Bernault's gaze fixed on Tang, doubt evident on his face. "Their military strength is not to be underestimated. If our attack fails, it will be disastrous for Soltera."
Tang nodded slowly, but his thin, calculated smile remained. He carefully placed his wine glass on the table, as though emphasizing every word he was about to say. "Your Majesty, if I may suggest, we can use those bandits to our advantage. Put them on the front lines. Promise them great spoils if they succeed, and if they fail..." Tang paused, locking eyes with Bernault. "We only lose them and bandits are easily replaceable tools."
Bernault's laughter erupted, filling the room and nearly shattering its formal atmosphere. "Ah, perfect! A plan with benefits on all sides!"
But his smile gradually faded, replaced by a serious expression. "However, before that, I want to ensure a stronger bond between us. Before the attack begins, I propose a marriage between our children. This union will solidify our alliance."
Tang nodded in agreement. "Of course, Your Majesty. Such a marriage would form the foundation of trust between us."
"But there's a problem." Bernault leaned back in his chair, staring at the ceiling as though seeking a solution to his dilemma. "Our children have shown no interest in one another. We need a reason that everyone can accept."
Tang tilted his head slightly, his eyes narrowing as if weighing options. "Simply say they're in love—and, if necessary, spread rumors that they've violated norms before the marriage. A small scandal, while tarnishing the family name, will make the marriage appear urgent and unavoidable."
Bernault pondered, his right hand tapping the table softly. "You realize this could make my child a laughingstock across Soltera..."
"But this is a royal decree, Your Majesty," Tang interrupted firmly. "An order from a ruler must be executed without question."
Silence enveloped the room, broken only by the faint crackle of the fireplace. Finally, Bernault nodded slowly, a thin smile returning to his face. "Very well, Tang. I will consider your suggestion. Let us begin the preparations."
Tang nodded, satisfied. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I believe this is the best course for all of us."
Beneath the laughter and meticulously laid plans, unseen tensions began to tighten around every decision they made—a power game demanding more than mere strategy.
Nico stood in the center of the room, his gaze firm yet commanding. Everyone had gathered in the small hall usually reserved for family meetings. The atmosphere was silent, punctuated only by the faint crackle of the fireplace.
"Alright, everyone," Nico began, his measured tone cutting through the quiet. "Malik will marry next week. This decision is final."
The silence turned into murmurs of surprise. Even Malik himself stared at Nico, bewildered. But before anyone could speak, Nico continued, his voice lower and filled with conviction.
"Soon, our three-year plan will reach its peak. This journey has not been easy, and I know greater challenges lie ahead." He paused, his gaze sweeping across the room. "That is why I want all of you to be prepared. We cannot afford to falter."
Everyone nodded, their expressions turning serious. Nico then walked toward Malik, placing a firm hand on his shoulder.
"Malik," he said softly, but with a heavy tone, "your responsibilities after this will far exceed anything you've ever imagined. There will be much to bear. So always be wise in your decisions."
Malik swallowed hard, then nodded. He knew this was no ordinary piece of advice.
At the Tang family residence, preparations were in full swing. Chests filled with money, silk, and jewelry began to arrive. For three consecutive days, all of the Tang family's businesses were temporarily closed. The surrounding community reacted in various ways some rejoicing and sharing in the happiness, while others remained indifferent.
However, the atmosphere was starkly different at Jones's residence. In the secret meeting room alongside the top officials of the Black Tiger, Jones sat in deep thought. His expression was dark, and his restrained anger was evident.
"King Bernault's decree has been issued, and his daughter will marry into the Tang family," Jones growled. He slammed his fist on the table in front of him, causing his subordinates to flinch. "I had already planned for my child to marry Young Master Tang. This is an insult!"
The room fell silent for a moment, until one of his subordinates approached and whispered softly into his ear. Jones's eyes slowly widened, and then his lips curled into a smile. He began to chuckle softly, his laughter growing louder until it echoed throughout the room. "That's an excellent idea," he said. "Let's see if the Tang family can still stand tall after this."
The long-awaited day had arrived. The horse-drawn carriage carrying Malik made its way to the palace. The entire city of Soltera buzzed with excitement and curiosity. Everyone was eager to witness the grand wedding of Princess Viola and Malik, heir to the Tang family. But shortly after the carriage departed, shocking news shook the palace.
Malik's carriage was ambushed by an unknown group along the journey. The guards escorting the carriage were severely injured, and Malik himself was reported missing. Chaos quickly engulfed the palace. King Bernault, who initially appeared composed, now displayed a burning fury. Princess Viola was pale, frightened, and deeply worried about her fiancé's safety.
"Investigate this immediately! Deploy all our forces!" King Bernault commanded, his booming voice echoing through the grand hall. Soldiers and spies promptly sprang into action. The name Jones, leader of the Black Tiger, immediately surfaced as the prime suspect. However, without evidence, King Bernault refrained from launching a direct attack.
In the corner of the hall, Nico stood calmly, his eyes sharp and calculating. He observed the commotion around him, waiting for the news he knew would soon come. Not long after, a man approached him and whispered quietly into his ear, "Master Yufei has secured Young Master Malik. We found him injured but safe. What are your next orders?"