The echo of "Those who surrender will be spared" lingered in the airspace above the castle, casting a shadow over the panic-stricken rebels who now seemed utterly devoid of any fighting spirit.A symphony of clattering ensued as an increasing number of soldiers dropped their weapons. Even the most tenacious were swiftly subdued, rendering the once defiant castle defenses feeble.The capture of the four sovereigns, along with the remaining rebels scattering for their lives, left the besieged forces with limited options. Either surrender or face imminent demise. In the face of an unidentified adversary, they were unwilling to lay down their lives in a futile struggle."I will honor the promise I just made. Anyone who willingly surrenders will be pardoned," Eloise assured. Her tone was now gentler, devoid of the earlier imposing aura.The surrendered soldiers were both relieved and embarrassed. "Thank you, Your Highness, for your mercy!" Many military officers humbly kneeled on
Now, Draven and Mortimer's only hope rested on Julius leading the Black Dragon Army to their aid."Though you two may not be the masterminds, you are accomplices. Capital punishment is avoidable, but you won't escape judgment," Eloise declared coldly. She went on, "Take them away and guard them closely. No one should approach without my orders.""Understood!" Several guards approached, forcefully taking the bounded Draven and Mortimer away."General Steele, handle the surrendering forces. Too many lives have been lost today, and I don't want to see more casualties," she instructed, looking at Jaxon."Understood!" Jaxon nodded solemnly."Your Highness, your compassion is admirable!" Four figures emerged from the army, creating a path as they walked. They were the Southern Four Sovereigns—Elijah, Lincon, Tyrus, and Wyatt."We arrived late to the rescue. Apologies for startling you, Your Highness," Lincon humbly greeted."Sir Blaze, no need for apologies. Without your timely
"What? Kill to cover it up?" Wyatt's face instantly darkened. He added, "You're not joking, are you? The Northern Four Sovereigns are all Julius' people. How could he possibly indiscriminately slaughter them?""Those who achieve great things must be ruthless. For someone like Julius, with extensive military experience, sacrificing some soldiers is nothing," Elijah said calmly. He went on, "Of course, this is the ultimate plan. Suppose the Northern Four Sovereigns successfully seize power and retrieve the Marshal's military insignia. In that case, he won't need to take such risks. He can ascend directly."He concluded, "However, if the Northern Four Sovereigns fail, for the sake of his grand ambition, I believe Julius will resort to any means necessary."The more ambitious someone was, the more unconventional their actions could become. Previously, under Rufus' rule, Julius concealed his true intentions, patiently biding his time. Now, with Rufus gone, Julius was free from co
"While the idea has merit, there's a drawback," Elijah said. He went on, "For a new prince to ascend, we need the king's approval and officials' testimony. Without it, convincing people is challenging."He added, "Also, obtaining the king's consent and officials' testimony would take at least three days. In our current situation, we simply can't afford to wait that long.""Really? Is it that complicated for a new prince to ascend?" Wyatt frowned. He added, "Everyone knows Austin is Prince Rufus' son. It should be a natural choice for him to become the next Prince of West Lucozia.""Yeah! They say desperate times call for desperate measures," Tyrus chimed in."Do you two think ascending the throne is like choosing a mountain king? Just planting a flag, having a few drinks, and saying some bold words will get the job done? Don't be ridiculous!" Elijah said, somewhat exasperated. He went on, "The position of Prince of West Lucozia is not just about the people of West Lucozia. It
Jaxon's announcement immediately captured the attention of everyone present. Eloise hesitated for a moment, opening her mouth as if she wanted to say something.After all, he was the captain of the royal guards and someone she trusted. Hence, she didn't want to see him risking his life in this situation. However, given the circumstances, there didn't seem to be a more suitable candidate."General Steele's strength is unquestionable, and his loyalty is unwavering. There's indeed a chance of successfully assassinating Julius with him." Wyatt nodded. As the captain of the royal guards, Jaxon's strength was beyond doubt, and his loyalty was unwavering."General Steele, I don't mean to underestimate you, but relying solely on you might not be enough," Elijah suddenly said."Wait! What about that legendary Executioner?" Tyrus asked suddenly. He added, "The name Executioner is famous far and wide. In terms of strength, he should be no less than General Steele, right?""No, Sir Albe
"No way! This is too risky!"Upon witnessing Dustin's inclination for a dangerous undertaking, Austin swiftly stepped in to stop his brother. Austin acknowledged Dustin's formidable strength, but Julius had gathered a considerable number of skilled individuals. Facing multiple challenges or opponents was always challenging. If the assassination failed, Dustin could find himself surrounded by those formidable adversaries. As the prospective Prince of West Lucozia, Austin couldn't permit such a hazardous venture."Your Highness, sometimes risks must be taken. In crucial moments like this, sacrifices are inevitable," Tyrus remarked casually. "Besides, he's just a guard. Why are you so uptight about it?" "I said it's not happening!" Austin almost shouted.A formidable wave of intimidation surged, prompting Tyrus to step back in shock. It wasn't just Tyrus. Everyone looked at each other and was baffled. No one anticipated such a strong reaction from Austin.Seemingly aware that
In the castle's side hall, the Southern Four Sovereigns sat in a row, quietly waiting. Each of them bore a different expression, lost in contemplation.Elijah casually sipped his coffee, Lincon rested with closed eyes, Tyrus observed the hall's arrangement, and Wyatt paced impatiently. After some time passed, Eloise entered the hall with Austin and Jaxon, carrying an exquisite purple rosewood box."Gentlemen, the Marshal's military insignia has arrived," she announced and delicately placed the rosewood box on the table. Upon unveiling its contents, it revealed a striking golden tiger token.The meticulously crafted tiger token emanated a regal and imposing presence. Adorning its surface in resplendent gold were the words: "Symbol of Armor, with the Prince on the left and Lucozia on the right.""Indeed, it's the Marshal's military insignia!" Wyatt exclaimed, his eyes lighting up. He added, "With this insignia, we can command the Black Dragon Army. Julius's scheme will crumble wi
Lincon was the first to react. "Quick! Go after the military insignia!" he shouted. Eloise immediately commanded, "Go after it!"Jaxon drew his sword abruptly. He led a squad of Draken Guardians in the direction where Elijah disappeared, racing after him."How could this happen?" Austin was bewildered, standing frozen, unsure of what to do. He hadn't expected Elijah to snatch the military insignia, so he was completely unprepared. By the time he realized it, Elijah had already made a swift escape."Your Highness, Elijah is likely working for Julius," Lincon explained with a grave tone. He added, "His unwavering support for you and helping the castle maintain order was just a ploy to make you drop your guard. When the time was right, he'd seize the military insignia and push us into a corner.""Damn it! I never thought Elijah would be a traitor. How despicable!" Wyatt fumed."No wonder he kept suggesting using the military insignia to control the Black Dragon Army against Jul