Ch. 801Indulgence and Ambition
Key Plot Points and Events
- Arthur's words spur swift localization efforts in colonies, with an expected completion time of two years.
- Arthur decides to spend more time with his family, including training his heir, William, for future responsibilities.
- Queen Dowager Louise's declining health prompts Arthur to cherish family time.
- Princess Alexandrine's pregnancy brings joy and anticipation for the royal family.
- Christmas 1930 is celebrated with William handling most state affairs, solidifying his reputation.
- In 1931, Italy successfully concludes its war with the Abyssinian Empire, annexing its territory, and receives mild sanctions from Britain and France.
- Hitler is inspired by Italy's expansion and begins testing Britain and France's attitude towards Germany's military growth.
Character Developments
- Arthur focuses on family time and William's training, acknowledging his mother's aging and the importance of family bonds.
- William takes on more responsibilities, demonstrating his maturity and suitability as a future monarch.
- Mussolini gains confidence in his expansionist policies due to public support and the lack of severe consequences from Britain and France.
- Hitler becomes more ambitious, seeking to test Britain and France's tolerance for Germany's military growth.
Significant Themes
- Family and legacy: Arthur's focus on his family and William's training highlights the importance of family bonds and preparing for the future.
- Ambition and expansion: Mussolini's successful expansion into Abyssinia and Hitler's growing ambitions emphasize the consequences of unchecked imperialism.
- Indulgence and consequences: Britain and France's mild response to Italy's expansion sets a precedent that emboldens other nations, like Germany, to test their limits.
Character Interactions
- Arthur and William: Arthur trains William for future responsibilities, and William handles state affairs, strengthening their bond and preparing for the future.
- Arthur and Queen Dowager Louise: Arthur cherishes time with his mother due to her declining health, highlighting their close relationship.
- Mussolini and the Italian public: Mussolini's expansionist policies gain public support, further emboldening his ambitions.
- Hitler and Britain/France: Hitler tests Britain and France's attitude towards Germany's military growth, setting the stage for potential conflicts.