[TIDK] 130 – Possibility of Defection

May 30

Adam, unable to believe what he was hearing, erupted in anger. "That's absurd!"

However, Viktor remained calm and continued to explain the dire situation. "Not only among the royal family but also among the nobility, there are individuals actively preparing to defect to other countries. The gold reserves are depleting rapidly."

With a grave expression, Adam inquired about Sir High, referring to a high-ranking noble. Viktor's response confirmed Adam's worst fears.

"Lately, Sir High has been constantly approached by spies, attempting to persuade him to defect to Vestina," Viktor revealed.

The weight of the situation began to press heavily on Adam. The king was growing frail, and Adam had been consumed by his own pursuit of power, neglecting to address the brewing threats within the kingdom. His focus had solely been on delivering rehearsed speeches and securing his position.

Feeling overwhelmed, Adam sought guidance from Viktor. "What should I do?"

Viktor's response was straightforward. "You must make your own decisions."

Until now, Salantier had enjoyed the safety of its isolated location, protected by the rugged mountains that deterred any thoughts of war. It seemed like a suicidal move to attack Salantier.

However, with Vestina now possessing aircraft, the threat of devastating attacks loomed at large. Adam couldn't help but voice his concern. "What if we attack the aircraft?"

Viktor's reply was resolute. "There's no way it could happen."

Adam was left bewildered by Viktor's confidence, uncertain of what lay ahead.

"There is no anti-aircraft system in Salantier. I've gathered information from spies, and even Vestina claims it would take them 30 years to develop a weapon capable of countering aircraft," Viktor explained.

Adam questioned the reliability of the information. "Did the spies provide you with this information?"

Viktor responded with a smile, leaving the question unanswered. Adam couldn't help but notice that Viktor had acquired this knowledge through less honourable means, and the realisation troubled him.

Viktor's faith in Salantier was waning, and he recognised the imminent danger if he were to align with Vestina. If the southern coast, which served as a stronghold, fell, Salantier would swiftly be conquered.

Overwhelmed by the situation, Adam let out a sigh of despair. "How did we end up in this situation?"

Viktor's response was a low, ominous chuckle. Adam's expression hardened, unsettled by the disturbing laughter.

"Why are you laughing?" Adam demanded.

Viktor's laughter continued. "Don't you understand why?"

Growing more frustrated, Adam retorted, "No, I don't."

Viktor's smile persisted as he explained. "It's because, for the past decade or so, you have belittled the engineers and technicians in Salantier due to religious reasons."

Adam fell silent, his guilt washing over him.

Viktor continued; his tone filled with resentment. "Furthermore, the apostates have once again suppressed Salantier's engineers. Previously, it was justified under the guise of religious reasons, and this time they are undermining Salantier's strength to hand it over to Vestina. Like His Majesty, Your Highness believed in the Divinity of Mother Nature, and now you must wait for salvation from that very same deity."

Adam's expression darkened, realising his actions' consequences and their impact on the present situation.

Adam felt a throbbing headache as he listened to Viktor, who had always maintained a reserved demeanour in their presence, hoping to be recognised as a member of the royal family. He voiced his disagreement.

"I believe you're being too negative," Adam argued.

"Negative?" Viktor questioned.

"Yes, we have you, and we have formidable cannons. While they may pose challenges in mountainous terrain, there must be a solution," Adam asserted.

Viktor remained silent.

"We can win this war. Why do you assume we will lose to Vestina?" Adam continued.

Viktor's lack of reply prompted Adam to stand up.

"We can produce more ammunition and develop additional weapons. Salantier is a great nation," Adam declared.

"You speak of war so easily," Viktor remarked, emphasising that Adam had never experienced naval battles firsthand.

Though Viktor refrained from voicing a retort, Adam seemed to grasp the unspoken message.

Following a brief conversation with Viktor, Adam summoned his son, Yuli, to join him in the throne room.

As Yuli entered the room, Adam spoke.

"I have concerns that Viktor may defect to Vestina."

Yuli paused, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "And what makes you think that, Father?"

"Today, Viktor's spies are already apprehended at his residence. There is no guarantee that Viktor won't succumb to their persuasions. He has already lost hope in Salantier," Adam revealed.

Yuli absorbed this information, his expression reflecting surprise. "Are you suggesting that there might be someone within the royal family who aligns with Vestina?"

Adam nodded. "Viktor aspired to be a member of the royal family, but he was always arrogant. Now that he realises the challenges of holding such a position, could he be considering betrayal?"

Yuli contemplated his father's words. "Yes, you may be right."