The Nasser Clan is a major shareholder of the Hedan Daily, something that ordinary citizens cannot usually know, but it is no secret among the upper echelons. If this matter had not been reported, it would have faded away over time. But the Hex Bird Report instantly spread the news throughout Hedan, causing an uproar.

Even the Nasser Clan, as one of the nation’s pillars, is finding it hard to withstand, because Anthony is currently detained by the Funeral Attendant. The Funeral Attendant dares not release him, and the Council Hall dares not deliver a verdict. The situation is at an impasse, with everyone hoping to deal with it after the issue of the Inner Demon has faded. But the Bird Report turned the tables unexpectedly.

There are also rumors that the Hedan Daily only reports trivial matters and lacks fairness, whereas the Hex Bird Report is different—it operates on the Dao Yuan Continent level, without national restrictions, and was created by the inventor of the Hex-Tech newspaper. They uphold the fairness and justice of Dao Yuan as their baseline.

The public was already skeptical about whether the previous suspects were the true culprits. When Anthony emerged, it instantly ignited that doubt. According to the law, Anthony should also face the stake, but he happens to be a noble, and not just an ordinary one. The Nasser Clan holds significant power, and Anthony is a hero from the front lines, having achieved military merits.

This has led to a huge controversy. Some claim Anthony was framed, while others say the Nasser Clan is the true culprit behind the Inner Demon, leaving the public demanding the truth.

The district-level Council Hall does not dare to handle this matter. It can no longer be concealed and has landed directly on the King’s desk. The Council Hall’s rationale is also quite reasonable. Given the situation at the time, Anthony’s violent act may have been unintended, and while there is a crime, attributing it to the Inner Demon case is contentious, hence it was shelved, awaiting more definitive evidence from the Night Patrol.

As the alleged perpetrator, Anthony claims he was drunk and lost control. He believes someone spiked his drink, leading to his subsequent crimes. He insists he was framed and is a victim—a persecution against a national hero and a smear against the Nasser Clan, suggesting there’s a conspiracy involved.

Who gave the Hex Bird Report such audacity to report without confirming the facts?

The usually calm leaders of Hedan are now stirred up. While it appears centered around Anthony’s case and the competition between the Hex Bird Report and Hedan Daily, in reality, it is a power struggle, and this is just the prologue.

Li Xin hadn’t gone to the Hex Bird Report but heard about it nonetheless. Gossip in the immigrant districts travels even faster. Soon, even Anthony Nasser’s underwear color would be dug up. He truly represents the archetype of Hedan’s elite—a direct descendant of the Nasser Clan, a graduate of the Knight Academy who didn’t idle like a playboy but went to the front lines, earning military achievements and advancing from centurion to captain. Completing his trials, he returned to Hedan, poised to secure a position within the Kingdom’s Knight Order.

How could such a person suddenly commit such acts?

Undoubtedly, this matter has garnered everyone’s attention—public focus—and due to the Hex Bird Report’s influence, it has even reached overseas.

The King’s order is for the Night Patrol to investigate thoroughly, regardless of who is involved. The King promises a fair judgment to the people.

This event is not only being discussed among the populace; it has also sparked greater controversy within the Canon Law School. The Knight Academy has also become embroiled in shame due to Anthony’s actions. For a knight, honor ranks above life. If it is true, then does the Knight Academy deserve such a prestigious status?

The Royal Palace is brightly lit, as a Cabinet meeting is held under the King’s auspices, with Grandmaster Vladimir and other ministers present, hotly debating the handling plan for Anthony.

According to precedent, unless it is treason, nobles, especially those with honors, can pay a ransom to avoid punishment.

But the reformists, led by Vladimir, argue that this case has transcended ordinary criminal cases and has impacted the nation. If mishandled, it could shake the kingdom’s foundation.

Although the King values Vladimir and the Celestial Principle School, which have contributed to recent developments, traditional forces still dominate the Cabinet, especially concerning tradition.

Prince Hokele and Prince Achilles are also present to listen in. Old Dukes like Seat and Tia have also gathered due to this matter. Handling Anthony is insignificant for many families, but it is a signal. Since the introduction of Hex-Tech, they sensed the change—the King’s intention to reform the old system, threatening many interests.

But the Anthony case is different. Once a precedent is set, the personal safety of nobles can no longer be guaranteed!

On this point, they are completely united. Moncalleta’s prosperity and divine protection have forged a millennia-old dynasty, as well as a thousand-year-old family with deeply intertwined influences.

In terms of arguing, Cabinet members are seasoned from their legislative experiences and are absolute experts. The grand scholars with Vladimir are no pushovers either, leading to heated debates with raised voices and reddened faces. In the past, Vladimir would be leading the charge, roaring, but now he seems more settled, appearing like an ordinary person. But power is identity, unlike before; even other Cabinet members, when voicing opposition, avoid directly confronting this five-star Grandmaster.

The current practical work of the Celestial Principle School is handled by Grandmaster James, a four-star Grandmaster. Vladimir has not engaged with mundane affairs recently, and his presence today is quite peculiar.

Seated on the throne, King Ola’s face remains stern, showing no inclination.

“How can the Hex Bird Report dare to speak nonsense without evidence? It should be banned. There’s likely the manipulation of the Li Dragon behind it!”

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Actually, the reason for the controversy is primarily due to the report by the Hex Bird Report.

James laughed in anger, “The Hex Bird Report only reported the truth, merely describing Anthony’s criminal actions. To suppress the Hex Bird Report would be a humiliation to the entire Dao Yuan Continent. Have you considered the reputation and dignity of Your Majesty?”

Ola the Eighteenth is renowned for his justice across the Dao Yuan Continent and holds significant prestige in various nations. To cover up for such a trivial matter would be like trying to cover one’s ears. If the Hex Bird Report spreads this news internationally, the face is surely lost.

“To make His Majesty’s dignity fall because of one criminal, Count Lase, you truly dare to imagine!”

“That’s not what I meant, I was saying…”

“What do you mean? This reveals your true intention, to harbor a criminal. The question of whether he is an Inner Demon requires further investigation, but the fact that he raped and murdered an innocent woman in a drunken state, is that not true?”

“Even so, we cannot burn a noble, a Knight, at the stake. It’s not in accordance with the rules. Once that precedent is set, it will cause national instability.” Duke Tia calmly stated, “This has been the foundation of Moncalleta for a thousand years.”

“Duke Tia, the foundation of the Kingdom is the King and the people, not you,” said James.

“Grandmaster James, you are condemning the heart. The ancestors and descendants of the Tia Clan have defended the Kingdom with blood and loyalty until now, unlike how you merely talk,” Duke Tia calmly stated. “Throughout history, treacherous ministers have only spoken words pleasing to the ear, yet no actions follow.”

James was so furious that smoke seemed to come out of his head, while Vladimir still showed no sign of intervening.

King Ola looked at Duke Nasser, who wore a constant serious expression, “Duke Nasser, Anthony is your child. How do you believe he should be handled appropriately?”

Duke Nasser stepped forward and bowed, “Your Majesty, although Anthony has some small merits, he has caused trouble for Your Majesty. I suggest stripping him of his title, compensating the victim’s family, and sending him back to the front line to start as a common soldier, to atone for his sins through merit.”

The nobles nodded in agreement, viewing this as a substantial concession. In the past, issues were resolved merely with a fine. Now, his great prospects are forfeited, and he will return to the harsh front lines to struggle. Duke Nasser’s sacrifice is noticeable and is motivated by the future of Didia Arthur, Anthony’s brother, one of the Kingdom’s most promising young men. If he opposed the King, Didia would certainly be removed from the list of potential royal consorts.

King Ola showed no expression, “Grandmaster Vladimir, what do you think of Duke Nasser’s suggestion?”

In the midst of the many arguments, Vladimir, previously on the verge of falling asleep, opened his sleepy eyes, “Your Majesty, all the ministers have made suggestions for the Kingdom’s benefit, and their ideas are commendable. However, we overlooked one thing: since the Hex Bird Report has already reported this case, it has escalated to a national level. Shouldn’t we first investigate the case thoroughly before making a decision? Handling it rashly would only tarnish Your Majesty’s reputation for justice.”

King Ola nodded, “The case was handled by the Funeral Attendant, so let it be thoroughly investigated by him. Regarding the involvement of Hidden Power, Achilles, you will be responsible for ensuring the investigation is fair and rigorous.”

Achilles was taken aback and immediately frowned, thinking what a troublesome affair this is. Why not let my older brother handle it? Yet upon seeing his father’s stern gaze, he immediately relented.

No one dared to question this. The second Prince has returned from the Holy Land, and despite his behavioral issues, it’s only fitting he handle this matter.

The Cabinet ministers left the Royal Palace, and it was inevitable that there would be wits and courage exchanged around Anthony.

Duke Nasser, riding a carriage, arrived at an opulent manor in the Providence District. This area, second only to the Royal Palace, is predominantly occupied by princes and nobles, where every inch of land is worth its weight in gold—a true symbol of status. Nobles from other regions must also have properties here to signify their stature. There is a large area here that belongs exclusively to one person; the scale of the manor rivals that of the Royal Palace.

This is the residence of Prince Oliver Ola, the elder brother of the current King. It is rumored that Prince Oliver was originally the rightful heir to the throne, a belief held by both officials and the public. However, one day, the old King suddenly changed his decision, appointing the current King Ola. There were anticipated conflicts, but the Crown Prince Oliver stepped down. Even after the King had ascended the throne, controversies arose for a time. Although King Ola’s rule is now increasingly stable, Prince Oliver still holds considerable influence among the nobility and military, enjoying privileges beyond the norm, such as a six-horse carriage only the Royal Family possesses.

Unlike King Ola’s efforts toward reform, Prince Oliver staunchly adheres to tradition, upholding all ancient customs of Hedan. He has only one daughter, the Five Pearl Princess Amosa, who has always believed her uncle must have used some means to seize the throne, thinking she should be the Princess.

Due to this, the palace society consistently targets Estella.

Duke Nasser’s carriage passed unimpeded into the Prince’s manor. Although Prince Oliver is a member of the Cabinet, he rarely appears, often claiming illness and staying in his manor. Despite being disengaged from politics, he assists anyone seeking help. His benevolence toward common people has earned him the title of Great Wise King. Sometimes, nobles lament that if Prince Oliver had ascended to the throne, their lives might have been more comfortable.

Shortly after Duke Nasser’s carriage entered, another four-horse carriage entered the Providence Manor…

Source: Webnovel.com, updated by NovelKeep