"Then, Lord Umbridge, will you please?" he asked politely.
Umbridge, cornered, was given no choice but to hand the article to Charlton. He can only pray for his soul. This might already be the end for him and his rebellious thoughts. He was not reconciled to end this way, but what can he do? He can only lament for being caught so early in the game and could only wish that his brothers would prosper for their cause.
Charlton started reading the article which talked about political ideals. It stated that they should abolish absolute monarchy and should establish a republic. The explanations were very clear and appealing. However, by doing so, it also inexorably spoke of the drawbacks of the current regime. 'Really, a republic? I assumed they only wanted constitutional monarchy.' He thought.
"I believe that establishing a republic in change of the current regime would lead to a revolution which is not good. In the end, the ones who will suffer most are the civilians." He commented.
Umbridge hearing his words felt that he needed to explain. "The article is exaggerated so that we can have a leverage. A republic is far off, but at least we can barter from there so that constitutional monarchy would be more acceptable. I mean, not we, but I. I'm the mastermind and that is all my own thoughts."
For Lucas, a republic doesn't sound bad. However, he knew that that would inevitably lead to a coup, and he doesn't want a civil war to breakout. For constitutional monarchy, he too wants that to happen, but he doesn't want to get involved. He has a family to support and take care of.
Anyway, Charlton did not react with Umbridge's words and just continued reading. When he was done, he did not speak immediately as he wanted to think through the words he would say.
Umbridge uneasily looked at Charlton as he folded the article. He did not know what he plans on doing with it, but he could not help but tremble. He's good as dead. However, to his surprise, Charlton did not pocket it but instead handed it back to him.
"Although this article spoke of change and mentioned some disparaging words regarding the current regime, I understand that these are your own thoughts and aspirations. I respect autonomy and I also believe in freedom of speech. However, the avenue you are pursuing is through my friend's publishing company and since he already said no, you should respect that. Let today's meeting serve as a warning. For now, I will return this article to you." Charlton said.
Umbridge was bewildered. Was he really getting off that easily? Was Charlton serious? What does his words mean? Is he not pro-monarchist? Many thoughts started running on his mind. Based on his words, it seems like he was neutral. He wanted to immediately ask him to join the radical faction, but he doesn't know him that well to do so. What if he gets offended? But just to make sure he still asked.
"Then, will publishing this with another publishing company be alright?"
"As I have said, I believe in autonomy. Anyway, I hope that something like this would never happen again. Lucas is a dear friend of mine and I also do not wish for 'The Times', which I will be a part owner of from today onwards, to be tainted with politics."
From this, Umbridge was able to ascertain that although Charlton should be default monarchist, his ideals were not. He must report this to his brothers and the higher ups. "Then, I thank you for this, Lord Daniel. I shall never forget the leniency you have shown me today."
Charlton nodded his head in acknowledgement and gave him a polite smile. "Alright. Since we have already solved this issue today, then do you need us to show you out? Lucas and I still have matters to discuss."
If Charlton puts it that way, then how could he dare accept? "Ah, no need milord. I can help myself. Also, Mr. Fenerty, I apologize for the inconvenience you have experienced. I did not know that you have close ties with Lord Daniel. Anyway, do expect that things like this will never happen again. Lord Daniel, I will go ahead."
Lucas could only say it's alright and nod his head. Based on how Charlton treated the matter, it seems that he doesn't want to make enemies with the radical faction. Then, perhaps Edward was right? Then again, Charlton did not mention anything like that.
"Alright. Lord Umbridge, then, I will see you around in the future."
"Please Lord Daniel, just call me Kristoph, and I would be looking forward to the day you enter the house of the lords." He said.
"Then, Kristoph, be careful on your way."
--
When Kristoph left, there was only Charlton and Lucas left in the room. Lucas wanted to ask what was running in Charlton's head, but stopped himself.
Charlton could see that Lucas wanted to ask him something but chose to ignore it. What will he tell him if he asks? His plans are not yet definite as he doesn't know how the future will play. The only thing he knew now is that he need allies.
And so, they did not discuss what happened anymore and just focused on the contract.
After Charlton read and found it acceptable, he signed all the pages of the two copies, then handed them back to Lucas.
Lucas accepted the copies gratefully and signed them too. Then, he kept one copy and the other he gave to Charlton to keep.
When they were done, Charlton told Lucas that he has to leave as it was still a long way back to the capital. Lucas agreed and walked him to his carriage.
On the way out, Lucas stopped to announce to his employees that from that day onwards, Charlton will also be their boss as he partly owns 'the times' now.
The employees all cheered. They all felt proud that they are now not only working for a businessman, but for a man of noble birth. Aside from that, they all saw how he handled the situation earlier and how he smiled at them whenever their eyes met. They could not help but hero-worship him.
Anyway, Charlton just smiled at everyone and told them to keep up their good work.
--
TBC