“Are you suggesting that someone is inciting the simultaneous rebellion of the Four Sovereigns?” Eloise frowned.
“That’s right!”
Austin continued with a solemn expression. “Currently, only one person can make the Four Sovereigns obey orders in West Lucozia.”
“Julius!” Eloise blurted out.
“Uncle Julius is an ambitious man and is adept at scheming. He intends to force us to surrender the military insignia through the Four Sovereigns.”
Austin narrowed his eyes as he analyzed the situation. “If we refuse, the Four Sovereigns would start a rebellion, compelling us to deploy troops to quell the unrest.
“At that point, he will interfere and hinder our military campaign to ensure we fail. Once our military campaign fails, our prestige will be greatly damaged.
“When public outcry reaches its peak, he will emerge as the savior, rescuing the people from turmoil and subduing the Four Sovereigns successfully.
“By then, he will be hailed by the masses and become an uncrowned king. They say those who win the people’s hearts will win the world.
“The moment Julius achieves prestige similar to Father’s, he will naturally become the new Prince of West Lucozia.
“What a calculating man!” By the end of his analysis, Austin’s expression had turned exceptionally grave.
Julius’ strategy wasn’t a conspiracy; it was a well-thought-out plan. Even knowing the ins and outs of the situation, it was still challenging to unravel.
Such was the frightening aspect of a well-executed strategy!
“In that case, Julius must have planned this for a long time,” Eloise said with a frown.
“Now, how do we foil his plan? We can’t deploy the army, nor can we recruit enemy support. What should we do?”
“In my opinion, we must unite with the other Four Sovereigns, along with Father’s former subordinates, to compete with Julius,” Austin suggested.
“That makes sense.” Eloise nodded.
“I’ll send someone to invite the other Four Sovereigns immediately to discuss this matter together.”
“Mom, let me go personally. It’ll show our sincerity better that way.” Austin volunteered. It was crucial to obtain the other Four Sovereign’s support, and he needed to go in person for reassurance.
“Alright, be careful. If anything seems amiss, withdraw immediately,” Eloise cautioned.
She had to remain at the castle. In the current situation, only her son’s appearance would better persuade the other Four Sovereigns.
“I understand.” Austin nodded, then pointed to a few guards.
“You guys, come with me. Remember, don’t alert anyone.”
“Yes, Your Highness,” they responded.
Following Austin, they left discreetly through the castle’s secret passage, Dustin included.
There were spies everywhere, both inside and outside the castle, and walking through the main gate would undoubtedly alert them. After they left the castle, Austin found an inconspicuous car and headed northwest.
He was not worried about the few guards he brought with him leaking news since they were all close, loyal confidants he had grown up together with.
“Logan, where are you staying? Do you need me to send you home?” Austin asked when they were in the car.
“I’m not going back. I’ll accompany you tonight to meet the Four Sovereigns,” Dustin responded. With the current unpredictable situation, he was worried about sending Austin there alone.
“Alright, then, let’s resolve this together as brothers!” Austin gained confidence instantly. Since childhood, Dustin was always been his pillar of support. Whenever he got into trouble, his brother was the first person he sought. And every time, Dustin would save the day.
Even though they hadn’t seen each other for ten years, he knew deep down that his brother was still his brother. Nothing ever changed.
It was late at night at Summitville.
