My queen is rebelling!

Hearing this, Herlan became serious.

Baron Malin's words were clearly hinting that this so-called private matter was for His Highness Prince Charles.

Herlan felt a surge of joy in his heart. When a superior is willing to let you handle private matters, it means he already considers you one of his own.

Herlan didn't dare to be negligent and quickly said:

“Don't worry, Baron, I know what to do.”

Baron Malin nodded with satisfaction and asked:

“What do you think of the Crimson Marauder?”

Herlan didn't know why Baron Malin would suddenly ask this question. After a moment of thought, he carefully replied:

“The actions of the Crimson Marauder have severely damaged the Ceylon Kingdom's layout and hegemonic position in the Northwest Sea, and they should be severely punished.”

Baron Malin waved his hand:

“I'm not asking how to deal with the Crimson Marauder, but what do you think of his strength?”

But after attacking the Crying Sound Trench, their strength will usher in an explosive increase.

Roughly equivalent to… the size and power of a larger duchy?”

Baron Malin nodded slowly and said:

“Such a large piece of cake, Captain Herlan, who do you think should take it?”

Herlan seemed to understand something and replied without hesitation:

“Of course, it's His Highness the Second Prince.”

Baron Malin was silent for a moment, then said:

“We also hope it's His Highness the Second Prince.”

Herlan was a little puzzled and tentatively asked:

“As far as I know, isn't the Ceylon Navy currently under the command of His Highness the Second Prince?”

Baron Malin said calmly:

“Captain Herlan, you still don't understand what I mean.

Although the Ceylon Navy is under His Highness's command, it is still under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defense and the Military Commission, do you understand?”

Herlan suddenly understood.

If following the normal procedure, after attacking the Crimson Marauder, the spoils of war and territorial gains would have to be taken to the Ministry of Defense and the Military Commission for discussion on how to distribute the benefits.

No matter how it's divided at that time, His Highness the Second Prince will not be able to take it all.

Baron Malin's meaning was that he hoped the Second Prince could swallow this cake alone.

Although Herlan understood, he couldn't help but feel a few doubts.

What does a pirate crew leader like him have to do with such important national affairs of the Ceylon Kingdom?

Could it be that he can interfere?

Malin coughed lightly and lowered his voice:

“Captain Herlan, how many spoils of war there are after the war, how much territory is taken.

How many ships and branch bases belong to the Crimson Marauder, it's all up to the commander-in-chief of the operation.”

Herlan's eyes lit up, and he followed Malin's words:

“Baron, do you mean to let our own people serve as the commander-in-chief of the operation?

Could it be that Commander Norn…”

Baron Malin said meaningfully:

“Commander Norn is an upright general.”

Herlan's pupils shrank and he nodded slowly.

Upright means inflexible. The Second Prince hopes that someone else can serve as the commander-in-chief.

Malin gave Herlan a look to figure it out himself, and then said:

“Captain Herlan, do you know why I'm telling you this?”

Herlan tentatively asked:

“Does Baron hope that I will come forward to persuade Commander Gaston to strive for this commander-in-chief of the operation?”

Malin said indifferently:

“More than that.

I also hope that after the war is won.

The ships and branch bases under the Crimson Marauder can all be registered under your Black Sail Crew, do you understand?”

Herlan's pupils shrank, and he finally understood the real purpose of Baron Malin's secret visit to him today.

By registering the territories and ships that originally belonged to the Crimson Marauder under the name of the Black Sail Crew, the Second Prince Charles can quietly develop and cultivate his private forces.

It seems that the struggle for the throne within the Ceylon Kingdom has intensified!

Seeing that he had almost fooled the other party, Malin added another insurance:

“Captain Herlan, I won't admit what I said today once you leave this door.

Moreover, Gaston's appointment as the commander-in-chief of the operation is his own wish, without any persuasion or guidance from anyone.

Do you… understand?”

Herlan knew that the other party was warning him not to talk nonsense, and he nodded solemnly:

“Don't worry, sir, I know what to do.”

Baron Malin smiled and patted Herlan on the shoulder:

“When His Highness ascends the throne in the future, I will remember your contribution!”

… …

After dealing with Herlan, Baron Malin went to find the Second Prince Charles without stopping.

His Highness Charles was very surprised and asked:

“Gaston wants to be the commander-in-chief of the operation?”

Baron Malin nodded slowly:

“He didn't say it explicitly, presumably he has concerns in his heart, and only hinted at his intention through Herlan, the captain of the Black Sail Crew.

I hope His Highness can help speak up for him. Of course, he will also work hard to fight for it himself.”

Charles frowned slightly and asked:

“Didn't he say the specific reason?”

Baron Malin lowered his voice:

“I guess he has some selfish motives.”

He paused and continued:

“There is no need to consider the outcome of the war. No matter how powerful the Crimson Marauder is, he is not a match for the North Sea Fleet.

The key lies in the distribution of spoils after the war.

The Crimson Marauder is a pirate crew, and the Black Sail Crew is also a pirate crew.

After the Crimson Marauder is wiped out, so many branch bases, ships, pirates…

If these things are registered under the name of the Black Sail Crew…”

Charles understood. A trace of coldness flashed in his eyes and he said:

“I can fight for him, but in exchange… I want 70%!

It just so happens that the human trafficking business can't be done anymore, so let's use this to subsidize the family.”

Baron Malin bowed slightly, a faint smile appearing on the corner of his mouth, and said:

“Your Highness is wise!”

… …

In the Ceylon Kingdom's Parliament Hall, the ministers were discussing Effien's actions on the border.

Prime Minister Yude reported the latest situation:

“It has been verified that the two saints, in addition to Garcia Lance, the Oathbreaker who defected from the Black Tomb,

The other one is a saint from the Golden Wing Family, Karin Saint-Mela.

She is also the aunt of Isabella, the Golden Wing Woman, the lover of the King of Effien.

In addition to the two saints, there are also fifteen legendary transcendents.

Half of them are special action commissioners from Effien's Special Action Committee.

Oh, this Special Action Committee is equivalent to Effien's previous Senate.

The previous Senate publicly rebelled during the Northwest Regional Exchange Conference and was abolished by the King of Effien.

After the abolition, King Corian summoned the legendary ranks in the country who were loyal to the royal family and formed this Special Action Committee.

He himself and Queen Angrian are responsible.”

King Gaius showed great interest on his face. King Corian is really good at centralizing monarchical power.

He must take the time to learn from him.

Prime Minister Yude continued:

“The remaining legendary ranks are all from the Pale Wings.

Therefore, I judge that Effien's border action is just a simple show of force and deterrence, and will not take any substantive measures.”

The ministers also agreed with this view. It has been more than ten days since these people showed off their power on the border, and they have not taken any further action other than releasing their aura every day.

King Gaius said with a hint of doubt:

“Is it just a simple demonstration?

Sending out so many saints and legendary ranks just to vent their anger, is this King Corian so naive?”

Prime Minister Yude said:

“I'm afraid that's the truth.

If Effien really wants to take action against our Ceylon Kingdom, their greatest reliance is that terrifying number of 'elite' orc legions.

But according to our intelligence, Effien's orc legions have not shown large-scale mobilization or deployment.”

Duke Gavin smiled faintly and said:

“I also agree with the Prime Minister's view.

As for the naive question mentioned by His Majesty… everyone, don't forget that King Cohen Corian, who is in charge of Effien, is not yet twenty years old this year.

We cannot infer his actions based on common sense.”

King Gaius suddenly chuckled:

“Gavin is right. What could be more reasonable than an explorer king willing to disguise himself as an adventure group leader, for him to have any unusual behavior.”

Duke Gavin smiled, but a trace of vigilance rose in his heart.

What does King Gaius mean by suddenly mentioning this?

Disguising himself as an adventure group leader to explore.

Is he implying that his son Ifero once adventured with the King of Effien?

Suspecting his relationship with Effien?

Duke Gavin couldn't help but think too much, because the rumors in the Ceylon Kingdom recently were a bit off.

First of all, some news about King Cohen Corian of Effien was dug up.

It was said that this young king once appeared in Duke Gavin's territory as the 'Lord of Shadows', and even had a good relationship with Gavin's only son, Ifero Gavin, and adventured together.

What's more, it is rumored that the secret that the King of Effien holds in his hand that can control the orcs was found with Ifero in a secret realm in the Gavin family's territory.

The spearhead of these rumors pointed directly at Duke Gavin.

Duke Gavin initially dismissed these attacks and rumors, but these rumors became more and more true, and the scope of their spread became wider and wider.

Especially after Duke Gavin asked his son Ifero, he was shocked to find that most of the rumors were actually true.

His bastard son had indeed adventured with the King of Effien, who was using the alias 'Lord of Shadows', in a place called Starfall Valley in the territory.

Duke Gavin was really panicked now.

Now the Ceylon Kingdom is in a sensitive period because of Effien's affairs. If his political enemies really seize anything, it will definitely be a heavy blow to the Gavin family.

Duke Gavin was sometimes a little disdainful. Could a small duchy really bring troops to attack?

This is the Ceylon Kingdom, the Ceylon that has stood on the Northwest Continent for tens of thousands of years!

It has come to the point where even a few saints and legends on the border cause a stir.

Duke Gavin felt that the Ceylon Kingdom was a bit overreacting now. Even when facing their mortal enemy, the neighboring Kingdom of Windwhisper, the Ceylon Kingdom had never been so embarrassed.

The ministers present were all shrewd people, old fritters who had cultivated in the top gossip furnace of the court for I don't know how many years.

All are adept at carefully pondering every word and phrase from the Supreme Being.

The newest novel is first released on Liu 9 Shu Ba!

King Gaius's sudden mention to Duke Gavin about King Effie's past disguise as the leader of an adventure group cannot help but make these seasoned veterans think of the widespread rumor circulating domestically!

Duke Gavin's only son and the sole heir of the Gavin family, Iphiel O. Gavin, once had extremely close ties with King Effie.

Faced with the ministers' malicious gazes, Duke Gavin remained calm. After King Gaius finished speaking, he did not make any statement, only chuckled, seemingly not understanding the King's implication.

King Gaius also seemed to be speaking casually, mentioning King Effie before saying to Prime Minister Jude:

"In that case, withdraw the men first, leaving two to monitor their movements."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Having dealt with the matters on the border, we can finally free up our hands to eliminate those pirates who dare to provoke Ceylon's authority!

King Gaius looked towards Admiral Norn, the Commander-in-Chief of the Navy, and said in a deep voice:

"Admiral Norn, I authorize you to immediately assemble the Kingdom's expeditionary force to punish these arrogant pirates.

There is only one goal: to completely, resolutely, and without leaving a single one, annihilate this group of pirates known as the Crimson Raiders!

Bring back the head of their leader, and I will be waiting in the Royal Capital to celebrate your victory!"

Commander Norn replied loudly:

"Yes, Your Majesty, I guarantee the completion of the mission!"

After the meeting, everyone left.

Two people deliberately slowed down their movements, clearly wanting to report something to King Gaius alone.

They were Duke Gavin and Second Prince Charles.

King Gaius's eyes flickered slightly. He had expected Gavin to stay, but he wondered why Charles also had something to say to him alone.

Charles glanced at Duke Gavin and said:

"Does the Duke have something to say?"

Gavin wore an inscrutable smile on his face:

"It's nothing, just some idle talk with His Majesty. If Your Highness has something to attend to, this old minister will take his leave first, and we can talk another time."

Prince Charles returned the smile and then turned to look at Gaius:

"I don't have anything important either. I just wanted to discuss the selection of the overall commander for the operation with Father."

King Gaius asked:

"Who do you want to recommend?

Isn't Commander Norn good enough?"

Charles said in a low voice:

"It's not that he's not good, but I heard that during the great battle in the Northwest Sea not long ago, the Sharkmen and Tideborn were involved.

These are not small races, and there are Saint-level figures within their clans.

Commander Norn is undoubtedly skilled in military affairs, but… he is a bit too straightforward. What if he intensifies the conflict with them, wouldn't that unnecessarily provoke powerful enemies for our Kingdom of Ceylon?"

A look of understanding flashed in King Gaius's eyes, and he said:

"Who do you think is suitable?"

Charles said in a deep voice:

"Vice Admiral Gaston has dealt with many races in the Northwest Sea and is proficient in the common language of the ocean. He even has Sharkmen soldiers under his command. It would be more appropriate for him to come forward."

King Gaius nodded:

"I understand. I will consider your opinion when the Standing Committee of the Military Commission convenes."

"Then I will take my leave."

After Charles left, Duke Gavin slowly spoke:

"Your Majesty, there are some things I would like to report to you privately."

Gaius waved his hand to dismiss the maids and guards in the palace and said:

"Please speak, Duke."

Duke Gavin organized his thoughts and said:

"Regarding the rumor in the country, it is true that my son, Iphiel O., did venture out with King Cohen Corleone of Effie, who was disguised."

King Gaius's face did not show any special emotion, as if he had already known about this matter.

Duke Gavin continued:

"The reason why Iphiel O. came into contact with the Shadow Lord, who was disguised by King Corleone, was related to a person, or rather, to an elf."

A hint of surprise flashed in Gaius's eyes, which he had not known before.

Duke Gavin continued:

"Your Majesty should have heard of this elf. It is Windsoridler Windrunner, the Princess of the Winged Elf race, the chief steward of the Central Empire's court, and a close aide to Empress Klein."

Gaius narrowed his eyes and said:

"Her?

I remember she should also be one of that Corleone King's many confidantes?"

Duke Gavin bowed slightly:

"This old minister is not too clear about the love history between Windsoridler and King Corleone.

However, it was this close aide to Empress Klein who came to this old minister's territory back then.

Both publicly and privately, I had to send someone to receive her.

The one responsible for receiving Windsoridler was my son, Iphiel O.

This special envoy of the elves has a somewhat… unconventional personality and likes to take risks. After hearing that there was a secret realm in this old minister's family territory related to the ancient elves, she requested to explore it.

Iphiel O. was worried that something might happen, so he recruited a group of adventurers to explore together.

This King Corleone's adventure group was one of those who came to participate in the recruitment. Logically speaking, with his strength at the time, King Corleone should not have been selected, but Windsoridler Windrunner chose him.

Therefore, this old minister's son came into contact with that King Corleone who had hidden his identity.

But that's all. According to Iphiel O., nothing special happened during the entire expedition, and throughout the entire process, the relationship between King Corleone and Windsoridler was relatively close. He did not have any in-depth communication with King Corleone."

King Gaius suddenly laughed and said:

"In other words, the emotional entanglement between that romantic king and the Empress's special envoy should have started from that adventure, right?"

Duke Gavin was stunned for a moment, caught off guard by His Majesty's sudden change of thought, but he still replied:

"That should be the case. After all, a teenage king could not have had any interaction with the Empress's close aide who resides in the Central Empire."

King Gaius sighed:

"What enviable young men.

Having the number one beauty on the continent is not enough, and he still wants to seduce so many beautiful girls.

It's not wrong for outsiders to say that he is the Lord of Romance.

Counting the women around him, there is the Golden Wing Maiden of the wealthiest family on the continent, the Golden Wing Family, the Dragon Rider Warrior whom he has ennobled as a Duchess, and, by the way, I heard that he also has an unclear relationship with the Sequence Master of the Mysterious Continent, the Curse Witch.

Thinking about it carefully, he was able to achieve his current achievements, thanks to the support of so many women behind him."

King Gaius did not know that the dignified First Princess of the Eastern Domain Empire was also working for Cohen in the Endless Alliance, otherwise, he would have been even more shocked.

Duke Gavin lowered his eyes and remained silent.

Gaius waved his hand and said:

"I understand. Duke, you are overthinking things. Mere rumors in the market will not affect the relationship between you and me as ruler and subject."

Duke Gavin bowed slightly and left the palace.

King Gaius looked at Duke Gavin's departing figure, his eyes full of profound meaning, not knowing what he was thinking.

He chuckled and returned to his study.

Not long after, Third Prince Saxon Cromwell, who had not been seen for a long time, appeared in the King's study.

Prince Saxon swept away the embarrassment and decadence of his previous loss of face in Effie, and said to King Gaius with firm eyes:

"Father, how was today's test? How did Duke Gavin answer?"

A strange color flashed across Gaius's face, and he repeated Duke Gavin's answer to Saxon.

The jealousy in Saxon's eyes flashed past, and then he said:

"Excuses, all excuses.

Father, you must not listen to Gavin's one-sided story.

He is certain that we cannot find that Windsoridler to confront him face to face, so he made up such an excuse."

King Gaius said in a deep voice:

"Saxon, this matter is of great importance, and there must be sufficient evidence."

Saxon said firmly:

"Father, there will be evidence.

Not only will there be evidence, but there will also be witnesses. At that time, you will definitely see Duke Gavin's true face."

King Gaius fell into deep thought. His feelings for Duke Gavin were actually very complicated.

Respect, indeed respect.

Duke Gavin is a veteran minister of three dynasties, and of course, most importantly, after his great-grandfather usurped the throne of the orthodox royal family, Duke Gavin was the first to stand up and explicitly express his support.

Based on this alone, King Gaius could not act against the Gavin family casually without sufficient reason.

The Gavin family is not just a family, it also represents many families in the country that have existed for thousands of years.

Back then, these families tacitly agreed that their branch would replace the orthodox royal family and enter Ceylon, and there was a political understanding between the two sides.

Once the Gavin family is dealt with without a legitimate reason, it is likely to cause a chain reaction. If not handled properly, internal strife may occur.

This is absolutely unacceptable in the current Kingdom of Ceylon.

Therefore, even if his most trusted son came out to accuse Duke Gavin of secretly colluding with Ceylon's sworn enemy, the Wind Breath Kingdom, and the up-and-coming, ambitious Effie, conspiring to deal with Ceylon, King Gaius still chose to be cautious and cautious.

Before there is clear evidence that all of this is true, he cannot act!

Faced with Saxon's statement, Gaius said slowly:

"Give me evidence. As long as there is evidence that all forces in the country can believe in, I will authorize you to take action against the Gavin family!"

A bloody light flashed in Saxon's eyes, and he nodded heavily:

"Yes, Father!"

Saxon left the palace and returned to his mansion.

After waving his hand to dismiss the servants, he came to a secret room alone.

A middle-aged man's figure suddenly appeared in front of him. The man had his back to him. Hearing the movement, he slowly turned around and smiled gently at Saxon:

"Your Highness, long time no see!"