Holy child

As these doubts warred within him, another of his advisors spoke up. "My lord," the man said, his voice quivering slightly, "we understand your hesitation. But consider this: the people suffer under the current rule. The outer fiefs are neglected, the taxes grow ever more burdensome, and corruption festers at the heart of the empire. You may not have been raised in the imperial palace, but you know the struggles of the common folk. Is that not a valuable perspective for a ruler to have?"

Atkin nodded slowly, acknowledging the truth in these words. He had indeed seen firsthand the hardships faced by those living far from the centre of imperial power. He had witnessed the toll taken by harsh winters and poor harvests and had heard the grievances of farmers and merchants struggling under the weight of imperial taxes.