"Damn it. It doesn't even look like Leon would be useful as a hostage."
While it was common knowledge that Leon and Ray were related by blood, their demeanor showed no trace of familial affection. Even if Leon were detained, he would likely have no value as a bargaining chip.
"Leaving empty-handed will make me a laughingstock. I'll just have to take him to the capital and release him immediately."
After a moment of thought, Rogier bit his lip and bowed.
"Understood. Leon will be released as soon as his name is cleared."
"You can keep him indefinitely if you want. If I ever openly rebel against the Imperial Court, feel free to execute him as an example," Ray said flatly.
"Haha… Your sense of humor remains as sharp as ever, Count Hernig," Rogier replied nervously, wiping the sweat from his brow.
The atmosphere between Ray and Leon was enough to show that their relationship was purely pragmatic.