Chapter 250: Refusing the Throne’s Courtesy
Leonard was bored because this return wasn't going to be anything heartfelt or warm. Instead, it was just another political formality, nonsensical crap that only wastes people's time.
"Who else was captured regarding this incident?" Eleanor suddenly asked.
When the Royal Steward heard the question, he kept his composure and replied gently.
"General Henry and his direct lineage, alongside Jasper's father, Norman."
"Norman, huh. A 5th Circle Mage Instructor." Eleanor mused. "Is he in magic handcuffs or just idling in a seating position?"
"..."
Clark was rendered speechless.
How was he supposed to answer that question?
'Instructor Norman is a 5th circle mage on behalf of the Aldros Empire. We can't possibly detain him because of his son's foolishness, right?' Clark thought to himself.
Moreover, according to the information, Jasper's life was hanging by a thread already.
Just General Henry and his direct lineage being punished should have been enough to call the issue over.
There was no need to pursue further.
"I reckon he'll probably get away with a light scolding from Father." Leonard shrugged and said sarcastically. "I'm just an incompetent Crown Prince. What is my value when compared to a 5th circle mage?"
"Your status is actually that low?" Eleanor gasped in disbelief. "The royalty in the Valdoria Continent has no prestige?"
"Prestige? I was publicly insulted and humiliated. But what were the consequences? Just a light scolding and some measly ants being used as scapegoats."
"Unbelievable…"
As the two continued to discuss, their volume also soared.
Poor Clark nearly had a nervous breakdown when these two didn't play by the rules.
'My god, can the two of you ancestors please stop raising your volume?' Clark was frightened that nearby palace servants would spread the news elsewhere.
After all, the Imperial Palace was filled with many servants. It was hard to discern whether they were loyal to the emperor or other factions.
"I'll keep a check on this matter. His Majesty is waiting in the main hall." Clark placed a hand on his chest and said politely. He hoped to use His Majesty's name to end the conversation.
"Forget it." But contrary to his expectation, Leonard waved his hand. "I'm tired from my journey at Velastra. And before I can even relax, I've been met with this incident. I'm returning to my palace. If Father wants to punish me, then go ahead."
Shortly after saying that, Leonard held on to Eleanor's wheelchair and pushed her away.
"Crown Prince?" Clark was startled by the behavior. He wanted to give chase, but was halted by both Curtis and Albert.
"Apologies, Royal Steward Clark. But the Crown Prince is indeed tired from the journey." Curtis bowed his head and excused himself.
As for Albert, he simply gave a light warning.
"The collective bunch had repeatedly insulted Miss regarding her condition. If the attitude of His Majesty is just this, then we might have to reconsider the program to improve our continent's relationship."
A few seconds later, Clark finally came back to his senses. He pursed his lips and realized the issue was more serious than they had thought.
'The Princess of Xundraeth was insulted in the capital ground? Just what were the informants doing?' Clark clenched his fist.
His eyes were ablaze as he determined to silence all the informants responsible for this gross dereliction of duty.
Due to limited time, Russel also failed to notify Clark about the incident. The best he could do was inform Concubine Beatrice ahead of time to avoid the situation from escalating.
After all, His Majesty had given orders to suppress the matter and cover the shame of their Royal Family.
"His Majesty is going to punish me…" Clark smiled bitterly. He wouldn't be physically harmed, but a light scolding was definite. To be scolded by His Majesty was never something he would want to happen.
Those who caused him to have a bad impression in front of His Majesty would have to face his wrath, especially if they were insignificant beings.
"Right… that clown preparator Jasper has lackeys with him. I'll deal with them." Having found his targets to vent, Clark flashed a malicious grin. He wouldn't really silence the informants, granted that they were still useful.
Moreover, the resources and time used on them would make it a pity to kill them.
With that decided, Clark promptly gestured for a few nearby guards before returning to the palace.
While this was occurring, Leonard had already boarded his carriage, with another uninvited guest staying inside.
"Don't you have one yourself?" Leonard raised an eyebrow and questioned.
"Why would I have a carriage here?" Eleanor mused.
"I'm a guest and just arrived at the capital today."
"But you're known as the great strategist of Xundraeth. I refuse to believe you didn't have any arrangement planned in advance."
Eleanor nodded in agreement. "Indeed, I have made arrangements, but wasn't it you who pushed my wheelchair away? Don't tell me you plan on dumping me by the roadside?"
Shortly after saying that, she started putting on a pitiful act and held a wronged expression.
"Because of you, I won't be meeting the Emperor Aldros. Do you know how troublesome it'll be if Emperor Aldros takes offense at the matter? The risk I took for you, and what I got in return was your cold treatment."
Unfazed by her acts, Leonard had now become used to her antics.
She never once felt ashamed or terrible about her condition. Instead, she weaponized her condition to destroy and eliminate those who dared to cross her path.
This kind of ruthlessness was much required in this world.
No softhearted person could survive in this world, especially those from nobility.
"By the way, you've mentioned something about the underground faction in Velastra before. Could I take it as you're one of the controlling parties in the factions?" He changed the topic and inquired.
"You really want to know?" Eleanor giggled and pointed at her left cheek. "A price must be paid if you want to know the answer. Otherwise, I can't guarantee it won't be the truth."
