Chapter 264: The Arrival of the Second Prince from the Empire as a Celebratory Messenger
The news of the Second Prince from the Empire arriving as a messenger of congratulations was met with surprise by many, but Logan was particularly affected by this news.
"Why him?"
In his present life, Logan had no specific reason to hold any grudge against the Second Prince. In fact, the prince had offered his help, albeit with his own motives, during the civil war against the king.
However, due to his memories from a previous life, Logan naturally viewed the Second Prince's actions with suspicion. While this perception might cloud his judgment, preconceived notions often provided a simple basis for understanding someone's intentions. Of course, this only applied if his judgment of the person was accurate.
And Logan firmly believed that the Second Prince was a man of deceitful character.
"Since a new regime has taken over, maybe they are aiming to establish new connections?"
Damian's idea, lacking any doubt, was quickly dismissed by Logan with a shake of his head.
"No, that's not possible. He's not that kind of individual. If that were the case, he would have sent a representative instead."
Damian sighed softly at Logan's resolute response.
"Regardless of his motives, isn't it strange for the prince to come personally when there is no shortage of envoys for the Empire?"
"Exactly, that's what makes it peculiar. And that's why I've asked for your presence here."
The other close associates, especially the ministers and family members like Dwayne, were too busy with the preparations for the royal wedding to join the discussion.
Meeting Logan's expectant gaze, Damian delved deep into thought.
"If there is a hidden agenda, it must be related to the distinction between the prince arriving as a messenger and someone else in that role."
"Hmm? The only disparity I can think of would be an increase in the number of knights and the overall size of the envoy... Ah!"
As Logan spoke, a spark lit up in his eyes, and Damian interjected, interpreting his thoughts.
"Among the delegation, there may be individuals with ulterior motives. While ordinary spies could infiltrate at any time, there might be something special about those accompanying the prince into the royal city."
"That's a plausible theory."
"Or perhaps the Second Prince has some business with His Majesty."
"Hm?"
"If he were an envoy from a smaller kingdom, that would be one scenario, but if the Emperor's son requests an audience, it would have to be granted."
"...That makes sense."
To avoid appearing hostile towards the Empire, it seemed prudent to maintain a facade of amicable relations at the very least.
Then a realization struck Logan.
"So, are you suggesting that those accompanying the prince as bodyguards or close aides might be plotting some mischief within the palace, or the Second Prince himself has a specific motive to meet me in person?"
"Yes. It's hard to envision any other scenario."
"Well thought out. I appreciate it. In the meantime, keep a close watch on the prominent members of the Empire's delegation. Instead of observing from a distance, it might be wise to assign them a knight's escort under the guise of protection."
"I will also ensure discreet surveillance that doesn't attract attention."
"Great, that's settled."
Despite pondering the prince's intentions, Logan realized that he wouldn't know the truth until they faced each other. A month after receiving the news, the imperial envoy finally arrived in the capital city, Gran.
Thud, thud, thud, thud.
The resounding beats of drums reverberated as a grand procession unfolded before the spectators.
A knight carrying the Empire's flag adorned with a golden dragon led the way, followed precisely by ninety-eight knights—a deliberate display of not exceeding a hundred knights, indicating it wasn't a military expedition according to international customs. However, the knights of McLaine who had attained a certain status understood that all ninety-nine knights were of advanced caliber, their expressions turning serious.
Even more impressive was the 'one-eyed' knight beside the prince.
"Jerome Decade..."
The name slipped out of Luther Kaihl, who had encountered him in the imperial capital, with a sigh of weight. He remembered Jerome's performance in the decisive battle against Logan. Regrettably, he didn't feel equipped to handle the young man who had barely crossed thirty at the time.
"No, I have also progressed since then."
Sensing Jerome's gaze meeting his, Luther gritted his teeth and stood tall.
As Luther and the other McLaine knights steeled themselves against the imposing presence of the imperial knights, the common folk could only marvel at the following thousand soldiers, hundreds of attendants, and the endless line of merchants linked to the envoy procession.
"Is this truly a diplomatic mission? How many people are there?"
"It must be at least ten thousand."
"Well, most of those at the back are probably merchants trying to benefit from the official delegation."
"Nevertheless, they are all part of the empire's entourage."
Amidst the chatter, the knight leading the procession halted in front of the royal palace.
"Clear the way for His Highness Baros van Ares, the esteemed descendant of the Emperor, the undisputed ruler under the heavens!"
The boldly proclaimed announcement by the knight, visibly one of the strongest, created tension in the air.
Luther nonchalantly countered the knight's formidable presence with a mocking smile.
"First, dismount and show some respect. This is not the Empire; we can only permit His Highness and his retinue to enter the palace."
As the knight struggled against Luther's commanding aura, Luther persisted.
"This is not the Empire. According to custom, you must enter alone for a private audience!"
Feeling the weight of the knight's presence, he raised his voice in objection.
"How dare you!"
Crack.
The Second Prince's expression soured slightly, piquing a flicker of interest in Jerome's lone eye, as a voice from inside the chamber reached them.
- It's fine. Allow him in.
Creak.
Step, step.
As the door swung open, the prince entered without hesitation, his dark eyes meeting Logan's crimson gaze calmly.
"It's been a while, Prince Baros."
Mentioning "prince," Baros' eyebrows twitched subtly. While it was customary to treat emperors and kings of smaller realms as equals on foreign visits for special occasions, most showed greater reverence to the imperial princes due to the Empire's vast domain.
Especially since the Second Prince was a potential heir to the throne, this deference was anticipated, considering he might ascend to be the future Emperor. Yet, Baros swiftly regained his composure and offered a polite smile.
"Indeed, it has been some time, Your Majesty."
Not "Your Highness" but "Your Majesty," a term denoting sovereignty and independence, implying that McLaine was not a subordinate state of the Empire. Though this was the standard approach taken by imperial envoys, Logan did not object, only heightening his internal vigilance.
"It's quite unusual for the busy imperial prince to personally convey his well wishes...?"
Logan pondered.
But the prince responded with a continued smile.
"Even rarer is the transfer of power after a millennium. I only regret not being able to attend the coronation."
Sensing the prince's inscrutable intentions, Logan returned the smile, shifting his focus to Jerome standing behind him.
"It's good to see you as well, Sir Jerome. I was saddened to hear about the past events, but seeing you now brings some relief."
Jerome's usually composed countenance tensed; it wasn't merely a facade to the man who had inflicted his injury. Even the subtle aura Jerome had exuded upon entering the room seemed to dissipate in Logan's presence, indicating one thing:
'Equal to me, if not superior.'
Within the same echelon, the disparity in strength among knights was evident, especially among those classified as superhumans like them. Considering Logan had bested him when Jerome was slightly weaker, the realization was grim. Jerome's relaxed demeanor began to harbor a petty envy and resentment.
Yet, his master's advice echoed in his mind.
- Your keen perception can disregard even a few ranks of difference. If utilized wisely, you will avoid defeat as before.
Jerome steadied himself with his mentor's guidance when suddenly the prince interjected.
"Jerome?"
Jerome then realized he had drifted in thought. He shook his head slowly, signaling one of their pre-established cues. Noticing this, the prince furrowed his brow slightly but swiftly composed himself with a smile towards Logan.
"Such an incident turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Sir Jerome. Please, do not concern yourself about it."
"Well, if your purpose is to convey congratulations, what is the reason for requesting a private audience?"
Logan posed a direct query, and as Jerome's expression grew tense, the prince replied with a broadening smile.
"I seek to comprehend the source of Your Majesty's animosity towards our Empire."
Logan's visage hardened at the prince's assertion.