The royal court, once difficult but at least functional, began to fracture. Ministers who had worked together for years started questioning one another's loyalty. Military commanders argued over jurisdiction. Financial officers accused regional governors of concealing resources. Noble representatives whispered that the palace had grown blind.
Reports were delayed, then altered, then denied. Private meetings multiplied. Court sessions became sharper, uglier, more performative. People no longer spoke to persuade. They spoke to position themselves.
Eventually, the distrust shifted toward the throne itself.
At first, no one said it directly in Tharionson's presence. They were cowards in that way, brave enough to poison rooms but not brave enough to stand in front of a Magna and speak plainly.
