British Imperial Family…
Among the top martial families all over the world, the major dominating family in Europe is the Imperial family.
Even the 7 Headed Octopus organisation who make rules for martial people, has to consider the opinion of the Imperial family.
At present…
Inside the grand imperial hall, Emperor Jamie Smith sat before a circular table.
His expression was grim, his eyes fixed on the document placed before him.
Beside him, Queen Sophie Smith maintained a composed posture, though the tension in her gaze revealed her concern.
Before them stood a decorated officer, his uniform adorned with golde medals that reflected years of service.
"Your Majesty," The officer Kingsley spoke with utmost respect. "The reports have been verified. The Frost family of China and the Indian Clark family are forming a marriage alliance. We have visual confirmation."
He stepped forward and placed several photographs on the table.
Jamie Smith picked one up, his expression darkening as he studied the image. Tony Clark and Lily Frost sat side by side, surrounded by elders. The atmosphere in the photograph alone spoke volumes.
The emperor's grip tightened.
"That cunning Rion Clark…" he muttered under his breath. "I thought he would fall into decline with a son like Tony. A useless heir with no martial potential."
His voice hardened as he crumpled the photograph in his hand. "But now… everything changes."
Queen Sophie leaned slightly forward, placing a hand gently over his. "Calm yourself… The marriage is not yet finalized. There is still room to intervene." She said softly.
Jamie glanced at her with a serious look.
"Yes, husband… If that girl, Lily Frost, is truly agreeing for the sake of her family, then all we need is a spark. Something to disrupt the balance. Pride, misunderstanding, conflict… these things are enough to turn allies into enemies."
A faint smile appeared on her lips.
"And once they turn against each other, the alliance will collapse on its own."
The emperor leaned back slightly, considering her words before shifting his gaze toward Kingsley. "Do you have something planned?"
Kingsley's expression changed subtly, a hint of confidence appearing. "Your Majesty, direct action is not possible at the moment. As long as Tony remains within the Clark family's territory, he is untouchable. However…" he paused briefly, then allowed a faint smile, "I anticipated this situation."
Jamie's eyes narrowed slightly. "Go on."
"We have a guest," Kingsley said, clapping his hands once.
The doors opened.
An elderly man stepped inside, dressed in refined attire, his posture confident, his expression calm yet calculating.
The moment Jamie saw him, his eyes widened slightly.
"Sukhoi Clark…" he said slowly. (The Third Elder of the Clark family.)
Sukhoi stepped forward and bowed politely. "Your Majesty, it is an honor to finally meet you in person."
Jamie let out a quiet chuckle with a sharp judging look. "The honor is mine. I didn't expect a lion from the Clark family to walk into my court willingly."
Queen Sophie watched the exchange carefully before intervening. "Let's not waste time. You didn't come here for pleasantries."
Sukhoi straightened, his smile faint but deliberate. "Of course not. I came because we share a common concern."
Jamie leaned forward slightly. "And what would that be?"
Sukhoi's eyes darkened. "Tony Clark."
Silence settled in the room.
"My son, Kevin Clark, is far more capable as a family prince," Sukhoi continued. "He has the strength, the discipline, and the potential to lead the family. Yet that boy… Tony is placed above him simply because of status."
His voice carried restrained frustration. "That must change."
Jamie studied him carefully. "And what do you expect from us?"
Sukhoi didn't hesitate. "I want Tony removed from the position of prince."
The emperor tapped his fingers lightly against the table. "Removed… how? Eliminated?!"
Before Sukhoi could answer, Queen Sophie spoke. "And what about Leo Clark? The second son. If Tony falls, wouldn't he take the position?"
Sukhoi shook his head slightly. "That won't be a problem. Tony is the key. Once he is out of the way, I can handle the rest."
Jamie's expression remained unreadable. "You speak with confidence. But tell me… what does the Imperial family gain from helping you?"
Sukhoi's smile widened slightly.
"I believe you already know the answer," he said calmly. "If the Frost and Clark families unite, they will become a force capable of rivaling even the Imperial family. By helping me, you are not only preventing that alliance… you are securing your dominance."
The room fell silent.
"That alone isn't enough." Queen Sophie intervened.
Before she could continue, Jamie raised his hand, stopping her. He leaned forward, his eyes locking onto Sukhoi's.
"We will help you," he said slowly. "But in return, once your son becomes the head of the Clark family… you will pledge loyalty to the Imperial family."
"I agree." Sukhoi didn't hesitate… His answer came instantly.
Jamie's lips curved into a faint smile. "Good. Then we have an agreement."
He turned toward Kingsley. "Prepare a plan. We don't need to kill Tony. A boy like him doesn't require that. Destroy his reputation in public... Make him lose face. If the Frost family sees him as a disgrace, they will break the marriage themselves."
Kingsley nodded, though his expression remained cautious. "Your Majesty, as long as he remains within the Clark estate, our options are limited."
Before Jamie could respond, Sukhoi spoke again. "I have a solution."
Both the emperor and queen turned toward him.
"If the Imperial family uses its influence to grant Tony a position in the Nine Lotus Academy," Sukhoi said calmly, "my brother will have no reason to refuse. He will send Tony there without suspicion."
A faint, dangerous smile appeared on his face. "And once he leaves the protection of the Clark family…"
He didn't need to finish… Jamie's expression brightened slightly.
"That… is an excellent idea."
Queen Sophie nodded in agreement. "Our son, Prince Mark, is already in the Nine Lotus Academy. He will personally ensure that Tony's life there is… unforgettable."
A quiet laughter spread among them.
Jamie picked up his wine glass and raised it slowly.
"To a future without unnecessary obstacles."
Sukhoi and Kingsley followed… Their glasses met with a soft, echoing sound... smiles spread wide.