172 – Poor Larry
The fact that he attempted to kill him made any further interaction moot. However, it was disconcerting that Andrei’s eyes during the interrogation were unsettling. Even though he was already emaciated, his eyes were vacant. That such an ambiguous individual had been close to his ex-wife troubled Viktor. He also disliked how he had been a perfect spy to assist Scarlett. It irked him that he held such importance in Scarlett’s life.
Soon, the guiding Royal Police led the two men to the office of one of the police officers in the main department.
“Our police officer handled the interrogation personally.”
“I understand.”
Viktor saw a nameplate hanging outside the office. [First-class Royal Police Officer Philip Hervy]
Viktor stared at the nameplate for a moment. The label “Police Officer” reminded him of Scarlett speaking with a contemplative expression.
“I think I vaguely remember what happened at the Royal Police. I’m certain I saw him.”
“I’m telling you, Viktor. I was questioned by the Royal Police that day. If you ask him, he’ll tell you exactly what happened that day….”
Hughan Hunter.
As soon as he recalled the name, he queried the guiding Royal Police officer,
“Where is Hunter’s office?”
“What brings you to Officer Hunter’s office?”
“I asked where it is.”
Viktor reiterated, and the body of the second-level Royal Police officer trembled. He had been trained to handle various situations, but dealing with a fearsome beast like Viktor wasn’t covered in training.
“Ah, um, I’ll show you.”
Finally, the Royal Police officer turned away, knees shaking, stumbling as he hurried up the stairs.
The surroundings were bustling in the hallway as if Viktor and Larry were celebrity figures among the Royal Police.
Larry asked, “Can we… survive this? All the Royal Police officers are looking at us.”
“We might not come out unscathed, but at the very least, the Royal Police headquarters will be shaken.”
“…What are you talking about?”
Larry, the small citizen*, inquired, but Viktor didn’t respond.
*insignificant, tiny — not worth considering, just a stat
♔♔♔
A short time later, he arrived at the Royal Police Agency in front of his office on the highest floor. Regardless of rank, the office’s location symbolised the power of the room’s owner within the Royal Police.
Soon, the door opened, and Hughan Hunter smiled and rose from his seat. “Sir Viktor, what brings you here?”
“Scarlett mentioned that you conducted the interrogation.”
“Don’t you know I’ve been on a tour with Crown Prince Yuli Irène?”
“Of course.”
Viktor continued, “But that’s not the point.”
“You’re not concerned?”
“Even if you didn’t conduct the interrogation, you’ll take the blame since my ex-wife claims you did.”
“Sir Viktor, what do you mean…?”
Larry, who had entered with Viktor and was trembling, finally grasped the meaning of Viktor’s words – that the Royal Police Agency would be dismantled. He looked out the window and observed the navies surrounding the building, with some already entering.
Hughan Hunter stated, “This is treason. You’re aware that the Royal Police are under my jurisdiction.”
Then Viktor looked out the window, his hands behind his back, and said, “If you cooperate, I won’t take it that far.”
“Sir Viktor!”
“If you’re loyal to the royal family, resolve this matter between us.”
From Hughan Hunter’s perspective, Viktor Dumfelt was no longer a negotiable party, based on his words and demeanour. He wasn’t looking for a convincing explanation; he just wanted to push forward his intentions.
With a sigh, Hughan Hunter put on his jacket and said, “Let’s go to the embassy.”
Viktor gestured at the door as if to lead the way, a satisfied expression on his face. Hughan Hunter left the office, wearing his jacket.
In the hallway, the Navy had already taken over. Hughan Hunter scanned the surroundings. The Navy was already somewhat aware that the Royal Police had interfered in their marriage through Viktor Dumfelt’s relentless questioning – he was effectively the head of the Navy. Evan Wright became even more furious upon discovering that the Royal Police had exposed Scarlett’s face in the capital’s newspapers.
“That wretched scoundrel!”
As an ambitious Navy member attempted to attack Hughan Hunter, colleagues quickly intervened and restrained him.
Hughan Hunter took a deep breath. The naval personnel who had shared life and death experiences on the Sea of Death saw Viktor Dumfelt as the captain of his ship and a comrade. Their anger was thus amplified.
During peacetime, the Rubied fleet was composed of six ships. However, during times of war, nearly all naval command was entrusted to Adam Irène. While Adam held the title, he was more of an honorary figure, and it was doubtful whether he truly understood the Navy’s operations.
Whether the Navy would follow orders from Adam Irène rather than Viktor Dumfelt – who had spent a substantial portion of his life at sea – was open to debate. Dealing with Viktor Dumfelt was now necessary, not merely a matter of royal consideration.
After exchanging a knowing glance with his men, Hughan Hunter followed the Navy personnel out of the Royal Police Headquarters.
♔♔♔
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