Chapter: 751
After a long time, I left work with a cheerful heart.
“Did something good happen?”
My wife, who greeted me, must have noticed my joy because her comment was spot on.
As soon as I heard her words, I subtly adjusted my expression. It was clear I had a big smile plastered across my face.
“This is a bit embarrassing, though. It means I’ve been going home like this, huh?”
“Isn’t that a good thing? They say smiles bring good fortune, so if something good happens, you should smile!”
I chuckled at her comforting remark, which was more an encouragement than a consolation.
She was right. When else would I smile if not now? If it weren’t for that fellow, I would have been slogging through yet another dull day at work, leaving exhausted.
‘Thank you.’
At this moment, I pictured that clueless Krasius flailing around in vain hope. If he made just one sacrifice, countless people could be made happy.
Everyone could see his floundering: me watching him struggle, those fresh bureaucrats he’s trying to recruit, the administration thriving thanks to their awakening, and of course, His Imperial Majesty relishing the whole affair. Truly, it was a beneficial situation.
How wonderful it would be if one person’s sacrifice could lead to the happiness of many. If it’s right for one to suffer for the many, then it’s only fitting to let one bear the brunt. The sacrifice of one for the greater good—this was the truth I’d come to realize serving as the Minister of Finance.
“Khuh!”
I couldn’t help but snicker at the situation. To think that he interacted with them not to form a faction, but for Titi’s love life. Who would have ever guessed that the vacationing Minister of the Information Department would be moving for such a reason?
No one, that’s for sure. Even I who heard it directly found it hard to believe at first.
‘How do I even explain this?’
I soon thought of the Minister of Justice, who had been keenly watching Krasius, and the Minister of Internal Affairs, who had asked me to let him know if I found anything.
It’s only right to tell them the truth. I’ll just need to say that they don’t have to worry about Krasius anymore and casually mention there’s been some commotion.
But how do I explain that everything stirred because of a single dog?
“Kkhuh, khuh…”
“Darling?”
As I giggled away, my wife approached me, looking concerned.
Oh dear, I was in a predicament. I needed to stop laughing, but once I started, the giggles wouldn’t quit. It had been so long since I’d had a good laugh; it all came out at once.
And the reason I was laughing wasn’t just Titi’s love life.
“If you lead the new bureaucrats, wouldn’t you replace the old ones?”
— So what?
“Well, someone will take your place too.”
— …Is that so?
That makes no sense. Who in their right mind would want your spot?
Even if His Majesty offered that spot to a new bureaucrat, the poor soul would be so shocked they’d shake their head in disbelief.
It was simply too grand for them. They’d think it was a test of their loyalty and decline ferociously.
Logically, that would be the proper response. Krasius is still in his twenties, closely tied to His Majesty and the Crown Princess. Could someone push him out for the position of the Minister of Information? That would honestly lead to a disaster that I’d struggle to manage.
But somehow, only he seemed oblivious to this. Maybe he got it in his head but refused to accept it emotionally.
‘Is hope really this terrifying?’
He might be a bit bizarre, but he isn’t dumb. He managed to rise to the position of a department head, so he has some basic skills.
Yet, he was blinded by the hope of “resignation,” leading him to dream impossible dreams. It’s pitiable, yet amusing—a spectacular mess, really.
‘You’ve got this.’
But I wouldn’t discourage him. Watching Krasius’ meaningless struggles was a primary reason for my entertainment.
‘I might actually retire.’
If Krasius supports and nurtures the new bureaucrats, there might be someone among them eyeing my position.
I’m nearing the big six-oh. With no strong connections to the royal family, I’m just another common noble. Hence, to those below me, I’m seen as an ‘old guy’ who could be pushed aside with some effort.
As new bureaucrats rise, the managers and second managers, motivated by their drive, will also aim higher. Then, the chance of me retiring within ten years isn’t absurd. It’s unreasonable for a young twenty or thirty-something minister to retire, but it’s perfectly understood for someone in their sixties.
“Dear,”
“Yes, go ahead.”
“How about taking it easy and traveling in about ten years? From the northernmost point to the southernmost point, and from the easternmost to the westernmost!”
Surprisingly, my wife’s eyes widened for a moment before she smiled softly.
“If your expectations are too high, you’ll just end up disappointed.”
“…That’s true.”
I felt a bit awkward at her soft but firm words.
In reality, the probability of me retiring in ten years is still less than the chance I’ll still be a minister. It was overly ambitious to even think that far ahead.
Yet, it’s still better to have some chance rather than none at all. That’s an undeniable truth.
“Speaking of, dear. Do you remember that dog at Krasius’ mansion?”
“Are you talking about Titi? Of course I remember. In over fifty years, I’ve never seen a dog as intelligent as Titi.”
“They say she might have puppies.”
“Oh my!”
To change the subject because of the awkwardness, my wife gasped in delight.
“I hope she has many! It would be so lovely to have animals around in our old age.”
“I’ll ask for one, so look forward to it.”
I mean, if there’s a chance I can retire from this ministerial position, surely I can get at least one puppy from Titi!
Of course, the issue is the hope I offered, but ultimately, it’s Krasius’ responsibility.
*
I couldn’t sleep a wink due to thoughts stirred by the Minister. Morning arrived without a single minute of rest.
But what could I do? If I lead the new recruits, they’re bound to grow and eye my spot one day. How could I sleep soundly after hearing that?
My chest raced, and my hands trembled at the thought.
Just imagining it filled me with such happiness.
‘There’s a chance…!’
It’s not even an impossible future. Just look at Luciano; he soared from a guard to a second manager in record time. He’s being floated as a candidate for the head positions based on nothing more than my letter of recommendation.
What if I poured my heart and soul into nurturing talent? What if I persistently supported them?
‘In no time, we’ll have managers and second managers rising!’
And if we have more managers, then we’ll have more ministerial candidates, and if that happens, it will become burdensome for the same person to remain in the minister spot.
Only one ministerial position exists per department. The person holding that coveted seat monopolizes it, which is a dreadful notion. If there are more candidates emerging, then I must resign for the greater good.
It’s a must! I’ll have to make it so. If I say it, then it’s true.
‘The senior stepping down for the junior.’
Even I think it’s a perfect rationale—it’s enough to bring a tear to my eye.
This isn’t about trampling capable, passionate junior officers; it’s about helping them succeed! What more compassionate senior could there be?
‘Alright!’
With a satisfied heart, I grabbed the comms device from the side table.
– This is Deiras Croton, secretary to the Minister of Information.
“Ah, it’s me.”
I quickly called my secretary.
“I’ve got a favor to ask, is this a good time?”
– Of course, Your Excellency. Feel free to speak.
I noticed the papers slightly pushed aside on his desk, but I pretended not to see.
Sorry. I’m not helping you; I apologize for dumping work on you instead.
But with the chance of retirement looming over me, I couldn’t focus on anything else…
“I’ve been on leave since the department started. The more seasoned ones are fine, but the new bureaucrats probably don’t even know my face.”
So, let’s have a meeting between ministers and the new recruits.
That way, I can pinpoint whom I should support.
*
I blinked and surveyed my surroundings with confusion.
I found myself in the conference room of the Information Department, which had no space to spare—okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but the new recruits were sitting neatly and formally all around.
And here I was, awkwardly seated within this stiff atmosphere.
‘Why am I here?’
As I struggled to understand, my eyes met those of Sirri, who was also glancing around nervously.
‘You too?’
‘Me too.’
After our quick glance, we both turned forward to avoid appearing burdensome to the new recruits.
What if those damn seniors were judging us silently?
‘We shouldn’t be in a place like this.’
At that moment, I couldn’t help but smirk. Thanks to the kindness of His Excellency the Minister, I graduated from the Academy right into the Information Department, where I’m now entering my fifth year as a bureaucrat. It’s a stretch to say I’m seasoned and skilled, but I’m certainly no clueless rookie anymore.
Yet here I am seated next to the fresh recruits. What an unusual turn of events. Although it’s nice to have a legal day off.
“Looks like everyone’s here.”
Just as I was pondering, one of the senior assistants from the minister’s office entered.
“The Minister is expected to arrive shortly. Although he’s on vacation, he’s taking the time to meet with you all who support the Information Department from the ground up. Be grateful for his time, and do not act disrespectfully.”
The seniors’ warning caused the new recruits to nod frantically.
Honestly, even if the senior hadn’t said anything, anyone who’d dare to disrespect His Excellency wouldn’t make it into this department.
“Damian.”
“Uh, yes?”
“You are the most senior among them. The Minister personally requested you, so live up to his expectations.”
“…Yes?”
Then the assistant left after that shocking declaration.
His Excellency… asked for me? I hadn’t laid eyes on him in ages, nor had I heard his voice?
‘His Excellency’s expectations.’
Sitting up straight, I firmed my resolve.
I don’t know why His Excellency chose me, but if he needs me, I’ll give it my all!
It’s only fitting for one who has been graced by His Excellency.
‘You too?’
‘Me too.’
Once again, I and Sirri exchanged glances and nodded determinedly.
Sirri was also a beneficiary of His Excellency’s grace. We had to join forces to ensure we warmly welcome him!
*
Upon entering the conference room, I was greeted by the focused new recruits.
‘Nice!’
I felt satisfaction wash over me at their impressive first impression.
I wondered how many of them would set their sights on my seat. I wasn’t asking for too many—just about three candidates would do.
‘Three minister candidates, huh?’
A grin spread across my face as I felt the corners twitch excitedly.
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