The Path to Becoming Emperor

The echo of Lysandra's footsteps faded, leaving Max alone in the dimness of his room. He observed his reflection in the window glass, wondering if he was prepared for what was to come. In the novel, Maxilian had been crushed by the court's intrigue, his obsession with the saint, and his excessive arrogance.

That won't happen this time.

For now, his priorities were clear: strengthen his position, earn the loyalty of key allies, and, above all, avoid getting involved with the protagonists of the original story.

Determined, Max headed to the desk in his room. While rummaging through the papers, he found a detailed map of the Kingdom of Helvorn. It was a vast place, surrounded by rival kingdoms and natural dangers. His position as the fourth prince left him in an uncomfortable position: close enough to the throne to be considered a political tool, but too far to be a real threat.

If I don't have my family's favor, I will have to earn my own place.

A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.

—Who is it?

"It's me, your highness," replied Helena's voice from the other side.

—Go ahead.

The door opened and Helena entered, her expression as neutral as ever. She closed the door behind her and crossed her arms.

"What was all that in the training field?" she asked, straightforwardly.

Max leaned back in his chair, holding his gaze.

—What do you mean?

"Don't take me for a fool, Your Highness." For years, I have been your shadow, and I can say with certainty that the Maxilian I knew would not have lasted more than five minutes there, much less with a sword in hand.

—People change, Helena.

"Change?" she repeated, her tone skeptical. If he has really changed, I hope it's for the better. Otherwise, I won't live to see another one of his failures.

Her words were like knives, but Max didn't flinch.

—If you don't believe me, watch. I don't intend to waste this second chance.

Helena narrowed her eyes, but said nothing more. Finally, she nodded and turned towards the door.

—For now, I will fulfill my duty. But I hope your actions back up your words.

Max watched her leave, feeling a mix of gratitude and frustration. He knew he would have to earn Helena's trust over time, just like everyone else's in the castle.

First, I need to start gathering allies.

The next morning, Max decided to explore the castle gardens. He knew that the court was a hotbed of rumors and that any change in his behavior would be noticed. However, he was aware that remaining isolated would only perpetuate his image as an arrogant and useless prince.

As she walked among the carefully trimmed bushes and marble fountains, she spotted a young woman sitting by a pond. She had blonde hair styled in an elaborate updo and a sky-blue dress that reflected her status as a high-ranking noblewoman.

Lysanne.

He recognized her immediately. In the novel, Lysanne was a key figure in the nobility: cunning, influential, and always one step ahead of her rivals. She had played a crucial role in the rise of the protagonists, using her intellect to dismantle the plots of the original Max.

Max stopped, considering whether he should approach. Finally, he decided that he had nothing to lose.

—Lady Lysanne, good morning.

The young woman looked up, her pale blue eyes studying him with curiosity.

—Prince Maxilian. What a surprise to see you here. Don't you usually avoid places like this?

Max smiled, already accustomed to the skepticism that his change in attitude generated.

—Maybe I'm learning to appreciate the simple things in life.

Lysanne let out a light laugh, although her gaze remained calculating.

—To what do I owe the honor of your company?

—Nothing in particular. I just thought it would be nice to enjoy a conversation with someone of your intelligence.

Lysanne tilted her head, clearly intrigued.

—Wow, it seems that your highness has developed a talent for compliments.

—No flattery, Lady Lysanne. Simply the truth.

For a brief moment, the young woman seemed to let her guard down, although she quickly regained her cold demeanor.

—If that's the case, maybe you should consider inviting me to a game of chess. I would like to see if your change is not just superficial.

Max smiled.

—I accept the challenge.

That very afternoon, Max received an unexpected invitation: an audience with the king.

The throne room was an intimidating place, decorated with reddish banners and statues representing the ancient monarchs of Helvorn. In the center, seated on a golden throne, was King Aldemar. His presence commanded respect, with his stern face and calculating gaze that seemed to pierce through anyone who dared to cross him.

Max bowed before the king, although his mind was full of questions. Why had he called him?

—Maxilian. —The king's voice resonated in the hall, strong and authoritative—. I have heard that you have been behaving... differently.

—That's right, father.

The king watched him in silence, evaluating him as if trying to discern the truth behind his words.

—I hope this change isn't just another one of your frivolities. Our kingdom is facing difficult times, and there is no place for weakness.

—I understand. That's why I've decided it's time to prove that I can be useful to the kingdom.

The king raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised by his response.

—We'll see if your actions back up your words. For now, I have a task for you.

Max tilted his head.

—What do you want me to do?

—I want you to oversee the next inspection at the eastern borders. It's a minor mission, but enough to prove your worth.

Max nodded, although he knew this task would not be as simple as it seemed. The eastern borders were a dangerous place, rife with bandits and territorial disputes.

—I will not fail you, Your Majesty.

The king observed him for a moment longer before nodding.

—I hope not.

As he left the throne room, Max couldn't help but feel relieved. It was a beginning, albeit a risky one. But if he wanted to change his destiny, he would have to face all the challenges that came his way, one by one.