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Prince Theron went to the attached chamber connected to the King's study where he saw important military officials accompanying his father. The meeting was already in full swing, and all those in attendance had gloomy expressions on their faces. Seeing the heavy atmosphere, he understood there must be some disruptive news of national importance. He greeted his father who was sitting at the head table and sat on the empty chair nearest to him.

"What is the matter, Father?" he asked.

"We have received news that two nights ago, our military forces had been defeated by the army of Thevailes and they have captured five towns and a city along the border of the western territory," the King informed in a grave tone.

This surprised the Crown Prince. "How did this happen? How could we only receive news of this after we lost the western fortress?"

King Esteban sighed. "It only meant that it was an unforeseen full-scale attack of their entire army, not the usual skirmishes those stationed in the borders are prepared for."

"I still do not understand. Our military had always managed to defeat them and even pushed them back. General Maceo himself was leading the army stationed in the western fortress, and it was impossible for him to lose when he was holding the fort. Even before that happens, he would have requested reinforcements from the other fortresses."

"You are right Prince Theron," said one of the officials. "From what we received, the General was ambushed and heavily injured, that was why it was his new deputy who had to arrange troops against the siege attack. Unfortunately, he's still a greenhorn lacking experience, because he was overwhelmed by the  military support Thevailes got from Othinia."

"Othinia? Thevailes allied with another kingdom?"

"Yes, Your Highness. A princess of Othinia is engaged to the Crown Prince of Thevailes and was promised to be his main wife. She is the daughter of the King of Othinia's younger brother. After this arrangement, Thevailes asked for military support from them and here is the result."

Prince Theron glared at the official. "Weren't we aware of it? Is our kingdom's intelligence collection lacking? Are you slacking on your work, Marquis?"

"No, Your Highness." The official shivered under the glare, but he was a man of the military, and thus, he wasn't one to cower. "Our spies are working hard for us to collect timely information. Unfortunately this time, Thevailes has decided on this political marriage in haste to get secret help from Othinia. They also stationed their soldiers along the western mountain ranges, eluding the eyes of our scouts."

The Crown Prince sighed and heard another official report, "Not just that, but we also heard Thevailes had also asked for the help of Abetha and Griven as well. The King of Abetha is still grieving over his Queen's demise so it seems like he had rejected their request, while as we know, the King of Griven is a pacifist and had decided to stay away from war."

"This news I received just this morning is still unverified, but I heard one more thing that might affect the outcome of our war with Thevailes. There is a rumour going around that as soon as he gets over his grief, the King of Abetha plans to marry the daughter of the King of Othinia and make her the new Queen of Abetha. If this truly happens then those three kingdoms—Thevailes, Othinia and Abetha—will be tied together in a political marriage relationship which might lead Abetha to side with Thevailes," one more official said.

Prince Theron imagined such a situation and shook his head. "But Abetha doesn't have a good relationship with Thevailes so it is most unlikely."

"Anything can happen, son," King Esteban told him. "Do not easily turn a blind eye to possibilities. Always be prepared. There are instances where you should never think with rational thoughts, as war is never rational in the first place. Benefits and interest are all that matters. Do you think Abetha won't join hands with Thevailes? Or that the King of Griven won't participate since he wants his kingdom to remain peaceful? It is just that Thevailes did not promise them a compensation that will satisfy them. Our kingdom has doubled the size of its territory ever since I have sat on the throne, and not only those who share our borders fear the increasing power of Megaris. With a larger territory, the larger resources we can wield, and the more people can be recruited into the army, further strengthening the kingdom. It is only a matter of time until the other large kingdoms come together against us."

"I will remember your words. It seems I am still lacking, Father." The Crown Prince nodded and looked at the faces of those seated around the table. "We have to direct more military power on the western border. I will personally lead the army."

Most of the officials refused his suggestion.

"Crown Prince, the situation at the western border is not good at all."

"I suggest you wait for the generals from the other fortresses to handle the situation first. After we reacquire the western fortress, then it is not too late to join the war."

"Your Highness, you are the only heir to the throne. We can not risk your life."

Prince Theron knew that this group of officials were simply looking out for his safety, but he was still displeased.

"I am the Crown Prince of this kingdom and it is my duty to risk my life to protect my people," said the Crown Prince and he looked at his father with a determined gaze. "Father, please allow me to go. I know I am still inexperienced, but it is because I am lacking that I must go learn from the generals that are already headed there. Like you, I too wish to experience real war on the battlefield. If I go there, it will also boost the morale of our defeated people. Please give this prince your permission, Your Majesty!"

King Esteban could not say no to his son's request, not when the young man had said many persuading points. Moreover, he knew his son was right. It was his duty to go there and protect this kingdom. Experiencing the difficulties of war would help him grow mature and wise, and those qualities were things that the future ruler of Megaris should have.

'My son has grown up splendidly.'

The King permitted him with a stern nod and instructed the officials, "Make arrangements for the Crown Prince to leave within the day."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

Prince Theron excused himself from the meeting as he had to prepare for departure.