Kingdom Bloodline

Kongming Palace, Council Hall.

"I'm guilty."

An elderly priest, his back to the assembled attendees, stood on the carpet in the center of the hall, facing the Duke of Starlake, who sat high on his throne. He held a scroll of the "Sunset Canon" and bowed deeply.

Thales sat in the highest seat in the hall, frowning as he watched the old man's movements.

This is the teacher of Chadwi, the old priest of the Temple of the Sunset, who, upon learning of his student's assassination, was filled with righteous indignation and led a crowd into the palace to question the prince about his political affairs, causing the entire Kongming Palace, from Thales to Jann and even Federico, to be on high alert—the deputy priest of the Temple of the Sunset.
He appeared thin and emaciated, and moved slowly.

Like a candle flickering in the wind, I am nearing the end of my life.

Whispers filled the hall.

"Yes, you heard it, Your Excellency Prince Thales, and all those present at this audience who care about the future of Emerald City..."

The deputy presiding officer straightened up and calmly turned to the audience:
"The setting sun is above me; I am guilty."

Fabre's voice was old yet steady, with strong pauses and inflections.

Yes, he is guilty.

Fabul, under the gaze of everyone in the room, spoke silently.

That is why he is here today.

His sin lies in living most of his life in a daze, straying from God's teachings.

His greater sin was that he ultimately succumbed to temptation, failed to keep the precepts, and turned a blind eye to the evil in this depraved city, becoming accustomed to it...

Even to the point of going along with the corrupt practices.

Ultimately, they were taken advantage of by the ways of the youngest son.

His crime is unforgivable.

“I am fully aware that leading this audience today is an overstepping of the bounds and is tantamount to forcing someone to abdicate…”

Under the questioning gazes of the assembled attendees, including the Duke of Starlake, Vice High Priest Fabre slowly lowered his head, his face filled with sorrow:

"He has committed the crime of disrespecting Prince Thales."

Thales frowned upon hearing this.

Based on his extensive experience in struggle, in situations where the visitor is hostile, anyone who immediately adopts a humble and admitting fault...

"Therefore, from this day forward, I shall remove my priestly robes and tear off my sacred sash, and submit to the Prince's judgment and punishment without any objection..."

Fabul turned around and bowed respectfully to Thales again:

"The blame and responsibility all lie with this old man."

He continued:

"I only hope that Your Highness will be magnanimous and not punish those who came to the palace with me—in this hall, everyone is only concerned and has no intention of forcing the emperor to abdicate."

These words caused another stir in the council chamber, with the guests discussing the matter animatedly.

Under the spotlight, Thales, sitting high up, raised an eyebrow and exchanged a glance with Federico, who sat alone in the corner of the first row, with no one daring to approach him.

Okay.

With a single sentence, the old priest categorized everyone else into the "coup" camp, which became his source of confidence and support.

What if, what if someone isn't here to force a resignation, but just to watch the show?

Thales looked at the guests filling the hall and saw the “Lisheng Tarar” Dusuan from Hambur—or rather, Nawud, who was almost unrecognizable with his heavy makeup. He looked simple, honest, humble, and cautious, and showed just the right amount of surprise and admiration.

Moreover...

A sarcastic voice echoed in Thales's mind:
Moreover, the old priest had already gone this far, resorting to the classic phrase "the sin is all mine" as a penalty of three cups of wine...

If Your Highness insists on pursuing the matter afterward...

Wouldn't that make the Duke of Xinghu appear narrow-minded, vindictive, and lacking in the ability to listen to all sides and the capacity to tolerate others?
Conversely, if the prince is indeed magnanimous and does not pursue the matter...

Everyone in the hall today should be grateful for the pleading of this deputy chief priest.

In short, the high priest does the good deeds, and the prince takes the blame for the bad ones.

Thinking of this, Thales sighed and glanced across the entire hall:
Among the nobles and lords who were guests were the Earl and son of Lacia from Zedi, the Karabyan sisters from the Vora territory (whose fans were inscribed with "Prosperity on the South Bank, Everlasting Glory" and "Glory of the Kingdom, Eternal Brightness"), Lord Havia of Saltwall Harbor, and Earl Schukadell of the Evergreen Sunflower family...

Local high-ranking officials included Treasurer Myrahovic, Acting Grand Judge Ibonin, Garrison Commander and Guard Director Zelot, City Hall Chief Briotti, Trade Commissioner McMann, Mayor of Sunshine Town Amisarashvili, Captain Seychelles and Lieutenant Cherki of the Emerald Legion...

There were also business owners and even foreign guests, such as the president of the Yongshi Oil Traders Association, Didonato, the infamous owner of the Sea Wolf ship Tanganga, the envoy of the Thai-Lan State, and even the disguised lord of the city of Congzhong...

Wait a minute, isn't that guy wrapped in cloth from head to toe Yannick Hollier, the vampire councilor of Feast Territory, the "Eternal" one?

Aren't you afraid of getting sunburned to death in the middle of the day?

Everyone in the hall was whispering to each other, their expressions varied.

Yet no one stood up, let alone spoke or interrupted.

This gave Thales a premonition of what was to come.

“High Priestess, you flatter me. As a priest who serves the setting sun, you are of noble divinity, and your words and deeds are subject to the judgment of the temple and the setting sun.”

The prince smiled and gently explained:
"But I am just a mortal, only able to concern myself with mundane matters."

After he said this, Thales noticed that the whispers in the hall had lessened, and even the attendees looked at him with clearer eyes.

Only Fabre remained unchanged.

The old man gave Thales a deep look, whether he didn't understand or didn't care about the implied meaning in the latter's words.

"Your Highness must know that a villain broke into the temple and committed atrocities, and one of my students, the devout and simple Sunset Priest, met with misfortune as a result."

The deputy chief priest spoke in a low voice, which sparked another round of discussion behind him.

It really is this.

Thales sighed as he recalled Chadwi's assassination.

"In fact, I know one of your students who is also worried about this."

Having done his homework in advance, Thales spoke in a deep voice:
"After the incident, the priest of Chadvi was taken back from the Temple of the Setting Sun for care. I wonder if he is feeling any better now?"

Fabre's eyes dimmed.

"If I say he is doing well now, that would be a lie, but if I say he is about to return to heaven, that would not be entirely untrue either."

The old priest's voice trembled slightly:

"That's why praying for his recovery is even more agonizing."

Thales pursed his lips.

That's a very...

Is Chadwijk good or bad?

Or rather...

The voice deep within Thales' heart quietly spoke:
Even if Chadwi is in good health, at this moment, the deputy priest who needs this matter as a bargaining chip will keep his mouth shut and tell everyone that he is "not good".
"I deeply regret what happened to him. This murder at the temple altar in Emerald City is a result of my poor governance. I have instructed the relevant departments to investigate thoroughly, and I implore you..."

"Excuse me for interrupting, Your Highness, although I am concerned about the safety of my students, I am also heartbroken by the disgrace suffered by the temple."

Fabre spoke decisively, his eyes shining brightly:

“But I led the people to the audience to plead for the people, not only for this matter.”

of course.

Of course, that's not all.

Thales gave a considerate smile, extended his hand, and gestured for them to proceed.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I believe we can all see that Emerald City is undergoing the test of the setting sun, amidst turmoil and uncertainty, struggling to move forward."

The old priest took a deep breath and turned to face the crowd:
"In this, some see the shadow of royal power, some see family struggles, some see conflicts of interest, some see innocent casualties, and some see uncontrollable ambitions and a precarious future."

These words caused another stir in the council chamber.

Royal power, family, casualties, ambition, and... the future.

Upon hearing a few keywords, Thales frowned.

"Old grudges, family feuds, power struggles, coups, divisions, chaos, casualties, fear, despair... unpredictable turmoil, constant misfortunes."

Fabul lamented:

"The common people suffered, merchants were harmed, industries were destroyed, livelihoods were lost, the whole city was in turmoil, everyone was in danger, and every family was harmed..."

The aged deputy high priest strolled to the entrance of the council hall, slowly turned around, faced the audience with their various thoughts, and met the eyes of the prince sitting at the deepest and highest point in the hall.

"Whether it's my students, the businesses of each family, the livelihoods of the people, the direction of the political situation... the order of Emerald City... cannot continue like this!"

Faber, facing the crowd, was heartbroken and raised his arm to shout:
"Your Highness, gentlemen, Emerald City has had enough!"

Amid the growing commotion, Thales' smile vanished.

Wyatt frowned, about to reprimand him, but Marius stopped him with a gesture.

"Your Highness, with calamity befalling the common people and blood staining the altar, at this moment, under your rule, does Emerald City still possess civilization and order?"

The deputy high priest stepped forward, his voice booming with grief and indignation:
"Since you began your regency over Kongming Palace, have you been competent and appropriate in your role?"

As soon as he finished speaking, the entire council chamber erupted in chaos.

The attendees either loudly agreed or whispered among themselves, like boiling water.

Even the Karabyan sisters hid their faces behind their fans and chattered away.

Marius and Wyatt, standing on the side of the hall, hurriedly gave orders to suppress the disorder and quiet the hall, but to little avail.

Thales sat at the highest point in the hall, his back to the iris banner hanging on the wall, his face ashen, his lips pursed in silence.

really.

Thales thought to himself.

Today's situation cannot be resolved with a mere "we will thoroughly investigate the murderer"; that would be far from sufficient.

The impact of the murder in the temple was far greater than he had anticipated.

The commotion in the hall did not last long.

"Silence! Order!"

Unexpectedly, this time it was Fabre who walked back to the center of the hall, held up the "Sunset Sermon," and spoke aloud:
"We're here to solve problems, not to argue about right and wrong, divide positions, or engage in endless infighting!"

The deputy priest's voice echoed in the council chamber, proving more effective than the rebukes of the guards and officials.

The council chamber quickly fell silent.

As a result, more and more eyes began to flock to the highest position in the hall.

Federico was right.

Thales looked at the reactions in the room and sighed inwardly.

This deputy priest was highly respected, but he was fond of lecturing, eloquent, and had a strong desire to perform.

But given the current situation in Emerald City—Thales involuntarily gasped—he could not refuse to meet with them.

It's unclear whether this priest, Fabre, led the group in such a show of force out of genuine indignation at Chadwi's assassination, or under duress, or for the benefit of the temple...

It can't really be for...

Emerald City.

Thales clenched his fist.

Fortunately, he didn't have to answer it himself.

"Your Highness, Vice High Priest Fiebur, and all those present!"

A cold, stern voice rang out from the side of the council chamber, drawing everyone's attention.

"I understand everyone's tension and anxiety."

Federico Kevin-Deer stood up and faced the hall:
“Indeed, this is a difficult test for Emerald City, but it was not brought about by His Highness Thales—”

"Isn't that what you brought?"

A few angry shouts rang out from the crowd:
"The black sheep of the iris!"

"traitor!"

But Federico ignored the jeers from the crowd and kept walking toward the center of the council chamber toward the deputy high priest, Fabul.

"However, wise gentlemen like you should see that the Emerald City's turmoil is not the responsibility of any one person or event, much less the result of His Highness Thales's incompetent rule..."

Federico strode forward, past countless guests, his resolve unwavering:

"...but rather stems from a hidden wound that has been buried in this city for many years, a festering sore that was bound to erupt sooner or later!"

A sparse murmur of boos rippled through the crowd.

"Are you saying you're coming back to reopen old cases and dragging the whole city down with you, little Fede?" Count Acheson Lacia, sitting in the front row, mocked him mercilessly.

Laughter and shouts of resentment rose from the crowd.

Federico turned around abruptly, glaring at the old count, who flinched and instinctively grabbed his son's arm.

"Indeed, I have removed the bandages that covered the wound, but you should know that the wound in Emerald City has been festering and stinking for a long time!"

Federer turned around and addressed the entire arena in a loud voice:

"Now, Emerald City needs to cleanse itself of its wounds, restore order, squeeze out the pus and blood, and cut away the rotten flesh. Naturally, some treacherous villains will become restless and come out to cause trouble—like that thug who dared to break into the temple and commit violence!"

Upon hearing this, the old priest in the hall changed his expression.

"What do you mean?"

Count Lasia gritted his teeth: "You damn well better explain yourself clearly, who's the treacherous villain here—"

"But fortunately!"

Many people were eager to interrupt him, but Federico gave them no chance, abruptly changing the subject:
"Fortunately, we still have Prince Thales, who is stationed at Kongming Palace!"

As soon as he finished speaking, he turned around and stretched out his arms toward Thales.

The group of people who had been shouting and protesting immediately slumped down.

Thales didn't react; he watched Federico's performance expressionlessly, feeling as if he had returned to the Hall of Heroes in Dragon Sky City, or the Hall of Stars in Eternal Star City.

“These past few days, you have all witnessed that thanks to His Highness’s painstaking efforts in governing and managing affairs, and his mediation efforts in resolving conflicts, Emerald City has been able to maintain its precarious order amidst a series of calamities, and avoid the misfortune of its collapse.”

Federico shouted:
"We should be grateful for this, instead of being swayed by villains, becoming ungrateful, turning around and forcing us to abdicate, and still thinking we are loyal to Emerald City!"

"What are you saying! Who's been provoked? Who's forcing the emperor to step down? Who! Explain yourself—"

Count Lacia suddenly stood up, but was pulled down by his eldest son.

yes……

The voice in Thales's heart spoke slyly and ironically:

You went to great lengths, maneuvering between the Fuxing Palace and the Kongming Palace, to preserve a sliver of vitality for Emerald City.

But have they ever said "thank you" to you?
Federico glanced around the room, and seeing that no one dared to object, he turned back with satisfaction.

This time, he took a deep breath and looked at the pale-faced, motionless Deputy High Priest Fibour.

"As for Mr. Fabre, since His Highness generously accepted your request and held such an audience at Kongming Palace to listen to various opinions, it already demonstrates that civilization and order still exist in Fei—"

"Who are you?" the deputy high priest suddenly asked, his words unfamiliar.

Federico was momentarily stunned.

“Mr. Fabre, you…”

The old priest scrutinized Fede and interrupted him, enunciating each word clearly:

I'm asking: Who are you?

Federico, observing the other's expression, hesitated, slightly embarrassed, and didn't react for a moment. After a while, he took a deep breath and solemnly said:
“Sir, I am Federico, Federico Kevindeer. Perhaps you don’t remember, but a long time ago, you taught me and Jann, and you used to call me Federico…”

"Oh yes, I remember!"

As if suddenly awakened, Fabul looked up and squinted at the "Crimson Iris":
“Of course I remember, your surname is Kevin Deer, and you are the son of the Iris.”

Federico finally breathed a sigh of relief.

"A calamity has befallen Emerald City, and the Sky Palace is taking responsibility. And so, just as it has been for centuries, a descendant of Kevindir, the Son of the Iris, has stepped forward..."

Fiebel scrutinized him, his tone rising and falling, before finally speaking sharply:
"But it's not the right one."

Federico's heart tightened.

The deputy high priest stopped looking at him and slowly turned to Thales, who was seated on the main throne.

Where is Jann Kevin Deer, who inherited his title by blood and law, fulfilled his duties, and ruled the Emerald City for eleven years?

The old priest spoke slowly, like a stubborn, old master of ceremonies clinging to old traditions:

"Jann Kevin Deere, the one who should be held accountable and standing here to be questioned—where is he?"

These words drew stares from everyone in the hall.

Federico's expression turned cold:

"Duke Jann is unwell today and unable to receive guests. However, although my cousin is not present, his support for His Highness remains unchanged..."

"Has the arbitration regarding the old case of the Duke's assassination been completed? Has the case been settled? Has a verdict been announced?"

But Fabul did not play by the rules, staring directly at Thales:

"Then why was Federico allowed to speak freely, while his cousin was 'unable to receive guests'?"

Thales sighed inwardly.

The old priest snorted coldly, his voice echoing throughout the hall:

"Is the Duke of South Bank still healthy? Is he still able to handle affairs? Is he still lucid and rational? Is he still in custody? Or is it as rumored, that he and the Prince have become irreconcilable enemies because of Miss Hille, and thus their fates were already sealed?"

The deputy high priest launched into a barrage of questions, which were so intense that Federico looked displeased and fell silent for a moment.

"Or worse..."

Fiebel turned to Thales, whose face was serious in the main seat, and said coldly:

"Has this series of calamities in Emerald City, including the misfortune that befell my student at the temple, completely shaken the Sky Palace and affected the deposition and enthronement of the Duke?"

As soon as he finished speaking, a commotion broke out in the council chamber again, with everyone talking and spreading rumors.

Thales sighed.

All eyes turned to them, as if they were being attacked with swords.

The deputy high priest's gaze was particularly sharp.

Thales was in a terrible predicament.

So, Jenn, your damn temper tantrum just didn't come at the right time.

At this moment, if you're there, I don't even need to say anything; I just need to sit there and smile...

Hmm, no, that's not right.

A voice in Thales' heart hesitated:
If this deputy high priest's purpose is to cause trouble and pressure you...

He will find a way to break through no matter what.

If Federico had been the one absent today, his explanation would likely have been something like, "How could Federico, as the initiator of the old case arbitration, not be here? Thales, have you been monopolizing power and colluding with Jann?"

But why?
Thales' inner voice cautiously pondered:

The balance in the Emerald City was almost shattered by the sudden rise of royal power. Just as Thales was trying his best to stabilize the situation by uniting the two Kelvindils, the vice-priest of the Temple of the Sunset stepped forward to question his authority...

why?
It can't be that... the Kingdom's Secret Service or even the Palace of Restoration actually promised this Vice High Priest something, can it?

If so, what good would it do for the Kingdom's Secret Service to bring down the prince, who is currently the only one with the right to rule Emerald City and clean up the mess?
Will Emerald City be able to fall into their trap and contribute to the Restoration Palace?

unless……

Amid the chaos, Thales looked sharply at Deputy High Priest Fibble.

Unless this was originally a stepping stone offered up by the Palace of Rejuvenation.

Those who were secretly observing were dissatisfied with Thales's attempt to maintain a balance in the Emerald City, and with his compromise of keeping both Kevin Deer alive. They believed that this was too inefficient, gave the Emerald City too much freedom, and slowed down His Majesty's grand ambitions.

So, as soon as they made their move, they dismantled the balance maintained by the prince, spurring him on, warning him, and forcing him to cross the river by stepping on the stones they had provided.

Otherwise, we will simply watch Emerald City fall into the abyss.

only……

Thales's heart sank: the Kingdom's Secret Service, or some other lackeys of the Restoration Palace...

They are so audacious as to disregard the livelihoods of tens of thousands of people on the south bank of Emerald City.
Will they report to King Kessel?
Or is this another test and trial by the king, just like Federico's desperate plea for his help during the election?

Or perhaps King Kessel actually acquiesced to all of this? And continued to let him "handle it as he sees fit" and "make his own decisions"?
Let's see if he can keep his promise to the king in the most extreme circumstances.
Thales vaguely sensed that the bone ring in his pocket felt heavier.

This is really a headache.

Thoughts flashed by, and Thales took a deep breath and slowly exhaled.

In any case, let's deal with the immediate problem first.

Since polite words could no longer quell the turmoil, and could not gain the trust of this stubborn and devout old priest...

Thales looked at Federico, who had a furrowed brow.

So, we still have to use his method?

next second.

"enough!"

The second prince suddenly stood up, and the noise in the council chamber immediately disappeared.

Under the scrutiny of the room's skeptical, probing, envious, and disgusted gazes, Thales took a deep breath.

"The reason why Duke Jenn was unable to attend is actually very simple."

Thales turned his head and looked at Federico in the center of the hall.

The latter looked at the prince and a smile crept onto his lips.

A few seconds later, Thales took a deep breath and nodded:
"Federer".

Federico laughed.

"As ordered, Your Highness."

He turned around, glanced at Deputy High Priest Fabul, and then faced the hall.

“According to the investigation, the assailant who broke into the temple and stabbed the priest was named Bote, and he was once an official of the Kongming Palace,” Federico said methodically, “directly under the Duke of the South Bank.”

As soon as he finished speaking, a commotion broke out in the council chamber.

“That’s right. The temple’s violence has thrown Emerald City into chaos, forcing everyone to come to the palace to question His Highness’s qualifications to be regent. Those who are questioning His Highness’s qualifications to be regent are none other than Jann’s old subordinates!”

Thales observed silently: the murmurs in the hall grew louder, and people began to whisper among themselves.

“I know there are no secrets in Emerald City,” Federico sneered, his gaze sweeping over the attendees in all directions. “I bet eighty percent of the people in this hall already know this.”

Deputy High Priest Fibble frowned slightly.

"Is that right?"

Below the main seat, guarding the prince, Wyatt frowned and said softly, "I seem to remember the truth being much more complicated than this..."

“You remember,” Marius said calmly, observing the uproar in the room, without moving his lips, “but others may not need to remember.”

“Therefore, whether for security reasons or to avoid suspicion,” Federico continued loudly, “Duke Jenn is not able to attend at least today’s meeting.”

He slowly turned to Fabre, his gaze sharp as a knife:

"In particular, this audience was convened by Mr. Fabre in response to the temple murder and the assassination of his student."

As soon as he finished speaking, the crowd began to discuss it.

"To avoid suspicion? Could it be Lord Jann who did this?"

"Lord Jann is a duke, who in this city isn't one of his former subordinates? Even the latrine cleaners count!"

"Who knows if it's true? Maybe they've already secretly taken care of Jenn..."

“An assassination attempt every day, martial law every night, roads blocked everywhere, we can’t live like this anymore…” The deputy high priest’s eyes sharpened.

"His Royal Highness Prince!"

Amidst the clamor of the council chamber, Deputy High Priest Fabre suddenly spoke, looking at the tallest person standing in the hall:
Is what this person said true?

Thales remained silent.

Federico turned around and stared intently at him, his eyes filled with urgency and expectation.

If Jenn were here—Tales thought for some reason—he would probably be giving her the exact opposite look, full of warning and disdain.

Unfortunately, he wasn't there.

“Presumably…yes,” Thales sighed.

However, this is not the whole truth.

The old priest was taken aback and stared at him with a deep, melancholy gaze.

"Don't worry."

Thales paused for a moment, then couldn't help but add:
“Federer and I are convinced that Jenn himself has nothing to do with this case; he is just an innocent victim who was implicated and exploited.”

Federico, who had been looking smug, frowned upon hearing this.

But he quickly composed himself and addressed the anxious audience in a loud voice:
"As I just said: the unrest in Emerald City and the series of misfortunes are due to the machinations of a behind-the-scenes manipulator who is stirring up trouble, sowing discord, and attempting to overthrow Kongming Palace."

His words sparked another round of discussion.

"What do you mean?"

Deputy High Priest Fiebel's expression suddenly changed, as if he realized something:
Who is the 'mastermind' you're referring to?

Federico turned and glanced at him, giving him a cold smile.

"Everyone!"

Federico's voice rang out amidst the noise, crisp and piercing:
"These past few days, including the assassination attempt at the temple, the one who has stirred up trouble and hindered the peaceful life of Emerald City is not the prince, not me, not even Janne..."

He said coldly:

"Instead, it is some conservatives within Emerald City who are content with the status quo and unwilling to change, who have already secured their interests and are averse to change, and therefore do not welcome Your Highness's regency or even reforms!"

Upon hearing this, a significant portion of the people in the council chamber began to exchange bewildered glances.

Thales sat back down, remaining silent and watching Federico's performance in quiet contemplation.

By avoiding the main issues and shifting the focus, one can take the opportunity to strike at (potential) political enemies and test attitudes in order to advance reforms.

This Scarlet Iris woman has a whole repertoire of political skills.

No wonder he's Kevin Deer's son.

"There are also some opportunists who are ignorant of their own limitations, can't stand the good things about Emerald City, and only want to fish in troubled waters."

Federico ignored the noise in the hall and raised his voice:

"It even includes some old fogies who dare not mention the past, fearing that their old sins will be brought up and settled after Jenn steps down!"

Well, sometimes, Federico's own personal opinions inevitably slip in.

only……

A voice deep within Thales added a silent sentence:
If he were to replace Zhan En in governing Kongming Palace, it would be a blessing or a curse.

Deputy High Priest Fiebel frowned.

“When these people learned that His Highness had reached a reconciliation with me and Jann and found a new way out for Emerald City, they couldn’t sit still.”

Amidst the shock and skepticism of the entire hall, Federico continued coldly:

"So they plotted a rebellion and orchestrated this despicable assassination, trying to sow discord between His Highness and Kevin Deer, the Temple of the Setting Sun, and even the Emerald City, hoping to interrupt the old case arbitration and escape or even cover up the old evils they committed in the past."

"They also hope to use this to smear and shake His Highness's regency, in order to delay the inevitable changes in Emerald City, and thus maintain the enormous profits they have extracted from Emerald City over the years by exploiting various unfair advantages!"

The commotion in the hall grew even louder.

“Your Highness! These people are the real cancer of Emerald City, the masterminds behind the temple murders, and the culprits who disrupted the city's order and caused widespread panic.”

As if that wasn't enough, Federico suddenly turned around, facing Thales, and said decisively:

"I believe that the only way to restore peace to Emerald City is to severely punish these people, destroy their livelihoods, and deter other villains with similar malicious intentions. Only in this way can the same tragedy be prevented from happening again, and only then can we give an explanation to the innocent people of Emerald City who have been implicated!"

Upon hearing this, the council chamber fell silent for a moment, then erupted in uproar once more.

The crowd looked at each other, all filled with alarm.

"Nonsense!"

Finally, Count Lacia in the crowd could no longer bear it.

"By your standards, what is complacency and vested interests? Are you suggesting that everyone in this hall is a 'mastermind'?"

He shook off his eldest son's arm, stood up, and roared:

"You little brat, do you have any evidence? Give me your name! Who's behind this? Who?"

A chorus of support and agreement arose from the crowd, interspersed with expressions of indignation and protest against Federico.

But Federico remained unfazed.

"The investigation is still ongoing, Count Lacia."

He spoke coldly, his gaze sweeping over each guest:

“But I believe that one day, the truth will come out, and we will find those who are hindering the peaceful life of Emerald City—even if they are sitting right here in this hall!”

Protests, shouts, and indignation erupted again, flooding the entire council chamber like a torrent.

What does he mean by that?

"Does that mean the mastermind is among us?"

What is a conservative who is content with the status quo?

"It means those who used to do well under Duke Jann..."

"Then why are you targeting us? Go after Black Hand Jenn!"

"This is slander!"

"We're here for Emerald City!"

"I refuse to accept this! We demand justice!"

In an instant, apart from a few people such as the Karabyan sisters and Count Havia, everyone was speaking out vehemently, either defending themselves, denouncing, sighing, or showing disdain.

Only Federico remained unmoved amidst it all.

In the main seat of the council chamber, Thales, long forgotten by the crowd, took a deep breath.

"okay!"

Duke Starlake roared, and the Starlake Guards below him sprang into action, shouting and suppressing order.

Now that things have come to this, it's time for him to take action.

As the commotion subsided, Thales took a deep breath and stood up under countless gazes.

"Federico Kevindeer!"

The prince spoke loudly and sternly.

Federico turned and bowed:

"Your Highness."

“Don’t let your suspicions lead you to make unfounded accusations and disturb people’s peace.” Thales said solemnly.

Federico apologized and lowered his head.

"Gentlemen, do not worry!"

The next second, Thales looked up and smiled:
"What Federico just said about traitors, villains, and masterminds is just his personal speculation. There is no evidence, so it is bound to be biased."

He paused for a moment:
“Neither Jenn nor I believe it, nor do we agree with it.”

The restless crowd finally breathed a sigh of relief.

A chorus of agreement and approval began to rise from the crowd, including praise and gratitude for the Duke of Starlake.

"Please rest assured, while the tragedy of the Chadvi priest is certainly infuriating and the case must continue to be investigated, I have no bad habit of plundering and settling scores. I will not let the guilty go unpunished or let the innocent suffer."

Thales tried his best to appear gentle and composed, reassuring the attendees who had just narrowly escaped being accused of being the "mastermind":

"And I believe that the vast majority of people in Emerald City, whether they are lords, high-ranking officials, landlords, or merchants, are loyal and honest."

Thales looked at the old priest who was still standing in the hall, but whose expression was desolate:
"As High Priest Fabul said, the most important thing for Emerald City is to restore order and stability."

“Indeed,” said Earl Harvia of Saltwall, a guest from a foreign territory, “the greater good is the right thing to do!”

The council chamber, which had been filled with arguments just moments before, was now filled with a chorus of approval and agreement.

well.

Thales breathed a sigh of relief as he looked at the people in the council hall who had regained their composure.

In this way, no one should take advantage of his kindness and come up to him asking, "How did you manage to govern Emerald City into such a mess?" or "Do you even have the nerve to continue as regent?"

That's right, that's Federico's advice on how to deal with this crisis.

Before the enthusiastic crowd in the hall questioned Thales's governing order, Federico preemptively questioned whether "there were bad people among the crowd" and whether "the order was disrupted by you."

Then, just wait for them to fight amongst themselves, going in circles, and wasting their time, all while arguing about "I'm not the bad guy," "You're the bad guy," and "Who's the bad guy among us?"

Thales sighed, looking somewhat dejected.

Okay, this idea is terrible, but it's quite effective.

At least they could get through this coup-like audience after the temple massacre that threw everyone into chaos.

and……

Thales felt a chill run down his spine.

If those "scheming individuals" who plotted the assassination, or even sent scimitars to attack the tunnels, were watching and waiting...

Are they satisfied with the current trajectory of Emerald City?

Will that person in the Fuxing Palace be satisfied?

On the other side, listening to the chaotic discussions around him and looking at Federico's expression beside him, Deputy High Priest Fibour suddenly understood something.

How to find the possible mastermind behind this?
He stood alone in the hall, holding the "Sunset Sermon" that the old high priest had given him years ago, and sighed softly.

It seems that no one remembers the original purpose of this audience.

“Ferdi, I remember you used to be a slightly chubby little boy.”

The old priest walked to Federico's side, his voice weary:

"But after so many years, now I... can't recognize you anymore."

Federico trembled upon hearing this.

But he quickly calmed down and turned back to the hall.

“No, sir, you recognize me,” Scarlet Iris whispered. “I am the Son of the Iris, a descendant of Kevin Deer.”

"It's just... not the right one."

The deputy high priest took two steps back, his eyes filled with unfamiliarity as he looked at his former students.

“Ferdi,” the old priest took a deep breath, “do you really know what you’re doing?”

Do you know what you're going to destroy and what you're going to betray by doing this?

And what do you intend to build upon the ruins after the destruction? The vice-priest kept the last question to himself.

Federico was taken aback by what he heard. He looked at his former teacher and frowned.

“I don’t know, Mr. Fabre.”

Federico hesitated at first, but quickly hardened his expression:
"However, for the sake of justice we deserve, and for the sake of the bigger picture..."

A cold glint flashed in Federico's eyes:
"Sometimes, we have to make sacrifices."

Even if it means sacrificing light.

Upon hearing this, Fabre's pupils dilated.

"You shouldn't have come back."

The old priest said listlessly:

“You should really follow the example of your ancestor, ‘Wave Rider’ Perry, board your own ship, sail far away on a great adventure, take away all misfortune and pain, and leave only legends and poems behind.”

Federico was somewhat dazed.

Of course, Perry was a great hero, and he had no regrets on his last voyage.

Naturally, there is no need to return.

But he is not.

Federico's gaze turned cold.

He is not.

He must return.

The next second, Federico felt a blur before his eyes and saw Deputy High Priest Fibour stride forward, raising his voice to interrupt the audience that had already entered a perfunctory phase in the council hall:
"Your Highness Thales!"

Thales, who was maintaining a smile, looked up.

“You have quite the skill, shifting the focus, threatening first and then appeasing, and with just a few words you have made everyone forget their original intentions and dare not speak ill of your regency,” Fabre said coldly. “But I still have some questions.”

Thales frowned slightly, sensing something was wrong.

"To attribute all the contradictions to that elusive 'mastermind,' Your Highness," the old priest glanced at Federico, whose expression was grave behind him, "is this your intention, or Federico's own?"

The deputy high priest paused, his gaze sharp:

"Or perhaps it means Fuxing Palace?"

Thales was taken aback by what he said, while the other listeners in the hall all stiffened.

Before the prince could answer, Federico went to the old priest's side.

“This is a matter for Emerald City, Mr. Fabul,” Federico said solemnly. “Don’t get too involved.”

Upon hearing this, Fabre snorted coldly, like an old lion:
"But what if we can't find it?"

Thales asked in confusion:

"Can't find it?"

Fabre turned to face the people attending the audience:
"If you investigate all the way but still can't find the so-called mastermind or clean house, will Emerald City have to hunt enemies every night and never have a peaceful day?"

The crowd was taken aback and began to ponder deeply.

“Sir, I believe,” Federico replied once again, “that justice may be delayed, but it will not be absent.”

Fibrill still snorted coldly:
"Does that mean that as long as 'justice' is absent, everyone who opposes the prince, opposes your rule, or even just has the slightest criticism of the regency and reforms, will be listed as a 'traitor' and 'mastermind'? And can they be manipulated at will, just like today?"

Upon hearing this, a chill seemed to suddenly sweep through the previously cheerful hall.

This woke up many people.

Not good.

Upon hearing this, Thales' heart sank.

What is this deputy high priest trying to do?
“His Highness said that the innocent will not be wrongly accused or let off, and the innocent will naturally not be investigated,” Federico remained at the forefront, engaging in a fierce debate with his former teacher without giving an inch. “The guilty will also inevitably not escape punishment.”

The venerable old priest turned his head and gave a cold smile:
"Then I have to start to suspect: this assassination attempt against my student is too coincidental, too timely."

He narrowed his eyes and stared directly at Thales, who sat in the main seat, causing the latter to feel a chill run down his spine:
"It's as if someone is working with you to give you an excuse to inspect the whole city, suppress dissent, and subdue your subjects."

The whispers in the hall resumed.

Thales frowned deeply.

wrong.

That's not quite right.

He had initially thought the old priest was merely a tool, manipulated and instigated, but now it seemed...

"Sir, please be careful with your words!"

Federico remained expressionless.

"The misfortune that your student suffered is no joke. Do not use that tragedy as a bargaining chip to exploit the suffering of others in order to gain sympathy and approval."

Perhaps because those words were too impolite, the next second, Fabre suddenly turned around and stared directly at Federico!

But Federico did not back down or shy away, coldly looking back at his former teacher.

“Sunset, look at yourself, little Ferdi.”

The old priest said softly:

"For power, for hatred, for obsession, for the way of the young... Tell me, Ferdi, to what evil have you sold your soul?"

Federico's expression changed slightly.

"The classic stories we talked about in class: the Old God Errol sacrificing himself to save all people, the divine messenger Ban Yamin abandoning his divine body to dispel calamities, and even the prophet Mohassa sacrificing himself for others to achieve holiness..."

Deputy High Priest Fiebel stepped forward, looking at him with deep sorrow:
Don't you remember even the slightest bit?

For some reason, Federico couldn't stand Fibrill's gaze and subconsciously turned his head away.

"The story of the Old God Errol and the messenger Ban Yamin is too fantastical for mortals to comment on."

Federico looked conflicted, but he still shook his head:
"But, sir, the prophet Mohassa was canonized not because he sacrificed himself for others."

Federico seemed to have made up his mind; he coldly glanced back at his mentor:

"It's because he transformed the sunset faith into the state religion of the stars."

As he finished speaking, the old priest looked at his former student, and the last glimmer of light in his eyes finally went out.

"Prince Thales!"

The next second, amidst whispers, Deputy High Priest Fibble strode forward, facing Thales, his voice aged yet resolute:

"I want to ask, as long as you remain in power, as regent, or even reside here... will Emerald City, or even the South Bank Territory, be destined to be entangled in power struggles and political infighting, with you attacking me, me framing him, him wronging you, and endless torment and suffering?"

Thales, who was considering the other party's position, was taken aback by what he said:
"But where does this idea come from..."

"But with the sun setting, what have the people of Emerald City done wrong?"

But Fabre interrupted him, his expression resolute:
"I don't know who plotted the assassination of my student, nor do I know why. Was it for personal revenge, coercion or warning, or to stir up trouble, or as Little Ferdy said, was it caused by people who didn't want to look back or were unwilling to face the future, or was it some kind of dispute between royal power and subjects... To be honest, I don't really care."

The deputy high priest gritted his teeth and clutched the old, faded copy of the "Sunset Sermon":
"What I want to ask, what I want to ask on behalf of Emerald City, is: When will all this finally end?"

As soon as these words were spoken, the officials and vassals in the front row were fine, but the people in the middle and back rows seemed to share the same sentiment and began to echo them.

Federico caught up with his teacher and said coldly:
“Mr. Fabre, you asked this question at the beginning.”

But Fabulli ignored him, staring intently at Thales, who was still deep in thought, and took a deep breath:

"Or let me put it this way: Your Highness Thales, when will your regency, which you seized by extraordinary means, come to an end?"

Upon hearing this, everyone in the council chamber, from guards and servants to officials and lords, paled!

"How dare you!" Wyatt shouted angrily, about to step forward, but was firmly held down by Marius, whose expression was solemn.

But Fabre wasn't finished yet. He stared at the unsuspecting Thales and pressed him for answers:

"As far as I can see, His Highness the Prince, with the power of the royal family and the strength of the entire nation, imprisoned the Duke, seized the Kongming Palace, ruled the Emerald City, wielded immense power, and subjugated his subjects..."

"But is there any plan, any preparation for when to hand over power? To return authority to Emerald City? To restore peace and prosperity to the people of the South Bank?"

His angry shouts echoed throughout the hall.

But this time, not a single whisper rang out in the entire council chamber.

Even the high-ranking officials in the front row remained solemn and silent.

"And there's the old case of the Duke's death! As a prince, it's only natural and righteous for you to uphold justice and thus control the two Kevin Deer!"

Deputy High Priest Fibrill seemed to grow increasingly bolder, becoming more and more unconcerned about verbal transgressions:
"But given the circumstances and the precedents of the Northern Border and the Western Wilderness, even the most dull-witted and gullible passerby cannot help but ask: Is this a perfectly logical procedure, or is Your Highness using this as a hypocritical excuse to cling to power, delay the handover, and ultimately usurp the throne?"

Upon hearing this, everyone in the hall looked at each other in shock!
What's going on?
Even Thales stared at the old priest of the setting sun with suspicion and momentarily forgot to answer.

“Your Excellency, you must be tired,” Count Harvia, a nobleman from out of town, was the first to react, speaking gently, “There are some things we can discuss later…”

“Deputy High Priest…” Treasurer Myrahovic had no choice but to speak up.

“Perhaps this is the end for today…” Count Schockeder of Evergreen Island coughed.

Even the Karabyan sisters were carefully and slightly excitedly fanning themselves, exchanging excited expressions of surprise.

"enough!"

At that moment, it was Federico who shouted angrily, his face contorted with rage:

"Since the conflict between the priesthood and the religion ended and the sacred and the mortal were separated, the kingdom's system has been established. Gods are gods, and humans are humans—mortals govern, and this is not something the Sunset Temple should concern itself with!"

As soon as the words were spoken, believers from the temple, the church, and even other denominations in the hall bowed their heads and prayed.

But Fabre remained unfazed.

“I have said that from this day forward, I will remove my priestly robes and tear off my sacred sash.”

The old priest slowly turned around, first glancing at Federico, then turning to the four people seated in the hall:
"Therefore, I asked this question not as a priest, but as a citizen of Emerald City."

He said with great sorrow:
"Your Highness, Fede, and Janne who hasn't shown his face yet... When you important figures are scheming and fighting to the death in Kongming Palace and even Fuxing Palace, have you ever thought about the millions of common people outside the palace?"

"Craftsmen dare not plan for next season's production, merchants cannot predict next month's cargo, minor officials do not know how much salary they will receive at this time next year, watching a martial arts performance requires vigilance for personal safety, going out for entertainment may lead to unexpected fires, even going to the temple to pray requires worrying about being involved in assassinations, the poor outside the North Gate Bridge have experienced several large-scale searches, and countless people have died or been injured because of a single thug..."

Upon hearing this, the people in the hall reacted with varying expressions.

"While you scheme and plot for your grand ambitions, the people in the outer city suffer calamities and live in constant fear. How can they continue?"

Thales did not answer immediately.

He frowned, his gaze sweeping over the expressions of the guests in the hall, especially those in the back rows. Looking into their eyes, he suddenly understood.

Not Faber.

It's not just Fabul.

Although the deputy high priest was sharp-tongued, he at most only saw the undercurrent of power and seized the opportunity to ride the wave.

The ones who were truly uneasy and collectively turned against him were none other than those he had once summoned and talked to. Through his mediation, persuasion, warnings, and coercion, they had finally reached a consensus to help Thales escape the trap left by Jann and successfully settle the people of the Emerald City.

They were speaking out for him.

Using the words of gods.

Theology is the study of humanity.

For some reason, Thales recalled these words from his theology teacher, the priestess Megan.

"That's not all!"

Fabul's questioning once again brought Thales back into focus.

"Judging from Federico's performance today, even if Your Highness were to relinquish your regency..."

The deputy high priest coldly sized up his former student:
"Will Emerald City be able to restore stability, peace, prosperity, and tranquility?"

Federico did not answer, but simply looked back expressionlessly.

"The sun is setting! What will happen to Emerald City next? What should we do next?"

Fabre gripped the Bible tightly in his hand, gritted his teeth, and spoke:
"Your Highness, or rather, what kind of Emerald City would the Fuxing Palace in the capital truly desire?"

Upon hearing this, everyone's expression changed.

Thales clenched his fists and frowned.

He looked at the old man with a serious expression and spoke his words carefully, word by word:
"And... Your Majesty Kessel, just how much do you intend to take from Emerald City, from the Southern Territory, from this peaceful land that has been untouched by war for sixty years, before you are willing to stop?" (End of Chapter)