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 what you face, always maintain the spirit and dignity of a prince of Aria. By any means, protect the honor of the royal family.”
Sebastian, too, couldn’t hide his anxiety but tried to smile.
“Ethan, I know you are intelligent and talented. In any situation, always remember that your family and your country are waiting for your return.”
Both elder brothers understood that this journey was far from simple. It was a severe test, fraught with danger, and the hope of returning was slim. But they didn’t want to worry Ethan further, not wanting to burden their young brother even more.
Ethan bowed his head, his heart filled with many emotions. He knew his elder brothers were trying to encourage him, but he also understood the difficult and dangerous situation awaiting him.
Nathaniel gently continued, his voice full of determination:
“Ethan, if you have any opportunity, seize it. You not only represent the royal family but also all the people of the Kingdom of Aria. No matter how difficult it is, strive to survive and return. I believe you can do it.”
Sebastian placed a hand on Ethan’s shoulder, his eyes full of love and worry.
“We will always pray and wait for you. You are not alone; we are always behind you.”
After giving advice to his younger brother, the two elder brothers left, leaving Julian Pierce standing silently in the quiet room.
Julian walked to the window, looking out at the distant sky. He recalled the strange dream that had haunted him. In the dream, a tall man who called himself the king had humiliated and oppressed Ethan Caelan. That imposing, ruthless man—could he be Valerius Evander, the young king of the Kingdom of Helios?
“Valerius Evander.”
Julian whispered, the name weighing heavily on his lips.
“He demanded an unmarried prince as a hostage. Was it merely a coincidence, or had he intentionally targeted Ethan?”
Under the flickering candlelight in the quiet night, Julian’s silhouette sat silently at the table.
“Even if forced, I can choose how to face it,” Julian murmured to himself.
The next morning, Julian woke up early, his eyes filled with determination as he looked at Reed Jace and Leo Grant. He ordered:
“Tell me about the teachers who have taught me. I want to know more about them.”
Reed Jace bowed respectfully and began:
“Fourth prince, your music teacher is Raphael Gray. He is known as the ‘Immortal Musician’ because of his exceptional talent. His music can captivate people and even move nature.”
Leo Grant continued: “Your chess teacher is Samuel Brooke, a renowned master with the title ‘Chess King.’ He has defeated numerous chess players from neighboring countries. Each of his games is a work of art.”
Reed Jace continued:
“Your poetry teacher is William Blake, who has written many poems praised in the court. People say that when he recites poetry, flowers bloom and the moon shines.”
Leo Grant smiled and added:
“Your painting teacher is Thomas Green, an artist with many works exhibited everywhere. His brushwork is so exquisite that it astonishes everyone. His paintings bring nature to life on paper.”
Reed Jace solemnly said: “And your etiquette teacher is Edward Moore, deeply knowledgeable about court rituals of various countries, known as the ‘Master of Ceremonies.’”
Leo Grant continued: “Your history and politics teacher is Robert Hale, an experienced official in governance and politics. He is known as the ‘Political Genius.’”
Julian nodded and asked Reed Jace and Leo Grant:
“I also want to learn horse riding, archery, and martial arts. Who teaches these subjects in the palace?”
Reed Jace bowed and respectfully replied:
“Fourth prince, your horse riding teacher is Charles Strong, a general with many battlefield achievements, known as the ‘Horse Saint.’ He has extraordinary horseback riding skills, controlling a horse as if it were part of his body.”
Leo Grant continued:
“Your archery teacher is Victor Archer, a renowned archer in the court, known as the ‘Shooting God.’ He can hit any target and has won many national archery competitions.”
Reed Jace added:
“And your martial arts teacher is Bruce Lancer, a martial arts master known as the ‘Martial Saint.’ He has trained in martial arts since childhood, mastering various forms, with exceptional strength and refined combat skills.”
Julian nodded slightly, his eyes shining with excitement:
“What incredible masters! Invite all of them to the palace to teach me.”
Reed Jace and Leo Grant responded in unison: “Yes, Fourth prince!”
In the following days, Ethan Caelan's palace became more lively than ever. The sounds of music, clashing chess pieces, and brushstrokes on paper created an enthusiastic learning atmosphere. Julian, with his intelligence and talent, learned quickly and innovatively in each subject. These days, though busy, were filled with joy and memories. They equipped Julian with many skills and knowledge for his journey to the Kingdom of Helios.
During martial arts training, Julian winced, feeling sore and exhausted after a week of horseback riding and archery.
“Whew, Ethan’s body is truly fragile,” he sighed.
Bruce Lancer smiled gently:
“I taught the Fourth prince long ago. You were smart and quick-witted, advancing rapidly, leading among the princes. But since he fell into the water at age 12, narrowly escaping death, his body has been weak and unable to continue martial arts training. It’s a pity!”
Julian smiled, rubbing his aching shoulder:
“Well, this body is quite useless now.”
Bruce Lancer placed a comforting hand on the prince’s shoulder:
“It’s alright, prince! We will train gradually, increasing the intensity. With patience, you will surely recover.”
Julian looked at Master Lancer and smiled: “Alright, if I can’t become a master, at least I should be strong enough not to fall off a horse again.”
Both laughed heartily.
Julian, though worried about Ethan’s frail body, understood that this weakness was a significant disadvantage, making self-defense difficult in dangerous situations. Every strenuous activity caused intense pain throughout his body, but Julian gritted his teeth, enduring the training, just as he had persevered since his days as a trainee.
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
The owner handed Harrison a prize: "Here, this fan is crafted by the finest artisan in Blue Peak City. There's no other like it."Harrison admired the silk fan, its intricate embroidery depicting mountains and rivers, and looked at Ethan with a bright smile:"Your Highness, this fan is beautiful and suits you perfectly. I want you to have it."Before Ethan could protest, Harrison placed the fan in his hand.Ethan accepted the fan, smiling, "It's truly beautiful. Thank you, Harrison."Harrison beamed with satisfaction.They continued to the food stalls, where a variety of local delicacies were being sold: grilled shiitake mushrooms, seafood skewers, grilled meat skewers, five-flavored rice cakes, tofu pudding... people were bustling, eating, and laughing.Harrison asked, "Your Highness, have you ever tried these foods?" pointing to a grilled food stall.Ethan shook his head, "I haven't."Harrison chose a skewer of golden, fragrant grilled shiitake mushrooms and said with a smile, "Your
Valerius Evander had just finished dealing with the state documents. For the past few days, his mind had been entirely consumed by Ethan Caelan, leaving him with little energy to focus on state affairs. Now that Ethan had finally regained consciousness, it felt as if a massive weight had been lifted from his chest.Eager to see Ethan, Valerius left his desk and hurried toward the Jade Heart Pavilion. From a distance, Doctor Henry Thorne greeted him with a respectful bow and began his report.“Your Majesty, the Fourth Prince, has just finished soaking in medicinal herbs. He is now in the garden, basking in the sun to recover,” Henry informed him.Valerius turned his gaze toward the garden. “How is he faring?” he asked with a note of concern.Henry hesitated before replying, “Your Majesty, his life is no longer in immediate danger. However…”“What’s the issue?” Valerius’s voice betrayed his impatience.“His Highness has a naturally cold constitution. After falling into the lake previou
Ethan Caelan also understood that he had no way to escape Valerius Evander at this moment, nor could he accept the kind of love between men that Valerius spoke of."So… even if I were to die, I can never return to my world?" Ethan thought, despair casting a shadow over him like a suffocating fog.Closing his eyes, he tried to piece together the fragmented memories from his dreams—his mother, lifetimes of suffering, the curse, Valerius Evander, Lucian Evander. They all felt like scattered shards of a puzzle, chilling him to his core." Lucian Evander … the Four Heavenly Dragons… those noblemen… What connection do they have to me? I need to start by understanding them."Ethan struggled to rise from the bed. He had been lying still for far too long. The moment his trembling feet touched the ground and he attempted to stand, his body collapsed onto the cold floor."My legs… why can’t I feel my legs?" Ethan exclaimed, panic lacing his voice.Hearing the commotion inside, Henry Thorne rushe
Lucian’s eyes roamed hungrily over Ethan’s flawless, ivory skin, flushed with an enticing hue that only fueled his desire to conquer. "Look at this… seems like Prince Ethan of Aria is craving me as much as I want him…" Lucian murmured, pressing his lips to Ethan’s collarbone, tracing down to his chest. "Little beauty… I’ll make you feel so good…"“No!... Let me go…” Ethan cried out, trembling.“Let you go? It’s an honor for you to be used by the Four Dragons,” sneered the crimson-moled man. “We don’t often share, you know. You should be grateful we're making an exception for you.”The group of men closed in, circling Ethan. "Aaa… get away! Don’t... don’t touch me…” Ethan struggled, his cries growing desperate."Ethan!... Ethan!... wake up!” A familiar voice cut through his torment, yanking him back to reality from his horrifying nightmare.Ethan’s eyes shot open, his whole body shaking. Terror lingered in his gaze as cold sweat trickled down his face, soaking his clothes. The terrifyi
"Hahaha... resisting only makes you more beautiful, little beauty." He forced Ethan into a rough kiss, one hand gripping him tightly, the other pressing his jaw to force Ethan's mouth open. Seizing the opportunity, he plunged his tongue into Ethan's mouth, invading every corner.Disgusted, Ethan summoned all his strength to bite down hard on the man's tongue, shoving him away. "Get lost!"Interrupted unexpectedly, the dimpled man pulled back in pain, wiping blood from his mouth and snarling, "You filthy whore, you dare bite me?!" He slapped Ethan hard across the face twice: "Smack! Smack!" The blows sent Ethan crashing to the floor, his cheeks immediately swelling with the imprint of five fingers. Dizzy, he tried to open his eyes, but his vision was blurring."Quite the prize indeed, even his kiss has a hefty price," the man with the high forehead commented with amusement.Lucian smirked, watching Ethan. "Pour more wine for him!"Immediately, the man with the crimson mole approached E
His voice softened as he whispered into Ethan’s ear: “It’s my fault, I was wrong… Ethan… I swear I will make it up to you…”Valerius gazed at Ethan, his eyes filled with sorrow and regret. He knew that his words would never be enough to ease the pain in Ethan’s heart. Gently, he pulled Ethan closer, holding him tenderly in his arms.Ethan trembled in Valerius’s embrace, torn by the contradiction within him. Though he loathed the closeness of the man who had once violated and humiliated him, his soul now longed for a shoulder to lean on, someone to help him through the agony of losing his mother, the haunting memories of his own tragic fate through each lifetime, and the despair he felt about the future awaiting him.Suddenly, Ethan wrapped his arms around Valerius, burying his face in Valerius’ chest. It didn’t matter who it was, just as long as someone stayed beside him, offering him warmth to dispel the coldness in his heart.Valerius was stunned for a moment. This was the first tim
But Ethan, with his kind heart, reincarnated quickly. The curse of vengeance followed him through each life.Ethan looked at the scenes of his tragic past, feeling as though hundreds of arrows pierced his heart, leaving him gasping in agony. “Mother… I don’t want to continue anymore. I want to return to my true life, as Julian Pierce.”Victoria shook her head, her eyes filled with tears. “Julian? Look again.”The mist shifted, revealing the blurry image of Julian Pierce at a party, flashes of cameras in his face, deafening music pounding in his ears. Glass after glass of alcohol was offered to him, and he couldn’t refuse. Each sip burned his throat. He felt dizzy, his body losing control, burning up like he was on fire. He tried to stand, but his legs trembled, unable to support him.“Julian, you’re drunk. Let me take you to your room,” came the voice of a film investor.The scene shifted to a lavish room where Julian was surrounded by powerful men. He struggled, resisting with all hi
Ethan Caelan found himself in an unfamiliar place where darkness engulfed everything—a cold, desolate void.“Where am I…?” Ethan’s voice echoed through the empty space, lost and unanswered, as the howling winds seemed to want to swallow him whole.He realized he could no longer feel his body, as if his soul was wandering aimlessly in an unknown dimension, surrounded by thick, hazy fog. He walked unconsciously along an endless path, with no sense of direction or end.Around him, fragmented images flickered—one moment it was him, Ethan, committing suicide in despair, another was Julian Pierce leaping from the top of a corporate high-rise, and another was a young general being executed. These seemed like his past lives, each marked by tragedy. The blurry images and the feelings of hatred and despair were all too familiar, as though he had truly died, and this place… could it be the Underworld?Suddenly, a gentle light appeared far away, as if guiding him. Ethan wandered aimlessly toward
“Could it be... that Valerius loves Ethan?” The thought struck Harrison like a sharp blade to the heart. Everything suddenly became crystal clear. The pieces of the puzzle fell into place in his mind: the night Ethan was assaulted by the Emperor—the same night Ethan had been with Harrison—the sudden imperial decree sending him off to quell the rebellion in Aria, the hostile look in Valerius’s eyes whenever he was near Ethan. It was all for one reason: Valerius Evander loved Ethan Caelan and wanted him all to himself.Valerius sat quietly by Ethan’s side, his once-cold eyes now filled only with regret and sorrow. He leaned down, his lips brushing lightly against Ethan’s icy forehead, feeling the chilling cold that had taken over. Only now, on the verge of losing the one he truly loved, did Valerius realize just how precious Ethan was to him, and how cruelly he had treated him."I was wrong... so wrong, Ethan... Please, wake up." He whispered, his voice heavy with pain. His lips tremble
"Ethan!" Valerius Evander shouted in shock. He rushed over, catching Ethan’s weakened body. His hands trembled as he desperately tried to press against the wound on Ethan’s neck, but the warm blood continued to pour out, staining Valerius’ hands red.Ethan’s body felt completely drained, his phoenix eyes slowly closing as a faint smile appeared on his lips, finally tasting the freedom he'd longed for. The coldness crept in, and darkness began to envelop him.“Fetch the physician! Immediately! Hurry!” Valerius yelled in panic.“Ethan! You can’t die! Open your eyes and look at me!” Valerius pleaded, but only silence answered him.Doctor Henry Thorne was called urgently. As he entered the room, he froze at the chaotic, intimate scene before him—pillows and blankets strewn across the floor, the two men’s clothes disheveled, and blood pooling on the ground.The moment Valerius saw Henry, he commanded, “Hurry! Save him!”Doctor Henry rushed over and carefully examined Ethan’s wound. His voi