Karl raised his eyes slightly, signaling for him to continue.
"According to reports from our informants in the heartland of the kingdom, including within the Royal Capital, this matter... has had a major impact." Richter chose his words carefully. "Among the nobility and some civilian circles, there is much criticism of you. Remarks such as 'breaking faith,' 'defying the royal family,' and 'being so bewitched by a woman that you've lost your head' are everywhere. Although the Empress Dowager has yet to react publicly in any extreme fashion, there is certainly no shortage of slander behind the scenes. This has caused some damage to your personal reputation, and even to Carnford's claim to righteous legitimacy."
He paused, watching Karl's expression before continuing. "However, the Intelligence Bureau's public opinion analysis division has already drafted several plans to guide public opinion. Through merchant caravans, bards, and story collections circulated underground, we can launch a propaganda offensive throughout the kingdom to clear your name."
"We can focus on the fact that you and the princess were never truly compatible and were victims of a political marriage; or emphasize that you made this choice only out of necessity, for the greater good of the Northern Border and to avoid internal strife. We could even suitably embellish the sincere feelings between you and Charlotte Knight, to win sympathy..."
Karl listened quietly, his face expressionless. Only after Richter had finished did he slowly shake his head.
"Louise and I were bound to reach this point sooner or later. It has merely come a little early, and the method... was a little more violent. What those people in the Royal Capital think, how furious the Empress Dowager is—I do not particularly care. Those empty reputations mean little before swords, blades, and cannon. What I truly need to