Austin's words were powerful and filled with emotion. The potential chaos in West Lucozia would undoubtedly affect not only the Eight Sovereigns but also numerous high-ranking officials and millions of citizens. They all grew up in West Lucozia, and it was where their roots were. That was why anyone with a sense of patriotism could never turn a blind eye."Your Highness, your reasoning is sound, but I'm a timid and cautious person. I tend to weigh the consequences carefully."What if my forces suffer heavy losses while quelling the rebellion? What happens then?" Tyrus appeared hesitant."Uncle Tyrus, I can assure you that if you incur any losses, we will compensate you twofold!" Austin declared earnestly.He understood that Tyrus was seeking tangible benefits. After all, this was a gamble with his entire wealth, and the potential losses could be substantial. His actions seemed reasonable, given the circumstances. "Your Highness, it's not that I don't trust you. But in matters
"Someone, bring me some paper and pen!" Tyrus was impatient and immediately ordered his men to bring him these materials to establish a marriage contract. After all, an opportunity like this was extremely rare. Once his daughter married into the monarchy and became the future princess, his grandchildren could possibly become the next Prince of West Lucozia. This gamble was advantageous to him, no matter how he saw it. It would bring him unprecedented wealth and power. "Wait! Your Highness, this is a major life event. You must think about it carefully," Dustin reminded Austin. "Hmm?" Tyrus frowned, feeling displeased. How dare a mere guard voice their opinion? He should be well aware of his place! Tyrus would have disciplined him much earlier if it had been his men. "It's fine. I've already made a decision." Austin smiled at Dustin and said, "Uncle Tyrus' daughter is a beautiful and intelligent woman. I consider myself fortunate to be able to marry her. How could I possib
Dustin and Austin opted to skip sleep, and the following morning, they swiftly arrived at Southvista. This territory belonged to Elijah Valor, the Marquis of Silvercrest. It was renowned for having the largest military force and the strongest economy among the Southern Four Sovereigns. However, Elijah was a stubborn and unpredictable man. There were instances where he showed no respect, even to Rufus. This unpredictability made Austin doubtful about convincing him. "Logan, we've arrived at the Marquis of Silvercrest's residence," Austin informed as they, along with a few others, disembarked from the car. "It's been two days. We can't keep your absence from the castle under wraps much longer. We need to speed up our efforts," Dustin reminded."I understand." Austin nodded."Elijah might not be easy to deal with, but he's not entirely without integrity. With the right incentives and an emotional appeal, we should be able to convince him."Dustin nodded. "Alright, let's head i
Only Elijah remained standing after his spear completed its sweeping motion. "You are all becoming increasingly incompetent. From now on, you need to practice diligently. Do you understand?" Elijah reprimanded the guards."Yes, sir!" The guards responded while on their knees. "Alright, you can all leave now." Elijah waved, signaling the guards to depart. Only then did he turn his attention to Austin and his entourage. "Uncle Elijah, your spear technique is truly exceptional. No one in West Lucozia comes close. It's admirable," Austin said as a way of greeting. "Your Highness, I'm certain your presence holds a purpose after such a long journey. What instructions do you have for me?" Elijah wiped himself off with a towel."I dare not give instructions, Uncle Elijah. I come with a request," Austin responded. "Is this about your father?" Elijah was not surprised. It was as if he had anticipated it."You already know about it?" Austin raised an eyebrow."The Prince of West Lu
Seeing Elijah's piercing glance and his raised spear, Austin was not afraid at all. He continued to keep his back straight."Uncle Elijah, the temptation of acquiring two cities is indeed huge. I probably wouldn't refuse if I was you. If you want to use my life in exchange for the two cities, I'm willing to make that sacrifice."Austin clasped his hands calmly."What? Aren't you afraid of death?" Elijah narrowed his eyes. "Or do you think that I don't dare to kill you?""Of course, I'm afraid of death. If I could choose, I wouldn't choose to die either," Austin replied calmly. He continued, "Plus, you've been on the battlefield for many years, killing all kinds of enemies. If you want to kill me, it won't take much effort for you to do so.""Since you're afraid of death, why are you so calm?" Elijah was a bit confused."Fear of death is one thing, but having the courage to face death is another. I've prepared myself for the worst ever since I entered," Austin replied seriously.
In the evening, Austin, Dustin, and a few others arrived at the border fortress, Peace City.Peace City was Lincon's territory. A decade ago, it was still a deserted small town.However, under Lincon's leadership, it became West Lucozia's top-five city in less than ten years.Peace City was one of the best in the military, economy, politics, culture, education, and even medicine sector.It could be said that Peace City's achievements were all thanks to Lincon's knowledge and outstanding capability.If Elijah was considered a hero in chaotic times, Lincon was a capable marquis in peaceful times.…A black SUV slowly stopped beside the road outside the Marquis of Riverside's residence.The car door opened, and Dustin and Austin got out of the car one after another."Dustin, this is the last stop." Austin looked at the Marquis Riverside's door plate and sighed. He continued, "Lincon has quite a good relationship with Dad, not to mention he's also righteous, and we have Elijah's
"Sir Blaze knows that you're coming, so he asked me to wait for you," the old butler admitted with a nod."He knows that I'm coming?" Austin raised an eyebrow. Then, he took a look at Dustin uneasily.There were only two possibilities why Lincon could guess they were coming beforehand. Either Elijah made a phone call to inform, or Julius' envoy arrived ahead of them."Your Highness, Sir Blaze has been waiting. Please come inside." The old butler bent over and extended his hand, beckoning them inside.Austin nodded. Then, he made his way inside without a word.Since they were already here, there was no way they could just leave. Austin must gave it a shot, even if it meant they were going inside the lion's den.They followed the old butler inside. After passing through various rooms, they arrived at the dining hall.At that moment, the dining hall was already set with a table of delicious food.The aroma of food mixed with the smell of wine stirred their appetite.Austin and th
Lincon didn't reply to Austin right away. Instead, he sat down and poured wine for himself and Austin.After gently clinking glasses, Lincon downed the wine."Nice wine!" Lincon clicked his tongue and smiled in satisfaction.Austin wasn't in a hurry, either. He also drank the wine and stared at Lincon, waiting for his reply."Julius invited me to join his team and even promised to give me a lot of benefits. However, I rejected him."Upon hearing that, Austin couldn't help but show a hint of joy on his face. However, Lincon's following words caused him to feel stunned."Your Highness, don't get so excited. Although I rejected Julius' invitation, I won't send my troops to help you, either. I don't like war, so I'll choose to remain neutral," Lincon said frankly."Neutral?" Austin furrowed his brow. Then, he quickly advised, "You're a citizen of West Lucozia. How could you bear looking at the country being split up?""Your Highness, my abilities are limited. Thus, I can't be of mu