Everett's and Shane's expressions instantly changed at those words.Their initial intention to display authority now clashed with Eloise's unexpected assertiveness, immediately casting them as rebels.The potential consequences of such a charge were severe, and leaving the castle gates alive would be doubtful. Shane hastened to explain, "Your Highness, please don't joke. It's an exaggeration to call it a rebellion. Even if you give us the courage, we wouldn't dare undertake such a thing!""Exactly, our loyalty to His Highness has always been unwavering. Why would we commit treason?" Everett added.Though both harbored a hint of ambition, it was clear they were not ready to reveal it openly. At least, the timing wasn't right."If you're not planning a rebellion, why come armed? Don't you understand the rules?" Eloise scolded mercilessly. They were just two second-rate generals, relying on military power yet daring to act insolently within the castle. When His Highness was alive
Shane exclaimed loudly as he fell to his knees, bowing. His eyes welled with tears, looking like he was in pain at just having lost a loved one. Although it was an act, it was much more convincing than Everett's. "General Rhys of the Iron Stallion Cavalry has arrived!" Right then, they heard a loud announcement from the door. Following closely, a heroic-looking, middle-aged man walked in imposingly. He carried various weapons with him and was clad in golden armor. This person was none other than the Iron Stallion Cavalry's first-ranking Grand General—Julius Rhys!Julius Rhys was not only the Grand General of the Iron Stallion Cavalry but also Rufus' cousin. From a young age, he excelled in both the literary and martial arts, displaying exceptional talent in various aspects. If not for Rufus' existence, he would have been the Rhys family's most outstanding genius. Unfortunately, in the face of an unparalleled hero like Rufus, even the most formidable talents would pale in
"The Grand Marshal of the West Lucozian army plays an important role. We need to conduct an internal vote and report to the royal family to decide on a successor. "Ultimately, the final decision lies with the royal family. It's not something we can decide on our own," Eloise said, evidently wary against them. She initially assumed Julius had arrived due to his familial ties with Rufus. However, a few words from Everett and Shane made her realize that the situation was more complex than she had thought. Julius' reputation in the Black Dragon Army was second only to Rufus. As the Grand General of the Iron Stallion Cavalry, he had numerous trusted aides and commanded half of the military might. With Rufus' demise, Julius was undoubtedly the primary beneficiary. What caught Eloise's attention was Julius' unmistakable display of ambition. His eagerness to seize power immediately after Rufus' death raised suspicions about his true intentions. Eloise even contemplated the possibil
The crowd turned around and saw a young man dressed in all-black entering with a determined and solemn expression.His very presence emitted a commanding aura that even those experienced on the battlefield, like Everett and Shane, adopted a serious demeanor. The newcomer was none other than Austin, Rufus' youngest son.Austin was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, living a pampered life that earned him the title of being West Lucozia's top playboy. However, over the past two years, Austin seemed to have undergone a remarkable transformation. He no longer spent his days in leisure, choosing instead to join the military and pursue excellence. At first, everyone believed that Austin wouldn't last more than three days in the military. After all, how could the pampered prince endure the hardships of the army? Surprisingly, Austin not only endured but also excelled. In just two years, he rose from a common soldier to becoming the deputy general in the Black Dragon Army.Despit
"Logan Rhys?" Austin's declaration engulfed the scene with silence. Once upon a time, the Rhys family's Kirin was renowned throughout the world. However, he had disappeared ever since the turmoil in Aylka ten years ago. There had been no news of him since. Now, with his name suddenly brought up, everyone was astonished. "Your Highness, is this a joke? His Highness, Prince Logan, is still missing. No one knows where he is. It's utter nonsense to suggest him as the next Grand Marshal of West Lucozia!" Everett shrugged."That right, Your Highness. Let's be practical. It's better to rely on Grand General Rhys instead of pinning our hopes on Prince Logan," Shane chimed in.They had thought Austin was referring to himself, but he brought up someone who had been missing for ten years instead. It sounded like utter gibberish!"With Father's demise, Logan will definitely return. It would be perfectly reasonable for him to take up the position of Grand Marshal then!" Austin declared c
"Uncle Julius has harbored ambitions for years, lying low and waiting for the right moment. "With Father's sudden demise, he'll undoubtedly seize this opportunity to consolidate his power. This matter is far from over," Austin stated with a grave expression."You're absolutely right. Even if they yielded publicly, they'll resort to cunning schemes. We're likely to face numerous challenges ahead," Eloise sighed.If Rufus had not met such an abrupt end, these individuals wouldn't have dared to act so brazenly."If only Logan were here," Austin lamented."Austin, your abilities are no less than Logan's. I believe you can achieve what he accomplished as well," Eloise encouraged."Mom, I'm aware of my abilities. In many aspects, I still fall short compared to Logan." Austin shook his head."Don't underestimate yourself!"Eloise's voice turned serious. "Your father has passed away. After the funeral, I'll immediately report to the royal family for your ascension to the throne. "Yo
Meanwhile, at the castle gates, Julius and his entourage were walking out in haste. After they left the castle, Everett spoke up, "Grand General Rhys, Eloise, and her son are truly ungrateful. Are we simply going to let this matter slide?""Of course not, but we can't act too overtly either. Most commanders of the Black Dragon Army are loyal to the monarchy. "It won't be advantageous for us to start a conflict," Julius replied, his eyes narrowing. "Then, what should we do?" Everett asked again. "Since we can't make a move openly, we'll apply pressure on them discreetly."Julius stated meaningfully, "Once turmoil erupts in West Lucozia, and the monarchy faces imminent danger, they'll naturally realize who's the true pillar of support for the monarchy!" "I understand! I'll arrange for people to stir up trouble immediately. When the people's grievances peak and the monarchy can't manage, you'll emerge as their savior. "At that moment, West Lucozia's citizens will be grateful
That was the only way for the officials to maintain their current positions. Presently, the only person most qualified, capable, and powerful enough to succeed the Prince of West Lucozia was the Grand General of the Iron Stallion Cavalry, Julius Rhys.Firstly, being a Rhys, Julius was a legitimate member of the royal family, making his claim for the throne unquestionable. Secondly, as the Grand General of the Iron Stallion Cavalry, Julius commanded half of West Lucozia's military forces, wielding significant power.Thirdly, with years of accumulated strength, Julius possessed ample influence, prestige, and accomplishments to ascend to the throne.It wasn't an exaggeration to claim that everyone expected Julius to succeed Rufus. Right after offering their condolences, many officials rushed to the Grand General's residence to pledge their loyalty. These actions naturally didn't escape the monarchy's attention, but Eloise was in no state of mind to concern herself with such mat