“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 he had let his emotions get the better of him, Austin took a deep breath, suppressing the turbulence within.
He calmly stated, “Uncle Tyrus, a guard’s life is as valuable as ours. We can’t let someone sacrifice themselves in vain. How can we earn the people’s trust in the future if we let such a thing happen?”
“Yes, Your Highness, you’re absolutely right.” Tyrus chuckled sheepishly, though silently. He assessed the situation and wondered if Austin had lost his mind. Tyrus couldn’t help but wonder if making such a fuss over a guard was really necessary.
“We can’t do this, can’t do that, what should we do now? Just sit around waiting to be defeated?” Wyatt sighed.
“Well, I actually have a good idea,” Elijah suddenly spoke up.
“Oh? What is it?” Eloise raised an eyebrow.
“Julius’s confidence lies in the Black Dragon Army. We can exploit that,” Elijah suggested.
He continued, “As you all know, aside from wartime, only His Highness and the Marshal’s military insignia can command the Black Dragon Army.
“Even if Julius can mobilize troops in the name of quelling unrest, the priority is still far below the Marshal’s military insignia.”
“If Your Highness wields the Marshal’s military insignia, you can find a few key generals of the Black Dragon Army overnight and persuade them to join our cause.
“In that case, Julius will lose his strongest support. Without the Black Dragon Army, he won’t pose much of a threat.”
While listening to this, Wyatt’s eyes lit up. “That makes sense! Why didn’t I think of it before?”
He added, “As long as we control the Black Dragon Army with the Marshal’s military insignia, even if Julius has extraordinary abilities, he won’t be able to stir up any trouble.”
“Oh, by the way, Your Highness, the Marshal’s military insignia should still be here, right?” Elijah suddenly asked.
“It’s here. His Highness’s military insignia is hidden in a secure place.” Eloise nodded.
“Great.” Elijah nodded. “To resolve the crisis, we need Your Highness to bring out the Marshal’s military insignia!”
“Bring out the military insignia?” Eloise frowned slightly. She had considered this before, but the Marshal’s military insignia was important.
In the past, Julius resorted to various forms of coercion and enticement, all in the pursuit of acquiring the Marshal’s military insignia.
If it was mishandled and fell into his hands, they would lose their last hope to turn the tables. In that case, he would be able to take the throne legitimately.
Even if the king intervened, it wouldn’t salvage the situation.
“Your Highness, this is our only option now,” Elijah persuaded.
“Mom, bring out the military insignia. It’s the only way to minimize unwarranted sacrifices,” Austin said solemnly.
“This…” Eloise hesitated for a moment, ultimately nodding.
She went on, “Alright, given the circumstances, we have no other choice. Please wait in the hall, everyone. I’ll go get the military insignia.”
She knew that, despite the risk involved, avoiding unnecessary conflict was the best option.
