Threat, My Younger Brother Still Holds Live Captives

At the city gate, another group gathered for the formal welcome—the officials led by Prince Rowan, charged with receiving Lord Harold Chase of Chu City. Just as Nolan Dongling and his entourage arrived, Charlotte Chase and her party also reached Eastlyn.

The ceremonial timing and protocols for Lord Chase’s entry had long been settled by the Ministry of Rites. Everything was supposed to proceed according to plan. But fate had other ideas—Nolan Dongling was scheduled to enter the Capital today as well, and just happened to arrive at the gate a step ahead of Charlotte Chase’s party.

Nolan Dongling hadn’t notified the officials or the Ministry of Rites in advance; the reception team for him had assembled on their own initiative. Though Charlotte Chase’s group were honored guests, Nolan’s status was untouchable—and because he arrived just before Charlotte, Prince Rowan dared not keep Nolan waiting. Charlotte’s party was forced to yield, pulling aside so Nolan’s carriage could enter the city first.

Charlotte Chase’s face turned pale with anger. Insiders knew this was just an unfortunate coincidence, but to outsiders, it looked as if Eastlyn was deliberately humiliating Chu City, showing no respect at all.

If Chu City endured this slight, tomorrow everyone would think they could trample on its dignity. Furious, Charlotte rounded on Prince Rowan, demanding, “Your Highness Rowan, what exactly is Eastlyn trying to do here?”

She couldn’t vent her anger on Nolan Dongling, so she took it out on Prince Rowan instead.

Prince Rowan was no pushover. He replied smoothly, “Ninth Royal Uncle’s procession is ahead of yours, Lady Charlotte. If you’re dissatisfied, you’re welcome to ask him yourself to yield the road. Given your friendship, perhaps he’ll let you go first.”

Friendship? What friendship did she have with Nolan Dongling? Charlotte had never seen anyone so shameless. She was trembling with rage.

“Your Highness Rowan, I came at your Emperor’s personal invitation, not as some wandering pauper. If you want me to negotiate with Nolan Dongling myself, is this really how Eastlyn treats its guests?”

Prince Rowan’s tone was airy and unhurried. “Lady Charlotte, you misunderstand. Eastlyn welcomes Lord Chase and your party. I’ve already sent word to Ninth Royal Uncle, hoping he’d allow you to enter first, but unfortunately, he’s too worried about Miss Feng’s injuries to agree. I’m afraid you’ll have to wait a little longer.”