Chapter 258

Jin Verocion.

The child realized it the moment he uttered that name.

For the first time in his life, he had declared himself a member of the royal bloodline. He, who had lived in the shadow of his siblings, had ultimately survived and was now receiving the radiant gazes of the imperial citizens.

And above all—

‘So this is what Brother Mariv and Brother Gale desired.’

Honestly, in his young mind, he couldn’t understand them. Why did those two, who had everything in the world, compete so fiercely, envy each other, and clash swords? Was there meaning in obtaining the crown by harming their father and cutting down their brothers?

To Jin, being emperor was merely a destination for survival, and his position as told by Ian.

But now he truly understands.

He sincerely comprehends the hearts of his two brothers.

‘This is what they wanted to see.’

Bariel’s cheers shook his heart, and their smiles tickled his chest. Nothing was as precious and sparkling as the gazes they sent him. The lives they led would become his history, and their existence once again proves his own.

‘Ah. I see.’

His brothers knew this all along. That’s why they were willing to sacrifice their blood and breath to obtain it. Even if they ultimately failed, it was something worth humbly accepting death for.

Even though he was merely standing to testify, it felt overwhelmingly grand, as if his whole body might shatter. He couldn’t even imagine what it would be like to ascend to the emperor’s throne.

Jin lightly grasped the magical device and cleared his throat.

“Within a short period, the palace was sealed off twice. This was unprecedented in history, a source of anxiety for the imperial citizens, and a shame for the royal family.”

The crowd embraced those next to them and looked up at Jin. The young prince’s voice whispered in their ears through the magical device. A delicate yet powerful voice. The royal family’s noble demeanor was clearly conveyed.

“The trouble centered around Brother Mariv and Brother Gale, but there were others who surrounded them and fueled the flames even more.”

Jin slowly and carefully unraveled the events of that day, one by one. Although Ian had already announced it once and the press had reported it, it held a different meaning when delivered directly by the foundation of the royal family.

To the imperial citizens, Bariel was the royal family, and to the royal family, Bariel was the imperial citizens. Confirming each other with their own eyes and solidifying their trust would create tremendous power.

“Those who were blinded by misguided glory and trampled their own honor. The seven families standing here are just that. We cannot pretend it didn’t happen. The scar on my face is the truth of that day.”

Hayman looked up at Jin without changing his expression. Facing imminent death, the child suddenly made him contemplate the meaning of life.

During the rebellion, he had been a child seemingly abandoned by his mother in place of Arsen, but now he stood alone, having outlasted all competitors. His fate had changed from a clear loser to the sole victor.

“I vividly testify. Duke Hayman’s black armors shattered my mother’s palace, killed those who fled, and confronted Prince Mariv to usurp the royal seal.”

He immediately refuted the lie that there was no intention because they didn’t know.

“And in that process, my mother and my siblings died.”

This pointed out their attempt to support Arsen to escape the charge of treason. Although bundled under the term ‘siblings’, the result was not problematic at all.

“I swear on my name that all charges brought by the Ministry of Magic and the royal family are true. Therefore, I hope that just punishment will be meted out to the criminals for the stability of the royal family and the peace of the country. Chief Judge.”

The chief judge responded by placing his hand on his chest and bowing his head slightly.

“For Bariel.”

“For Bariel.”

The elderly chief judge and the young prince swore for a single value.

The crowd watching this approached closer to the palace walls, murmuring. Soldiers blocked them with spears, but how could they stop the heightened fervor? They reached out their hands and called for Jin.

“Your Highness, have Lady Dilaina and Prince Arsen passed away?”

“You didn’t know? It was in the newspapers.”

“Prince Jin! Please show us your face, your scar again!”

“You are the only hope left for Bariel. Please, come closer!”

“Your Highness! Your Highness! Prince Jin!”

“Chief Judge. For Bariel, please exterminate all the nobles who have disturbed the country.”

“Exterminate them! Exterminate them!”

“Wasn’t it because of their greed that precious royal lives were lost? Isn’t it their role to stop the princes when they rebel and guide them on the right path?”

“His Majesty the Emperor is watching!”

“Conduct the trial properly!”

“Step back! If you come any closer, you’ll be expelled!”

“Step back! Go back, go back!”

It turned into chaos in an instant. They might have thought they were just throwing in a single word, but were there just too many people? It was no different from hundreds of shouts erupting at once.

The nobles couldn’t hide their bewilderment, startled by the tremendous uproar. How dare these lowly beings raise their voices here? Even the nobles were holding their breath.

“Shouldn’t they all be charged with blasphemy?”

“Tsk tsk. These uneducated people…”

“I knew this would happen. It was a problem from the start to open it up for the sake of securing tax revenue. I wonder if they even understand the meaning of solemnity.”

“What if they come through the windows? It might be good for the Imperial Guards to deploy some numbers in advance.”

Everyone glanced at Ian, hoping he would take some action. But he paid no attention and waited for Jin to finish.

“That concludes my statement.”

“Yes. We have heard you well.”

Clap clap clap!

Ian raised his hands again, as if to show off. This time, others reflexively applauded first. Amidst the resounding encouragement, Jin came down from the podium, supported by Ian.

Their eyes met briefly. The child wanted to go closer to the window, and Ian read his mind. But they were in the middle of a trial determining the fate of the families, so Ian gently shook his head to discourage him.

“Well then…”

Bang! Bang bang!

The judge struck his gavel more forcefully, aware of the magical device. The crowd simultaneously covered their ears and flinched.

“Please be quiet. We will continue with the trial. I ask that the imperial citizens strictly maintain order as directed by the royal soldiers.”

Jin, having returned to his seat, sat straight and looked only forward. He could feel the hot gazes of the imperial citizens beside him.

Unable to resist any longer, he turned his gaze, and they were watching him with sparkling eyes. The trial had long been pushed to the background.

“Next is the Avalia family.”

The trial continued. As with the Hayman family, procedures were not omitted to show respect for those about to disappear. The difference from Hayman was—

“Yes. I admit to all charges.”

“I understand. We apply the charge of conspiracy.”

Bang!

“I will not deny it.”

“We also apply the charge of conspiracy.”

Bang!

“…I have nothing to say.”

“We accept that.”

Most had lost their spirit and given up. Unlike Hayman, few denied everything to the end and defended themselves by going through each point. Some might consider this dignified, while others might see it as weak. Perhaps some might think it rational.

Jin glanced at Hayman while watching the trial proceed smoothly. Though he could only see the back of his head, his posture remained upright. His expression was probably the same.

“Any further defense?”

“……”

“Then please wait a moment.”

The judges rose from their seats to coordinate the sentencing.

Unlike Mariv, who was royalty, these were nobles. Without needing to follow a majority opinion, they could pass sentence under the judges’ authority.

“We will recess for ten minutes.”

It’s still a death sentence, but this was to discuss the method, order, or subsequent handling of the bodies.

As the judges left, the tense atmosphere relaxed. Joy colored the faces of the imperial citizens whose eyes met Jin’s. When else would they have the chance to face such a precious member of the royal family? It would be right to prostrate themselves in reverence, but the imperial citizens continued to want to reach Jin, and they took courage.

“Your Highness, this…”

“Hey now, step back.”

“Sorry, I’m sorry.”

A single flower extended through the soldiers.

Jin looked at Xiaoshi in surprise. Xiaoshi approached the window on behalf of the prince and called a soldier. The soldier received the flower, passed it to Xiaoshi, and it was soon handed to Jin.

Jin carefully cradled the single yellow wildflower and murmured.

“…Thank you.”

“We are grateful that Your Highness is safe.”

It was the first gift he had received from an imperial citizen. Jin smiled happily, repeatedly rubbing the petals against the tip of his nose. Romandro watched this contentedly, resting his chin on both hands. Ian also smiled faintly, but only for a moment.

“Xia.”

Ian quietly called Xiaoshi and whispered. It was a very discreet reprimand, so quiet that even Romandro right next to him couldn’t hear.

“How could you carelessly hand something to His Highness that was offered by a stranger? Be especially careful.”

“…I’m sorry.”

“That’s enough. It’s also my oversight for not instructing you in advance.”

“What should we do with the flower?”

“Leave it for now. His Highness is so pleased with it.”

How could one stop that bright smile with dimples? At Ian’s nod, Xiaoshi sat down next to Jin, and Jin kept showing him the flower and whispering something. He was clearly bragging.

Romandro didn’t hide his raised cheekbones. As if watching something lovely, his hands supporting his chin were cutely gathered.

“Come to think of it, His Highness has never been outside the palace, right? We must prepare the successor appointment ceremony grandly and perfectly.”

There’s a golden road that stretches in a straight line from the capital’s entrance to the palace. It was only for use by the royal family, typically used when royalty departed for or returned from battle, or for official events like coronations.

By becoming the successor, Jin would meet Bariel for the first time, going outside the palace.

“Yes. We must do so. There will likely be many guests from foreign countries as well.”

“Will there be?”

“Of course. Isn’t he the only prince?”

Being the only prince had several meanings. Positively, it meant he was the next emperor, and negatively, it meant that the Bariel royal family had become vulnerable due to rebellion and turmoil.

From the perspective of foreign powers, it was an opportunity to enter the palace directly to assess the political situation and make an impression on Jin. While kings might be too much, there was a high possibility that their heirs below them would visit.

Creeak.

At that moment, the judges re-entered. They held black velvet sentencing documents. Everyone immediately fell silent, waiting for the verdict to be announced.

“Thank you for your patience. We acknowledge that the seven central families have dedicated themselves to Bariel in the past. However, the crime related to rebellion is a serious offense that cannot be mitigated by any excuse. Therefore, the Royal Court pronounces the following sentence.”

Rustle.

The chief judge pointed to each of the family heads one by one and spoke.

“All tangible and intangible assets of the seven families, including Hayman, are confiscated and revert to the royal family. Furthermore, those bearing the family names will be hanged, and their bodies will be displayed in the streets for a week as a warning against treason.”

Bang! Bang bang!

Hayman, who had been expressionless, finally frowned and closed his eyes. Angry cheers erupted from outside, and the nobles let out groans of complex emotions. All the officials stood up and offered handshakes to Ian and Jin.

“You’ve worked hard, Your Highness.”

“It’s all over now. Your Highness, congratulations.”

“Lord Ian, well done. Well done!”

“Not at all. It’s thanks to everyone’s help.”

“Oh my, Romandro! You! Go get some rest now!”

Ian responded to the congratulations coming from all around while keeping his arm around Jin’s shoulders. Meanwhile, Hayman and the nobles were dragged away by the Imperial Guards, and the chief judge concluded the trial.

“This concludes the trial.”

Bang! Bang!

It was a perfect victory for the royal family that no one could dispute.

At least until then.

Navigate to Other Chapters

MBSE Chapter 01 - Emperor's End

MBSE Chapter 02 - The Bastard of House Bratz

MBSE Chapter 03 - The Marquis Estate

MBSE Chapter 04 - Shackles

MBSE Chapter 05 - Plans

MBSE Chapter 06 - A Stroll

MBSE Chapter 07 - Illiterate

MBSE Chapter 08 - Intentions

MBSE Chapter 09 - The Second Luncheon

MBSE Chapter 10 - The Brooch

MBSE Chapter 11 - Alcohol and Water

MBSE Chapter 12 - The Proposal

MBSE Chapter 13 - The Flower Pot

MBSE Chapter 14 - The Training Ground

MBSE Chapter 15 - Beric

MBSE Chapter 16 - The Mage Knight

MBSE Chapter 17 - Enemy

MBSE Chapter 18 - Preparation

MBSE Chapter 19 - Informant

MBSE Chapter 20 - The Door

MBSE Chapter 21 - Diamond

MBSE Chapter 22 - The Tutor

MBSE Chapter 23 - The Warrior

MBSE Chapter 24 - Nersarn

MBSE Chapter 25 - Proof

MBSE Chapter 26

MBSE Chapter 27

MBSE Chapter 28

MBSE Chapter 29

MBSE Chapter 30

MBSE Chapter 31

MBSE Chapter 32

MBSE Chapter 33

MBSE Chapter 34

MBSE Chapter 35

MBSE Chapter 36

MBSE Chapter 37

MBSE Chapter 38

MBSE Chapter 39

MBSE Chapter 40

MBSE Chapter 41

MBSE Chapter 42

MBSE Chapter 43

MBSE Chapter 44

MBSE Chapter 45

MBSE Chapter 46

MBSE Chapter 47

MBSE Chapter 48

MBSE Chapter 49

MBSE Chapter 50

MBSE Chapter 51

MBSE Chapter 52

MBSE Chapter 53

MBSE Chapter 54

MBSE Chapter 55

MBSE Chapter 56

MBSE Chapter 57

MBSE Chapter 58

MBSE Chapter 59

MBSE Chapter 60

MBSE Chapter 61

MBSE Chapter 62

MBSE Chapter 63

MBSE Chapter 64

MBSE Chapter 65

MBSE Chapter 66

MBSE Chapter 67

MBSE Chapter 68

MBSE Chapter 69

MBSE Chapter 70

MBSE Chapter 71

MBSE Chapter 72

MBSE Chapter 73

MBSE Chapter 74

MBSE Chapter 75

MBSE Chapter 76

MBSE Chapter 77

MBSE Chapter 78

MBSE Chapter 79

MBSE Chapter 80

MBSE Chapter 81

MBSE Chapter 82

MBSE Chapter 82

MBSE Chapter 83

MBSE Chapter 83

MBSE Chapter 84

MBSE Chapter 85

MBSE Chapter 86

MBSE Chapter 87

MBSE Chapter 88

MBSE Chapter 89

MBSE Chapter 90

MBSE Chapter 91

MBSE Chapter 92

MBSE Chapter 93

MBSE Chapter 94

MBSE Chapter 95

MBSE Chapter 96

MBSE Chapter 97

MBSE Chapter 98

MBSE Chapter 99

MBSE Chapter 100

MBSE Chapter 101

MBSE Chapter 102

MBSE Chapter 103

MBSE Chapter 104

MBSE Chapter 105

MBSE Chapter 106

MBSE Chapter 107

MBSE Chapter 108

MBSE Chapter 109

MBSE Chapter 110

MBSE Chapter 111

MBSE Chapter 112

MBSE Chapter 113

MBSE Chapter 114

MBSE Chapter 115

MBSE Chapter 116

MBSE Chapter 117

MBSE Chapter 118

MBSE Chapter 119

MBSE Chapter 120

MBSE Chapter 121

MBSE Chapter 122

MBSE Chapter 123

MBSE Chapter 124

MBSE Chapter 125 - The First Noble Mage

MBSE Chapter 126 - Arsen and Jin

MBSE Chapter 127 - The Hidden Oracle

MBSE Chapter 128 - The Morning Guest

MBSE Chapter 129 - Behind the Scenes

MBSE Chapter 130 - New Magician, New Swordsman

MBSE Chapter 131 - Imperial Palace Training Grounds

MBSE Chapter 132 - Meeting a Worthy Opponent

MBSE Chapter 133 - Joining Ceremony

MBSE Chapter 134 - The Mayor's Letter

MBSE Chapter 135 - Love is Crazy

MBSE Chapter 136 - Proving in the Midst of Chaos

MBSE Chapter 137 - To Gale First

MBSE Chapter 138 - I Swear

MBSE Chapter 139 - I Swear Again

MBSE Chapter 140 - Dogs are Best at Finding People

MBSE Chapter 141 - Love and War

MBSE Chapter 142 - Black Smoke

MBSE Chapter 143 - Fall from Grace

MBSE Chapter 144 - Forbidden Magic

MBSE Chapter 145 - Ashes

MBSE Chapter 146 - It Really is a Curse

MBSE Chapter 147 - Truth Serum

MBSE Chapter 148 - A Secret Deal

MBSE Chapter 149 - Candidate Registration for the Next Minister

MBSE Chapter 150 - A Sloppy Letter

MBSE Chapter 151 - Fakens Slave Caravan

MBSE Chapter 152 - Illegal Slaves

MBSE Chapter 153 - Whole Pig Party

MBSE Chapter 154 - Between Threat and Negotiation

MBSE Chapter 155 - Balance Through Checks

MBSE Chapter 156

MBSE Chapter 157

MBSE Chapter 158

MBSE Chapter 159

MBSE Chapter 160

MBSE Chapter 161 - Mother

MBSE Chapter 162 - Because You are like a Wildflower

MBSE Chapter 163 - Proving the Truth

MBSE Chapter 164 - Signal Flare

MBSE Chapter 165 - Xiaoshi

MBSE Chapter 166 - Assassination Attempt

MBSE Chapter 167 - The Emperor's Seal

MBSE Chapter 168 - That Night

MBSE Chapter 169 - A Mess

MBSE Chapter 170 - Neutral Forces

MBSE Chapter 171 - Spreading Spark

MBSE Chapter 172 - The Fate of the Twins

MBSE Chapter 173 - Jin, A Precious Child

MBSE Chapter 174 - Moving Forward, Bit by Bit

MBSE Chapter 175 - Variable

MBSE Chapter 176 - Mana-Sealing Stone

MBSE Chapter 177 - The Black Moon

MBSE Chapter 178 - Dark Side of the Moon

MBSE Chapter 179 - The Third Imperial Palace, Now

MBSE Chapter 180 - Surrender

MBSE Chapter 181 - Angel's Eyes

MBSE Chapter 182 - The Day Ends

MBSE Chapter 183 - Emergency Meeting

MBSE Chapter 184 - The Next Emperor

MBSE Chapter 185 - The Chronicle of Roberside

MBSE Chapter 186

MBSE Chapter 187

MBSE Chapter 188

MBSE Chapter 189

MBSE Chapter 190 - The Grand Council Meeting

MBSE Chapter 191 - Restricting Parental Rights

MBSE Chapter 192 - Blood That Taints the Truth

MBSE Chapter 193

MBSE Chapter 194 - Trust

MBSE Chapter 195 - Merry Daily

MBSE Chapter 196 - Extra! Extra!

MBSE Chapter 197 - Opening the City Gates

MBSE Chapter 198 - Amidst the Commotions

MBSE Chapter 199 - The Atan, Tribe of Blood

MBSE Chapter 200 - Wound Me Too

MBSE Chapter 201 - The Emperor Mage

MBSE Chapter 202 - For the Sake of Position

MBSE Chapter 203 - D-7

MBSE Chapter 204 - Rainy Days

MBSE Chapter 205 - D-6

MBSE Chapter 206 - Imperial Guard

MBSE Chapter 207 - Breaking the Black Armor

MBSE Chapter 208 - Chatur Zone 3

MBSE Chapter 209 - Premium Grade A+++

MBSE Chapter 210 - D-5

MBSE Chapter 211 - The Trial Begins

MBSE Chapter 212 - The Defense

MBSE Chapter 213 - The Verdict

MBSE Chapter 214 - The One Who Was the First Prince

MBSE Chapter 215 - In the Greenhouse

MBSE Chapter 216 - I Object

MBSE Chapter 217 - A New Prophecy

MBSE Chapter 218 - D-4

MBSE Chapter 219 - One Step Back

MBSE Chapter 220 - One Body, One Mind

MBSE Chapter 221 - A Trap Script

MBSE Chapter 222 - Push

MBSE Chapter 223 - Stamp Thud

MBSE Chapter 224 - D-3

MBSE Chapter 225 - The Voice of God

MBSE Chapter 226 - Little Devil

MBSE Chapter 227 - A Silent Response

MBSE Chapter 228 - D-2

MBSE Chapter 229 - The Demon's Whisperer

MBSE Chapter 230 - D-1

MBSE Chapter 231 - What are You?

MBSE Chapter 232 - Of Royal Blood

MBSE Chapter 233 - D-Day

MBSE Chapter 234 - The Owner of the Voice

MBSE Chapter 235 - The Last

MBSE Chapter 236 - Consider it an Honor

MBSE Chapter 237 - Leaving Behind

MBSE Chapter 238 - Without Ian

MBSE Chapter 239 - Three Hours Ago

MBSE Chapter 240 - Whispering

MBSE Chapter 241 - Calling Names

MBSE Chapter 242 - Ruswena Delegation

MBSE Chapter 243 - Purge While on Bed

MBSE Chapter 244 - This is the Bloodwind

MBSE Chapter 245 - Central Nobility

MBSE Chapter 246 - A Secret for Ruswena

MBSE Chapter 247 - Melania's Plea

MBSE Chapter 248 - Jin's Request

MBSE Chapter 249 - Pat-pat and Bicker-backer

MBSE Chapter 250 - Opposition Noble's Signatures

MBSE Chapter 251 - Leaving the Palace

MBSE Chapter 252 - Mud Pit

MBSE Chapter 253 - Rumors

MBSE Chapter 254 - Pillars

MBSE Chapter 255 - Caught in a Trap

MBSE Chapter 256 - The Trial of the Seven Families Begin

MBSE Chapter 257 - Jin's Bariel

MBSE Chapter 258 - The Verdict

MBSE Chapter 259 - Side Effects of the Mana Amplification Stone

MBSE Chapter 260 - Before Preparing the Appointment Ceremony

🔒70MBSE Chapter 261 - Introduction of Three Countries' Figures

🔒70MBSE Chapter 262 - The Reason for Remembering Timothy

🔒70MBSE Chapter 263 - Each Person's Thoughts

🔒70MBSE Chapter 264 - A Side Branch

🔒70MBSE Chapter 265 - Emancipation

🔒75MBSE Chapter 266 - The First Secret Inspection

🔒75MBSE Chapter 267 - Secret Eater

🔒75MBSE Chapter 268 - Pretending to Know

🔒75MBSE Chapter 269 - Each Other's Well-being

🔒75MBSE Chapter 270 - Underground Brawl

🔒75MBSE Chapter 271 - The Best Banquet

🔒75MBSE Chapter 272 - The King's Circumstances

🔒75MBSE Chapter 273 - What Only Ian Knows

🔒75MBSE Chapter 274 - Selection Exam

🔒80MBSE Chapter 275 - Who Rigged the Tournament Bracket?

🔒80MBSE Chapter 276 - Each Other's Purpose

🔒80MBSE Chapter 277 - Criticism

🔒80MBSE Chapter 278 - Their Own Reasons

🔒85MBSE Chapter 279 - A Different World

🔒80MBSE Chapter 280 - Head-on

🔒80MBSE Chapter 281 - Beric Goes Forth

🔒80MBSE Chapter 282 - After Victory

🔒85MBSE Chapter 283 - The Award Ceremony

🔒85MBSE Chapter 284 - The Half Moon Rises

🔒85MBSE Chapter 285 - Time to Trade Secrets