Chapter 1363
That evening, Samson returned with a scout and hastily reported, “Your Highness, Mr. Harper has successfully rallied our scattered troops and secured 500 warhorses from the Spencer family. He is returning now. If he maintains this pace, he will arrive in three days.”
Yuvan sprang to his feet, his heart pounding. “Is that true?”
“Absolutely, Your Highness. The scout awaits outside. You may summon him for confirmation.”
“Bring him in!” Yuvan reseated himself, his pulse racing. He had finally gathered his forces, but the news of the Spencer family providing 500 warhorses surprised him. He had severed ties with them following Violet's incident.
The scout entered, kneeling. “Your Highness, Mr. Harper reports the private army is assembled. Furthermore, Mr. Murphy, one of Prince Nicholas's advisors, is leading 5,000 men and 500 warhorses in support. Prince Nicholas requests the rescue of Prince Hayden.”
Yuvan froze at the mention of Nicholas. He had once sought Nicholas's favor, but the prince's intentions had always remained unclear, leading Yuvan to distance himself. Now, his former allies had withdrawn their support, while Nicholas, whom he had dismissed, was offering aid.
It was logical. Nicholas's father, Hayden, remained trapped—a hostage—in the capital. Nicholas's fury was understandable. Known for his refined demeanor, gentlemanly conduct, and profound devotion to family, Nicholas's reputation for filial piety was renowned throughout the southern provinces. His elderly father's plight must have left him no alternative but to seek help.
Yuvan immediately summoned his advisors to discuss their next steps for three days. He had agreed to the feigned surrender plan, initially deeming it too risky. Now, with events unfolding favorably, the plan seemed viable. Luring Thomas into the city and trapping him presented the perfect opportunity.
Chester's forces, scattered and preoccupied with quelling bandit uprisings, could offer no assistance. Once Thomas and his army were eliminated, Yuvan would no longer need to contend with Chester. Then, he would march on the capital. The Mystic Army would not be able to stop him.
The scout returned with a carrier pigeon, enabling contact with Saul. Yuvan wrote a letter; within four hours, the pigeon returned. He examined Saul's message carefully: it instructed him to release the pigeon and commence the feigned surrender at noon two days later, on July 3rd. By nightfall, Thomas and his forces were to be drawn into the city.
Harvey would feign capturing Yuvan and escort him from the city, then invite Thomas for negotiations. While seemingly feasible, the plan was inherently risky. Yuvan felt unease. He summoned Wayne privately to his study, requesting a divination to assess the plan's success.
Wayne's reading was overwhelmingly positive. He knelt, saying, “Your Majesty, the signs indicate victory and divine favor. The path ahead is bright, and you will be aided by powerful allies—as though heaven itself intervenes on your behalf.”
The title “Your Majesty” solidified Yuvan's resolve. He envisioned the throne, power within his grasp. He felt he stood at the pinnacle, overlooking all below. All these years of planning, the waiting, the insults, the humiliation, the cold treatment—it had all been for this final, desperate gamble.
What were fire and blood compared to his goal?
“Your words inspire confidence, Wayne,” Yuvan replied, settling into his chair. He studied Wayne's reading, feeling his youthful arrogance resurface. He needed this fire; his recent caution had eroded the faith of those around him.
Thomas and his troops had been stationed outside the city for over half a month, well-supplied. He appeared calm, but agents had already infiltrated Valken, spreading rumors of Yuvan's treason. The loyalty of Valken's people was crucial; their support could not be lost.