Chapter 566: The Emergence of a Desire to Retire
Afterward, Howard did not rush to leave, for such drastic territorial expansion was bound to impact the new colonial base, inevitably leading to a surge in rebel activity in the short term.
Consequently, Howard stayed for an additional two months, quelling three rebel factions before finally returning to the imperial capital.
Upon entering the city, he found it in a festive mood.
It turned out that it was the Ice and Snow Festival, marking the arrival of another winter.
Howard generously distributed charity, giving 20 silver coins to each household in the capital.
Although the amount per person wasn’t substantial, it differed from the temporary subsidies provided during the conscription campaigns.
The capital city, being the historical heart of the Oli Kingdom and its most populous, was bustling, especially now with Howard having shifted his primary title from King of the Oungria region to King of the Oli Kingdom, attracting a continuous stream of migrants from Oungria.
The ability to dispense such funds stemmed from the income generated in the New World and the reparations from the Osland Kingdom.
Howard, listening to the joyous laughter of his people and wearing sturdy, warm gloves, laughed heartily, his guards echoing his laughter.
On this day, Howard began to harbor thoughts similar to those of Margaret, feeling an urgent need to step away.
When he shared this news with Catherine, she wept and summoned the domestic teachers to express her distress.