The believers would praise him for his humility. For aligning with the faith. For serving under God's will.
In reality, all the power would still be his.
'Yes. I am a genius.'
Maximus allowed himself a slow, silent nod as he watched the Church Father still standing in silent fury.
Let him burn with righteousness. Let him believe in holy justice.
Maximus would give him all the fire he needed.
Then use that fire to light the world under his rule.
Maximus's lips threatened to go up but he forced them down, fighting against the urge to smile.
He needed to maintain the appearance of shared agony, of righteous anger.
"What should we do, Father?"
His voice was careful, urgent, the tone of a man who respected the Church's authority and wanted swift action.
He couldn't afford delays now. He needed this man to move, to act, to take the lead with the Church's weight behind him.
Jonathan looked at the prince, his eyes cold and focused, and nodded once.
