I took over as High King of Vlandia after that old bastard Derthert died of disease many years ago. Everything was going very well for the first decade or so as I was imposing my will upon my foes as I expanded my kingdom to the east and to the south but alas, war has begun to take its toll. My people are starving. Everyone is at war with me. I refuse to make peace with anyone that dares oppose me. I consider myself a merciful and just king. I give the enemy lords stale bread and stagnant water to keep them sustained in my damp prisons. What more could they ask for? The executioner's axe perhaps? They attacked me first! I do fear that mass execution may be the only way to gain the edge. As it stands, I probably have 60 or more enemy lords, princes and Kings in my dungeons. Normally, I leave them in there until they find a way to escape but now my guards and fleeing my settlements due to famine which has lowered my security substantially.
I only have a few lords left that are qualified to lead my armies so the ability to defend my realm has dwindled. My Queen's womb has become dry and barren. I fear my sons have not taken well to women so there is that. As a last resort I have made attempts to get enemy lords to betray their kings but no amount of coin can sway my enemies. I respect their loyalty.
I'm seeking guidance. Should I execute the enemy lords and kings to even the odds a bit?
I only have a few lords left that are qualified to lead my armies so the ability to defend my realm has dwindled. My Queen's womb has become dry and barren. I fear my sons have not taken well to women so there is that. As a last resort I have made attempts to get enemy lords to betray their kings but no amount of coin can sway my enemies. I respect their loyalty.
I'm seeking guidance. Should I execute the enemy lords and kings to even the odds a bit?