Deposed Crown Prince: After three years of service on the frontier, the entire court knelt and begge

"General Victor judged that this man was extremely cunning and might have already broken away from the main force and escaped alone! The general has ordered the search area to be expanded and has joined forces with King Zion Capo to bring this villain to justice!"

As for Morgana, it is said that she was protected by her personal guards amidst the chaos of battle, sustaining serious injuries, but managed to escape in the confusion. General Victor is currently pursuing her with all his might!

"The entire British Empire is now under martial law. She's seriously injured; even if she runs... she can't get far..."

"Xiao Ce... ran away?"

Nie Bing's brows furrowed almost imperceptibly, a hint of disappointment and a deeper sense of vigilance crossing her mind.

This major threat was indeed not so easy to resolve. But at the same time, the messenger's words made her even more convinced.

If the messenger said that Xiao Ce had been killed, she would doubt its veracity. She knew all too well how cunning and elusive Xiao Ce was; if he died so easily... she would indeed have reservations.

Nie Bing said to the messenger, "Capture Morgana, and take her alive!"

After hearing the order, the messenger naturally bowed in agreement.

At this moment, the kings standing nearby suddenly became quite considerate.

"Ran?"

Leclerc snorted!

"He's a slippery eel! But this time he's severely damaged his wings, and even Morgana almost fell. Even if he escapes, he'll be badly wounded and all alone! General Victor fought a great battle! He showed the might of the West!"

He reiterated his sincere praise for Viktor King's record, which could be considered a forced attempt to save face...

"Yes! Even if Xiao Ce escaped, the main force of the rebels has been annihilated after this battle, their organizational structure has been broken, and their core members are either dead or wounded. They will have no chance to rise again in the short term! General Victor has made a great contribution!"

Charles Bourbon nodded in agreement, his words filled with renewed affirmation of the Illuminati's power.

"President, I've heard that the British Empire has also stabilized. That truly lays a very solid foundation for our alliance..."

"Yes, President, your reputation is truly well-deserved. Under your leadership, I have great confidence in our alliance..."

At this moment, the atmosphere in the banquet hall had completely reversed.

The previous skepticism and scrutiny had been replaced by fervent praise and admiration for the Illuminati's formidable military power. The reverence in the eyes of the monarchs and nobles of various nations as they looked at Nie Bing deepened.

He was able to manage Victor King, the former domineering Western chairman, and quickly organize such a fierce counterattack and achieve a decisive victory after suffering setbacks.

The strength and resources represented by this Illuminati president are truly unfathomable! The establishment of the Western Alliance seems more secure now.

"Good! Good! Good!"

Nie Bing said "good" three times in a row, and a bright smile of victory finally appeared on her face.

She raised her glass again, this time the swirling motion of the wine filled with confidence and authority: "Gentlemen! Did you all hear that? Wherever the sword of the Illuminati points, the traitors and villains will surely be reduced to ashes!"

Vice President Victor has demonstrated the Illuminati's determination and strength in upholding order and eradicating rebellion with a resounding victory! This toast is to President Victor King!

A toast to all the brave warriors fighting on the front lines! And a toast to our ever-closer and stronger Western alliance! Cheers!

"Respect to General Victor!"

"Honor the Illuminati!"

"Cheers to the Alliance! Cheers!"

The resounding cheers echoed throughout the banquet hall, even more enthusiastic and sincere than before!

The king and nobles rose to their feet, raising their glasses in celebration, their faces beaming with excitement and reverence. The music resumed its stirring strains, this time filled with the triumphant spirit of victory.

Nie Bing continued, "Everyone, and this time, Vice President Victor and his team weren't even leading their most elite troops. Unexpectedly, those people were truly pathetic..."

The atmosphere in the banquet hall reached a new climax, stimulated by Viktor King's victory report.

The king and nobles clinked glasses, praising the Illuminati's military might and Nie Bing's strategic brilliance. Previous doubts and ridicule were completely drowned out by the clamor of victory and the anticipation of the future.

Sean (Xiao Ce) stood beside Nie Bing, a perfectly measured smile of satisfaction on his face. His gaze calmly swept over the faces that were sincere, obsequious, or still harboring ulterior motives, etching their reactions into his mind.

This grand welcoming banquet finally came to a close after nearly three hours, in a joyful atmosphere for both hosts and guests.

Ed White directed his attendants and guards to respectfully and orderly escort the slightly tipsy or still-enjoying guests to their meticulously prepared luxurious residences throughout the Alliance City.

As the noise subsided, only the mess of broken dishes and the lingering scents of perfume and alcohol remained in the luxurious banquet hall.

The victorious smile on Nie Bing's face slowly faded, and a deeper weariness and barely perceptible doubt surfaced in her eyes.

She didn't leave immediately, but turned around, her gaze sharp as lightning, shooting straight at Sean (Xiao Ce) beside her.

“Mr. Sean!” Nie Bing’s voice was no longer as eager as before, but carried a hint of questioning that could not be ignored.

"I need an explanation."

She didn't say it explicitly, but the meaning couldn't be clearer.

That is, the message brought by the messenger was dramatic, with a twist after a period of gloom. As her most trusted strategist, Sean (Xiao Ce) remained overly calm throughout, even giving her reassuring hints at her most tense moments.

This could not possibly be just a coincidence; it was clearly arranged by him...

Xiao Ce (Sean) bowed slightly, his posture still respectful: "President, nothing escapes your eyes. Please come to the study so I can report in detail."

Nie Bing gave him a deep look, said nothing, and turned to walk towards the private study located deep inside Sun Castle.

Although Nie Bing didn't live here, Ed White still kept Nie Bing's room when he renovated and remodeled it.

Sean (Xiao Ce) and A Tie followed closely behind.

The heavy oak door to the study closed behind me, shutting out the last trace of noise from the outside world.

The flickering flames in the fireplace were the only source of light and sound, casting shifting shadows on Nie Bingqing's cold face.

She walked to the large desk and sat down, placing her hands on the table and fixing her sharp gaze on Sean (Xiao Ce) who was standing not far away.

"Speak. Did you know what that messenger said beforehand? Why didn't you tell me beforehand? Making me..." Nie Bing paused, seemingly recalling her initial shock and forced composure, a hint of barely perceptible anger in her voice, adding, "I almost lost my composure!"

Xiao Ce didn't mince words. He smiled and bowed, "President, you are wise to know beforehand... The messenger arrived last night, but I intercepted him..."

Xiao Ce's reaction to Nie Bing was within his expectations.

After all, although she trusted him unconditionally, it would be somewhat unusual for Xiao Ce not to ask her about such things.

"Then why did you hide it?" Nie Bing pressed, leaning forward slightly.

“There are three reasons,” Xiao Ce said clearly and calmly, analyzing each one in turn.

Since he made the plan, he must have prepared his explanation in advance!

"Firstly, to test the true attitudes of the various nations. Chairman, the Western Alliance is newly established, and although everyone appears to have no problems on the surface..."

The kings of various countries and the heads of the twelve families have gathered here today, seemingly respectful and enthusiastic, but in reality, each has their own agenda.

The Bourbon of Gaul was shrewd and calculating, Habsburg of Austria-Hungary was filled with anxiety, Leclerc of France was unruly, Tels of Bavaria was greedy and extravagant, and Okayama of Bolton seemed generous but also had an unclear stance...

These things are hard to see clearly beneath the surface of clinking glasses and singing praises.

Only in the face of a sudden 'crisis' concerning the prestige and strength of the Illuminati do their first reactions reveal their truest and most undisguised nature.

He paused, looking at the suddenly enlightened expression on Nie Bing's face, and continued, "When the messenger reported that the refugees had escaped and that Vice President Victor had 'neglected his duty,' you saw their reaction..."

For example, the scrutiny from users like Bourbon, the sarcasm from Leclerc, the anxiety from Habsburg, the schadenfreude from Tels... these spontaneous expressions of emotion far outweigh their carefully prepared pleasantries.

It clearly outlines the potential allies, fence-sitters, and even troublemakers within the future alliance. This intelligence is crucial for your future leadership of the alliance, your ability to divide and win over allies, and your skillful use of both carrot and stick tactics.

Upon hearing this, Nie Bing's expression softened considerably...

"Secondly, to cultivate your composure and ultimate authority in the face of danger. Chairman, Vice Chairman Victor's plan is to 'turn defeat into victory,' but if he were to deliver the good news directly, the effect would be far less than letting you experience a false alarm in front of everyone."

When the devastating news arrived, your brief shock only proved its unexpectedness and impact, allowing everyone to feel your genuine concern for this loss.

Your subsequent rapid adjustment, calm demeanor, and the composure and authority you displayed when the good news arrived formed a stark contrast that was highly infectious.

This stark contrast between the sense of crisis and the sense of victory has strengthened your authority in the eyes of the monarchs of various nations like never before. They see not just a powerful organizational leader, but a true king who can remain calm under immense pressure and ultimately take control of the situation.

Viktor's achievements will ultimately be bestowed upon you, the chairman who will ultimately bring order to the company.

Upon hearing this, Nie Bing's admiration deepened even further...

"Thirdly, to pave the way for Vice President Victor's return and to completely clear his 'suspicion'."

Xiao Ce's gaze deepened, and he continued without pausing: "President, you must have had doubts about Vice President Victor's abilities and loyalty in the matter of the refugees' escape, right?"

After all, the fact that such a tight net could be breached silently, and the news of the scout alliance's collective defection, whether true or false, was enough to shake trust in him. Even if you trust him, it can't stop others from suspecting him...

But now, under the watchful eyes of the public, Vice President Victor has dramatically transformed from a negligent figure into a hero who turned the tide.

He endured initial skepticism, but redeemed himself with a resounding victory, proving his loyalty and competence. He not only completed his mission, but also salvaged the Illuminati's dignity at a critical moment when its reputation was threatened!

This achievement was confirmed in the presence of the monarchs of all nations. If he were to return now, who could easily question him?

If anyone were to try to frame him again, they would have to overturn all the 'facts' that the king had just witnessed and celebrated, which would be tantamount to bringing shame upon himself.

"I chose to make you nervous precisely to make Vice Chairman Victor's victory more convincing and completely shut down any future criticism against him. It also prevents others from thinking this was your plan..."

Xiao Ce (Sean)'s analysis is clear, logical, and meticulous, seamlessly blending political calculations, public opinion control, and crisis management.

Nie Bing's tense expression gradually relaxed, and a smile appeared on her face.

She had to admit that Sean's scheme was indeed far-reaching. He used this unexpected turn of events not only to test his allies and consolidate her authority, but also to cleverly pave the way for the return of Victor King, a former threat, and might even have dealt a blow to potential adversaries.

As she spoke, Nie Bing noticed a strange expression on Xiao Ce's face.

Xiao Ce said to Nie Bing, "President, do you have any other questions?"

Nie Bing said to Xiao Ce, "Mr. Sean, after how Victor King treated you, you're still willing to help him like this... You really do have a magnanimous heart..."

Xiao Ce smiled upon hearing Nie Bing's words, then said, "President, I'm not exactly magnanimous. First of all, I don't think he was targeting me. Viktor King's previous attacks on me were precisely a demonstration of his loyalty to you. After all, I have no personal grudge against him... such a person might be a bit reckless..."

However, their loyalty is absolutely unquestionable... Therefore, I believe this is exactly the kind of person you need, Chairman. In my eyes, loyalty is even more important than ability...

After hearing Xiao Ce's words, Nie Bing nodded approvingly and praised, "Mr. Sean, I knew I hadn't misjudged you..."

“Mr. Sean…” Nie Bing’s voice softened considerably as she continued, “Your thoughts… are always so meticulous and far-sighted. But Victor King… does he deserve this trust? Are the details of his victory reports plausible? Especially the escape of Xiao Ce and Morgana…”

"Don't worry, President!" Xiao Ce said confidently, "Vice President Victor is a shrewd and experienced strategist. Since he dared to report this, he must have made thorough preparations. Moreover, I don't think he would dare to do anything underhanded in this kind of matter... He has no reason or motive to do so, after all, he and Morgana are sworn enemies!"

Hearing Xiao Ce say this, Nie Bing nodded in satisfaction: "With you here, I can rest assured!"