Kingdom Bloodline

Chapter 739 Clawless and Toothless

Chapter 739 Clawless and Toothless
"You little brat, are you kidding me?!"

Faced with the sarcastic Thales, Count Acheson Lacia could not contain himself and stood up uncontrollably.

"Father, sit down!"

At the last moment, the count's eldest son pulled his distraught father back to his seat, his eyes and tone leaving no room for argument.
“You are the Earl. Let me handle this rudeness.”

Earl Atchison's nostrils flared and his breathing became rapid.

He stared incredulously at his eldest son, then glared angrily at Thales, snorted, flung his sleeves, and turned his head away.

Eddie nodded to his father with a stern expression.

The eldest son was filial and the father was kind; his advice was appropriate, and the count readily accepted it.

Thales was quite envious.

This should be promoted as a model father-son relationship, and widely publicized throughout the country.

However, a small voice resounded in his heart again:

Don't be fooled, Thales.

First of all, perhaps they only act this way in front of you?
The prince's expression changed.

Secondly, if they were not in a remote, swampy area, and did not belong to the impoverished and weak Lasia family.

Instead, it is another, richer and more powerful family or group that has the right to leave more for its descendants without having to worry about its own survival.
For example... the Star Family?
As he pondered, the count's eldest son looked at him, his eyes sharp, and asked in a soft voice:
"Why, Your Highness?"

why?
"Because you are used to indirect provocation and playing hard to get."

Thales came to his senses:
"On the contrary, they would not do such a crude and low-level thing as directly assassinating the Duke—this is not in line with the philosophy of the four-winged giant lizard and would have endless consequences."

But Eddie continued to stare at him, shaking his head expressionlessly:
“You misunderstand, Your Highness. What I’m asking is: whether in the past or now, what reason do we have to oppose the Kevin Deer family and harm the Emerald City?”

Thales frowned slightly.

The eldest son of the count said solemnly:
“Lacia is also on the South Bank. For generations, they have farmed and wove, relying on the local area for their livelihood and under the protection of Kevin Deer. They share the same fate as Emerald City. Why should we defecate on our own plate and plunge the South Bank into chaos?”
"Moreover, we both know perfectly well that in this era, given His Majesty's temperament, even if Kevin Dier loses power, the Lasia family, which is confined to the swamp, would not be able to get their hands on the Sky Palace, let alone interfere in Emerald City and the South Bank Territory."

"And whether in the past or now, what the four-winged giant lizard most wants to avoid is overestimating its own abilities to fight for power and profit, getting involved in dangerous political struggles, and ending up in a miserable state—the examples of Coldburg Arend and the Seven Stars in recent times are all cautionary tales."

Thales looked back at Eddie seriously and remained silent for a long while.

“I’ve had the same question,” the prince said. “No offense intended, but given the size and ambition of the Lasia family, they should be content with living in a small corner of the world. Why go to such lengths and invite trouble upon themselves?”

Earl Acheson snorted unhappily.

Eddie remained silent, waiting for Thales to say the next thing.

"So at first I thought you did this because of the old debts from the National Conference: the Lasia family was involved in the 'New Star' and was also part of the group that knelt down in the Hall of Stars and forced the King to choose a successor."

Thales changed the subject, observing the expressions of the father and son:
"Perhaps my father is using this to blackmail you, threatening you to become his inside agents and help him overthrow Jenn and seize power in Emerald City?"

Upon hearing this, Earl Acheson became anxious and was about to speak again, but Eddie spoke faster than him.

"Then perhaps you should ask His Majesty."

The eldest son of the count said coldly.

“After all, aside from the stars in the sky, not everyone wants to dance with dragons at the top of the world,” Eddie, usually taciturn, said sharply at this moment, “let alone compete with the gods.”

Thales frowned upon hearing this.

He observed the other person for a while, then shook his head.

"No, I've met quite a few high-ranking officials and nobles from all over the kingdom. They all have their own agendas and are difficult to deal with. Even if they are forced to become pawns by the rulers through coercion, they at most just go through the motions and pretend to comply while secretly going against the grain."

In that instant, the images of many people flashed through his mind.

“But you, Lacia, in this struggle, your methods were so beautiful and ingenious: the initial intentions and stances of each move seemed to be loyal to the Duke, but in terms of results, they were all detrimental to Jenn… If it weren’t for Inquisitor Brennan’s notes, no one else would have found any trace of them, no evidence to point to them…”

“Your Highness has no evidence, and your subjective speculation based solely on a few old case notes is rather disheartening,” Eddie said softly.

Earl Atchison chimed in, clearly annoyed:

"that is!"

“But perhaps there is another explanation,” Thales said, his mind clear and undisturbed. “In this political storm aimed at overthrowing Jenn, the effort and cost you have invested are far greater, more substantial, and more complete than those who were forced by my father, unwilling, and outwardly compliant but inwardly defiant.”

Eddie's eyes flickered.

"You were not forced, but rather acted spontaneously, proactively, and diligently, which is why you were able to do it so flawlessly. Even someone as cunning as Janne couldn't find any clues, and even my all-out investigation couldn't find any evidence against you."

Thales was resolute.

Count Acheson, who had been so aggressive, changed his expression upon hearing this. He picked up his tea, burying his face in the cup, and Thales didn't even have time to remind him not to forget to add sugar.

Eddie scoffed dismissively:
“Since Your Highness is convinced that we are the mastermind, you have no shortage of excuses.”

Thales fell silent, staring quietly at the Earl's eldest son, whose gaze held a dangerous edge.

Thales smiled slightly when he realized he had forgotten to add sugar after finishing his tea.

He pulled out several pages of documents from the drawer and pushed them in front of the two distinguished guests:

"This is a land survey certificate issued by the Emerald City Notary Office."

Lasia and his son were startled and both leaned forward.

The moment they saw the words on the paper, their expressions changed slightly.

Thales tapped his finger on the certificate, and also on the land that had almost been sold off cheaply for money due to the Emerald City's financial crisis.

"This wasteland in the South Bank Territory is located southwest of Shuo Ri Town. Its former lord failed in his investments, accumulated huge debts, and unfortunately went bankrupt. Fortunately, the Star Kingdom has lenient laws and is civilized and enlightened. It did not follow the cruel and backward ancient imperial law to force his whole family to sell themselves into slavery and repay the debt for generations."

Nor did they revert to the barbaric and ancient primitive custom of chopping off his hands and feet to pay off his debts.

At this point, Thales couldn't help but recall the time when he was still in the North and almost had to "pay off his debts in installments."

"The advanced laws of Emerald City go a step further: when the relevant departments receive an application, they provide services to help the lord sell the land to pay off his debts, of course, to the largest merchant group, the wealthiest man, or perhaps even a nobleman who offers the fairest price."

Thales's words were laced with sarcasm, while the Lassia father and son wore amused expressions.

Using privileges to offset debts, canceling outstanding payments, and ignoring any remaining amount, is a perfect way to deal with bad debts, and it is both humane and advanced.

As for how to allocate the income...

“But if my men are not mistaken, this wasteland was once—when it was not yet a wasteland—a fiefdom under your Swampy banner,” Thales tilted his head. “And this bankrupt minor lord, perhaps, going back a few generations, was related to you?”

Both Lasia and his son were stunned.

Thales calmly raised his teacup and observed them with remarkable composure.

One second, two seconds, three seconds.

Finally, the count himself could no longer contain himself and asked, "Is it difficult?"
"Actually, this land has been..."

But Thales slammed down his teacup, interrupting him:

"The Queen's Day and the Emerald Festival are the grandest occasions of the year in the South Bank Territory. All dignitaries attach great importance to them and socialize during the festival, having a great time—except for the Lasia family."

The father and son remained silent, their expressions stiff.

"Those of you who believe in the Sunset Juranz branch are known for their simplicity and austerity, their mysterious whereabouts, their lack of social skills, and their dislike of showing off."

Thales glanced at them.

"For the past ten years, during every celebration you have attended in Emerald City, apart from showing up at the Banquet of Conquest to meet the Duke, offering a prayer at the temple, and saying goodbye before leaving, you have always kept your doors closed to guests, living as secludedly as temple monks—until this year."

Thales smiled slightly, then spoke solemnly:

"But this isn't because your family is aloof or unsociable, nor is it because of any belief in hard work and perseverance—those are just pre-existing excuses. As for the real reason..."

The prince looked at the notarized document on the table and paused briefly:

"It's because we're poor."

The prince sighed softly, deeply empathetic and sincere.

The study fell silent again.

Both guests looked away.

Earl Atchison pressed his fists against his knees, his fists clenched and trembling.

Eddie kept his head down, his expression inscrutable, and remained silent.

"I don't know when it started, but the once vast and self-sufficient marshland began to decline: the annual income was meager, the finances were strained, the land was abandoned, the labor force was flowing out, and the vassals and lords at all levels were unable to make ends meet and were forced to borrow money from Peter to pay Paul, accumulating mountains of debt," Thales said coldly.

Earl Acheson's fists trembled even more violently.

"As for a certain earl family, they even have to rent a decent banquet dress for a short period of time. For the sake of the family's reputation, they have to do it secretly and dare not let anyone know."

Eddie remained silent.

"And they were late not because they went hunting outside the city," Thales sighed, "but because my invitation came too hastily, the urging was too urgent, and the time limit was too short. They had to find an excuse to rush to gather the necessary formalities, clothing, and accessories for their audience with the emperor..."

Seeing that they didn't react, Thales had to deliberately glance at their simple, rough travel and hunting attire:

"I guess it's because they didn't collect them all."

Wow!

In that instant, Earl Acheson stood up in fury, his hair standing on end in a rage!

"Even if you are His Highness, you cannot insult us like this!"

Eddie immediately stood up, his expression serious:
"Exactly!"

But after he spoke up for his father, he immediately grabbed the other man's shoulder:

"It's alright, Father, sit down."

Earl Acheson's chest heaved, his face grim. He glanced at his eldest son before swaying as he sat down, looking utterly dejected.

Thales did not respond, but simply squinted and continued to observe.

The count's eldest son turned around, his words polite but his tone cold:
"As the prophet Jullenz said: thrift is a virtue and should not be a source of shame."

“I agree,” Thales nodded, “but frugality is a voluntary choice, while hardship is something you are forced into.”

Seeing that Earl Atchison was about to lash out again, Thales quickly backed down:
"Please forgive me, I did not intentionally expose your shortcomings, nor did I intend to look down on your family, and I do not have the bad habit of judging people by their wealth or social status."

He sighed softly:
"But I suspect that over the years—and perhaps more than just these years—the South Coast Territory, as the most vibrant corner of the entire kingdom, has undergone a dramatic transformation under the care of several generations of rulers: industry and commerce have flourished, immigrants have gathered, commoners have risen to prominence, new nobles have emerged, land has been transferred, resources have been developed, maritime trade has been booming, and taxes have doubled. Emerald City, as the main city, has made even more rapid progress, becoming a hundred times richer and more prosperous than before."

Thales paused for a moment and looked at the two guests:

"However, the area located in the southwest of Emerald City has a complex terrain, dense forests, remote and barren land, and is a naturally closed and conservative swampy area. In comparison, it has stagnated and even declined step by step, and its glory has faded."

Upon hearing this, both Lasia and his son fell silent.

“That’s right, in the case the court previously heard, there was that Baron Trent, whose fortune had declined to the point of being destitute, reduced to suing the farmers on his own land over a few copper coins, only to end up with both sides suffering losses…”

Thales stuffed the notarized document back into the drawer:
"It's just the most superficial and typical reflection of your Lasia family projected onto the lower-class nobles."

Boom!
Thales slammed the drawer shut.

This seemed to bring up the topic of this round as well.

Having said this, Earl Acheson closed his eyes in sorrow.

The count's eldest son bit his lower lip and remained silent.

"But you are, after all, one of the thirteen noble clans: the four-winged giant lizards in the swamp can lie low, but they will never perish from suffocation."

Seeing that the time was right, Thales immediately changed the subject:
"So eleven years ago, when Viscount Sona, representing the old nobles and forces behind him, launched a fierce war against his elder brother, the Duke, you were also eager to make your move."

Count Lacia and his son both looked up, one with a wary look in his eyes, the other with a complicated expression.

“I think that the struggle between Duke Lenster and his brother Sona, which is a tragic fratricidal conflict within the Iris family, is a bloody power struggle between different groups and classes in Emerald City and even the South Bank Territory.”

Thales was certain it was authentic.

It is also a brutal elimination process for the benefit of different power holders who are gradually drifting apart, against the backdrop of the rapid advancement of the South Bank.

"But compared to the families that fell from grace in that struggle, the four-winged giant lizards are cautious. You never attack head-on, but only exert your strength in secret. Along the way, you weigh the pros and cons repeatedly, and even changed sides in time after the old duke's death. In the end, you chose the right position. Although you did not win completely, at least you did not make enemies with the final winner, so you will not be purged by the new duke afterward."

Thales slowly shook his head, shaking away the banter he had just made, and also shaking away the last vestige of dignity of the Lasia family:

"Unfortunately, whether it was because Jann saw through your indecisiveness and wavering, or because the backward rule and lifestyle of the lords of the swamp were indeed unable to keep up with the pace of the times, or because the Lassia family's prediction of the new duke's rule was wrong—you didn't get to drink the celebratory wine for Jann's rise to power."

Or rather, you only realize you have indigestion after drinking it.

The medicine is not suitable for the condition.

“Even the Vora territory is gradually changing. Under the insistence of its young leader, the Karabyan family has slowly become wealthy by taking advantage of the Emerald City. But the Swamp remains unchanged: perhaps outsiders do not know, but you, who are getting worse and worse, have long become the poorest and most conspicuous part of the kingdom’s most prosperous southern territory. The difference between your wealth and poverty is even greater than that of the notoriously poor backwaters or borderlands such as the North, the Cliffland, and the Blade’s Edge.”

At this point, Eddie suddenly let out a soft hum, the meaning of which was unclear.

“So when Federico returned with his goal, especially when he learned that my father was behind him,” the prince said in a deep voice, “you, in your twilight years, had no choice but to grasp at this last straw.”

Thales finished speaking.

Count Acheson finally loosened his fist and slumped back in his chair.

“Of course, you have inherited the family tradition of not personally engaging in combat or taking the initiative to fight the enemy. Instead, you use a strategy of feigning weakness to lure the enemy into a trap and do the opposite of what is expected,” Thales said, trying to express understanding and sympathy. “This allows you to maneuver freely and, even if you lose, to stop the damage in time and minimize your losses.”

Thales changed the subject, his gaze becoming intense:

"Of course, the above are just my guesses. If I am wrong, please feel free to correct me."

The father and son, Lasia, stood stiffly, their eyes glazed over, and remained silent for a very long time.

Thales remained silent and did not urge him on; he simply focused on reviewing the remaining documents.

It was as if the conversation had never happened, and the guest on the other side of the table did not exist.

Let time take care of the rest.

Finally, after several minutes, Count Lacia let out a long sigh:
"Your Highness, what exactly do you want us to do?"

Thales smiled.

In the end, we succeeded.

He was about to make his request when the eldest son of the count snorted coldly:
"I recall that Your Highness exercised your noble arbitration power to arrest Duke Janne and investigate the old case of Kevin Deer. I wonder if there has been any progress so far?"

Thales' expression tightened.

"But when is the case set to conclude and the verdict announced?"

Eddie stared coldly at Thales:
"Is it Duke Janne who has failed his family and kingdom, and disobeyed the teachings of Sunset, or is it young master Federico who is delusional and distorting the truth?"

The questioning was aggressive and the topic was sensitive, causing Thales to frown.

"Son?" Earl Acheson seemed quite surprised as well, and whispered a reminder.

But his son didn't even glance at him.

It seems it won't be that easy.

Faced with an unfriendly question, Thales had to answer indirectly:
"This case is quite old and more complex than we initially thought; we need more time..."

But the count's eldest son showed him no respect whatsoever:

"Your Highness had better hurry, because this is a truly important matter concerning the kingdom's affairs."

Eddie's eyes were burning:

"And with the celebration coming to an end, you don't have any more time."

Business?

Does this concern the kingdom's major policies?

Thales looked back at him solemnly.

It seems the other party knows his weakness.

only……

"Now that things have come to this, Eddie, do you think what you're facing is still just a question of choosing between Jenn and Federico?"

His smile vanished.
"Did you think you were still the same as before, just secretly exerting your influence, changing the world, waiting for the winner to take the lead, and profiting from the loss?"

Both Lasias frowned.

“You just said ‘now that things have come to this,’” the count himself asked cautiously, “what did you mean?”

Thales couldn't help but laugh.

“Now that you’ve seen it, don’t pretend you didn’t,” he said, turning his head to show his bruises. “Guess who in Emerald City did this? Who has the guts to do this?”

Lasia and his son exchanged a glance.

"Since there is no possibility of reconciliation between Your Highness and Duke Jann's side, why not make up your mind to handle this matter officially and quickly?"

Eddie turned around and stared unabashedly at the injury on Thales' face:
"If we continue to indulge in beautiful women, we may fail the important trust placed in us by the Fuxing Palace."

Indulging in beauty...

Thales took a deep breath.

He swore that the father and son had never seen the young lady's "beauty" when she transformed into "Faceless Kirk".

"No, it wasn't Xi who slapped me..."

Under the curious gazes of the two pairs of eyes opposite him, Thales had a sudden inspiration. He simply changed the subject and stopped explaining:

"It's too late. The Palace of Restoration already knows: the Second Prince was tricked by a woman in Emerald City, losing all his dignity and reputation."

His expression turned cold:
"And he was very unhappy, not only with Emerald City, but also with me, and even more so with my ability to rule and my right to inherit the throne."

Lasia and his son both stiffened, their expressions turning serious.

Thales' tone was cold:
"Therefore, for me, what is happening here has gone beyond the realm of power struggles and has begun to affect the stability of the kingdom and the dignity of the royal family."

He looked serious and solemn:
“So I have decided: the Emerald City must be restored to normal order as soon as possible—of course, under my rule, and only under my rule,” His Highness’s words made the two guests feel uneasy. “In the face of this goal, neither Jan Federico nor the Palace of Restoration matters, or at least no longer matters.”

"But His Majesty..."

"No buts!"

Thales’ tone was resolute: “As long as Emerald City is not what it used to be, those two Kevin Deer will remain locked up in the Sky Palace until the Emerald Festival ends, until the Revival Festival arrives, until the bitter cold of the dead arrives, until they die of old age and their bones turn to ash.”

The expressions of the father and son, Lasia, changed drastically.

"And whoever is, regardless of their stance, anyone who dares to obstruct this goal is an enemy of the kingdom! And as a prince, the kingdom's enemies are naturally also my enemies."

Duke Starlake glanced coldly at the two guests:

"Do you understand?"

The prince's domineering presence silenced the two guests for a long time; their expressions were complex, and they frequently exchanged glances.

Eddie, unwilling to accept defeat, took a deep breath, preparing to reply, but this time, it was his father who spoke first.

"You're not on His Majesty's side, are you, Your Highness?"

Thales' eyelids twitched.

Count Lacia himself sighed and said, "Does he really know, and allow you to act so recklessly?"

Thales' heart sank.

“His Majesty is my father, so of course I’m on his side,” Thales answered perfectly, but then changed his tone midway, “but what His Majesty wants is not a dilapidated Emerald City, at least not one under my rule.”

At this point, Thales gave the two Lasias a stern look:

“Otherwise, I wouldn’t need to see you. I could just let you sabotage me from the shadows, push the situation to the limit, force those loyal to Jenn to my side, and completely cut off any possibility of Jenn’s return—now, will you help me or not?”

The prince's words were aggressive, and the study fell silent once more.

The father and son, Lasia, exchanged glances.

Finally, the count hesitated and said:
"Your Highness, being of noble birth, it is probably difficult for you to understand our position and situation..."

But Thales didn't give him a chance to bargain:

"But I know at least one thing: in your protracted battle for the South Bank that has lasted for more than a decade or even a century, the key is not in any particular leader."

Earl Acheson's brow furrowed.

"Even if you replace him with a conservative and stubborn new duke and try to force everyone back to the old days, you will not be able to solve the problem."

The next second, the second prince's tone softened.

“But I promise you, once this matter is settled, whoever comes to power in the South Bank will give you a chance,” Thales tried to sound as sincere as possible, “a chance to keep up with the new era and not be left behind.”

The count's eldest son's eyes flickered.

“A new era,” Eddie pondered the weight of those words, his eyes fixed on Thales. “Your Highness, are you referring to the era of the new king?”

Thales clenched his fist.

He took the bait.

The prince's inner voice whispered:

Then give it to him; it's the bait he wants most.

Just like what everyone else wants.

No.

Thales took a deep breath, struggling to suppress the fleeting "yes" that would escape his lips.

No.

“I’ve said it before, the key isn’t any particular ruler,” he said gently, “even if it’s a king.”

Eddie was not satisfied with the answer he wanted.

"You said, give us a chance."

The eldest son of the count pressed on:
"What kind of opportunity? Like the one you gave the Doyle family, a pardon? Or the one you gave to Kalabyan? To Aarond? To the Black Lion family? To the Four-Eyed Skull?"

Thales frowned at every question the other asked. He was about to explain when the count himself grabbed his son's shoulder and interrupted the conversation.

"Son, Your Highness, that's enough."

Acheson Lacia sighed in despair.

He, who always wore his heart on his sleeve, looked ten years older at this moment.

"Your Highness, you know the past of the rise of the Lasia family, but do you know the truth behind it?"

"the truth?"

Aitchison nodded, his words tinged with melancholy:
"My ancestor, Bodman, was a student and subordinate of the Kingdom's wise minister, Halva Karabyan. Six centuries ago, Black Eyes launched a northern expedition against Exter, taking away most of the country's young men, so that when the swampy lands were in turmoil and the southern shore was unstable, Starry Sky had no soldiers to use."

Thales frowned slightly.

"The wise minister who was in charge of the state had no choice but to send Bodman's ancestor as an envoy to the swamp to appease and win over the people in order to secure stability. The ancestor was also grateful for his teacher's kindness, so he took his whole family there, ready to die for his cause."

Count Lacia sighed softly:
"Fortunately, from the wise minister to Emerald City, from the Kingdom's secret service to the royal guard, from intelligence to resources, from power to titles, the Restoration Palace gave him the greatest support and convenience. Our ancestor finally lived up to his mission and stabilized the situation."

Thales was unsure of the other party's intentions, so he could only offer his support as appropriate.

"The 'monster lizard' was exceptionally talented; if he were alive today, he would probably be a renowned minister like Gilbert Cassel."

But Aitchison let out a cold laugh:
"But this good fortune did not last long, and John I, who was away on campaigns, returned to the capital."

John I.

"Black eyes?"

Aitchison nodded, his expression grave: "What's worse, he lost the battle."

of course.

Thales knew this history.

Full of confidence and ambition, the Starry Sky Iron Cavalry, determined to "recreate the imperial conquest" and start from the North, suffered countless casualties at the foot of the Cold Fortress, and, disheveled and unable to continue, could only retreat in despair.

The seemingly divided Kingdom of Exter was not only unharmed, but the ten dukes were also reunited, their unity and closeness surpassing anything before.

however……

"How could the mighty and proud King of Black Eyes tolerate defeat? How could his relentless and aggressive military campaigns end in failure?"

Earl Atchison remarked sarcastically:

"How can the reputation left by the imperial descendants' northern expedition be reduced to just 'Perhaps the king should listen to the prime minister'?"

Thales frowned:
"What do you mean?"

The earl's eldest son answered him:
"The Northern Expedition of the Black Eyes cannot be seen by outsiders as a mission that has not achieved any results."

Aitchison nodded, his gaze complex.
"And at this very moment, our ancestor Bodman has done the work."

“Black Eyes,” Thales realized, “he stole the legendary achievements of conquering the Swamp and expanding its territory, and claimed the throne for himself? Is this the truth?”

Eddie sneered and shook his head.

"If only it were that simple."

Looking at the other person's expression, Thales understood something.

"Zhi Xiang?"

The Earl nodded:

"The Northern Expedition failed, and someone must bear the responsibility."

All that could be heard was the increasingly aged Acheson speaking softly:

"It is said that Black Eye has a venomous foreign mistress who slandered the king, causing his ancestor Bodman, who had distinguished himself on his mission and received much praise, to sever ties with him and submit a memorial accusing him of blaming the prime minister for the failure of the war. She claimed that the failure of the northern expedition was due to Halva's pro-peace and aversion to war, his lack of diligence as regent, and the inadequate support from the rear, which led to the delay in military operations..."

Thales was stunned.

“But…” the prince said instinctively.

“Our ancestors didn’t want to do that,” the count’s eldest son shook his head.

"Of course, who is born wanting to be a traitor?" Earl Acheson sarcastically remarked. "Besides, Zhi Xiang had shown him great favor, and their relationship was like that of father and son! Moreover, Halvar was already old and frail at the time, with little time left..."

"But what choice does he have?" The eldest son of the count shook his head.

Seeing Thales's frown, Atchison explained slowly:

"At that time, our ancestor had just established himself in the swamp, barely escaping the pursuit. His servants were all gone, and only one of his four sons survived... And facing powerful enemies all around him, whether he was struggling to protect himself, using strategies and tactics, or trying his best to persuade the various tribes to submit to the kingdom, Bodman needed resources from the court, funds from the Restoration Palace, authorization from the king, support from the Kingdom's secret service, the backing of the army, and even more so, the iron-blooded authority represented by that cross and double-star banner..."

“He had no choice,” Eddie said coldly.

no choice.

Thales frowned.

“If I remember correctly,” the prince couldn’t help but say, “John I himself was raised by Halvar from a young age, and was considered a student of the wise minister?”

“Exactly,” the eldest son of the count said dismissively, “but the bond between teacher and student can’t compare to the whispers in one’s ear, and the truth is always more absurd than common sense.”

Thales fell silent upon hearing this.

Earl Atchison nodded slowly, a hint of sadness in his eyes:

"Thus, in the history books, Bodman's ancestors finally conquered the swamp, established their foundation, and became a famous minister."

"However, his achievements were quietly rewritten, as if from the very beginning John I had made a brilliant plan and specially sent him to carry out the plan, disintegrate the marshland tribes, and expand the territory."

"However, the old Prime Minister Halva was betrayed by his most loyal student amidst widespread desertion. The entire court accused and impeached the wise minister for failing as a minister, for ineffective oversight and improper measures, for favoring peace in the rear, for insufficient support that delayed the war, for the defeat of the royal army, for the failure of the northern expedition, for the deaths of countless soldiers in foreign lands, and for the revival of the great cause to ultimately vanish like a bubble."

“But John Black-Eyes, out of great mercy and out of consideration for the old friendship between teacher and student, and for the many years he had served the late King Tormund, spared Halva from punishment and did not strip him of his title, but merely dismissed him from his position as prime minister and allowed him to return to his hometown to live out his days.”

Show great compassion...

Thales looked serious.

"And so, Halvar, the 'wise minister' who witnessed the final battle, whose star was born and who served two generations of kings, lay alone, weak and drowsy in the dilapidated carriage urged on by his old servant. He died on his way back home amidst the spittle and rotten eggs of thousands of citizens lining the streets."

The Earl sighed softly:

"Karabian declined from this point onwards, and it was not until the Taiping King ascended the throne and exonerated the old officials that it gradually recovered its vitality. Through several generations of hard work, it revived its family reputation."

The count's eldest son gave a cold laugh.

The count shook his head:
"Although his ancestor said that Prime Minister Halva did not blame him in his last letter, Bodman still felt guilty about it for the rest of his life. He was in tears on his deathbed, full of regret, and only then did he make a will to reveal the truth, in order to clear his mentor's name after Black Eyes passed away, and also to atone for his sins."

Thales did not speak.

Although it is a well-known historical fact that Hei Mu is cold-hearted and ruthless...

It's no secret that Halva was dismissed from his post as prime minister by the king in his later years, a situation that evokes sighs of regret...

But even this truth, told only from the perspective of the Lasia family, left Thales slightly lost in thought.

I was filled with even more emotions.

such a pity.

Thales thought to himself.

Unfortunately, hundreds of years later...

Some people only remember Hei Mu's skillful selection of virtuous and capable men to seize the marshland, his military expedition to the north to reclaim the land, his bravery and skill in battle that overwhelmed the heroes of the north, and his dashing and romantic life with countless lovers...

Some admired Black Eyes' keen insight and exceptional wisdom, while others were captivated by his heroic and extraordinary masculine spirit. Some praised him for inheriting the golden blood of the imperial family and living up to his past glory, while still others lauded him for surpassing his father, forging the Nine-Star Crown, suppressing the stars, and intimidating all heroes, thus demonstrating the 'last might of the empire'...

Thales sighed softly.

But no one remembers that in that unimaginably crazy era, in order to cover up the black-eyed people's reckless militarism and autocracy, in order to satisfy the monarch's stubbornness and ambition, and in order to embellish John I's court reputation and the dignity of his throne...

Many more unfortunate people actually have no choice.

Thales closed his eyes.

Just then, a voice in his heart quietly spoke: But that's the most complicated and interesting part, isn't it?
In that position, right and wrong are no longer the key factors.

Big and small, victory and defeat, strength and weakness, became the ultimate rulers.

Thales shook his head, deciding to stop thinking about it.

In his study, Earl Atchison shook his head and sighed:
"Whether it was hundreds of years ago, when our ancestors faced the Black Eyes, the Wise Minister, the Restoration Palace, or the barbaric tribes of the swampy lands..."

"Right now, facing Emerald City, facing His Majesty, facing...you," the Earl's eldest son said coldly.

Aitchison nodded:

"The Lassia family has long been accustomed to maneuvering among those who can crush us, seeking a way to survive, and also knows how to navigate among those we want to crush, looking for opportunities to win."

He stared intently at Thales:
"Because this is our family's ancestral motto and destiny."

Thales was speechless for a moment, unsure how to respond.

But the count clearly didn't need his answer.

"People often say that the Kulun family of the East China Sea has historically been adept at maneuvering among various powerful nations..."

The Earl of Atchison's tone grew increasingly sarcastic:

"But if I were to occupy the kingdom's fertile lands, if I were to possess the seven ports of the East Sea, if I were to command the Polar Sun Fleet that traverses the seven seas... then I would naturally be able to dance with ease and maneuver with grace, guaranteeing to dance more beautifully than Anrenzo's dancers and move more swiftly than the fine horses of the North! Even if I were to serve two kings back and forth, betraying them four times and returning three times, I would still be treated as an honored guest! I would let the historians portray betrayal as shrewdness, untrustworthiness as strategic thinking, and fickleness as 'flexible handling of the world'!"

“But we didn’t,” the count’s eldest son suddenly spoke, as if a bucket of ice water had been poured over his head.

Earl Acheson nodded slowly, looking at Thales with a bitter smile.

"But Your Highness just said that the key to this protracted battle is not who is in power?"

Thales hesitated, then managed only a forced smile.

The count simply clicked his tongue and shook his head:

"A noble person like you, with imperial blood and a crown, naturally has a commanding view and doesn't care who is in power here."

“But we are not,” the Earl’s eldest son spoke again.

Count Lacia nodded:

"We are just lizards living in remote marshes, without claws or teeth; we can only dive deep into the swamp and hide in the tree branches when the wind blows and the grass moves to avoid danger; we can only watch our predators fight each other and steal a life of scavenging; we can only nervously spread our four wings to pretend to be huge and put on a show."

Thales' smile gradually faded.

"When you don't have enough chips, you have no choice and can't care about how you struggle or whether it looks good."

The count sighed deeply:
"Just like six hundred years ago, when the ancestor Bodman was specifically named by the wise minister to go to the dangerous and unknown swamp, he had no choice but to go."

After listening to the other party's profound explanation, Thales remained silent for a long time.

"So you mean, this incident in Emerald City..."

Before he could finish speaking, Earl Acheson interrupted him with a cold snort and looked at his son.

Eddie, his face stern, remained silent for a moment before coldly speaking under his father's gaze:
"As you have said, Your Highness, the Lasia family will faithfully carry out your orders, uphold your dignity, and strive for the peace of Emerald City."

Thales's breath hitched, but before he could begin to rejoice, the Count added:

"We just hope you can keep your promise and give us a chance."

Thales quickly composed himself and sat up straight:

"That's certainly how it should be."

But Count Lacia laughed.

His laughter was both poignant and magnanimous.

"It's alright, it doesn't matter if you don't follow the rules."

Thales was taken aback.

“Because we’ve long been used to it,” the count’s eldest son added expressionlessly, “those in power talk like they’re farting—and the higher their position, the more so.”

Thales was taken aback, pondering the meaning behind those words.

But the Earl of Acheson had already stood up, bowed, and respectfully bid farewell.

“Your Excellency,” the prince returned the greeting with mixed feelings, not forgetting to ask the final question, “who exactly killed Jann’s father, Duke Lenster Kevindir?”

Aitchison didn't answer, but just gave him a deep look.

Unable to get an answer, Thales had to change his question:
"Then, what's the mystery surrounding the death of Viscount Sonna Kevindir, the acknowledged mastermind behind the murder?"

The count fell silent.

“I don’t know, Your Highness,” he said in a deep voice after a long while, “but one thing is certain.”

Thales immediately focused his attention.

Acheson Lacia slowly raised his head.

"Like many others, they died in Emerald City."

Thales' heart skipped a beat.

"This city of queens, city of wealth, city of dreams," the head of the four-winged giant lizard's expression grew cold, "is also a city of curses."

This answer seemed like a no-brainer, but Thales listened to it with a thoughtful expression.

The next second, Earl Atchison walked out of the study without looking back.

His eldest son was originally going to follow him, but stopped at the last moment.

“Our family motto is ‘Marshland Monitor Lizard, Hidden Dangers, Your Highness.’”

Eddie turned around and said coldly:
"As for 'no claws and no teeth,' that was just Black Eyes' drunken joke."

Thales raised an eyebrow and nodded seriously:

"of course."

"Because lizards are not without claws and teeth, but their claws are too thin and have too little leverage, so they can only use them to climb and grasp, maintaining their fragile bodies on cliffs."

The count's eldest son stared expressionlessly at the prince behind the desk.

"And its teeth are too small and hidden too deep, only fully exposed when it is certain that its prey is in its mouth, tearing apart its flesh."

Before he could even ponder the meaning of those words, Thales sat up straight and replied solemnly:

"Of course, I remember."

"It doesn't matter if you don't remember."

Eddie Lacia turned toward the doorway.

"Because we will remember."

Thales couldn't help but feel a chill.

“Excuse me for being rude, but I should go order a new pair of boots,” Eddie said, stepping out of the room. “May the sunset guide you on your path.”

The door is closed.

Thales stared in the direction where the Lassia father and son had left, lost in thought for a long time.

Very well, Thales—a voice inside him quietly concluded—just like that, you win.