Chapter 373: Mother!
On the bustling streets of Eldora, people moved like flowing water, and the streets were full of carriages.
Compared to last year, the prosperity of Eldora had not changed. It still looked like a peaceful, prosperous era. The war in Preston hadn’t reached here.
Outside the city gates, Constantine, the Vice Minister of Rites, was waiting to greet Simon and his party.
"Your Highness, the Emperor has ordered me to wait here for a long time. Please allow me to escort you to the castle." Constantine said.
Simon nodded lightly, and as his eyes briefly met Constantine’s, he noticed a hint of discomfort in Constantine’s gaze.
The secret guards had compiled lists of influential figures across the Eldorian Empire, and Constantine was listed as part of the Vaelric faction, along with the Empress Dowager and the Third Prince Leonard.
Simon was cautious during this visit to Eldora. He had arranged for the military workshop to craft a short-barrel firearm for self-defense.
Gius had already infiltrated Eldora to gather intelligence, ensuring Simon wouldn’t be caught off guard. Just like last time, once they entered Eldora, Randy appeared before him. He arranged for Liam and Timothy’s soldiers to rest at the Imperial Guard’s camp.
Simon’s residence hadn’t changed either, but now the plaque on the door read ’Prince Simon Mansion.’
"Your Highness, the Emperor has said that this will be your official residence in Eldora from now on," Carl said with a smile.
"Father truly is considerate," Simon responded with a smile.
As a prince from another territory, Simon wasn’t supposed to have his own place in Eldora. But now, Alaric had made an exception, giving him a place. This showed how much Alaric valued him now.
Constantine also smiled, though his smile seemed somewhat forced.
While Simon’s role in the war at Dunmere had changed Alaric’s view of him, after the successful defense of Preston and the capture of Snake Pass, Simon’s reputation was now close to that of a prince with backing from his own faction.
Simon had gone from a low-profile prince to someone whose influence could rival that of other royal sons.
After instructing Ysabeau and Joan to settle in at the mansion with the servants and maids, Simon followed Constantine directly to the castle.
Inside, he met with Emperor Alaric and Empress Gretchen.
"Your son greets the Emperor and Empress," Simon said, bowing.
When Constantine led Simon into the Golden State, Simon was surprised. Typically, Alaric only met with his sons and officials in the study.
However, when he saw that his mother and Empress Gretchen were sitting beside Alaric while the other concubines were seated at the lower ranks, it made sense.
His father was very clever. Alaric clearly understood that nothing was more effective than building a closer father-son bond. Any rewards or honors were secondary.
"Simon, no need for formalities. I’m sure you’re exhausted from the long journey. Come, sit and rest." Alaric said with a warm smile, acting like a kind father, not an emperor.
Empress Gretchen also waved at him and said. "Simon, don’t stand. This is the inner castle; no need for too many formalities. Just treat this as a family gathering."
If it had been the old Simon, he would have been deeply touched. He had never received such warmth from Alaric before, nor had Alaric spoken to him so kindly.
"Thank you, Emperor, and thank you, Empress."
While speaking, Simon glanced at Lady Isolde, who was looking at him with pride and affection in her eyes.
Now, Lady Isolde was in a position of power thanks to her son. In the past, she had always had to endure in the castle, but now, every concubine dared not offend her. Even Empress Gretchen treated her with courtesy, as if they were sisters.
After offering his thanks, Simon sat at the lower rank where Lady Isolde was seated.
Alaric smiled lightly and said. "Simon, it’s rare for you to return to Eldora. With your wedding soon, it’s a double joy. Tonight, I’ve arranged a banquet at the Banquet Hall in the castle. All the princesses and princes will be present, as well as your Third and Fourth Uncles. It will be a chance for the royal family to gather together. After all, in the Eldorian Empire, only we royals remain united."
"Yes, Father Emperor. I truly miss my relatives in Eldora." Simon replied, playing along with Alaric’s words. He now understood that Alaric was using emotion to strengthen their bond.
From another perspective, when an emperor used emotion, it showed how much he valued someone.
This had been the case throughout history.
Alaric smiled with relief. He knew he had been strict with Alaric in the past. While it was for Simon’s good, Simon had never seen it that way.
So, he wanted to use this opportunity to rebuild their father-son relationship.
"Well then, since we’re not discussing state affairs today, let’s focus on family matters. You and your mother can chat for a while. I’ll talk to you more at the banquet tonight." Alaric said as he stood up. His goal had already been achieved.
He had arranged for Simon to meet him in the Golden State, and the way he had positioned Lady Isolde next to him was a clear sign of his current attitude.
Alaric left, and the other concubines followed him. Lady Isolde and Simon escorted them out of the pavilion before returning to their seats.
"Wow, this is quite a spectacle." Simon sighed, feeling the pressure.
He was used to the freedom in Brambleford, but now, in the castle, there were rules everywhere.
Lady Isolde sighed and sat Simon down in the chair. "All this trouble is for you. With all your achievements, how could your father not value you? Before, only princes with other territories would come to the capital, and your father would meet them with the corresponding royal princes and concubines."
Pausing for a moment, Lady Isolde continued. "But now, I am in a stronger position as your mother. Simon, you’ve really become successful."
"Thank you, Mother. It’s just that I happened to take advantage of the Imperial Guard. Otherwise, fighting the nomads wouldn’t have been so easy." Simon replied honestly.
Lady Isolde nodded. She didn’t focus much on state affairs and instead said. "Now that you’ve finally come back, let’s not talk about battles and wars. Let’s talk about your wedding to Elin instead."
With a teasing smile, Lady Isolde suddenly asked. "Did you take in Ysabeau and Joan?"
Simon froze for a moment, then said helplessly. "Mother, wasn’t that your command?"
Lady Isolde smiled and nodded. "That was to help you understand matters in advance, but you need to know your priorities. Ysabeau and Joan are just maids, and they will always be maids. Elin is the only true princess. You’re no longer the Simon of six years ago. The princes in Eldora are watching you, eager to harm you. Marrying into the Baker family gives you a voice in the court. That’s why this marriage has happened. I know you didn’t want to be involved in such matters, but now you have no choice."
Lady Isolde, ever perceptive, had seen right through Simon’s situation.
Her words were exactly what Simon had been thinking. He said. "Mother, I understand."