Chapter 37:Intrigue

With the flow of time, Ethan had arrived in the capital. The city of Aurendale had achieved great success by mobilizing a total of 5,000 troops. The army was stationed outside the capital, spending their time on training. As Ethan reached the palace, he couldn't help but feel some stares filled with respect and jealousy. Approaching the door of the throne room, a guard stepped forward and introduced Ethan.

"3rd Prince Ethan Asina Lenistark arrives."

As these words echoed throughout the throne room, all eyes turned to Ethan. Despite his age, Ethan had a tall stature, having already reached 1.76 meters, clearly inheriting this trait from Richard. Additionally, his blue eyes and dark black hair were captivating for any woman. The iron armor he wore and the simple sword at his waist added a unique aura to Ethan. Finally, Ethan approached the throne and bowed his head.

"Your Majesty, I have returned from my fiefdom," Ethan said. placing his hand over his chest. "Welcome, my son. I've heard you've managed the city under your banner quite well," Richard said as he sat on his throne. "Thank you, Your Majesty, for your kind words," Ethan replied before withdrawing into a corner. When Ethan looked at the others in the room, he realized he was the last to arrive. He glanced at Isabella and Henry. He knew he had to compete against them in the upcoming war and emerge victorious. While Isabella seemed tense, Henry appeared relaxed.

Before long, a few nobles approached Ethan. Upon noticing their approach, Ethan straightened up and nodded politely to them. As the nobles approached, tension filled the air.

An elderly man among the nobles approached Ethan and began to speak with a serious expression: "Your Highness, Prince Ethan, we need to talk. In the royal privacy."

Feeling the seriousness of the noble, Ethan nodded slightly and followed him. As they walked along the corridor in silence, they finally entered the royal privacy.

Behind the door, older noble began to speak: "Ethan, we've gathered important information about you. We've only heard positive things about your success in Aurendale. However, some in this palace see your presence as a threat. There are plans concerning you."

Ethan, sensing the gravity in the noble's tone, listened carefully. "I fail to see how I pose a threat. I am merely working to protect my homeland and ensure the welfare of my people," he responded.

"Yes, but for some, that's not enough. There are those who envy your power. We suspect there's a plot against you. You should be wary of those who may want to collaborate with you. Not everyone's intentions in this palace are clear," older noble said.

Ethan pondered the noble's words and took a deep breath. He now realized the game in the palace was more complicated. He knew he had to choose his trusted allies carefully and be cautious about surviving the struggle for the throne.

Later, Ethan returned to his old quarters and went to sleep. He needed to rest well, as they would have to set out again in a few days. Waking up to the sunlight the next day, Ethan began to dress. A few minutes later, there was a knock on his door. "It's me. Your sister Isabella" Ethan heard and opened the door.

Isabella seemed tense. After entering, she approached her brother. "Ethan, I'm warning you about something. I've heard that Henry has plans regarding you. He may want to harm you. He'll try any means to sideline you in the struggle for the throne," she said with concern.

Ethan listened carefully to Isabella's words, his face showing signs of worry. "Thank you, Isabella. This information is crucial. I must keep a close eye on Henry and take necessary precautions if needed," he said firmly.

"Please, be careful. You must be prepared for Henry's schemes. If there's anyone willing to collaborate with you, let me know. We must act together," she said, squeezing her brother's hand tightly. There was genuine concern in her eyes. Despite her desire to become queen, Ethan felt a compassionate attitude towards her. Ethan had heard that Isabella hated men, likely because of being molested by her cousin as a child. Although Richard executed his nephew for this, the incident deeply traumatized Isabella.

Ethan smiled gratefully at his sister's words. "Of course, Isabella. I know you're a reliable ally. We'll be much stronger together," he said.

Determined to deal with the intrigues in the palace, they decided to work together. Ethan was determined to devise a new strategy to thwart Henry's schemes and remain strong in the struggle for the throne.

Later, they all went to the throne room together. At the door of the throne room, they encountered Henry. After exchanging silent glances for a while, Henry entered the room. Ethan and Isabella followed him. Upon entering the room, they noticed that there were fewer people compared to yesterday. This was because they intended to discuss the strategies to be used during the upcoming battle today. After all, some nobles could sell this information for their own interests.

King Richard began to speak with a tone that caught everyone's attention in the room: "Dear lords and generals, today we will discuss the upcoming battle strategies. However, first, we need to clarify some matters regarding the struggle for the throne. Recently, Ethan's presence might have unsettled some. But we must remember that Ethan is an important hero for our homeland and a successful leader of Aurendale."

Feeling the support of the King, Ethan stood proudly and resolutely. Isabella stood by her brother's side, offering her support.

The King continued: "However, we are living in a competitive environment in the struggle for the throne. So, we must be cautious. There may be those who envy Ethan's power. Yet, his patriotism and loyalty are unquestionable. Therefore, we must support Ethan and work together to ensure the safety of our people."

The King's words, determination shining in his eyes, motivated Ethan. He was now ready to proceed even stronger in the struggle for the throne.

Finally, King Richard asked, "Now, let's move on to discussing our war strategies. How should we make our moves as the Asina army?" generals and nobles in the room began to speak.

While listening to the strategy, Ethan observed Henry's movements. Determined to heed Isabella's warning, he committed himself to tracking every move Henry made. He now knew the game in the struggle for the throne was more complex and he had to be prepared.

As discussions about war strategies continued, Ethan's mind worked to devise his plans. He tried to anticipate what kind of move Henry might make. A strong feeling inside him told him that Henry was plotting against him and that these could pose a serious threat.

He was fortunate to have the support of King Richard, but this did not protect him from Henry's intrigues. Now, he had to focus on gaining trustworthy allies and devising a strategy to thwart Henry's moves.

As the strategy meeting came to an end, Ethan withdrew to his own room to contemplate. He was determined to take the right steps to disrupt Henry's plans. However, he had to be careful and act with reliable allies like Isabella.