An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“Your Highness! Please mind your words,” Jovian quickly cautioned. He glanced around nervously, as if afraid someone might be eavesdropping.

Speculating on Valon’s fate in private was an act of grave disrespect. If someone with a hidden agenda spread this information, a ruined reputation would be the least of their concerns-what came after would be far worse.

“Relax, Mr. Jovian. We’re in West Lucozia, not Oakvale. Here, we can say whatever we want without worry.” Austin smiled faintly, showing no concern.

These were well-known facts, so what was the harm in saying them out loud? Keeping quiet wouldn’t change a thing, anyway. What a joke.

“Ahem… perhaps I was overthinking it.” Jovian let out an awkward chuckle. He knew Austin wasn’t wrong, but his cautious nature kept him from discussing Valon’s affairs too openly.

“Honestly, a lot of people have been showing up in West Lucozia lately. There’s a whole group standing outside right now, and they’re all here for the same reason as you.

“They’re trying to figure out whether we have any hidden ambitions and whether we’ll interfere with Oakvale’s affairs.” Austin took a sip of tea and deliberately paused for effect.

“Oh? And have you given them an answer, Your Highness?” Jovian asked tentatively.

“An answer? Hell no!” Austin sneered. “I haven’t given those people outside a second thought. Who do they think they are? Do they even have the right to probe us?”

Jovian shifted uncomfortably in his seat.

“You’re a distinguished guest of our family. Those nobodies outside aren’t even

know how to respond. He could

rises to power and claims the throne in Oakvale has nothing to do with us. Even if blood spills in

years, the two regions had an unspoken understanding or rule not to interfere with

are on you. Even if the West Lucozian monarchy stays out of it,

often than not, circumstances forced action, whether one decided to take a side

something I’m curious about. What’s your family’s stance on all this?” Austin

was momentarily caught off guard. He hadn’t expected the conversation to turn toward

We’re caught in a tough spot and can’t make a move. As

control over the outcome, they had no choice

“You came to West Lucozia hoping we’d show

“If you could provide some guidance and help our family out of

call it guidance, but we can certainly exchange insights.” Austin smiled faintly. “There’s no need for your family to worry too much. Like they say, when the time comes, everything will fall into place. When that

I’m not sure

the power to change the outcome. Who could possibly be the Ballard

can’t be revealed just yet,” Austin said cryptically. “But when the time is right,

said a lot, yet somehow, he had revealed nothing. Jovian had come to find a solution, but with each passing