A few minutes later.
Shen Ye entered the prince's tent.
This time was somewhat different from every previous occasion.
A group of officers stood inside the tent.
Two Grand Knights in full armor, tower shields strapped to their backs and heavy hammers hanging at their waists, stood on either side of Prince Norton.
They looked less like they were protecting the prince than keeping watch over him.
An old man in gray robes stood before the writing desk, holding a long golden staff.
Prince Norton had his head lowered as he wrote military orders.
Everyone looked over when the flap lifted.
"Peppa? What are you doing here? Didn't I send you to scout the enemy?"
Prince Norton barked.
"I was the one who summoned him." The gray-robed elder grinned, exposing a mouthful of yellow teeth.
"That's not right. The guards said the prince wanted me. How can you falsely issue orders in the prince's name?" Shen Ye asked in surprise.
"How dare you!" the two Grand Knights shouted together.
They brimmed with murderous intent, as though ready to strike Shen Ye dead at any moment.
"Never mind. The child doesn't understand the significance of this scepter in my hand. It is made of pure gold and engraved with the Sacred Violet Pattern exclusive to the royal family, representing His Majesty the Emperor's authority."
The gray-robed elder raised the golden scepter high. Seemingly quite eager to discuss the subject, he continued:
"Possessing this scepter proves that I represent His Majesty's will."
"So having the guards summon you did not constitute an affront to His Highness."
"I see. What did you want with me?" Shen Ye asked.
He stole a glance at the officers, only to find them all standing with their heads lowered, saying nothing.
When his eyes met the prince's,