“You cannot utter hypocrisy, Mr. Hugh. You asserted that Colton has betrayed us by providing them refuge, yet you are aware, as are we all, that his actions were justified. This establishment was founded on liberty, not regulations. “What you did was incorrect,” Sir Antony stated.
“I have a purpose for my arrival in the north,” Jayce declared. Molly sensed her heart rate diminish. “I have not come to instigate conflict or dismantle the rogues.” I may have injured several individuals during my visit, but it is imperative to recognise that self-defence is necessary when the situation demands it. I am aware that numerous guards have perished for identical reasons.
Mr. Hugh regarded Jayce with incredulity at his statement. “A plan?” We have no interest in your plans.
Listen to him. “We permit individuals to express their opinions here,” Sir Antony declared, his voice rising above the others. He cast a glance at Mr. Hugh that compelled the adult to seal his lips as if he had nothing to contribute.
“I arrived with a proposal that would advantage the rogues rather than exacerbate their plight, as some of you may presume,” Jayce stated composedly. “For years, I have sought a means to reconcile the rogues with the kingdom—”
An immediate uproar ensued upon his utterance. When Sir Antony gestured for silence, they complied. A significant portion of Molly regretted not seeking his assistance initially, yet she also believed the situation would not deteriorate as it ultimately did.
If she had considered that, she would have departed the moment Colton initially rescued her, thereby sparing him all this distress. Molly was swiftly coming to the conclusion that she had likely been more of a burden than she was valuable during her time with Jayce.
“We do not wish to be united with the kingdom!”A nearby man shouted, but he was immediately silenced by a glance from their founder. It evoked the image of a teacher attempting to quiet a rowdy group of children. His composed demeanour conveyed more than any words could express.
“As I was stating,” Jayce persisted, disregarding the man’s interjection. “I aim to reintegrate the rogues with the kingdom.” As the leader of the palace, I would endeavour to ensure that the rogues receive equitable treatment and are no longer subjected to disdain. I desire for it to be secure for everyone to traverse the kingdom once more.
What is the rationale for revisiting the kingdom?Mr. Hugh expelled saliva, his visage contorted in revulsion at the mere notion.
What do you mean by your leadership? You are not the immediate successor to the throne!”Another individual exclaimed. Jayce remained silent until the group fell silent once more. Molly had to concede that she was impressed.
I contend that I am a more suitable candidate for the throne upon the king’s demise. My brother lacks enthusiasm for leadership and possesses no knowledge regarding the governance of an entire kingdom. He would not hesitate to disregard all of you. However, I would. I desire the reunification of our territories.
“Is this a form of manipulation to regain control of our land?””An individual enquired near the front.”
No. I would never attempt to usurp your residence; I would honour your preferences. I request that we reopen the northern trade routes as we did prior to the arrival of the rogues.
“You desire our products, correct?”
I aim to restore commerce to your territory and provide you with autonomy across the entire realm. “I observe that you are all enduring financial hardship, exacerbated by the taxes imposed by the palace—I intend to rectify this situation,” Jayce stated. Molly was astonished by his composure; he almost resembled a leader.
Do you wish to eliminate our taxes?Another voice enquired. The crowd was becoming increasingly inquisitive and less unruly.
I wish to significantly reduce them. I aim to restore commerce in this area and ensure that the marginalised are treated with humanity rather than subjected to cruelty due to their poverty. Consider the potential ease of constructing additional homes and businesses in this area if there were an increased influx of individuals and commerce through trade.
Silence ensued. Molly anxiously surveyed the uncertain expressions surrounding her. They regarded him with scepticism, and she found it difficult to fault them. Trusting him was challenging for her on most occasions.
What actions must we undertake?Another rogue enquired. Mr. Hugh shifted his weight again, seemingly irritated by the situation.
All I request is your support for my claim to the crown. With your collective support, I would be invincible in my pursuit of the palace.
Do you genuinely believe that our support alone suffices for you to attain the crown?Sir Antony enquired with curiosity. He did not exhibit cruelty; rather, he consistently conveyed kindness, which she esteemed above all his qualities.
The palace has sought to assert control over this land for an extended period without success. “I do not seek to seize your territory; rather, I aspire to unify us,” Jayce stated.
Soft murmurs emanated from the crowd, leaving Molly uncertain about the nature of the reaction.
“He advocates for peace,” Sir Antony remarked. “I must admit that I may concur with his rationale.”
