An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Grandfather, I understand why you sent Uncle Jonathan and Uncle Jensen to the Spanner and Fallon families to gather information,” Natasha began. “But West Lucozia is thousands of miles away.”

She shook her head slightly. “They’ve always stayed out of the government’s political matters. Sending Uncle Jovian there wouldn’t achieve anything. He’d likely just be turned away.”

Oakvale and West Lucozia were worlds apart. The fight for the Oakvale throne didn’t really affect the West Lucozian monarchy. Both sides had long adhered to an unspoken agreement to avoid meddling in each other’s affairs.

“I know, but it’ll be different this time. The royal throne is at stake, and every faction will do whatever it takes to secure West Lucozia’s support. If the West Lucozian monarchy picks a side, the balance we’ve maintained for years will collapse. That’s why I need to be ready for whatever happens,” Simon replied.

It would be best if the West Lucozian monarchy stayed out of the political struggle, but if they ever stepped in, Oakvale would be thrown into chaos. With hundreds of thousands of cavalry under their command, even the slightest movement on their part could send shockwaves through the region.

“Grandfather, what if… I mean, what if they do decide to interfere in the battle for succession? What happens then?” Natasha asked hesitantly.

“If the West Lucozian monarchy truly intends to intervene, then that’s actually good news for us,” Simon replied. “At least we won’t have to keep second-guessing. Whoever they support, we will as well. That way, we can be sure we’re on the right side.”

The four ancient houses and the eight great families paled in comparison to the West Lucozian monarchy. If the Prince of West Lucozia decided to act, he could install a puppet ruler and control the outcome.

Natasha quickly understood. “So, you’re sending Uncle Jovian to see if the West Lucozian monarchy plans to interfere with the royal family?”

“My main concern is whether he’ll even be able to get into the castle. Our family’s influence doesn’t carry much weight there.

“Simon sighed.

Oakvale. Their influence was so strong

it was an entirely different matter. It was a place where not even the royal family could interfere. All the connections, power, and prestige the Ballard family held in Oakvale meant nothing in

West Lucozian monarchy,

wouldn’t have spoken up, but given Natasha and her

surprised. “Do you have connections in the West

can arrange for someone to meet Mr. Jovian in West Lucozia. That should

get

have a connection to help us, everything will go much more smoothly.” Simon smiled and

favor. I’ll make the call now,” Dustin replied with a faint smile. He pulled out his phone and dialed Austin’s

call connected, an excited voice came through. “Logan!

miserable I’ve been these past days? You’ve got to come back and help me. Without you standing up for me, that old man is driving me crazy.” Austin started venting right away. He complained so much that

Dustin said before going

I’ll handle it, no matter the

Jovian Ballard, from the Ballard family in Oakvale. He’ll be going to West Lucozia soon to handle some

got me all fired up. Turns out