Chapter 377 377-Challenge
For the imperial capital, this matter was somewhat far-fetched.
Just last month, Phrus had annexed the entirety of Thoria Kingdom's territories, an event Howard was somewhat prepared for.
However, how had Neplon, once a noble within the boundaries of Oli Kingdom, become the king of Fran Kingdom?
Moreover, the question of whether Neplon's territories within Oli would remain under his rule as the newly crowned king of Fran Kingdom or be reclaimed by Oli was a pressing issue that needed resolution.
Without addressing this matter, complications were bound to arise.
Thus, Howard personally made his way to the capital of Fran Kingdom to confront Neplon, saying, "Quite the maneuver, escaping the waves of Oli to become the king of Fran Kingdom. I must admit, I'm impressed."
Neplon, seated upon a crystal chair with a golden scepter in his right hand, responded, "King of Oli, to what do I owe the honor of your visit to my Fran Kingdom?"
Howard, upon hearing this, let out a cold laugh and remarked, "Ah, truly a king's presence, I see. You've certainly adopted the posture."
Neplon frowned.
"Speak your mind quickly!"
"Very well, I'll be direct," Howard replied.
He threatened Neplon, stating that if Neplon did not return his territories in Oli and Oungria to Howard, then Howard would be compelled to declare war on Neplon for the sake of his realm's integrity and the national concept.
Neplon scoffed disdainfully, "Then come and try."
Howard looked at Neplon with a meaningful gaze and said, "Don't forget, during my reign, Ing Empire's Mary lost all her lands in Fran Kingdom. You were there; you should remember."
Neplon replied nonchalantly, "I'm not like Mary. She didn't understand military affairs, but I do."
Arthur stepped forward and addressed Neplon, "Oh? Is that so? Then tell me, does Duke Wellington understand military affairs?"
Neplon's eyes held a complex expression, but he retorted, "What do you know? That day, I was simply caught off guard. Had I reacted in time, I could have defeated ten commanders of your caliber!"
Arthur glanced at Howard and then shook his head.
Howard then declared, "In that case, we shall meet on the battlefield."
Neplon had Howard expelled from the palace, but Howard insisted he could leave on his own without the need for guards to escort him.
Naturally, the guards found this preferable, as they were reluctant to draw weapons against the renowned knight-king.
Just a few steps outside the palace, Howard encountered Laurent.
Originally Lois's regency tutor, Laurent was both an academic and a political figure.
He had a profound love for learning and held significant influence over Fran Kingdom's policies, having been instrumental in the enactment of many laws.
However, with Neplon now in power, it was unclear what political position, if any, Laurent held.
Howard, showing respect to Laurent, slowed his pace and greeted him warmly, "Greetings, esteemed tutor, the weather is lovely today, isn't it?" Laurent, clad in a white robe trimmed with yellow, looked up at the sky.
"Yes, it's nice, but it looks like it's going to rain soon."
Howard glanced at the sky, doubting rain was imminent.
The sun shone brightly, and despite it being winter, there was a warmth in the air, nothing that suggested rain was on the horizon.
Howard was puzzled.
"Esteemed tutor, to the people of our empire, such weather would never be considered prelude to rain."
Laurent burst into laughter, "Ha, to think that the man who spans the Oungria region, holds Constantinople Castle, and overthrew an empire, still remembers he is an imperial citizen. Today truly presents a novel experience for me."
Howard replied with a gentle smile, "You jest, teacher. The empire is renowned for its rich academic atmosphere, even hosting the spiritual leader of the continent.
I've always held the empire in high regard."
Laurent invited Howard to his estate for lunch, an invitation Howard gladly accepted.
Upon arrival at Laurent's residence, Howard noticed the extensive collection of books and many antiques that appeared to be of significant age.
As Howard looked around with great interest, Laurent chuckled, "Aren't you also the king of Oli? Doesn't your palace house all manner of rare and exotic treasures? Coming here, you look as curious as a child who has never seen the world."
Howard smiled without responding.
Before lunchtime arrived, Howard expressed a desire to tour Laurent's estate, a request to which Laurent agreed.
Howard saw many murals, most of which were portraits of individuals, with a few depicting ships braving stormy seas, all of which Howard admired with pleasure.
Recalling Laurent's policies regarding the New World, which were conservative, aiming to protect the mainland of Fran Kingdom, Howard found the abundance of explorers' murals in Laurent's estate intriguing.
Howard had intended to ask a question but, upon reflection on the diverse psychological states of individuals, decided against it.
Perhaps Laurent, a man whose heart might lean towards the sea, believed that Fran Kingdom should tighten its immigration policies to ensure its political power within the continent?
Laurent was not merely a teacher; he was also a political figure in Fran Kingdom, even acting as regent for Lois, wielding more power than a prime minister.
Howard paused in front of a portrait of Louis, and Laurent sighed, "He was a good king. Though many regarded him as ineffectual, I knew he deliberately cleared the path for me to exercise political influence."
"How many people throughout history have managed to overshadow a king with their political power, and yet the king did not fear them but tacitly approved?"
Howard responded, "Louis was a monarch of great magnanimity and knew well how to employ capable ministers. I aspire to emulate him in this respect."
Laurent shared with Howard that upon his death, Louis had said, "Oh God, I die without regrets."
Curious about Laurent's view on this, Howard asked, and Laurent candidly replied, "If I were on my deathbed, I would surely say: only a person of great talent and strategy truly knows how to recognize and utilize others."
Howard felt encouraged, believing that the path of a king might not be as daunting, provided one finds a trustworthy individual to rely on.
Lunchtime arrived, and Howard was honored to share the meal with Laurent.
Under Howard's deliberate efforts to please, their conversation was delightful, often punctuated with hearty laughter.
As Howard poured himself a full glass of wine, Laurent thought it somewhat improper to fill the glass to the brim but said nothing, assuming Howard was simply getting carried away with the moment.
Howard then said, "Would you like to come to my country and help me govern? It seems like you're not too busy at the moment. I mean no offense by this, just saying."
Laurent replied, "Ever since Neplon became king, I've been left idle at home. I indeed have plenty of time now, which is why I came to see you. I hope you can depose Neplon. As a teacher, I find some of his statements and ideas uncomfortable."
After understanding this, Howard told Laurent, "I just had a harsh conversation with him this morning. I told him that he must return the lands he received through ennoblement from me, or else I would declare war on him and drive him from power."
Laurent asked, "How did he respond? Did he refuse?"
Howard nodded.
Laurent, with a nuanced expression, remarked, "He's always been bold."
Howard chuckled and said, "Although our current naval capacity for the New World is somewhat lacking, deploying about 5000 militia from the New World wouldn't pose a problem."
Laurent, less interested in the New World affairs, responded with an "Oh" to acknowledge he heard but refrained from commenting further.
In Laurent's view, the New World brought significant social upheaval, and the influx of vast amounts of raw materials could pressure the local trade systems.
Howard said, "Laurent, considering you're unlikely to be utilized under Neplon's rule, why not join me in Oli? We've never established the position of Prime Minister, holding it open just for you."
"Your background as a teacher, combined with your practical abilities, is something I greatly admire."
Laurent took a bite of his thick-sauced steak and replied, "Drive Neplon out of my Fran Kingdom, and I'll serve as your Prime Minister in Oli."
Howard pushed his chair back and neatly folded the silk napkin from his lap, placing it on the table.
He then walked to the other end of the long table and extended his hand towards Laurent.
Laurent initially thought Howard intended to shake hands, but Howard adjusted his palm upwards and moved it slightly back.
Realizing Howard's intention for a high-five, Laurent's face lit up with the joy of accomplishing something significant and the happiness of feeling recognized.
They completed the gesture with a solid clap.
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