Chapter 62. The Great Escape (3)

Charles VII is to be stripped of all his authority.

While this sounds grandiose, it essentially boils down to a legal redefinition of the Kingdom’s current system. After my initial coup d'état, Charles VII held no real power anyway.

Taxation rights? After Brother seized the Ministry of Finance following the Supreme Council for National Reconstruction's audit, it effectively fell into my hands.

Legislative power? Officially revoked with the establishment of the Assembly. He was given final approval on new legislation, but there'll be no opportunity for him to use it.

Appointment authority? Lost long ago when the Assembly took over confirmation hearings, vetting key personnel.

If I were to scrape together any remaining semblance of 'rights'...

The right to celebrate Mass, to receive daily greetings from the Prime Minister and the Capital's mayor, the authority to approve awards for soldiers, the right to bestow various medals and decorations, and so on?

'In other words, a clown with no real power.'

Usually me. When I'm unavailable, Camilla. The result of both of us alternately chipping away at the Monarch's authority.

At first, he was merely confined to the Royal Palace, but after having his power stripped through various schemes and maneuvers, he became a complete figurehead...