry continue unchecked. If we do nothing, we’ll truly be stripped of our lands and titles」
「Indeed… we must quickly find a way to remove him」
Assassination.
A direct challenge.
Or forcing his downfall.
Each noble turned to their own schemes.
But one thing united them all.
Their shared resolve to crush Henry.
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