Kingdom’s Bloodline

At that time, my uncle was still the honorary Viscount of Gonghai City. This title is in the Kongming Palace, just like the Duke of Xinghu is in the Fuxing Palace.

Amidst the cheers, Zhan En sat in the stands, applauded, and nodded to a proud vassal in the next stand—the warrior sponsored by the latter had just won.

Like the Duke of Star Lake?

Thales also applauded the winning players. He smiled and said, outsiders seemed to be chatting with the Duke of South Bank: So special?

Shirley glanced at him as if he didn't think he was being modest enough.

My father used to rely on his uncle as his right-hand man and let him take charge of government affairs. It is conceivable that Sona has received trust, his status in the family, and his power and energy, said Zhan En amidst the cheers. , And his weight in the hearts of Emerald City and even the people on the South Bank.

And his weight in his father's heart.

Jen said silently.

Let us welcome Bischoff's opponent in this round: God's Blessed Warrior Woman from clay! Warrior Dosa Blue! It's time to place your bets!

Another jousting began, and a strong female warrior named Dothalan—rare to see—stepped onto the field, and the audience roared.

In other words, Sona was once deeply trusted, and even had power - Thales was thoughtful, until he was interrupted by the sound of drums at the beginning of the battle.

After a series of fights, the contestants who were selected to stay became weaker and stronger, and the blood and intensity also rose sharply, but Thales was already tired of it—whether he forced himself to pretend to be interested, or Endure something bloody and brutal that always inspires cheers, or worry about the fate of the Emerald City beyond both.

In contrast, Zhan En, who is the focus of the audience, has always maintained a decent sitting posture and a friendly smile. He applauds and even calls people to place bets from time to time. Emotions such as surprise, but also interacting with vassals and guests in different stands, and once the host mentions it (Look, this backstab is amazing! Even the Duke of Jayne is full of praise!) You have to get up and respond The audience, every move, showed the Duke of South Bank's attention and enthusiasm for the election, which made many audiences who came here for the fierce battle more relaxed and indulged in their hobbies unscrupulously.

With such self-cultivation, Thales can only sigh to himself.

I remember that Uncle Sona is very strict with outsiders, and many people are afraid of him, Xi Lai said suddenly, with a lot of emotion in his words,

But he never killed me. On the contrary, my uncle treats me very well, treating me like my own, sometimes even better than my father—maybe because he doesn't have a daughter himself.

Thales subconsciously glanced sideways, while Jen frowned.

When I got into trouble and offended the Karabyan sisters for 'misbehaviour,' Hilley mused on the memory, it was my uncle who came back to stand up for me, confronted Mrs. Karabyan, and confronted my father about it. An argument.

But he neither prevented you from being sent to the temple for 'education', nor persuaded your father not to marry you to the Pintor family. Jann glanced at his sister, It's just a posturing.

Of course, that's... in the past. Xi Lai noticed her brother's eyes and smiled intriguingly.

Thales had a panoramic view of the interaction between the two.

He also supported me quite a bit. When I was studying in Donglu, I often corresponded with him, relying on his connections, Zhan En coughed, with a serious voice, So, when my father was ten years ago—no, it was the tenth It has been a year—when unfortunately he was killed, and the murderer was my uncle, the entire South Bank Territory and even the Star Kingdom were shocked.

Both Jen and Hille were silent for a while.

Look! It's too thrilling!

Kill! Kill! Kill!

In the arena, the female warrior was like a rainbow, killing the clumsy black-armored enemy in front of her in a hurry. The victory was in sight, and the shouts in the stands became more and more fanatical and rhythmic.

If Viscount Sona is so close to your father and deeply trusted, he is almost the Duke's deputy, then why would he... Thales asked tentatively.

Jen snorted lightly when he heard this.

If I tell you that your uncle covets the Duke's position according to the official unified caliber, you probably won't believe it?

Not necessarily, Thales considered his words carefully, but the experience of these years has taught me that everyone is very complicated.

It's political disagreement. Shiley sighed.

Taylor's eyes moved.

The duke nodded with complicated eyes: Even if they are brothers who share the same bloodline and embroidered with the same family crest, when the subordinates standing behind them are different, everything will be different. Feelings will give way to reason. It can't beat the benefits.

Listening to their words, Thales was slightly distracted, remembering the words of Falkenhauser and King Kessel:

[You know, when your vassals and subordinates are furious, and everyone is proud, standing in front of the tide, you don't have much choice but to follow the tide. 】

[In case you acted too well, kept your secrets hidden, convinced everyone, and successfully became the savior of princes and vassals, I hope... those who are deceived by you and support you, they will converge into a rolling wave, use their reputation, position, and camp , interest, relationship, situation, use everything to hold you forward, you are not allowed to argue, you are not allowed to control, and you are not allowed to repent—they will love you more than they hate me. 】

I was very young back then. I had a bad temper and didn't like to meet outsiders. I didn't pay attention to these things. I couldn't remember some details clearly. I never blush or quarrel at the dinner table or in front of my family.

That's the problem. Zhan En interrupted coldly.

Thales and Hilley looked at the Duke at the same time, but the latter looked differently:

My mother once said: Compared with family members, only guests never quarrel at the dinner table.

Hillary frowned.

From this point of view, there is no doubt that Your Majesty and I are real father and son.

Jann and Xileqi turned to the prince.

Don't mind, I just said it casually, Thales coughed, So?

So things happened later, Zhan En sped up his speech, as if he didn't want to say more, Although he couldn't avoid the disaster, his father had anticipated it before he was killed, so he planned for it: once something happened, the Emerald Legion would arrest him. Sona and his henchmen were killed, and by the time I returned to the Emerald City, the case was almost solved.

In the end, Uncle Sona confessed to the crime and committed suicide in prison, while his followers were torn apart and tried to punish him one after another.

Hilley's expression was tense, staring intently at the duel in the arena.

So fast? Thales rolled his eyes, Even before you returned to Emerald City?

To be precise, it was before the central royal family sent an envoy to Emerald City, Zhan En said calmly, I think there is no need to explain some things too clearly.

Thales shuddered.

He suddenly remembered the words left by the Duke of Yadi, the one-eyed dragon Gust, before he went to Exeter:

【He even wanted to intervene in the succession of the six wealthy families and the thirteen prominent families... Just two years ago, Kevin Dill's family's infighting had his shadow. 】

What's more, Emerald City has a complete system and its own laws, Zhan En said calmly, It involves Iris's family affairs. In order to avoid suspicion and reassure people's hearts, the case of Sona's brother-killing and treason has been handed over to the city's office—Jeff Rene was the chief of the Canal District Police Department at the time, known for his impartiality and few omissions, and Slimani was his capable man, and they were all involved in the case back then.

Thales and Hille glanced at each other: Ah, so that's why.

Jen continued:

And Sergeant Kaguire, who was killed this morning. Eleven years ago when my uncle was imprisoned, he was one of the prison guards—I guess the enemy has a revenge list, and crossed off names one by one.

What about the others? The wine merchant? And the wool merchant? Hilley pressed.

Zhan En shook his head: Before his downfall, Uncle Sona held a very high position. He was in charge of intelligence merchants and dark account revenues and expenditures in Emerald City and even the South Bank Territory, and even the monitoring of civil society organizations—such as the Blood Bottle Gang.

Hille's complexion changed:

Dagoli Moss, and Diop?

They all served Sona, Zhan En nodded, Even though they were all little people at that time, my uncle may not remember them.

Wait, they were all your uncle's subordinates, but you still use them with confidence until now? Thales couldn't believe it.

Uncle Sona's relationship and connections in the South Bank are intricate, and even Ashford has done things for him at the behest of his father. If I want to clean up everyone who has bowed to Sona and reported to him, Then the entire Emerald City will be useless.

Having said that, Zhan En leaned forward and applauded enthusiastically for an attack from the contestants in the field, forcing Thales to lean forward in the same way, pretending to be excited to watch the game, trying to hear clearly amidst the cheers Jen's words:

What's more, in the hands of the people who served my uncle back then, Moss and Diop were newcomers who had just been recruited, and they were already less involved. That's why they were promoted after the big treason case, so they have today's status .”

Thales reacted and took over the conversation:

So, they are the beneficiaries of the promotion after Sona's downfall?

Or the Renegades, Hilley affirmed, maybe that puts them on the revenge list.

Thales narrowed his eyes.

Then Wyah's conjecture is correct: Rene, Slimani, Kaguire, including the little Boerwen who was implicated by his own father, they were indeed targeted for the same thing - Sona's rebels The old department is making a comeback, wanting to avenge the master?

But it's so much more than that.

Zhan En looked stern, watching a contestant in the field being knocked down severely:

The wine merchant Moss is one of the intelligence merchants we stationed abroad. It is fine for him to die, but if the news of his death is spread by the rebels seeking revenge, everyone in his colleagues will be in danger; Diop manages the secret account Income and expenditure, the dirty work entrusted to the blood bottle gang and other associations by the dignitaries in the city is all done by him as an intermediary, if he dies unexpectedly, the dignitaries and bureaucrats, down to the gangster associations, will inevitably feel suspicious.

Taylor's eyes moved.

The more Jen said, the more dignified he said:

As for Rene and Slimani, they both worked in the Police Department, and the latter is a defender who has defended countless major cases. He has a wider network and involves many parties. Their strange killings will make more people pay attention and even worry. ; and Kaguilei is even more obvious, he was sent by Kongming Palace to be the special security officer in charge of the prince's security, if his dead body is exposed on the street during the Emerald Festival, the official prestige of the Emerald City will be seriously frustrated.

In short, these targets are located in different locations in the Emerald City, and each performs their duties and responsibilities. If the enemy wants to incite people and cause panic in the name of revenge for the rebel party, finding them is undoubtedly the most labor-saving method.

Rebel revenge, incitement, panic...

Thales fell into deep thought, always feeling that something was wrong.

Don't forget, there is also the Blood Bottle Gang. Xi Lai frowned.

That's right, Zhan En said cautiously, If they succeed, it will affect the operation of the city at least, and shake the rule of Iris at the worst.

The Emerald Celebration welcomes guests from all over the world, and they happened to spread panic with revenge... You should have told us earlier. Xi Lai's face was serious.

It's up to me, Zhan En said sternly, and you, my dear sister, when did you get involved in this mess?

When I was born, Hilley retorted, my dear brother, let me guess: what was my last name?

Sorry for the interruption, Thales said suddenly, interrupting the argument between the brothers and sisters, However, to affect the operation of the city and shake your rule... just rely on a few goals, as for?

Zhan En turned his head, his eyes turned cold: A mere area? Why, how many more do you want to die?

Thales raised his eyebrows: You know that's not what I meant.

Hillary coughed.

Well, maybe they won't, Jen En glanced at his sister, then looked back at Thales, but what about you?

Thales was taken aback when he heard the words:

I?

Of course, you.

Zhan En stared at the critical juncture in the arena, and his tone gradually tightened:

Imagine: Sona's rebels are determined to take revenge, come back and create massacres, from foreign wine merchants to wool merchants, from great defenders to retired police officers, and then to active police officers in Kongming Palace, maybe there will be more... …So all of a sudden, the security of Emerald City, which supports millions of people, was in chaos. Ten households and nine closed. They are all chaotic and reckless, and as for the aloof Duke Iris, he can only sit on the honorable throne, in vain...

Xi Lai frowned: Brother...

Over time, Zhan En ignored her, but looked at Thales with increasingly cold eyes, The panic-stricken city gradually lost patience and resentment: Why should the Calvin Dill family's legacy be left to them? Bear? The tormented internal and external ministers will also be restrained and grow tired: why bother to drag down the entire Emerald City with the family feud caused by the three-color iris flower?

Thales listened to his words and looked around: the audience in the stands were all attentive, at least they seemed to be attentively watching the competition on the field. Among them were nobles and vassals, wealthy businessmen, distinguished guests, and even more Many local citizens waved their arms enthusiastically, shouting and cheering, immersed in the atmosphere of the general election, and even the D.D below gathered together, as if they were discussing fiercely around the outcome of the competition...

Except the three of them.

And at this time, our wise and wise Duke of Xinghu will act decisively again, Zhan En continued, in the name of the Kevin Dill family's incompetence and poor governance, he will take over the power justifiably, and then administer the government and reward meritorious punishments sin, and finally return Emerald City to a peaceful and prosperous age, wouldn't it be the right time?

Thales frowned.

In the next second, in the arena, the dominant female warrior was about to win, but there was an unexpected turning point: the opponent slipped and fell to the ground with heavy armor, firmly pressing the female warrior's thigh. Unexpected and unable to react in time, he collapsed to the ground amidst the screams of pain.

The situation of victory and defeat was reversed in an instant, and the audience sighed in disappointment and booed in dissatisfaction.

Amidst the cheers of the audience, Zhan En laughed out loud and stood up to applaud.

Well done, Palacio, this Bischoff is really lucky, the Duke waved loudly to a vassal in the next stand, If I had known this, I should have made this big bet with you!

This bet is for you, Lord Duke, for your strong support for the development of the deep-sea fishing industry in Emerald City for many years! And of course His Royal Highness Thales, your presence will make the election even more glorious! the vassal said. Stand up in the stands, take off your hat and bow.

Thales had to stand up with Jen En and nodded in response.

But His Royal Highness immediately had a bitter expression: In that stand, Kaisha and Qina stood in a conspicuous position second only to Earl Lasia.

They giggled at Thales, one left and one right, and opened two folding fans specially selected for the election:

The left handwriting reads I'm happy when I see hunting, I'm sure I'm sure I'm going to win, and the right handwriting says I'm going to win when I'm determined to win.

Thales felt dizzy for a while.

Until Xi Lai also stood up and smiled like a flower beside Thales, the faces of the Karabyan sisters changed suddenly, their eyes turned cold, and they both sat down, hiding their faces behind the folding fan, discussing something.

Laugh, laugh again, laugh bigger, that's good, and then pretend to have a lively discussion—discuss with me, not with Hille, Jann smiled unabated, guiding Thales' public relations response in a low voice, Then you consider Is it a good price?

What? Oh me, uh, I don't bet...

I'm not talking about this, Zhan En sat down again, but his voice suddenly turned cold, It's about our unfinished conversation at the Banquet.

Thales was taken aback for a moment.

It's really at the last moment, what kind of price do you want, are you willing to lend a helping hand and stop your father, instead of standing idly by and even making trouble?

What price? Xi Lai turned her head curiously.

But Thales and Jann ignored her, and the two exchanged a look.

A few seconds later, when the host began to announce the next duel, Thales sighed:

It's not the price that's the problem, and I don't think...

But Jen turned away and interrupted him.

Moss, Diop, Slimani, Rene, Kaguire...including the key little Boerwen, the Duke resumed his usual calm look, They use every murder as bait, except for disturbing people's hearts. In addition, I just want to attract your attention, and use your old grievances to teach you to get to the bottom of it, so as to get a foot in the door, rewrite your old stories in Exeter and West Wilderness, and pierce the sky of Emerald City in one fell swoop. ——just like what you did in West Wilderness.

The Duke applauded with spring breeze, welcoming the next duel:

So, what price did the West Wilderness people give you in exchange for your helping hand?

Damn.

The last sentence made Thales' eyes move, and Xi Lai's expression changed slightly.

The story of the Western Wilderness is a long story and more complicated, Thales was silent for a while, As for the Emerald City, since I'm sitting here, the kind of thing you said...wouldn't happen.

It hasn't happened for the time being, but it's not because you're sitting here, Zhan En said with a smile on his lips, but his temperature was limited, It's because I had the foresight and cut the fishing line with a knife every time before you took the bait.

I don't know if the sarcasm of a certain guard captain made him more sensitive. Hearing these words, Thales always felt that Zhan En was secretly scolding him.

Otherwise, from before the celebration to the present, if so many murders on the streets were revealed by you, the news of 'revenge of the rebels in the Emerald City' would have spread widely and shocked the whole city. Zhan En said indifferently.

Boys... Shirley smelled something bad.

Ha, cut the fishing line, Thales took a long breath, You mean to cover up the news, forge the truth, and hide the truth?

Yes, Zhan En's voice turned cold, I'm not proud of it, but I did what I could and must do—for the Emerald City.

Interesting, that defender, Slimani said the same thing: he did what he could and must do, Thales stared at the two contestants who entered the arena, until those things The consequences, inevitably, caught up with him.

Then did he tell you when will the consequences of not doing those things catch up with him?

enough!

Hilley interrupted them.

I'm here to solve the problem, not to watch you quarrel.

The eldest lady cast a sideways glance at the two of them, until they turned their heads in embarrassment.

Seeing the appearance of the two, Xi Lai sighed helplessly, and turned to her brother:

So, Jen, what are your plans next? How are you going to deal with it?

Jann smiled slightly when he heard this.

Look around, the Duke raised his hand gracefully, signaling Ashford below to continue betting, This is my response.

What's the meaning?

The selection will be the most popular focus of the public's attention in the Emerald Festival, Zhan En looked relaxed, At this moment, the entire arena is tight outside and inside, and a net has been laid.

Thales and Xile Qiqi were taken aback.

Jane? Thales looked around, looked at the green hat jade sergeant on the post, and the calm Seychelles knight below, and suddenly felt uncomfortable, You, what are you going to do?

Hilley also looked suspicious:

brother?

Jen raised his eyebrows with a calm posture:

Do you know that this year's election will be surprisingly lively, and many people who come to the election have problems: some are hiding their heads, some are hiding their heads and showing their tails, some are retreating, some don't know their sponsors, and there are even a lot of impostors.

Thales' eyes changed, and Hille looked in disbelief at the two contestants and the tents where other contestants were resting.

But the election will still be held, and you still let them enter the competition... Do you mean it?

Zhan En laughed again, and he pointed to the fighters who were fighting in the audience:

I dare say that at this very moment, just among the group of passionately fighting players below, there are some people who are hiding tricks and waiting to act.

What action? Thales couldn't help becoming nervous, What are you going to do?

As you said, Thales, yesterday's incident with the Blood Bottle Gang was the last straw. They couldn't wait, Zhan En said lightly, The enemies of the Emerald City are coming.

He glanced at Thales, and said with deep meaning:

And here, the election will be their long-awaited stage, or rather, the cemetery.

The fierce battle in the arena came to a critical moment again. A barren mountain warrior had conflicts in his hands, but he let his opponent see blood in a few minutes. With the cheers of the audience, he fought more and more bravely.

What? Thales couldn't believe it.

So here, this choice will be a trap you set?

Hilley also didn't understand, and couldn't help asking: Why, Zhan En? Why here, why today? What do you know?

That's right, how are you sure they will do something in the general election? Thales asked a question.

Jen snorted softly:

Because this is their only and best opportunity.

Hilley couldn't help frowning:

Jane, explain.

Zhan En listened patiently as the host began to introduce the contestants who won the quarterfinals, and clapped and waved cooperatively.

To put it simply, from the Battle of the Frontiers to the present, from the inexplicable attack on the Blood Bottle Gang, to the killing of key people one after another, Zhan En said sharply, I'm tired of waiting and being passively beaten, and I'm even more tired of waiting. If the enemy is dark, we will be clear.

So, in addition to ordering the Blood Vial Gang to finish up and prevent the murders from coming to light, I also sent special personnel to secretly investigate these murders, including the background of each deceased, in order to discover the connection between Little Boerwen and the other deceased.

He paused and snorted coldly at Thales:

That's why you don't have to do anything, just sit here and spread your hands, and you can listen to the information and answers for free.

Thales frowned uncomfortably.

Hilley coughed, forcing Jann to continue:

And every action of the enemy, every murder, makes Catherine's investigation closer and closer to them until...

Wait, who?

Thales was startled when he heard this, and Hille's eyes also moved.

Looking at their appearance, Jen showed an intriguing smile.

Ah, I see, it's Catherine the 'Phantom Blade'! Xi Lai thought through her joints and suddenly realized, She was originally the boss in the capital, but she secretly sneaked back to the Emerald City——she was specially picked up by you. Call back and be ordered to investigate these murderers!

Thales also reacted: You?

She is not an official, so it is more convenient to do things.

Jen En sneered and nodded:

Even though she doesn't quite like it.

So it doesn't hurt to sacrifice? Thales couldn't help thinking.

Damn it, she didn't tell us that she took your mission... Xi Lai said angrily.

More than that, Thales couldn't help but said, She even said that you are going to kill the donkey, and plan to get rid of her?

I guess, because she wants to protect herself. Jen En stared at Thales with confidence, She fell into your hands, and she guessed that you were not on the side of Emerald City, so she deliberately hinted at you: I am her enemy. In this way For one thing, whether you want to pity her out of compassion, or plan to instigate her for profit, Catherine has a chance to survive.

Grass, Thales felt his head ache, so many twists and turns?

At the same time, he couldn't help noticing that when the host introduced the top eight players one by one and warmed up for the team battle, more and more members of the guard gathered around D.D under the stands——Wiaiya, Miranda , Glover, Kongmuto...

But their expressions became more and more rigid.

Thales wanted to ask them, but found that no matter how much he waved his hand, none of the Xinghu guards even looked up.

As if deliberately avoiding the prince's gaze.

They... won't be betting together, will they?

Thousands of treasures, this is the knife whore of Emerald City, and the reason why she can secure her seat. Zhan En seemed to be emotional.

So, we've all been tricked by her, you bitch who doesn't tell the truth, Xi Lai said angrily, I should have thrown her to... ahem, that killer.

And then? What else did Catherine find?

Nothing, Zhan En shook his head in denial, but smiled mysteriously, or, before she really touched the key and found something...

The blood bottle gang has changed, Xi Lai frowned and added for him, I guess, the reason why the news of Kaguilei's death in the street spread so much this morning is because the blood bottle gang is in chaos, and you can no longer Transferred?

Jen nodded and his smile disappeared:

Catherine is missing, and at least half of the bosses and leaders of the Blood Bottle Gang have disappeared...

I told you. Thales shook his head.

...The remaining half started grabbing the land to share the cake, making a lot of noise. The gang members below, including the property they covered, were all panicking and suspicious of each other. They wanted to find someone who could tell the truth. It's hard, let alone pick up and run the job. Zhan En said calmly. .

In this way, the incident of the Blood Bottle Gang was not accidental, Xi Lai said seriously, but our enemy found out: you are not only using the Blood Bottle Gang to cover up the news to prevent them from spreading panic, but you also sent Catherine to chase after them. claim them?

So they couldn't hold back and started to do it, Thales nodded, Setting a trap to surround and kill the Phantom Blade, and paralyze the Blood Bottle Gang by the way?

Mirror the water of the lake, Xi Lai said with a frown, discard your eyes and ears.

Jen took a deep breath.

This is only temporary. When this matter is over, I will spare time...

Zhan En's eyes sharpened, but then he took a deep breath and regained his demeanor.

But at least let me know one thing: my countermeasures are effective: from Moss to Slimani, while I use the blood bottle gang to block the news, the loss of Emerald City has also been minimized, No matter whether they want to cause an uproar or provoke you to attack me, the enemy has not succeeded. Zhan En looked at the two people with surprised faces, so they got anxious and couldn't hold back, so they had to show up from behind the scenes and directly confronted me. The blood bottle will help.

Thales took over the conversation: So the blood bottle gang failed to function, and you can no longer cover up the news of Kaguilei's murder. You can only watch this murder cause a sensation in the whole city?

Jen sneered.

Another angle, Thales, another angle, the Duke of South Bank's eyes brightened, Our enemies, whether they are Sona's old party or employees of the secret department, they have done so many things and killed so many people , all of which were silently settled under my interference, and failed to spread the news...

And seeing the Emerald Festival go by day by day, and the prince's investigation came to nothing, so they finally made up their minds, put all their eggs in one basket, let Lausanne go to the front of the stage and fight directly to eliminate the Blood Bottle Gang...

So... Thales understood something, his eyes changed slightly.

Snapped!

Jen applauded lightly:

First of all, after waiting for so many days and paying a lot of money, they got what they wanted for the first time this morning: Kaguire was killed in the street, and the whole city knew about it, and the people in the city were panicked, so that the Emerald City could not turn a blind eye-this pair of enemies As far as I am concerned, it must be quite exciting: Duke Iris finally missed a shot and showed his flaws.

Could it be... Xi Lai's eyes widened.

Secondly, in addition to the rare success, they also waited for a rare occasion: the much-anticipated and highly anticipated Iris candidate—don't forget, it doesn't matter whether it's a murder case, a rumor, a murder in the street, or a cleansing of a gangster. They have done so much, just for an opportunity to declare revenge on the entire Emerald City and even the kingdom, and spread terror.

Jen looked at Thales:

Just like Anke Bailar, only by killing people can people listen to them.

Thales clenched his fist: Don't mention his name again.

Xi Lai couldn't help but glanced at Thales.

Jen smiled and didn't care.

Thirdly, since yesterday, the low-level tool I relied on to suppress them-the Blood Bottle Gang has gone through a lot of troubles and finally lost its effectiveness and is no longer under my control. At least in things like suppressing murders, I am stretched. There is no longer any way to cover the sky with one hand and control the overall situation.

Also, as you said, Catherine's investigation in the Emerald City has already alarmed the enemy. The enemy realized that I was not only on the alert, but I was also chasing after them. Her escape was the last straw. They had to step up their pace to avoid having more nightmares—they didn't know what Catherine had found, let alone what I had mastered.

Finally, since the Caguiere case has been successfully turned into a big case that is full of storms, in theory, it should be all the more vigorous, strike while the iron is hot, and create more, bigger and more sensational incidents and murders before people get tired and get used to it. To deter the hearts of the Emerald City and shake my rule, only in this way can the greatest effect be achieved and the ultimate goal achieved.

Jen, you... Thales thought of something and couldn't believe it.

The situation, the occasion, the conditions, the timing, the actual effect, every factor gives them a reason to continue to do it, Zhan En's tone became brighter, The addition of the five makes it even more important.

He turned to Thales:

And you—if you're not lying—and your brother-in-law's guards, you also worked together to kill one of their extreme killers?

Thales swallowed.

Jen smiled slightly:

Guess, this time, they were desperate to jump over the wall, but they were lucky enough to survive...

He glanced at his sister:

Will it be ready to move and bite the bait in a hurry? For example, the general election at this moment?

Bite the bait?

Take the bait?

Thales looked at Zhan En in front of him, becoming more serious.

Fuck you, Jen!

Thales turned around:

Shiley?

Regardless of his image, Xi Lai raised his middle fingers and viciously compared to Duke Iris, which made both of them frown:

Don't you understand, Thales? Catherine didn't lie to us that day: she was indeed abandoned!

Zhan En looked around and coughed: Sister, pay attention...

The eldest lady hastily asked:

Why, Zhan En? Since it was a secret investigation, why was Catherine, the leader of the Blood Bottle Gang, so easily found by Lausanne II, and why did she walk into the palace that was intended to ambush her and split the Blood Bottle Gang? Death trap?

Jen didn't speak.

Because this tm is your masterpiece! Catherine is an abandoned child. You deliberately sent it out in the name of 'investigation' to attract the attention of the enemy and stimulate their bait! I guess it was you who sent the news out to let them focus on it. Catherine's? You want to remind them: you're alert. Xi Lai said angrily.

Jen remained silent.

No, not just Catherine, but the entire Blood Bottle Gang, they are all bait, Thales also figured it out, and he sighed, The internal strife and civil strife of the Blood Bottle Gang in the warehouse that day, including the current loss of The utility situation is the result of your deliberate laissez-faire, and it is part of a higher chess game, because you want the enemy to feel that you have lost the Blood Bottle Gang.

Jen raised the corner of his mouth.

You! Xi Lai said angrily, and pointed his middle finger again, We were unlucky that day, and we were chased and killed by that ghost killer from the Blood Bottle Gang all afternoon... In the end, it was all a good thing you caused? Do you still have the face to accuse me of causing trouble?

That being the case, that includes the Kaguilei murder case this morning. The reason why it spread throughout the city... Thales deduced step by step, frowning, These, these are all traps you set, just to lure The enemy took the bait—bait?

In the arena, the host gave an order, and the much-anticipated multiplayer team battle finally began.

Faced with Xi Lai's disgruntled eyes and Thales' vigilant expression, Jann smiled.

Snapped! Snapped! Snapped! Snapped!

The Duke applauded vigorously, and the applause was mixed with the roar and tsunami of the entire arena, but it had a different rhythm, so Thales would not be confused anyway.

You really don't bet? This is a good way to blend into the atmosphere and numb the surroundings. Jann asked while motioning Ashford to continue betting.

Grass you! Xi Lai greeted friendly.

I...as the heir of the kingdom, I should be balanced and impartial, Thales sighed, and moved out of the speech he had prepared, Choosing sides and placing bets is not in line with my identity and position .”

Oh, so it's because of your position, Zhan En raised his eyebrows, I thought it was because of poverty.

Thales only felt that his expression became more rigid.

But this is the reality, whether it's the Blood Bottle Gang or Catherine, it's still poor Kaguire, Jann smiled, his eyes filled with a disturbing light, Most of the time, it's the one with more chips. Only people can win the game.”

Those with more chips...

In the arena, hundreds of people fought in a majestic melee. Some fought alone, some fought in teams, some avoided the enemy's edge, and some leaned against the wall to resist...

Thales sat in the Duke's stand, facing this scene of countless people fighting selflessly, with an ugly expression on his face.

What about the chip itself?

The prince gritted his teeth and said:

Also, won't you be tired if you move chips like this every day?

Jen snorted lightly.

Although you are called the Duke, Thales, the Duke said indifferently, but you have never ruled a city, a place, or even a village, have you?

I... rule Star Lake Castle.

At least... Xinghu Castle is now full of vitality and wildness.

Reign? As Hilley said, Zhan En said disdainfully, Buy a cat to catch a mouse, buy a dog to catch a cat?

This... Thales was speechless for a moment, and looked at Hille unhappily.

Don't look at me, someone named Wyah next to you said it. Xi Lai shrugged angrily.

Damn, the cat was bought to clean up the mess that Ashida left that night (killing a roof full of rats), and as for the dog...

He didn't give an order at all, it's all a stupid thing for the people below to figure out what the superior wants to do by inference, okay?

When you get there, Thales, you will understand, and you will understand, Zhan En was slightly dazed, not without emotion, You must do what you can and must do.

All three were silent.

Well, I am really not suitable for playing with these dirty things...

Thales sighed secretly.

Maybe I'm not fit to be a king...

Then be the man who can be a king—a small voice rang out in his heart.

Thales frowned.

Maybe on that day, you will be able to win, Thales Canxing.

and……

Sometimes, those who are not in the game win more than those who have the chips.

Thales frowned.

How do they take the bait?

The prince's words attracted the attention of the other two:

That's right, Zhan En, you set a trap, well done! But how will they do it? After this murder case that shocked the whole city, and this grand event that the whole city is passionate about, what can they do to get you...

I don't know, Zhan En interrupted him, Maybe it was after the finals, when I stepped down from the stands with a happy face to present awards to the champion of the conference, or he rode a horse around the field and came to me, of course , or it may be in the middle of a fierce battle...

My father wants the Emerald City and the South Shore, Jain, not your head.

You mean, Zhan En said coldly, it's not just my head?

Of course, if you stand between him and the Emerald City, I don't think he would mind taking your head first, but...

They can do whatever they want.

Duke Iris glanced at Thales:

Perhaps you can do something more outrageous, create a crisis, and let His Majesty's most precious son suffer a little injury. In this way, you will have more reason to intervene in the Emerald City, and the Kingdom's Wrath will have even more reason. Swinging south - like Camp Saber?

Hillary grimaced.

But anyway...

Jen stared into Thales' eyes:

As long as they come, they can't escape.

Thales looked back at him.

But I still don't understand one thing, the prince said again after a few seconds, Your uncle's old department, why did they kill little Boerwen?

Jen frowned:

What? Did you listen carefully just now? They want revenge, and Bo Erwen's father is the killer who assassinated the former Duke, and also confessed to Sona...

Here, this is the place I don't understand, Thales said thoughtfully, How do you know that the enemy is Viscount Sona's old department?

Hillary's eyes moved.

Do I have to repeat everything? Zhan En was a little impatient, Because I found out the background of little Bo Erwen, and then strung together clues, and found...

Jen's words suddenly stopped.

Thales nodded.

If it is true as you said, every time they kill, they just want to cause panic and shake the foundation of Emerald City's rule, then killing Moss, Diop, and Slimani is justified, because their identities are key, and they are killed one by one. Dying in the streets is enough to cause panic, but...

Thales took a deep breath:

But little Bo Erwen is just a low-level person who fights black boxers in the underground ring and lives by beating and betting. Killing him, besides scaring the snake and reminding you of his father, old Bo Erwen, will make you alert. Will they be of any help?

Jen frowned.

Hille raised her eyebrows:

Yes, this is a bit...obvious?

I said, they want revenge, the more obvious the better, Zhan En gritted his teeth, In addition to disturbing the Emerald City, they also want to vent their anger and let everyone in the Emerald City know, so little Boerwen...

Did they want to, or do you think they did?

Jen was taken aback for a moment:

What do you want to say?

Thales cleared his throat: Well, let's put it this way, if I were them, your uncle's old department, your enemy and enemy...

Then isn't the best method, the best strategy, and the coolest revenge, shouldn't it be to let go of little Xiami like Bo Erwen first—he didn't even participate in the incident back then, it was just a bad luck Dad—are you focusing on other more worthy goals?

The expressions of the Kevin Dill brothers and sisters changed slightly.

Just like that, I killed key people one by one, and exposed their corpses on the street...

In the arena, the shouts of killing all over the sky could not overshadow Thales' words:

While making Emerald City terrified, it also makes people puzzled and keeps you in the dark... Then, when the duke is really overthrown and the Emerald City is buried, then take little Bo Erwen, caught off guard Jump out and tell the world to scare you: 'Kevin Dill died here'.

Thales touched his chin and pondered:

In order to let you wake up like a dream when you are unable to recover, and you suddenly realize when the situation is over. You want to make up for it, but you can't do it. You think about today's end and regret it. In the end, you can only lose all thoughts, growl in grief and anger, and have boundless resentment. Wronged and resentful, unwilling to die, regretting the prison river, will you never be reborn?

After the words fell, Zhan En looked at him with a complicated expression.

Wow, Xi Lai couldn't believe it, and said the question that Zhan En didn't say, Why can you speak the last sentence so fluently and proficiently?

Thales coughed and returned to the topic:

Ahem, I said, if, if, if I were them, then I would do this.

Jen's expression froze.

Thales continued:

Instead of killing little Bo Erwen from the beginning, making you alert and taking countermeasures, like now: you suppressed the murder case, blocked the news, calmed the storm, and avoided chaos. Wouldn't it be counterproductive for me? Came here to hinder my revenge?

Jen frowned tightly and didn't speak.

Hilley tentatively said:

Is there a possibility that when they killed little Boerwen, they were blinded by hatred?

Thales nodded and said:

It can't be ruled out. After all, people are not always rational... But, is there another possibility? They didn't want to let the Emerald City know when they killed Little Boerwen, but...

Hold!

Thales was interrupted, but he and Xi Lai were very surprised: it was none other than the emerald city lord himself who spoke rudely.

I saw Zhan En clenched his fists and his face was full of anger.

What's the matter, what the fuck? They didn't want the Emerald City to know, they wanted someone to know...

Xi Lie paused for a while, and her expression also changed.

Misguided, she murmured.

Hearing this word, Thales also widened his eyes: No way?

Zhan En's breathing accelerated, and he stared at the scuffle in the arena:

No, no, I have to go to Ashford, and the Emerald Legion, something is wrong...

Thales probed subconsciously, but suddenly realized:

At some point, the Xinghu Guards had disappeared from his sight.

Strange, where did they go? AWOL?

Thales felt a little uneasy.

Jane, Thales swallowed, you just said, who are the remnants of your uncle's old department, who slipped through the net in the conspiracy case back then? I mean, there are specifics. name?

But in the next second, Thales felt his wrist tighten - Jen grabbed him.

Jane? Hillary asked in surprise.

Thales was startled: at this moment, Jann was sweating profusely.

Thales, I felt that Zhan En spoke with difficulty, After the battle feast, Li Corleone from the Kingdom of the Night, did that old guy come to you?

What? Why? Thales didn't know why.

Zhan En's hands trembled slightly, and he shook his head: No, even if it is, it's too late now...The most urgent thing now is...

Brother? Are you okay? Hille asked worriedly.

But Zhan En ignored her, but continued to look at Thales, gritted his teeth and asked:

Thales, remember, the price?

Jen stared at Thales, making Thales even more uneasy:

What price do you want before you are willing to make a decisive move to save the Emerald City in the dark moment when the sky is falling apart?

What? Thales was confused.

Just then, an accident happened in the arena.