Chapter 366: It Hurt!

In the early morning, a messenger rushed into Eldora, which was shrouded in a thin mist. As the sound of galloping hooves echoed on the cobblestone roads, the news of the Brambleford Army’s victory at Snake Pass quickly spread.

"Great victory at Snake Pass! The Brambleford Army has recaptured the mighty Snake Pass!"

"Snake Pass has been retaken!"

"..."

The messenger continued spreading the news, heading straight to the imperial castle. He had set off from Brambleford five days ago and had finally arrived in Eldora.

The morning court session was about to start, and officials were walking in groups along Wall Street in Eldora.

As the messenger passed by the officials, the news naturally reached their ears. Immediately, a ripple of surprise spread across the previously calm avenue.

"Did I hear correctly? The Brambleford Army has retaken Snake Pass?" One official in a red robe asked in disbelief. Lord Rick, also uncertain, turned to ask a nearby colleague. "Lord Maroon, did this messenger say they’ve recaptured Snake Pass?"

"Yes, the Brambleford Army has retaken Snake Pass, but how is that possible?" Lord Maroon said with a look of disbelief. "Even though the reavers were defeated in Preston, their forces were still strong. Snake Pass is an impenetrable fortress. Even an army of 500,000 couldn’t breach it. How could 30,000 soldiers from Prince Simon manage it?"

An officer passing by overheard and scoffed. "Lord Maroon, you clearly don’t understand. Snake Pass is indeed hard to defend against the reavers, but it’s much easier to attack from the inside. The reavers were recently defeated, Fern was injured, and their morale was low. They likely abandoned Snake Pass."

"That makes sense." Lord Rick nodded in agreement. "If Preston was a big victory, then His Majesty must be extremely pleased. And if he hears that Snake Pass has been reclaimed, he’ll be overjoyed. I’m sure he’ll praise Prince Simon immensely during the morning court session."

"Exactly, the Brambleford Army played a major role in the victory in Preston, and now they’ve reclaimed Snake Pass. The winds in court will soon change. You two should be cautious." Lord Rick smiled as he spoke.

"What do you mean by that?" The other two officials asked, confused.

"It’s simple. Prince Simon has achieved great things in just two years. He’ll soon be a favorite of the emperor. He’s powerful, and no other prince has as many accomplishments. The court’s direction will shift soon. It’s best to act accordingly." Lord Rick said, sighing as he walked forward.

The two officials exchanged looks and nodded. The victory at Snake Pass made Prince Simon a crucial figure in the court.

Even if he were just a regular general, taking Snake Pass would make him an important person in the capital.

As the three of them discussed, more sensitive officials had already caught up with Hughes’s pace.

---

Unlike before, Hughes was now surrounded by dozens of officials, all flattering him with words of praise.

With all the compliments, Hughes raised his hand in acknowledgment.

He knew very well that these officials were just opportunists, quick to change sides depending on the winds. But he couldn’t afford to offend them, and now that they had come to his side, he planned to use them to his advantage.

After dismissing the flattering officials, Hughes turned to look at Lancet, who appeared displeased, and said with a smile. "What’s wrong? Are you upset that Prince Simon has taken Snake Pass?"

"Hmph, you know I can’t stand those opportunistic officials. I’m happy that Prince Simon took Snake Pass. Honestly, I didn’t expect it to happen so soon." Lancet said with a sigh.

Hughes pondered for a moment. "It’s probably because of those powerful new weapons. Now, with Prince Simon in the capital, he’ll surely be in business with His Majesty."

Lancet suddenly laughed. "Of course! But a single firearms camp has already cost the court over a hundred thousand caps. Imagine how much they’ll sell those firearms for!"

Hughes shook his head. "One thing’s for sure, Prince Simon is not a man to lose."

Lancet sighed. "Yes, now Prince Simon truly has the leverage to strike a deal with His Majesty. With Snake Pass in his hands, the northern borders will be secure. Even the issue of relocating the capital can be delayed now."

"Indeed, with Prince Simon’s forces stationed at Snake Pass, the reavers won’t dare to threaten the Eldorian Empire again. With Snake Pass under his control, His Majesty can rest easy. This time, the court is about to get lively." Hughes said with a laugh.

Lancet rolled his eyes. "But I think you’re one of the happiest, aren’t you? Prince Simon’s victory at Snake Pass has brought more glory to your family than any marriage proposal. It’s a shame that Liam isn’t a girl. Otherwise, I would’ve humbled myself and sought a marriage alliance with Prince Simon’s family."

"Heh, go back home and keep dreaming." Hughes laughed heartily.

At this time, the messenger had already delivered the news to the castle.

The eunuch hurriedly took the message and delivered it to Alaric’s bedroom.

"The Brambleford Army has captured Snake Pass and stationed heavy troops there, threatening the reaver heartland!"

When these words reached Alaric’s ears, his hands couldn’t stop shaking. It had been twelve years, twelve years since they lost Snake Pass.

Since his ascension, this disgrace had remained in his heart, like a thorn that had never been removed.

It was because of the loss of Snake Pass, the most important defense against the reavers, that he had been so conciliatory toward them.

For twelve years, he had lived in fear and shame, but the weakening of the Eldorian Empire left him powerless.

Now, Snake Pass had been recaptured by Simon.

Holding the memorial written by Simon, Alaric slapped his face hard. It hurt; this wasn’t a dream!

"Snake Pass is back, Snake Pass is back! Simon, you are the greatest hero of the Eldorian Empire! Hahaha..."

Alaric couldn’t help but burst into laughter.

At this moment, he felt light as a feather. The Sixteen Cities were back, Snake Pass was back, and the reavers had been driven out. He could finally sleep peacefully.

"Your Majesty, it’s time for the morning court." The eunuch reminded him.

Alaric nodded, straightened his back, and at that moment, he felt more authoritative than ever.

Who said the imperial family was weak? Now, he was ready to tell the world that his reign was as solid as a mountain!