An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“In response to Your Lordship’s question, this marriage alliance between our two families isn’t my decision alone-it’s also my godfather’s and the entire Mosey family’s,” Anders said with a smile.

“According to the established rules, marriages between royal bloodlines are forbidden. Have you forgotten?” Simon replied coolly.

“Sticking to outdated rules only holds us back,” Anders said, shaking his head with a smile.

He continued, “Right now, Dragonmarsh is going through a turbulent time-internally and externally. I’ve also heard the king’s health is deteriorating. There are rumors he plans to name a successor and step down soon.

“With that, Oakvale will likely be in turmoil. When that happens, all the powerful families-the four ancient houses, the eight great families, and other factions-will be dragged into the chaos.

“That’s why I’m hoping our families can form a marriage alliance to navigate the coming crisis together.”

to name a successor. Why would there be turmoil?

Lordship, I think you’re missing the

He frowned and said, “Every time there’s a struggle for the throne, it ends in bloodshed. You’ve been in government long enough to understand this. Or

to get involved in this conflict, and we have no intention of taking sides in the struggle for the throne. My family has always remained neutral, and

family’s intentions. First, they aimed to form

crowned, the Mosey family’s status would rise to even greater heights. Ultimately, it was all driven by the pursuit of

you don’t mind my bluntness. If your family were merely a third-rate

Anders’s expression turned serious.

your family is one of the four ancient houses, and as Duke, you hold a position of

you only have two options. The first is to take a side now and back the rise of the next king. If you do that, you’ll be counted among those who helped secure his throne, and the Ballard family will thrive for

try to stay neutral, but that won’t satisfy anyone. In the