Margrave’s Bastard Son was The Emperor

Chapter 72

Meanwhile, Chielonia, having completed the task of delivering the imperial command, immediately headed to the office of the Second Prince, Gale. Despite the sunlight pouring through the large windows, there was an inexplicably cold feeling in his office.

Did he only imprison Molrin and his group in the underground dungeon?

Yes. There was no torture, just confinement without any special treatment.

Gale, with his arms crossed, tapped his fingers lightly, a habit that surfaced when he was deep in thought. His sharp eyes, inherited from his mother, shifted behind Chielonia, towards Wesleigh, who was reading a report.

Did he also seem well-versed in imperial etiquette?

Yes. As soon as your highnesss name was mentioned, his expressions changed instantly. Even Sir Romandro, the advisor, seemed unaware of it.

Then, Wesleigh, who had been reading the documents, swiftly turned her head. Her beautiful black hair and red lips were, as always, perfect.

Its clear. He must have had a connection with Mariv.

Dont be so sure, Wesleigh.

Its the only explanation. A child from the brothels, barely educated, crosses the desert in such a short time. He must have barely learned the basics, let alone royal etiquette.

Wesleighs words were logical from beginning to end.

From the start, it was clear when Mariv recommended Ian as a lord. How many are there who would pay tribute to Mariv to curry favor? And yet, Ian was chosen over them.

Wasnt he said to be a magic user?

Still, its excessive.

Mariv was the empires next emperor. People fawned over him to the extent that they could line up and encircle Bariel.

Especially, the appointment of a lord was an opportunity for social reversal. Mariv could have easily handed it to someone more influential.

The nature of the estate is a big factor. It has many restrictions due to its unique characteristics.

Carefully joining the conversation, Chielonia was suddenly presented with a report by Wesleigh. Despite their age difference, Wesleigh was the Minister of Magic, and Chielonia was one of many administrators.

Youve worked hard. You may leave now.

I shall take my leave then.

Chielonia bowed respectfully and left Gales quarters. Wesleigh, with a cigarette holder in her mouth, muttered,

Should we kill Ian?

Gale laughed and propped his chin, finding it funny because it was not a joke.

How?

When he comes up for the New Years lordship ceremony, hell be under the Magic Department. There will be many opportunities and methods.

Smoke filled the room as Wesleigh exhaled. Gale took the cigarette holder from her mouth. Wesleigh continued in an annoyed tone.

I dont like how he suddenly appeared and disrupted everything. Hell become a slave of the Magic Department if he cant repay the 10,000 coins tribute. It would be better to get rid of him before that.

Wesleigh whispered, embracing Gales neck, her eyes dangerous, but Gale turned his head without a word.

You really dont suit the role of Minister of Magic.

Me?

Gale was literal, but Wesleigh misunderstood. She seemed to fit better as the empress beside Emperor Gale.

If His Highness Gale says so, it must be so.

Gale looked out the window with a bitter smile. Wesleigh was perfect as a woman but not as a colleague in national affairs. As the Minister of Magic, how could she so easily suggest killing Ian, especially when the number of mages was dwindling?

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A true Minister of Magic would persuade Gale to find another way, even if he, himself suggested killing.

Gale, look at me.

Did this beautiful woman not understand that the empress is also a political colleague of the emperor? Even if Gale pushed Mariv aside and became emperor, he wasnt sure Wesleigh would be by his side.

Gale stood up, shaking off the seductive touch of the woman.

Where are you going?

To my brother.

Are you referring to His Highness Mariv?

As Gale fastened his cuffs, he fixed his gaze intently on Wesleigh.

Again. That look in her eyes, as if testing him at times. Wesleigh maintained her composure and did not lose her smile.

Why do you think Ian didnt kill Molrin and just left him be?

Well, because he is an administrator of the imperial palace, and if something went wrong, it would be troublesome for us if an investigative team was sent from our side. It hasnt been long since Erica, the team leader, spoke with him.

Hmm. I see. That makes sense.

Gale did not ask further. He simply concluded that Wesleighs understanding of the situation went only that far. There was no second chance for discussion or shared opinions.

Wesleigh then followed Gale.

Or why else?

Why else? I asked because I dont know either.

With a kiss of farewell to Wesleigh, Gale turned away without any lingering attachment. His subordinates followed him like shadows, while the woman stood there as if in a daze.

She, too, was the acclaimed head of the Magic Department, born a commoner, who had grasped both wealth and power, leaving her name in the pages of history. Yet, in front of Gale, she always felt incredibly small.

Damn it

Her curse was uttered softly, but it didnt reach even the foot of Gale, let alone his following attendants. It felt as if an invisible aura was swirling chaotically around.

Click-clack!

Your Highness, where shall I escort you?

To Marivs palace.

Understood.

Gale responded briefly, and his subordinates hurried ahead to clear the way, ensuring that Gales pace was uninterrupted.

Ian is keeping Molrin alive because of Mariv.

Wesleighs words were half right.

If Molrin died in a situation involving the Cheonrye tribe, the seriousness of the matter in the central government would escalate drastically. It could lead to the deployment of regular troops, not just an investigative team. Therefore, the decision-making was handed over to Mariv. It was a choice that showed a perfect understanding of the power dynamics between Mariv and Gale, and a clear strategy.

In any case, Molrins life was in Marivs hands, and to Gale, his life was precious. There werent many in the administration as recruited as Molrin, nor with his wealth of experience and old age.

The carriage moved forward with the loud neighing of the horses. Looking up at the sky and deep in thought, Gale opened the window and commanded,

Wait. Change the course.

Pardon?

Were not going to Mariv, but to my father.

To His Imperial Majestys palace?

Yes. Hurry.

Upon the sovereigns command, the horses slowly turned the corner, retracing their path. Their heads were now set towards the east, to the Emperors residence, instead of north, towards Marivs palace.

* * *

The mansion was bustling from dawn.

It was the day when Kakantir and fifty-four other warriors were returning to the Great Desert. Although they could meet anytime if they wished, it was not easy, so everyone couldnt hide their regret.

When will we see you again?

Thank you for everything.

Here, take this

Weve packed dried meat and water for you. Travel safely.

Kakan! What should we use for the seal of Kusilre?

The mansions main gate was as busy as a marketplace. Ian was also in a hurry to prepare for his outing, as he planned to accompany them to the border. While checking gifts, rewards, and food one last time, he noticed Hannah, her eyes unusually red.

Farewell.

Ill come back again.

The lightly clasped hands of the man and woman were dripping with affection, making it clear what emotion they harbored. Unintentionally, Ian turned his head away, pretending not to notice.

Seeing this, Beric fiddled with his ear.

What did you see to make you react like that?

Beric. Come here.

Look at that, huh! Ha-!

Beric! Shut up, you tactless fool!

Thwack!

It was Sir Romandro who hit Beric on the head. Ian also glared at him as a warning. Beric, rubbing the back of his head as if wronged, grumbled continuously.

My head must be the towns drum, damn it.

It seems there are more people attached than I thought.

Its natural to form connections even in passing moments. The Cheonrye dont they come and go with the seasons?

Connections that come in the hot summer and leave in the autumn.

Ian pondered for a moment and nodded. It wasnt a bad phenomenon. Strengthening the alliance with the Cheonrye tribe or achieving cultural integration, the peace alliance was the best option.

Was that too political a decision?

Ian watched Hannah, who was on the verge of tears, and checked himself.

Ian-nim, listen to the voice beneath the letters of your decisions, for they will change someones life. Dont just check the issues that come up; feel them with your heart.

Suddenly, he remembered the advice given by Naum before his regression. Naum, his only friend and mentor who had stayed by the side of the doomed emperor to the end. Ian clenched his teeth and turned his head away.

Ian, were ready to go.

Alright. Lets leave.

Open the gates!

Lets return! To our Great Desert!

Woahhh!

Stay well, everyone!

Hey, lets meet in Cheonrye!

The Cheonrye people remaining at the mansion waved their hands heartily and laughed. Among them was Nersarn as well. Kakantir left the mansion with a dignified posture. The villagers, who heard the news, came out to see them off.

Thank you! Travel safely!

We are truly grateful for everything!

What would we have done without you, really!

Swishhh!

Flowers and fallen leaves fluttered around from all directions. The sight of them swirling in line with the wind up to the Grula was magnificent.

Kakantir came to the front and gazed down at a child handing him a bouquet. It was the same child who had fallen and cried at his feet when he first entered Bratz. The child had remembered that brief encounter.

Thank you.

The childs hand was trembling. Kakantir received the bouquet and was about to leave when he paused, turning back around.

Demosha.

Ian didnt bother to look at the childs face. Kusilre began to move again. The journey to the borderlands would be quick.

Soon enough, the real time for parting arrived.

This is as far as we go. Ian.

Kakan. You have worked hard.

This was the place where Ian was sold as a peace offering. Two giant rocks marking the border and a small, abandoned temple.

I will start working on the Merellof case as soon as I return to Cheonrye.

I would be grateful for that.

Do well in the central region. Otherwise, this day might be our last meeting.

I will do my best. Here are the Grula seeds and your reward.

Kakantir looked at Ian for a moment before taking only the Grula seeds. In his right hand, he prominently held the bouquet that had been given to him.

My hands are full. That will be enough.

Oh.

Lets go! To Cheonrye!

Demosha!

Demosha! Farewell!

With the warriors leading the chant, Beric also shouted loudly. They galloped powerfully into the desert and disappeared. Their movements were faster than the wind and lighter than the sand. Ian and Beric watched their departing figures for a long time.

Lets return as well.

Alright. What shall we do back there?

Do what?

With Ians laughter, Beric also smiled and grabbed the reins of his horse.

The tasks ahead were clear. Cultivating Grula and

Starting the Merellof fermentation process.

I have no idea what Ian meant by 'Merellof fermentation process.' Prob some sort of euphemism