Jackal Among Snakes

Chapter 634: Capturing Freedom

Argrave wasn’t necessarily opposed to giving those who’d been brought back by Garm’s machinations some generous concessions. The Fruit of Being had chosen Durran, and as a consequence, all of this had spiraled into this. He had started this joking idea about trusting the fruit, but actually going through with it had made clear that the golden snacks had some deep foresight. Without leaving it to them, things would not have turned out half as well.

Just because he wasn’t opposed didn’t mean that he would stand idly by and let these people run roughshod over his kingdom.

The nature of domestic politics, in Argrave’s eyes, wasn’t born of cooperation. It was born of disagreement. Two or more opposing desires or viewpoints would come into conflict, each seeking advantage often at the expense of the other. It came at the other’s expense simply because they debated what the resources of the government might be spent on. The role of a truly good government was to be a system by which this conflict could be resolved in a manner that was not only non-violent, but also synthesized the opposing viewpoints to create a productive compromise.

That was what he had been aiming at with the creation of the parliament. In Argrave’s experience, one worldview seldom held all the answers—not even his own, much as he’d like to pretend otherwise. And now, that was what he hoped would be the result of this Council of the Living and Dead.

“So—we have intel on everyone present. Now… our plan of action.” Elenore pushed aside stacks of paper and rose from behind her desk, walking in front of it.

Argrave, Anneliese, and Elenore—king, queen, and head of parliament—plotted their approach to the negotiation in Elenore’s office. Argrave was rather pleased to see that any frigidity she’d been displaying had evaporated like morning dew. Perhaps it was the urgency of the task, or perhaps Ji Meng’s advice had truly worked wonders.

“Realistically speaking, despite everyone formidable we’ve gathered, I think we still fall short when it comes to experience, intelligence, and insight,” Elenore explained to Argrave and Anneliese as she paced around the room.

“And even if we aren’t, operating under that assumption only helps us stay cautious and prepared,” Anneliese agreed, expounding on the issue.

“Just so.” Elenore crossed her arms and leaned against the wall. “So, assuming they have more intellectual capital than we do… we need to consider our advantages.”

“They lack unity,” Argrave said confidently. “Some of these people met just yesterday. Many of them actively hate some of the ones they’re working with.”

“If we exploit that, we risk alienating certain stubborn figures.” Elenore scratched at her cheek as she remained lost in thought.

the ones we might count on as allies?” Anneliese walked to Elenore’s desk, reviewing some documents. “Felipe I can be relied upon. Others are people of good character, with no indication

they considered her

silence. “I think

Argrave concurred. “With three motions in favor,

pretty damned large problem remains. How in the world are we going to make a compromise that satisfies all of these people? We need to give our side of the negotiation direction—a goal to work toward. Shepherds need to know which field to bring

zone of empty land to occupy—a steppe south of the Order of the Gray Owl. That’s worked out very well. It would satisfy these people

people up with either distinct privileges or distinct zones. Any ounce of inferiority or superiority, perceived or genuine, in separate populaces can breed resentment that builds over decades. Before long, separatist sentiments are brewing.

genuine version on

excellent point,” Anneliese conceded with a nod of her

having seen some of this stuff play out,”

Elenore tapped her temples, as though she’d a headache brewing.

to this

Elenore narrowed

be secretly

tell,” she prompted, listening

past have come together, here, today. The decision made could impact the future of our

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in this debate—and opposing them, some of the most legendary figures around the entire world. He explained this to those that questioned how this had come to be by being incredibly vague, gesturing both at Gerechtigkeit and the Order of the Rose for answers. None could deny these figures—many were

whole event, as uneasy

conduct this meeting. The general sensation I’m getting from each of you is that you’re willing to help in the crusade against the Shadowlands and Gerechtigkeit, and you’re willing to accept me as the

enough,” the former emperor of the Great Chu