Chapter 82: The Secret Chamber

Brock let out a deep sigh as he observed Rose and her bodyguards moving away. He realised that word of his plan to abdicate the throne and embrace a peaceful life would soon reach his parents, leading to an inevitable summons to the palace.

Brock lifted his finger to inspect the sizable emerald ring, adorned with intricate gold and diamonds that sparkled in the light. A gentle smile appeared on his face as he focused on the cherished memory it symbolised, just before Paul interrupted him.

Your Highness, doesn’t the thought of your plan backfiring fill you with fear?

The anxious voice inquired as he sat in one of the chairs across from Brock. With a chuckle, Brock raised his glass of wine to his lips but remained silent. Instead, he swayed his head gently to the calming melodies played by talented musicians.

My life has felt like a gamble since the moment I was born. I never felt like it truly belonged to me.

Brock murmured, interrupting the comfortable silence that had enveloped them.

I was merely a pawn, destined to serve the crown and the throne, regardless of my own desires. My choices and dreams were overlooked when significant decisions about my happiness were made. I was simply instructed to comply without any questions or explanations.

Brock went on talking as one of the female dancers winked at him.

This is the first time I am using my identity and titles as a gamble to pursue what I truly desire in life. He said, his heart pounding with both fear and anticipation.

Paul acknowledged the struggles Brock faced during their ten years together and imagined the hardships he faced in his childhood. The hidden scars under his robes testified to the intense trials he endured as a crown prince.

Beneath those scars lies a child deeply wounded by the overwhelming burden of the crown he was forced to bear, despite his tender years.

From the moment he took his first steps, he was thrust into the harsh realities of life, treated like a soldier, robbed of the joyous moments and innocence that other children his age took for granted.

His laughter was silenced, his dreams overshadowed by responsibilities far beyond his comprehension, leaving an indelible mark on his soul.

Overwhelmed by emotions, Paul found himself speechless, opting to stay silent and offer his unwavering support to Brock during these trying times, feeling it was the only way he could truly be there for his friend.

Rose is unpredictable, discreetly assign shadow guards to ensure the safety of Jess and her family.

Brock commanded after a brief silence.

I will ensure their safety at all times.

Paul assured Brock as the music and dancing began to wind down.

How's the preparation for tomorrow's banquet?

Brock quizzed as he rose to his feet, his coat snugly enveloping him to protect against the biting chill of the night.

They are awaiting your arrival in the hidden chamber next to the water fountain at the rear of the garden.

Hmm,

That was the only cue Paul needed to lead the way to the secret chamber.

Greetings your Highness.

The soldiers, numbering in the hundreds, echoed their voices as Brock entered the room, his typical cold demeanour commanding immediate respect. He surveyed the space, seemingly searching for someone, until his gaze finally settled on James Lan. This was the man who was betrothed to his sweetheart, posing the only barrier to his happiness with Jess.

In the night, urgent commands echoed. Elite guards were sent to the border, their eyes sharp and vigilant.

You are to report any hint of suspicious activity that threatens the tranquility of this realm and assist in uncovering the secrets surrounding Olu Bethmot's potential conspiracy with the Northern Kingdom.

Brock, his face concealed by a mask and hood, issued commands in his deep baritone voice. Although the soldiers couldn't see his features, the unmistakable tone of his voice and the golden sword hanging from Paul's belt made it clear that he was the crown prince.

Elder James's arrest must be kept under wraps to prevent alerting the spies prowling the city. I sense that the real puppet master, manipulating events from behind the scenes, will soon make their move.

Understood? Brock roared.

Yes sire.

The soldiers replied, standing at attention.

The soldiers quickly left the secret chamber once the order was issued, but Rydal and James were requested to stay behind, as the crown prince wished to speak with them.

Brock couldn’t suppress a smile as he watched James Lan fidget, his eyes glued to the ground. He had only agreed to meet Rose as a clever pretext to connect with the soldiers and finally catch a glimpse of James Lane before the big day tomorrow. The time had come to put his plans into motion, and James Lan was a pivotal part of that strategy.

James Lan was a striking figure, known for his curly dark hair and tall stature. His sun-kissed complexion added to his allure. Brock, observing him intently, couldn't help but compare himself to James Lan.

Brock possessed the accolades and physique that many girls fawned over. His well-defined six-pack abs were a testament to his intense workout regimen, honed during his years in the military, which surpassed James Lan's.

Brock was convinced that James Lan was unsuitable to marry Jess, especially considering how his indecisiveness had nearly put her in jeopardy.

He understood that a beautiful woman like Jess, who was past the usual age for marriage in Zaza, would attract many suitors, including those willing to resort to coercive methods, such as Edmund. James seemed far too laid-back about the whole situation, giving the impression that he was indifferent to the possibility of someone else claiming his fiancée.

Brock felt a storm of emotions as he realised that urging Jess to break off her engagement to James Lan would only lead to heartbreak and chaos. His heart ached with longing, but he knew he couldn't force Jess into such a decision.

Instead, he chose a path of patience and hope. Deep down, he wished that if James Lan were to end the engagement, it would open the door for him to embrace Jess as his beloved wife and queen, without the weight of guilt bearing down on him.

A touch of wealth and power unveils a man's true self, Brock mused. All he needed to do was cast his net and observe as it worked to his advantage. A smile crept across his face at the idea.