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.

smoothly. “You’re a distinguished guest of

didn’t know how to respond. He could only

has nothing to do with us. Even if blood spills in the streets, it won’t

differed from Oakvale. Over the years, the two regions had an unspoken understanding or rule not to

Lucozian monarchy stays out of it, people will still be watching. The ones

not, circumstances forced action, whether one decided to take

about. What’s your family’s stance on all this?” Austin

Jovian was momentarily caught off guard. He hadn’t expected the

of contemplation, he said, “Frankly, we’re just as troubled by this situation. We’re caught in a tough spot and can’t make a move.

the outcome, they had no choice but

knowingly. “You came to West Lucozia hoping we’d show you

some guidance

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

I’m not sure who you mean, Your Highness.

people in Oakvale had the power to

can’t be revealed just yet,” Austin said cryptically. “But

only made Jovian more restless. Austin had said a lot, yet somehow, he had revealed nothing. Jovian had come to find a solution, but with each passing moment,