"Your Majesty, it is a great joy to see you in robust health today," I began, bowing deeply.
The emperor chuckled softly at my words. "Hearing such a sentiment from the man who battled the epidemic in Pisa's county has a peculiar charm. Baron Rothschild, are you well yourself?"
When I ventured into the heart of the epidemic, I had been genuinely worried about contracting the disease. Fortunately, I emerged unscathed, albeit through a mix of preparation and sheer luck.
Looking back, my actions were reckless. Yet, the gamble had paid off with opportunities for prestige and reward.
After all, not catching the plague is the best outcome.
"Deus protected me, Your Majesty, ensuring the plague could not touch me even in its midst," I replied solemnly.
The emperor burst into laughter, clutching his sides. "Baron, we both know you're not exactly a devout follower of Deus. Save the act; it won't work on me."
In Pisa, such words would have moved people to tears, swearing by my piety. Erica, Chris, and Chloe might echo that sentiment too, claiming I was a virtuous and devout believer. Even so, I doubted Chloe's conscience would allow her to label me as particularly religious.
"Still," the emperor continued, "your reputation in Pisa has taken on a life of its own. Word has it you fast two days a week for prayer and claimed that Deus himself guided you to lead the plague effort. They’re practically calling you a saint."
"I never said such things," I replied quickly.
Claiming to have heard Deus’s voice could imply I had the makings of a saint, which, in theological terms, could elevate me above even the pope. Such a claim would inevitably draw the attention of inquisitors eager to "test" my divine connection through... less-than-pleasant methods.
"No matter," the emperor said, clapping my shoulder. "The fact remains that you've saved tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands, of lives. You've earned the gratitude of an entire county, with commemorative masses held in your honor across Pisa. Though I never commanded it, you intervened without seeking reward, proving yourself a loyal servant of the empire."
"I simply did what was necessary, Your Majesty."
"But I must ask," he said, leaning forward. "How did you predict the outbreak of the epidemic in the first place?"
The Tuscan Empire’s understanding of medicine remained rooted in the four humors and miasma theories. Disease was attributed to imbalances in the body’s elements—fire, water, earth, and air—or exposure to foul odors. While discrediting these notions outright would be unwise, I had no intention of introducing the concept of germs and viruses.
"I have some knowledge of medicine, as Your Majesty may recall from the dishes I prepared to aid your recovery," I replied.
Unlike the Confucian virtue of modesty prized in Joseon, the Tuscan Empire valued confident self-promotion—provided one didn’t overreach. Here, a touch of self-praise was considered a virtue.
The emperor smiled and nodded. "My physician once said your nouvelle cuisine would add a decade to my life. I wouldn’t believe him unless I felt the difference myself, and lately, my body feels as light as a feather. It seems I owe you my thanks."
It helped that I had sweetened the physician's opinion with some well-timed gifts, though even he wouldn’t compromise the emperor’s health with false praise.
"Furthermore, the scriptures warn us about the dangers of 'foul water,' emphasizing the need for cleanliness. Seeing how improper disposal of waste could lead to disease, I hypothesized the epidemic could arise from contaminated water sources."
This explanation fit comfortably within their existing framework of understanding, avoiding unnecessary challenges to their worldview.
"I also discovered that some merchants, in their carelessness, had built poultry farms near populated areas, dumping chicken waste into rivers out of convenience."
The emperor furrowed his brow. "So, you deduced that polluted water could spread disease based on these observations?"
"Precisely, Your Majesty. While I cannot control those who recklessly imitate my poultry farms for profit, I cannot ignore the innocent lives lost when their negligence leads to outbreaks. As your loyal subject, I acted to prevent such suffering in your empire."
While I lacked Admiral Yi Sun-sin’s unwavering patriotism, I could feign loyalty convincingly enough. Effective governance often required more convincing performances than genuine conviction.
"Frankly," the emperor said, "I’d promote you outright if titles were so easily bestowed. Instead, once this matter is fully resolved, I will grant you a portion of the crown’s reclaimed territories as a reward."
I had expected as much. Elevation in rank would have been unlikely without direct impact on the imperial court or royal family. Additional lands, however, were still a significant boon.
"Thank you, Your Majesty," I replied. "If I may, I have one more request to make."
"Speak. Given your contributions, I’ll consider it seriously."
"I humbly ask for the establishment of a new bureau within the Ministry of Internal Affairs to oversee sanitation and epidemic control."
While I had no intention of leading the bureau myself, requesting such an institution could appear presumptuous. After all, establishing a government agency was no small undertaking, especially coming from someone of my rank and age.
Still, I had proven the need for improved public health measures with tangible results, saving countless lives during a potential national crisis.
The emperor regarded me thoughtfully. "Creating such a bureau—and appointing you as its head—is a tall order. Yet, given your accomplishments, I’m willing to hear you out."
"I do not ask to lead the bureau myself, Your Majesty. I would be content serving in a junior administrative role if it meant contributing to the effort."
Hearing my tempered request, the emperor’s expression softened.
"My primary concern is the establishment of proper hygiene standards across the empire to prevent future outbreaks," I continued.
Each year, an untold number of citizens perished from preventable diseases, many stemming from poor sanitation. Surely, addressing such issues aligned with the empire’s long-term stability.
"An epidemic spares no one—be they royalty, nobility, or commoners. Protecting your subjects from such disasters is a cornerstone of imperial strength."
Of course, I had additional motives.
By staffing the bureau with individuals I had personally trained or who owed me favors, I could extend my influence while fostering loyalty among subordinate nobles.
But the emperor didn’t need to know that.
The emperor leaned back thoughtfully, a hand resting on his chin as he considered my words. His brows furrowed, but there was a glimmer of understanding in his gaze.
"Indeed, Baron, you make a compelling argument. A centralized institution to manage hygiene and prevent epidemics would not only protect the empire but also demonstrate the benevolence of the crown."
The emperor stood, pacing slowly before continuing. "Very well. I will authorize the creation of this bureau. However, appointing its leadership will require careful deliberation." He cast me a knowing glance. "I will see to it that you are involved in an advisory capacity. After all, your expertise has proven invaluable."
"Your wisdom knows no bounds, Your Majesty," I said, bowing deeply. "I am honored to serve in any capacity you see fit."
This content is taken from freёwebnovel.com.
Inside, I could barely suppress my satisfaction. Establishing this bureau would not only solidify my contributions but also open doors to influence policies and decision-making on a national scale. With trusted allies in key positions, the possibilities were endless.
The emperor’s expression softened, the gravity of the moment easing into a more casual tone. "Baron, your achievements during the epidemic were no small feat. You’ve earned not just the gratitude of the people but also the respect of your peers—and even your rivals."
"Your words are too kind, Your Majesty," I replied with practiced humility.
"But remember," he added, his tone sharpening slightly, "with great achievements come even greater scrutiny. Not all in my court will be as quick to celebrate your rise. Be vigilant."
"Of course, Your Majesty. I will tread carefully."
The emperor nodded, a faint smile playing on his lips. "You may retire for now. Rest assured, your efforts will not go unrewarded. I expect great things from you in the days to come."
As I left the throne room, a sense of triumph filled me. The creation of a sanitation bureau was not only a victory for public health but also a strategic move to strengthen my standing in the empire. Though I was far from complacent, I allowed myself a moment of satisfaction.
The wheels of power had been set in motion, and with careful maneuvering, they would turn in my favor.