Chapter 178: Broken Statue
Marinus blinked a couple of times, not quite understanding Queen Isoldea’s line of thought.
"If we send him back, we will be strengthening our bond with the kingdom of Vramid," Marinus said. "King Godwin would trust Nedour further, and the chances our kingdoms may eventually unite in a royal marriage will henceforth increase. Isn’t that a better route?"
"Are you questioning my judgment?" Queen Isoldea questioned. However, her tone made her words seem more like a statement. "Prince Consort Marinus, are you telling me how I should rule my own kingdom?"
"N-No, of course not, Your Majesty," Marinus quickly said. "I was just thinking―"
"Perhaps you shouldn’t think, then," Queen Isoldea retorted before giving Marinus a chance to say more. "Orion Elsher, criminal or not, was once a war hero who slain a dragon with his bare hands. Unless you’re able to boast a similar feat, he will not be sent anywhere." She then turned to her daughter and said, "Nor will he be allowed to go anywhere other than where the Queen commands."
Nessa’s eyes quickly widened. "Mother―"
"Princess Nessa," Queen Isoldea said, her voice sounding a little more tired than usual, "Orion Elsher is a valuable asset to have. You two have done well in bringing him here. He is now indebted to the Nedish court, and as such, there will always be a price to pay in exchange for his life. Do I make myself clear?"
With that said, she stood from her throne and left. Nessa could only stare at her mother’s retreating back, along with the servants who trailed after her figure before disappearing past the bend. Once they were left alone, Marinus quickly climbed up the steps to the throne, stopping only when he stood in front of Nessa.
But before he could say anything, Nessa spoke first.