Meanwhile…
Ismael had been thinking about what Aries had told her during their last conversation. Until now, he had seen nothing that was worthy of the trade of the seal she surrendered to Joaquin. He hadn't stopped from working on strengthening his forces, but he kept everyone at arm's length — even Enrique, the fourth prince.
He couldn't make the same mistake as before because Ismael was hundred percent certain the next time he would commit such a mistake, it would be the end for him. Even if it wasn't Joaquin, Aries would surely cut him off without batting an eye.
So while Aries was busying herself with things he couldn't comprehend, Ismael had to do what he had to do. That was on top of garnering loyal people who would die for him and had seen the real colors of the crown prince, he was conducting his own investigation.
This time around, Ismael was working alone. He could only trust himself.
