>>61168541. You will only publicly announce the restriction and control of his trade once the elections are over. On the surface, it will look as if he still has free reign to dispense his trade, but...
2. In reality, he is only to dispense his wondrous sweets to Baphomets who have compelling reasons to consume them during the election season. Either they get a Doctor's prescription or he gets permission from the Castle. What sort of excuse should the Candymaker make for not having them available? That's up to him to figure out...
3. If he does not win the election, you will offer the Title <span class="mu-s">'Royal Confectioner'</span> and full access to the kitchen at the Castle. This will protect him from his rival, the Cheesemonger...
4. If he wins the election and becomes leader of the Purveyors Guild, the Title will not be offered, and the restrictions and control over his trade will still be imposed....
With this, win or lose, he is protected, but his trade is administered by the Castle.
"Meep. Why not give me the Title right now instead?"
"A Title from the King is tantamount to declaring you as the next leader of the Purveyors' Guild. Your fellow Baphomets would vote you a landslide victory. Remember, I need these elections to be prolonged to fool the Romans."
With another prostration, the Candymaker humbly accepts your proposal. If he's disgruntled, he makes sure not to show it.
When you return to the Castle, there's a mountain of things to catch your attention. Hanbei gives a brief summary of the items while you wash up and wear fresh clothing that isn't melting away.
The Engineer still hasn't discovered the blockage of the main fountain.
The Guides and their guards have not yet returned.
Elections are continue, no consensus for the other three Guild leaders.
More resources found, a sawmill with perfectly aged logs. Some new sea caves. A few dozen sheep. A gigantic eighty pound rubber ball....
The Romans are waiting to dine in the Great Hall; they witnessed your fight against Dread Agreste from afar earlier.
"I may have suggested to them that Dread Agreste is a protector of Camelot. They are afraid."
You smile at Hanbei's quick-witted deception.
"Good. I've decided on a plan to delay any negotiations with the Romans. Have the candidates come to the Castle one by one after breakfast so that they understand we're prolonging the elections."
Hanbei nods, and the usual ceremony of entering the Great Hall once more begins. A cohort of your servants with Hanbei at your side walks down the hallway towards the Romans waiting at the door to enter with you. Legatus Gaius is pale; his stoic porter holds his head on a golden platter raised high.
"Ave Rex, you fought well today against your Herald."
"Indeed, and he was holding back quite a bit. Last time he fought, he destroyed part of the Walls."
Everything you just said is technically true! The best sort of truth.
