Kingdom Bloodline

Amidst the uneasy discussions throughout the hall about "the undying ambition for divine authority" or "the impending doom for the Emerald City," Thales was forced to order the ceremonial officials to restore order and maintain silence once again.

"I know!"

Deputy High Priest Fibrill calmed his breathing and spoke in a composed manner:

“I know my proposal may be misunderstood, or even smeared by those with ulterior motives as a power struggle for the temple, or even a rebellion—even though the era of religious persecution and strife has long passed!”

He looked at Federico with mixed feelings:

“I also know that by proposing this contract, I have violated certain taboos. Just as this young master Kevin Deer, who has ulterior motives, said, it may stir up controversy in the Palace of Restoration, shake the court and the public, put His Highness in a difficult position, perhaps even chill the King's heart, and displease many people…”

Federico responded with a cold laugh.

"But gentlemen!"

The old priest turned to the audience, his face contorted with grief:
"When our lives here are trampled on, ignored, and treated like dirt, have we ever stirred up controversy, shaken the government and the public? Have we ever put them in a difficult position, chilled their hearts, or made those who have the power to decide our fate feel even a sliver of compassion?"

The audience members were slightly moved and began to whisper among themselves.

Federico spoke with a cold smile:
"So are you criticizing His Majesty for not being tolerant enough, or questioning His Highness for not doing his best?"

But this time, before the audience could turn pale and fall silent, Fabre abruptly turned around and said decisively:
"I have no idea!"

Under Federico's slightly surprised gaze, the deputy high priest strode to the center of the hall.

"Like most citizens, I am just an ordinary person, serving the setting sun, old and frail. I have only a superficial understanding of the so-called political intrigues, the succession to the throne, and the ownership of dukes... and I don't care much about them!"

The old priest said with great sorrow:

"However, regardless of who wins or loses, who is stronger or weaker, whether the king is righteous or the iris is right, whether the duke is restored to the throne or the prince wins... Emerald City has deteriorated to this extent, even resorting to assassinations, arson, disrupting public order, and blocking trade to manipulate the political situation. Haven't we had enough yet?
"Have we not had enough of the endless schemes and plots behind the palace curtains, which have brought disaster and bitterness to Emerald City and South Bank Territory at the cost of our lives and fortunes?"
"And this isn't even the first time! Putting aside the Bloody Year, does everyone still remember the Iris Flower Strife from over a decade ago?"

The deputy chief priest's last words caused a slight change in the expressions of all the locals.

"The Duke is dead, the Viscount is imprisoned, martial law is declared at the palace, soldiers block the roads, all businesses cease operations and markets close, Emerald City is divided and infighting erupts, accusations and framing occur one after another, and the subordinates of both sides fight each other repeatedly. The common people on the streets live in fear, and even some of the noble bloodline are trying to gather troops and start an uprising in Archsea City..."

He spoke very quickly yet clearly, and his words were filled with genuine emotion, which reminded many listeners of the past, moved them to tears, and brought a sense of sorrow to their faces.

"And the scourge of that great chaos is now surging back—do we really want to experience that bloody chaos again?!"

Thales frowned, recalling all the clues he had discovered during this "old case arbitration," from the connection between each victim and the old case to the deceased judge's suicide note...

"So you remember, sir, you remember my father and my experiences."

Federico listened to his teacher's description, his expression subtle, his eyes turning cold:
"I thought you, like everyone else, had long forgotten."

The old priest was startled upon hearing this.

He slowly turned to Federer, his expression complex and his gaze sorrowful.

But a second later, the deputy high priest turned his head away, avoiding the scarlet iris's aggressive gaze.

Look at them, Thales.

A faint, cold laugh echoed in Thales's mind:
They clashed and attacked each other relentlessly.

But have you grasped the essence of the matter?
After Jann's fall from power, a terrible power vacuum emerged in the Emerald City—right under your nose.

The second prince took a deep breath, feeling the deliberate restraint yet constant sweeping gazes from everyone in the hall. He felt an indescribable oppression, and the seat beneath him was incredibly uncomfortable, making him feel as if he were sitting on pins and needles.

If it's temporarily under your butt, as stable as a sighing mountain, then that's fine...

But once your stance wavers and you can't stay in your seat anymore...

Thales' face was grim, and he clenched his fists.

"In short, wounds can heal, losses can be made up, the dead can rest in peace, and even the past can be forgotten... but if this city remains unchanged, this government cannot be altered, and this palace remains..."

The deputy high priest took a deep breath:

"Then someone—whoever it may be—will surely seize the opportunity to make a comeback and repeat today's tragedy!"

This statement has once again sparked heated discussions.

"who!"

Federico seized the opportunity and spoke coldly:
"Explain yourself: Who is planning a comeback?"

“Young Master Federico, you just said that this contract will bring disaster to Emerald City…”

The old priest turned to his former student, ignoring the trap in his words:
"But let's ask ourselves: Hasn't Emerald City already experienced and suffered the disasters of 'no agreement' and 'everything as before' time and time again?"

The discussion in the hall grew louder, especially among the audience in the middle and back rows. Many people empathized with the situation and even began to recount the misfortunes their families had suffered in this incident.

"That's why I have to step forward and present this contract! It may be controversial, it may not be perfect..."

The old priest gazed wistfully at the relief on the council chamber door that read "The Duke of Xhosa consults the people on governance."

"But it will clearly define the responsibilities of the regency, widely grant the power of supervision, and absorb the wisdom of the masses. It will bring the dirty behind-the-scenes struggles into the open, keep the bait that will cause conflicts in the hands of the people of the South Bank, and limit the consequences of the power struggle to the council within the Kongming Palace!"

Deputy High Priest Fibrill faced the crowd, his face filled with sorrow:
"Gentlemen! This pact is not for the sake of the temple's power! It is only so that after Emerald City survives this great calamity, it will not repeat the same mistakes!"
"For the Emerald City, which is on the verge of falling into the path of the infantile, to regain its ability to correct itself, to speak out for the people, and to give voice to the weak... so that the Void Palace will not fall into the hands of ambitious and wicked people!"

Upon hearing this, many people's expressions changed drastically.

Amidst the clamor of discussion, Fabre returned to reality, and he solemnly looked around:

Of course, it is also for the wise Duke of Renster, the just Judge Brennan, and the kind sisters Ilshaga, and for the ideals and wishes for peace and order of the previous generation of enlightened people.

In the front row, several elderly bureaucrats, lords, or representatives of the merchant guild, all gazed at the old priest with complex emotions.

The deputy high priest gritted his teeth and strained to raise his voice:

"For Emerald City, for all of you present here, for the suffering masses of this city, and even for His Highness Thales, who is caught up in the turmoil and exhausted, is it not clear whether it is good or bad, and which is more important?"

After he finished speaking, the hall fell silent for a moment.

But just seconds later, everyone realized what was happening, and a huge commotion erupted in the council chamber!
"Well said!"

"We've had enough!"

"My warehouse was burned down!"

"And our business!"

Under Thales's serious gaze, the council chamber erupted in applause, and even included excited shouts from supporters:
"Sign the contract!"

"Decentralization—cough cough, I mean, clarifying responsibilities and powers!"

"No conspiracies! We want peace!"

"Honestly, I don't care who becomes the duke or the regent; I just want to make a living!"

"That's right! I don't even care who the hell is the king— Waaah! Don't cover my mouth— Waaah..."

"For Emerald City!"

“The deputy high priest of this city is a waste of your talents, Mr. Fabul. You should be promoted to the high priest of the entire South Bank Diocese!”

“You’re confused. Fabul was originally the chief priest of the South Bank parish! The position of chief priest is still vacant!”

"Huh? Why? Well... alright, then he should become the high priest of the entire kingdom!"

"Your Highness...you are a good person, please follow the will of the people!"

"Sign! Sign! Sign!"

The shouts in the hall grew increasingly fervent, excited, and radical, causing Thales to furrow his brow more and more deeply.
"His Majesty the King is wise; he will understand!"

"Yes, long live the King! Long live His Majesty Kessel!"

"If Your Majesty does not understand..."

"How could His Majesty not understand..."

"There must be treacherous officials in the court who have misled His Majesty!"

"Emerald City is loyal to His Majesty, loyal to the Prince, and loyal to the bloodline of the Kingdom!"

"Long live Prince Thales!"

"Long live the Duke of Starlake!"

Long live the Star Kingdom!

Feeling the fervent cheers of the audience, many people in the hall, including the members of the Star Lake Guard, changed color.

Thales simply frowned.

Amidst enthusiastic cheers, sunlight streamed into the hall from outside, only to be refracted and divided into beams of light by the intricately carved side window panes.

They swept past the iris banners on the wall, past the noisy attendees in the hall, and finally converged on the most transcendent seat, passing in layers beside Thales.

Like—Thales struggled to look up—like countless rays of light converging into a sword and a spear.

They pierced into the council chamber from all sides, into this ingenious and seductive cage, and pinned him firmly to the throne.

They dared not make a move for even a moment.

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

"Clearly, what the deputy high priest put in this contract for the prince was neither support nor a promise, nor even any specific benefit."

Viscount McMahon listened with a grim expression to the cheers of the audience behind him, glanced at Prince Thales, whose face was grave, and said in a low voice:
"It is power."

It is tangible, real, and effective immediately; once announced, it will take root in people's hearts and rival the Fuxing Palace...

Power and influence.

"But it is also a source of chaos."

City Chief Superintendent Briotti looked worriedly at the deputy chief priest who had become the focus of the crowd:

"If this agreement is reached... the prince will be forced by circumstances to take the stage."

“And so Emerald City has tied its own fate to His Highness’s future,” the young judge, Moore Ibonin, said softly to his left.

The bureaucrats in this corner all frowned.

If this prince successfully ascends the throne and is crowned, then that's fine.

If His Highness's succession to the throne changes, or even fails...

Will the Emerald City, which made a pact with His Highness, also turn into a treacherous rebellion?
"who is it?"

The treasurer, Myrahovic, seemed lost in thought, sensing the frenzied atmosphere in the hall.

The atmosphere has been stirred up to this extent, even more so than the dispute between the Lenster and the Sonner brothers back then...

"Who on earth is so crazy, so reckless, willing to wager the entire Emerald City for a big gamble..."

Mairahovic gazed wistfully at Thales on the stage, and sighed, seemingly unintentionally:
"Or... be buried with them?"

When confronted with the question, the high-ranking officials all remained silent.

Who benefits from this?
Or perhaps, someone is trying to use this as a pretext to launch an attack?

"My lords, I forgot to tell you, I'm hard of hearing today..."

The high-ranking officials turned their heads and found that Director Zelot in the corner had taken a deep breath and was staring straight ahead:

"I didn't hear anything you said."

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

The situation is not good.

Thales sat stiffly in his seat, expressionless, facing the fervent cheers and excited discussions that filled the hall—many of whom linked "Long live" with his name, repeatedly shouting their approval.

Below him, Wyman looked at the noisy commotion filling the hall with a displeased expression.

The attendant kept glancing at the prince and anxiously whispering something to Marius beside him.

But Marius remained unmoved by Wyatt's every word, occasionally shaking his head coldly.

Duke Xinghu's heart sank.

That's funny, Thales.

He tried his best to remain calm amidst the cheers of the crowd, but a voice inside him kept rising:
Did you feel it?

To be precise, this deputy priest, this old man, proposed more than one contract.

Instead, there are two portions.

Delivery is made in two directions.

Thales' heart skipped a beat.

He looked at Deputy High Priest Fiebel—who stood calmly in the center of the hall, seemingly unsurprised, and even had the energy to persuade the enthusiastic crowd and help the ceremonial officers restore order.

One of the contracts is naturally for you, Thales, to the acting regent of the Emerald City.

He calmly considered the situation in his mind:
Once you sign the contract, you gain Emerald City's "tolerance": fires, assassinations, market chaos, and all the troubles that occurred under your rule in the past will be forgiven (or left unsaid), and the prince will have a glorious resume as regent of the South Bank.

Once you sign the contract, you'll also gain the "loyalty" of Emerald City: they will fully support you in dealing with the current chaos and even enduring future chaos, ensuring that you can feel the power of command without leaving the Kongming Palace, and you won't have to beg and plead for a bunch of troublesome surprises anymore.

Once the contract is signed, Emerald City can use the "treasonous" nature of the contract itself to subtly bestow upon you the prestige and popular support of "making decisions on state affairs with a single word," while also emphasizing that your right to inheritance is inviolable—or can be deprived.

Past, present, and future.

Cleanup, assistance, power.

"What a generous gesture, Thales," a voice of admiration murmured in his heart.

This one contract has almost solved all the problems you are currently facing in Emerald City, and even brings huge bonuses.

Aside from your little...father-son relationship?
Thinking of this, Thales felt a chill run down his spine.

Damn.

He pressed his pocket; the ring was still full of bone spurs, causing him pain.

Thales raised his head and looked solemnly at the enthusiastic audience, listening to their cheers and applause, and seeing the expectation and urging in their eyes.

The second contract was aimed at the attendees present.

Or rather, it is the Emerald City that is formed by the superposition of interest groups, positions, and social classes behind all of them.

Thales couldn't help but frown slightly.

Signing the contract grants access to that committee or council. Its functions—overseeing the regency, participating in government affairs, and even the later implied "selection" of dukes—are enough to make most of the prominent figures in Emerald City, except for the rightful heir of the Iris, flock to it.

Once the contract is signed, the prince's promise is secured. Whether it's your periodic resignation as regent or the act of signing the contract itself, it gives those who are hesitant but have reservations enough confidence and dispels their worries—with Prince Thales's approval, who dares to say this is insubordination?
Finally, the deputy high priest even used a strategic retreat, relinquishing the Sunset Temple's transcendental status and guarantor role in the covenant, implying that the Sunset Church, as well as the Twin Towers Longsword and the Four-Winged Giant Lizard, could join.

He also declared on the spot that he would return power to the Iris bloodline without compromising the legitimacy of the inheritance, which directly eliminated the resistance from the traditional giants. Just look at how arrogant and domineering Count Lacia was before, and how well-behaved and upright he is now.
In front of me, above my head, around me.

Benefits, protection, insurance.

"Everyone's happy now," Thales thought to himself with a series of delighted sighs.

Of course, there are also a few minor, slight, and regrettable shortcomings:

This pact of interest given to Emerald City, this wild party held on the corpse of Iris, or rather, the spoils-dividing ceremony after Jenn's fall from power, is unique...

I forgot to invite the king.

Oh, what a coincidence, isn't it the same as the contract I gave you?
I've taken care of everything for you, except for the father-son relationship?
Thinking of this, Thales wanted to rub his forehead in anguish—no, he couldn't. The entire audience was waiting for his response, and he couldn't make any expressions or gestures that might be misleading.

Ok……

That's understandable, actually.

If Fuxing Palace were to host a banquet with such a huge appetite, the other guests at the table would probably only be able to drink soup.

What? You came here to slaughter my pig—cough cough, you slaughtered my master, and now you're telling me I only deserve to drink the soup?
That won't do. I'll just do it myself. First, I'll slaughter my master—cough cough, I'll slaughter my pig. The soup and meat will all be mine.

Thales sighed inwardly.

No wonder, no wonder this deputy priest hinted at the threat from the Palace of Rejuvenation throughout his words.

Two contracts, one for you, and one for Emerald City.

Once they signed it, Emerald City could reap the rewards without a care in the world.

And you, Thales, you soared to the heavens.

As for how long it can fly and how high it can fly...

Thales sighed.

Unfortunately, what was omitted from these two contracts—the relationship between Thales and the King, and the Palace of Restoration's intentions toward the Emerald City—was the most crucial and fatal element.

It cannot be taken lightly, nor can it be overlooked.

Was this old priest, Fabul, doing it on purpose?

How perceptive and intelligent he must be, how meticulously he must have grasped the situation in Emerald City and even the prince's predicament, to be able to produce such a clever and comprehensive contract that covers every single detail?
How cunning and treacherous must he be, and how well do he know about the relationship between Thales and the King, and between the Empty Palace and the Restoration Palace, to come up with a plan that overlooks the most crucial person?
But unfortunately...

Yet, outwardly he appears to be indifferent to worldly affairs, and upon arrival he immediately promised to relinquish his holy sash, even willing to abandon the interests of the Sunset Temple in the blink of an eye.

Yet he outwardly appears so compassionate and sympathetic to the plight of the underprivileged, filled with sympathy and indignation.

If you only listened to his speech, Cohen Karabyan might have been so moved that he would have given him his family heirloom sword for charity.

He's practically an... upgraded version of Janne.

Thales slowly analyzed and pondered the situation before him.

It was as if the atmosphere and situation in the hall were gradually taking shape, filling his appetite step by step.

Don't run away, Thales.

A voice deep within his heart quietly reminded him:
You still need to answer that crucial question...

Faced with such a comprehensive and convenient contract, which only omits your father's contract.

Should you sign it?

Can you sign it?

Would you dare to sign it?

Will you sign it?

Thales clenched his fists instinctively, listening to the surging shouts around him.

Look at what's before you, Thales, facing this situation, these cries...

If you firmly refuse to sign the contract, it will be difficult to win back people's hearts and stabilize Emerald City in the future.

But if you were to compromise and sign the contract for the sake of immediate stability...

Thales sighed.

We'll leave aside for now what the King will think when the news reaches the Palace of Resurgence.

When Prince Thales arrived in Emerald City, he first deposed the Duke, and then, at the "suggestion" of various factions in the city, signed a regency treaty, "granting" power over Emerald City and even the South Bank Territory to others, winning widespread praise...

What will the whole kingdom think?
What would the local lords think of the title of "Gongbo" (a high-ranking official in charge of a region)?
What would the soldiers, farmers, merchants, and civilians under their rule think?
What would the people of the Sunset Temple and the church in other places think?
The prince gripped the JC dagger at his waist, trying to regain some sense of security.

Damn it... How did this audience turn out like this?
Calm down, Thales.

The prince had to take a deep breath.

If all else fails, find a way to stall for time. He absolutely cannot afford to remain in this situation—

Don't rush, and don't panic.

A calm voice inside him soothed him:
You can at least run away for a while longer.

Because at this very moment, in this hall, there are people who are more anxious and panicked than you.

Thinking of this, Thales paused slightly.

"Then let's go!"

Just then, a near-hysterical shout pierced through the noise and exploded violently in the council chamber!

The anxious Wyatt was jolted awake, but thankfully Marius next to him reached out and held him down, preventing him from instinctively drawing his sword.

Everyone was stunned.

"As the deputy high priest said: We will sign the contract, customize the plan, execute it, and save Emerald City!"

The chatter in the hall stopped instantly, and everyone turned to look around in confusion.

Federico's gaze was icy as he strode quickly to the center of the hall:
"Now! Immediately! Right now!"

No one, including Thales, reacted in surprise; they just stared blankly at Federer, who was behaving so unusually.

However, Vice-Priest Fiebur frowned and immediately turned to the prince:
"Your Highness—"

But before he could speak, Federico pointed to the door and sneered:
"But if the Palace of Restoration does not agree, there will be discontent throughout the kingdom..."

He turned around abruptly:
"Then let's take this covenant, raise the banner of rebellion, and follow the example of Kirk Kevindeer who fought against the Eight-Fingered King. Let's gather the strength of the South Bank to fight against the entire nation's army—to hell with the Restoration Palace, Kevindeer will not perish in battle!"

Everyone, including the deputy high priest, was stunned again.

He said...what?
"Or perhaps we could go even further and emulate what happened eighteen years ago, when the Blade Gang killed officials, rebelled, and raised a blood-red flag? Why not start with me and use Kevin Deer's blood as a sacrifice?"

Federico glared angrily and looked around. Everyone whose gaze fell upon him instinctively turned their heads away.

Eighteen years ago?

Wyatt was startled and instinctively looked at Marius, whose brows were furrowed.

Killing officials and rebelling?

Raise the blood-red flag?
He was saying...

Many people barely realized what was happening and their expressions changed instantly!
“Federico, you…” Fabul realized something.

"Correct!"

Scarlet Iris continued walking, glancing at everyone within her field of vision:

"Just like the Blade's Rebels back then... first kill the village officials and clerks, then kill the lord, coerce the people, loot the towns, burn, kill, and plunder, attack Blade's Tomb, kill all the nobles and high-ranking officials, and slaughter the entire family of Duke Tebak..."

"Enough! Ferdi!"

The deputy high priest angrily shouted to stop him, but Federico ignored him completely and continued to make outrageous statements:

"...Then march across the entire country, to Yongxing City, into the Fuxing Palace, slaughter the entire royal family, and finally cut off the king's head to proclaim to the world: This contract is signed by Emerald City. In the entire Starry Sky and even the Western Continent, who the hell dares to disobey!"

Before he could finish speaking, the audience members had already turned ashen-faced!

Goodness...

What's going on here?
Don't want to live anymore?

Wyatt, who was standing to the side, was both shocked and furious. He gritted his teeth and took a step forward, ready to deal with the situation, but was stopped by Marius.

But in this moment of terror and utter chaos, Prince Thales, seated on his throne, suddenly swung his arm—

"Boom!"

A dagger wrapped in bandages was seen being plunged by the prince into the arm of the duke's throne with a dull, unpleasant thud.

The sound didn't travel far, and the movements weren't significant.

But for some reason, the prince's behavior seemed to have a strange magic. The moment he loosened his grip on the handle and let the blade tremble on the arm of the chair, all the noise in the hall, including Federico's angry curses, came to an abrupt halt.

For a second, the entire council chamber was completely silent; you could hear a pin drop.

All eyes were drawn to the highest point in the hall, lingering on the dagger beside the prince before quickly lowering their gazes, none daring to look directly at it.

Polaris himself remained silent.

He simply sat calmly in his seat, coldly observing everyone in the hall who had bowed their heads.

In those few seconds, there seemed to be an indescribable pressure in the void, pressing down on everyone in the hall, making them unable to speak, unable to lift their heads, and even having to be careful when breathing.

Damn it, after all that, this trick still works the best.

On the ducal throne, Thales bit his tongue, forcing himself to keep his face tense and not make any unnecessary expressions.

In the oppressive, deathly silence, Federico took a deep breath.

He slowly walked back to the main seat and knelt on one knee in front of Thales.

Marius quietly reached out and pulled Wya back, who had already taken a step forward but was now frozen in place.

“It was my fault, Your Highness. I was disrespectful in court and spoke recklessly, touching upon the kingdom’s deepest sorrow,” Federico lowered his head. “I am willing to accept my punishment.”

clever.

Marius coldly stared at Federico, who was kneeling on the ground.

That's really clever.

That's really crazy.

The crowd remained numb and indifferent to the distant blade.

So he simply grabbed the blade, yanked hard, and slammed it down in front of everyone, dripping with blood.

Well then...

Marius narrowed his eyes as he looked at the audience in the hall, who had been cheering and jeering but were now too afraid to even breathe.

Thales remained silent for a moment before lowering his gaze to look down at the scarlet iris.

Can you feel it, Thales?

He looked at Federico, who had his head bowed, and a sense of alertness and gravity filled his heart:
Judging from this person's performance just now, in addition to quick wit, keen insight, experience, and ruthlessness...

Can you sense that crazy, radical, and ambitious drive?
Every word he uttered pushed new chips onto the table, every move he made perfectly controlled the situation…

Federico, his madness is real.

But his ambition was more real than madness.

But now... as the son of the Radiant Star, burdened with a blood feud, will you lend him a hand?

Thales took a deep breath before gripping the inverted dagger tightly again, trying to pull it out—wait?

The second prince's forearm trembled slightly.

The dagger remained deeply embedded in the wood, unmoved.

its stuck.

Damn, the Duke of South Bank's chair... is it really that good quality?
How much does one cost?

Another day, let the carpenters from Xinghu Fort also...

He was preparing to draw upon the power of the River of Sin, but Wyah below cast a questioning glance his way.

Thales exhaled, pretended to tap the hilt of the JC dagger, and then calmly released it.

"The bloody years were indeed an unspeakable pain."

Thales said slowly:

"But that's precisely why we must face the past and remember the scars, instead of avoiding talking about them just because we're afraid of the pain or it's taboo."

The moment Thales spoke, breaking the silence, everyone in the hall seemed to receive a signal and breathed a sigh of relief.

The whispers continued, but no one dared to shout like before.

Didn't you see that dagger is still stuck in the duke's throne?
With their superior numbers and the power to speak frankly for the future of Emerald City, there is still room for maneuver.

But if one violates a royal taboo from the Bloody Years, then deep-seated hatred...

Many people, upon thinking of this, couldn't help but look at Federico, who was kneeling with his head bowed.

That's why this person's nickname is "Scarlet Iris".

Are you really not afraid of getting splattered with blood?
"Your Highness is wise."

Federico, without looking up, said quietly:

"But speaking of the contract of the deputy high priest, there is something I have to mention."

Deputy High Priest Fiebel turned around abruptly, staring intently at his former student.

"To gather such a huge momentum, create such a scene, offend the royal family, and usurp power, Sir, you must have someone supporting you behind the scenes, right?"

Federico slowly raised his head, his gaze cold and sinister:
"I suspect that among those in this hall are your accomplices, conspirators, and like-minded individuals?"

The deputy high priest's expression changed!
Thales didn't speak; he simply rested his left arm on his hand with a grim expression, tilting it to one side in an uncomfortable position—so that his right elbow could avoid the dagger on the chair arm.

"Accomplices?"

The old priest seemed to laugh in anger, and he snorted coldly:
"Every word and action I take today reflects my innermost thoughts and I bear the responsibility for them!"

“It’s fine if you don’t say anything,” Federico shook his head, unconcerned, “but if you want His Highness to sign this contract as you wish… someone has to come out and sign it, right?”

“I said, the Temple of Sunset can vouch for it—”

"not enough!"

Federico suddenly stood up and roared!
He stared directly at Fabre:
"This contract is so important that it could even shake the kingdom. The signatures at the bottom should be substantial enough, right? It can't just be 'Emerald City', can it?"

Without waiting for an answer, Federer turned around and looked at the attendees in the room:
"And what about everyone else... those who were cheering just now? Those who were applauding? Those who supported the deputy high priest in speaking out for the people? Where are they now?"

He gritted his teeth, and wherever his gaze fell, everyone turned their heads away.

"Where are those who, for the sake of Emerald City, are trying to use this opportunity to put His Highness on the hot seat and force him to sign a contract? Step forward!"

Federico's roar echoed in the hall:

"Time for an autograph!"

His voice was already hoarse, but it sent chills down everyone's spine.

"Federico!"

Deputy High Priest Fibrill was filled with shock and anger:
"What are you doing?!"

"doing what?"

Federico sneered:
"Sir, you describe this contract as so grand... then surely we should let everyone, let the entire kingdom see: who exactly is the one who approves and supports it?"

Everyone present tensed up!
stand by.

What does it support?
Should we support that contract?

Or……

After signing the contract, what happens when faced with the consequences...? Raise the banner of rebellion and storm the Fuxing Palace?

Kevin Deer...The Emerald City will not perish because of the enemy?

Even if it's not that bad...

But after Federico had said those outrageous things...

Who knows what will happen when this gets out, spreads throughout the kingdom, and especially when it reaches the Palace of Restoration?

Ah Gou, I heard you signed a declaration to lead the people of the South Bank in fighting for their rights, storm the Palace of Reconstruction, steal the King's wife, and then chop off his dog's head?
Hey, I'm not making this up. I heard it from Ah Mao. He saw you sign it with his own eyes—hey, just tell me if you signed it or not! Stop making excuses. Even my neighbor, that northerner, knows about it. He said he'd sponsor you with an axe!

Thinking of this, many of those who had been eager to try lowered their heads silently, ignoring Federico's words.

Even those who couldn't help but want to speak up felt a chill when they looked up and saw Prince Thales's cold expression and the inconspicuous dagger on his seat, and subconsciously gave up the idea.

"Perfect timing! Let everyone see who truly cares about Emerald City and is working tirelessly behind the scenes for this contract!"

Federico clearly didn't want to let everyone off the hook.

"Who are the people who want to join that committee, to oversee the regency, and to climb the ranks?"

He walked past rows of seats, escalating his points one by one in front of the ashen-faced audience:

"And who are these people who want to take over the burden of the Iris Flower and share the divine right of the Starry Royal Family?"

He paused, stopped in front of the first row of seats, and turned to face the crowd:
"What, after accomplishing such a great feat, you don't even dare to reveal your identity or leave your name at the end?"

The expressions of the VIPs in the front rows changed several times, while the guests in the middle rows all lowered their heads. Only those in the back rows and corners whispered and argued endlessly.

However, no one dared to speak up.

Let alone rebuttal.

"The sun is setting above, Your Highness!"

Once stunned, Deputy High Priest Fieble finally couldn't take it anymore. He turned to Thales and protested angrily:

"Federico's words and actions are outrageous, absurd, and irrational! Please send the Royal Guard to remove him from this hall to uphold the dignity of the council!"

Wyatt was startled by what he heard, but Marius shook his head at him.

Thales frowned at the arrogant Fede and the indignant vice-high priest, nodded, and said in a deep voice:
"Fed, that's enough nonsense."

Federico paused for a moment.

"As ordered, Your Highness."

He turned away coldly.

"Since Your Highness has shown mercy, then so be it. Those who wish to get autographs need not come forward anymore."

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

But the next second, Federer's gaze sharpened, and his tone abruptly changed:
"How about a public nomination? Who would you like to nominate to sign? Anyone is fine with you!"

Upon hearing this, many people's expressions changed slightly.

Some people couldn't help but look around, searching for enemies or rivals with whom they had a bad relationship.

Federico sneered repeatedly:

"Or perhaps we could simply hand out a piece of paper to everyone and have them write down whoever they think should sign it? Don't worry, I won't look at it or try to guess the handwriting. I'll just have His Highness's royal guards read it aloud in public..."

Everyone tensed up again!
The old priest trembled with rage:

"you--"

"This isn't a class, I can't exactly call everyone's names, can I?"

Federico sneered as he stepped forward, casually pointing to the nearest row in front:
"You, Acheson Lacia, would you like to sign this? The first one, please?"

"what?"

The man pointed at—the old count of the four-winged monitor lizard family—faced with the gazes of everyone, especially Prince Thales seated above, was momentarily thrown into disarray, his cheeks twitching:

"Me, me? Well, as the saying goes, 'The swamp monitor lizard harbors hidden dangers'—"

But Federico interrupted him directly with an aggressive question:
"So, does the Lasia family support this contract? Do you want His Highness to sign it? Are you an accomplice of the Deputy High Priest—"

Count Lacia was pale, but before he could answer, someone next to him suddenly stood up!
"boom!"

With a muffled thud, Federico was punched hard in the face and fell to the ground with a cry of surprise!
"Get out of here, Fede."

Count Lacia's eldest son spoke coldly, withdrawing his fist.

"My apologies, Your Highness, everyone."

Under the astonished gazes of many, including Thales, the heir of the giant lizard raised his hand to apologize to the guards who rushed up, asking them to return to their original positions before calmly sitting down.

Count Lacia was dumbfounded. He stared blankly at his son until the latter frowned and turned his head away. Only then did he quickly turn back ("If it weren't for my old friendship and my restraint in showing off my unparalleled martial arts skills, you wouldn't have had a chance to shine!").

Watching the eldest son of the monitor lizard, the Karabyan sisters quickly raised their fans ("A neighbor's son has grown up" and "A good son-in-law is hard to find in the world") and whispered among themselves, their expressions wary and serious.

Federico, who had been punched, struggled to his feet.

He touched the blood at the corner of his mouth, and instead of being angry, he burst into laughter.

“Very well, Eddie, now we’re even,” Fede sneered, looking at Count Lacia and his son. “I bet your family isn’t signing?”

"Federico! Ferdinand! That's enough!"

The old priest's heartbroken voice interrupted Federico's words and dispelled everyone's fear of the latter calling out names one by one:

"This is Emerald City, your and your father's hometown!"

Federico was taken aback by what he heard!
"No, you've had enough!"

As if he had been suppressing his anger for too long, Federer suddenly turned around, his eyes wide with fury, and pointed at the attendees:

"Look at you all, unwilling to bow your heads, yet too afraid to pick up a knife and overturn the table... You're mercenary, greedy, and hesitant, only willing to scheme and collude in the gutter, acting furtively..."

This is my hometown...

Emerald City.

Federico gritted his teeth, his voice filled with hatred:

"Yes, when my father was wronged and I sought justice, you were all like this, even though he had been very kind to you!"

Thales noticed that several people in the direction he was pointing couldn't help but lower their heads.

"Now that I'm back and Jenn is out of office, you're still the same pathetic bunch."

Federico looked around, his laughter tinged with sadness.

Damn Emerald City.

Damn South Coast people.

Damn it... everyone.

They deserved to be burned to ashes along with the old era.

To become nourishment for a new era. (End of Chapter)