Night fell swiftly, enveloping the army camp in darkness. Bonfires crackled to life across the soldiers' tents and gathering spots, casting flickering shadows and warming the cool night air.
Following Aengus' confirmation, the generals busied themselves with preparations for the upcoming battle, aiming to reclaim the territory stolen from the Skyfall Kingdom.
Meanwhile, Aengus sat deep in thought within the newly rebuilt house constructed by General Martin. Plans and strategies for the coming days occupied his mind.
Aria had stepped out to spend time with her father and family, leaving Aengus alone for the moment.
The quiet of the night was broken by the sound of measured footsteps approaching his cottage.
Aengus glanced through the walls using his heightened senses and recognized King Araknis, accompanied by an unfamiliar old man, cautiously making their way to his door.
"Come in," Aengus said calmly, his voice carrying through the walls before they could knock.
The two old men froze, startled by the Emperor's awareness. After a brief pause, they collected themselves and entered the cottage in silence.
"That is some impressive observation skill, Your Imperial Highness!" King Milphomor said in an impressed tone, a hint of flattery lacing his words.
"Welcome. Take your seats," Aengus replied curtly, giving them a slight nod.
The two men seated themselves respectfully, one on the left and the other on the right.
"So, this is the former King of the Skyfall Kingdom? What business do you have with me?" Aengus asked calmly, his gaze sharp and unwavering.
Gravis Skyfall, the former king, was momentarily stunned by the young Emperor's knowledge and keen perception. That Aengus not only knew his name but also recognized his identity so effortlessly left him slightly taken aback.
King Milphomor signaled King Gravis to speak.
"Firstly, we would like to congratulate you on your ascension, Your Imperial Highness. I am sorry to bother you at this hour, but I have an important proposal to make," Gravis spoke respectfully.
"What is it? Please speak your mind, Your Imperial Highness," King Gravis asked eagerly. He was happy to hear they would regain their rule, even if it meant serving under the new Emperor, just as before.
King Araknis, however, wasn't as focused on the throne. He was more disappointed by the rejection of the marriage proposal. It had been their chance to strengthen ties with the new Emperor.
Aengus stated his condition slyly,
"Your kingdom will not have military power. Protection will be provided directly by the Liberation Empire. Of course, you may keep personal guards for your own safety. If you agree, we can proceed with handing over the throne we'll reclaim tomorrow."
This essentially meant they would become puppet kings with no true power to speak of, though they would still manage the kingdom's internal affairs.
Aengus planned to implement the same strategy for the other kingdoms he intended to conquer in the near future. The only exception would be Araknis Kingdom, due to his promise to General Leon.
King Gravis' old face fell, a reaction that didn't escape Aengus' sharp eyes.
"What? You can't agree? If so, perhaps you should forget about the throne," Aengus said coldly. "There will only be one army unified under our command."
Kings Araknis and Gravis flinched at the domineering pressure radiating from Aengus.
"Ah, no, Your Imperial Majesty. I agree with the proposal. I am sorry my old brain couldn't comprehend your great goal sooner. We will be one and unified. I am happy to receive the Liberation Empire's protection, actually," King Gravis replied, flustered.
King Gravis realized he had no choice but to agree. Besides, it wasn't entirely bad to relinquish military power to the Emperor while securing the Kingdom's protection.
Though he was convinced, he worried the nobles might disagree with the arrangement. Surrendering their forces to the Empire would strip them of power. As for the nobles who had betrayed King Gravis, they wouldn't even get the chance to bargain—they would be granted swift death.
That much confidence King Gravis had, especially after hearing King Milphomor's praise of the Young Emperor.
"Alright then, it's a deal. Have your soldiers join the Liberation Army as per the agreement. We will send an official document soon; be sure to sign it with your Kingdom's Crest," Aengus said, waving his hand dismissively.
"And one last thing: King Araknis, please tell your daughter that if she harbors any special feelings for me, it would be best for her to forget them," Aengus added, ignoring King Milphomor's depressed mood.
King Araknis could only acquiesce, giving Aengus a small nod.