Julian smiled confidently, feeling more resolute.
"Yes, life is a grand play, and I will play this role well. Just wait and see, I will change the situation."
With this determination, Julian felt relieved.
"Ethan, I will live your life, and I will change your fate."
“To truly embody the role of Ethan Caelan, I need to understand more about the life here and Ethan's relationships,” Julian Pierce told himself. He decided to thoroughly investigate everything around him.
He summoned Reed Jace and Leo Grant.
“I want to know more about the rules of the palace and everything related to my daily life,” Julian said gently.
Leo Grant looked at Julian with a serious expression and began to meticulously explain each rule, from how to interact with officials to attending banquets. Reed Jace added details about Ethan Caelan’s preferences and habits.
By the time they finished, it was already dusk. There was a sound from a guard outside the door announcing.
“Your Highness, Crown Prince Nathaniel Caelan and Third Prince Sebastian Caelan are here,” the guard reported, his voice clear and respectful.
Julian quickly assumed the role of Ethan Caelan and nodded in agreement.
“Let them in.”
Soon after, Crown Prince Nathaniel Caelan and Third Prince Sebastian Caelan entered. Crown Prince Nathaniel, with his sturdy physique and calm demeanor, his bright eyes and confident smile, exuded the aura of a sovereign. In contrast, Third Prince Sebastian Caelan was lively and carefree, his handsome face full of vitality, always carrying a cheerful smile and mischievous eyes.
“Ethan, you had me worried sick!” Sebastian quickly spoke up, his tone full of concern.
“Big brother, Third brother, I’m fine,” Ethan replied, feeling warmth in his heart at their concern.
“Ethan, how could you be so careless? Your body is usually weak, why would you dare to ride a newly trained horse? It’s really dangerous!”
Nathaniel’s voice was stern, his eyes filled with worry as he looked at Ethan.
Ethan responded calmly.
“Big brother, Third brother, I didn’t expect the horse to react so violently. I just didn’t want to disappoint you.”
Sebastian lightly patted Ethan’s shoulder and smiled,
“Ethan, you have to be more careful. Your body is weak; you can’t be like us.”
Crown Prince Nathaniel nodded, his voice deep and warm,
“Ethan, I understand you want to join us in hunting, but your safety is paramount.”
The three of them were silent for a moment, the atmosphere becoming somber.
Sebastian suddenly spoke up, his eyes showing deep concern.
“This morning, I heard that the court’s affairs are very tense, and Father is really troubled. Second brother is facing many difficulties at the border, our army has been continuously defeated. I’m really worried about him.”
Nathaniel nodded slightly, his eyes showing sadness.
“Alexander is shouldering a great responsibility. We are here enjoying luxury, but as the Crown Prince, I feel ashamed.”
The atmosphere suddenly became tense. Nathaniel and Sebastian exchanged glances, then looked back at Ethan. Ethan sensed the worry and unease in their eyes, but he already knew what awaited him.
“Father has sent an envoy to seek peace, but the terms proposed by the Kingdom of Helios are outrageous,” Nathaniel said, his voice filled with anger.
Sebastian couldn’t contain his frustration and loudly said:
“Yes, they demand that our royal family send an unmarried prince to the Kingdom of Helios as a hostage. It’s unacceptable!”
Ethan took a deep breath, his voice calm but filled with determination.
“Crown Prince, Third brother, Father has decided that the one to go to the Kingdom of Helios will be me.”
Nathaniel and Sebastian were both stunned, silent for a moment. Crown Prince Nathaniel was the first to speak.
“Ethan, do you know how dangerous this will be? Going there, you will face many risks, enduring the strict surveillance of the Kingdom of Helios.”
Sebastian added, his tone worried,
“Ethan, you are still young and weak, how can you endure it?”
Ethan remained resolute, looking at his two brothers.
“I have thought it through. This is the only way to achieve peace for the Kingdom of Aria. If
I can help the country avoid war and save the people, I am willing to accept any danger.”
Nathaniel Caelan and Sebastian Caelan looked at each other, then at Ethan Caelan. Both saw the determination in his eyes.
Nathaniel Caelan tightly grasped Ethan’s hand, his eyes revealing a deep sense of sympathy.
“Ethan, we don’t want you to go. But the current situation leaves us no other choice.”
Nathaniel sighed softly:
“Valerius Evander is cunning and ruthless. I’m very worried about you.”
Nathaniel stepped closer, his eyes filled with deep sadness, and placed a hand on Ethan’s shoulder:
“Ethan, you’re still so young, and so frail...”
Sebastian, who was usually cheerful, could no longer hide his worry.
“Ethan, life as a hostage is not easy. The Helios royal family has many strict regulations. Not only Valerius Evander, but I’ve heard that all the nobles there are full of schemes and won’t hesitate to use any means.”
Sebastian suddenly laughed lightly, as if thinking of something. “Ethan, you’re so handsome, maybe Valerius Evander has been captivated by you all along and deliberately chose you?”
Those words struck a hidden fear within Ethan. He looked up at Sebastian, his eyes filled with unease. “Third brother, I’ve never even met Valerius Evander.”
Sebastian grinned mischievously:
“You haven’t met him, but your portraits are all over the capital. Surely they’ve reached Valerius Evander. I even have one, but it doesn’t do you justice, not even a fraction as handsome as you.”
Nathaniel sternly spoke, his voice full of reproach.
“Third brother, this is not the time for jokes.”
Sebastian shook his head, his smile fading.
“I just wanted to ease his tension.”
Crown Prince Nathaniel sighed and began to speak about the Kingdom of Helios.
“Ethan, Helios was once only on par with Aria. But since Valerius Evander ascended the throne, everything has changed completely.”
Ethan listened intently, his curiosity piqued.
Nathaniel continued, his voice calm but unable to hide his admiration.
“Valerius Evander has implemented many drastic reforms. First, in the military, he completely overhauled the army, enhancing discipline and training the soldiers. As a result, Helios’ military became strong and formidable.”
Sebastian added enthusiastically:“That’s right, big brother isn’t wrong. Not only in the military, but he also reformed politics. Valerius Evander reduced taxes for the people, encouraged trade and commerce. Thanks to that, the people's lives improved significantly, and their trust in the court increased.”Nathaniel nodded, continuing:“Moreover, he promoted culture, arts, and education. Talents are valued regardless of their background. Those who are corrupt and bribe are severely punished without mercy.”Ethan listened attentively, sensing the strength and decisiveness of Valerius Evander. Sebastian cautiously added:“Although these policies have greatly benefited Helios, it’s undeniable that Valerius Evander is extremely brutal in conquering neighboring countries. Those who refuse to cede land or pay tribute are mercilessly annexed.”After finishing the story about Helios, Nathaniel looked directly into Ethan’s eyes, his voice slow but filled with deep concern.“Ethan, no matter w
News of consecutive victories kept arriving. In just one month, the army of the Kingdom of Helios, led by the four grand marshals, had crushed two neighboring countries, Yellowstone and Whitewater, causing other nations to fear and tremble. The Kingdom of Aria had also suffered a severe defeat, losing three major cities: Goldsun, Jaspergreen, and Windkeep, pushing them into a perilous situation.The Kingdom of Helios, once a small nation, had transformed into a mighty and prosperous empire since Valerius Evander ascended the throne.It was known as the "Glory of Valerius."Valerius Evander, even when he was still a crown prince, was renowned not only for his exceptional leadership but also for his bravery and decisiveness on the battlefield.Under Valerius Evander’s leadership, the army of the Kingdom of Helios had consistently won victories, expanding its territory and establishing a powerful dynasty. Alongside the young king were four experienced marshals, Zane Ryder, Aiden Cole, El
Cassian bowed his head and continued, “When I was an envoy to Aria, I had the honor of meeting the fourth prince several times. His reputation is well-deserved. His beauty surpasses that of the paintings, his demeanor as if he were a celestial being.”Valerius smirked, a hint of sarcasm in his eyes. “More beautiful than my concubines?”Cassian smiled gently, his tone respectful. “Your Majesty, Prince Ethan Caelan, when riding a horse, exudes heroic spirit; when playing the lute, his demeanor is unmatched; when playing chess, he is sharp and intelligent. Is there any woman in this world who can compare?”Valerius laughed heartily, but a deep contemplation was evident in his eyes. “It makes me want to meet him. But what use is an Aria prince to Helios? Bringing him here would be inviting trouble.”Cassian remained undeterred, smiling faintly as he responded, “Your Majesty, true talent knows no gender or origin. A treasure should be in one's grasp.”Valerius was silent for a moment, his
His voice became solemn as he reminisced about the distant memories."Victoria Everglow was famous for her talent and beauty. The Emperor, who was then the Crown Prince, visited Aria Music Academy. Shortly after, she was taken to the palace to become a consort."Ethan listened intently:"Do you know what happened to my mother after that?"Raphael shook his head, his eyes reflecting his sadness."After she entered the palace, we never saw each other again. She never returned to visit my master. Two years later, I received news of her sudden death. This news devastated my master and everyone at the academy."Ethan felt the deep sorrow in Raphael's words.Silence enveloped the room. Ethan felt his heart grow heavy. Since arriving in this world, he had considered it his second home. Now, knowing Victoria Everglow was his mother, he felt a profound connection to Ethan Caelan's emotions and body, no longer distinguishing between the two.After Raphael left, Ethan ordered an investigation an
As the afternoon drew to a close, Leo Grant signaled that time was up, and they had to return to the palace.As Ethan prepared to leave, Cecilia escorted him to the gate, her eyes filled with tears:"Your Highness, take care. Imperial Consort Victoria would be very proud to see you like this."Ethan smiled gratefully and took out a small box from his luggage, handing it to Cecilia:"This is a small gift to thank you for your loyalty to my mother. Please accept it."Cecilia, moved, accepted the box with trembling hands:"Thank you, Your Highness."Ethan looked at Cecilia, nodded in farewell:"Take care, you cannot stay here long."Then he mounted his horse and quickly returned to the palace.Cecilia watched Ethan’s figure until he disappeared from sight. She returned to her house and opened the exquisite wooden box. Inside was a precious jade bracelet and enough gold bars to live comfortably for the rest of her life anywhere. With the instinct of an experienced palace maid, she underst
When the Emperor and Empress returned to their quarters, night had already fallen over the entire palace. The atmosphere in the room was heavy. The Empress sighed softly, her eyes following the Emperor's back with concern."Your Majesty, please don't blame Ethan," she said gently, her tone full of pleading."Ethan is still young and easily influenced by others. It is also my fault for neglecting his education recently."The Emperor turned back, his gaze stern and full of anger."You think I don't know what you've been up to?"He stepped closer to the Empress, his voice growing harsher."Don't rely on your position as the Dowager Empress's niece to think I will always tolerate your actions. Ethan has endured much. Later, when we return to the Kingdom of Helios, you and I must make amends for him."The Empress bowed her head, her voice soft but her eyes burning with suppressed fury."I will obey, Your Majesty."The Emperor stared at her for a long moment before turning away, leaving the
Ethan gazed forward, serenely passing by. Yet, within him, a complex emotion stirred. For the first time since arriving in this world, he deeply felt the role and responsibility of a prince. His eyes looked far ahead, towards the arduous path that awaited him. He silently vowed to live and fight for those who had placed their trust in him.Ethan tightened his grip on the reins, his determination unwavering, knowing that the future of Aria and his destiny were now intertwined. As his horse advanced, he felt the heartbeat of the people sync with his own, sensing the sacred bond between him and his subjects.The escort continued their journey, covering the territory of Aria in just five days, crossing the forest that divided the two kingdoms. When night fell, the skies opened up with torrential rain. Harrison ordered the soldiers to set up camp.Though seated in his carriage, Ethan was exhausted, the rain seeping through, and he couldn't withstand the cold of the deep forest, soon develo
Zane looked deep into those phoenix eyes, sensing Ethan's confidence and royal bearing:"Your Highness, I pledge my life to ensure your safety," Zane declared.Ethan nodded with a smile. "Thank you, General."With that, Ethan turned and walked back to the carriage. Zane lingered, his eyes following Ethan's figure, a growing unease in his heart."Ethan Caelan, you truly know how to captivate hearts. Sooner or later, you will bring great trouble to Helios."As the carriage began to move, Zane couldn't stop his thoughts from drifting to Helios's future. With such an alluring and charismatic presence, Ethan could easily win the trust and affection of the Helios royal family, potentially disrupting the court. Allowing someone like Ethan to act freely could lead Helios into chaos.Zane recalled the title "Aria's Greatest Prodigy" bestowed upon Ethan by many."This Fourth Prince is not simple. If he ever intends to destabilize the court, I will be the first to eliminate him. I will not toler