An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2447

Chapter 2447

“Eat shit! I’m not in the mood for that right now. If you’re hungry, go eat by yourself!” Cardinal Dragon Marshal snapped, his anger barely contained.

“I’m not going either. I’m focusing on my health these days—only drinking tea, no alcohol,” the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion said, declining as well.

“Suit yourselves. If you want to keep waiting, go ahead. I’m not wasting any more time here,” the city guard commander replied with a faint smile. Acting as though he were leaving, he turned around, only to nearly collide with Stephan, who was approaching nervously.

“Oh, I’m sorry, sir! Did I bump into you?” the city guard commander asked, stepping back slightly.

Stephan, overwhelmed by the presence of so many high-ranking officials, had been distracted and nearly caused an awkward scene. Panic-stricken, he stammered, struggling to compose himself.

Unlike many of the generals with strong family backgrounds or powerful connections, Stephan had worked tirelessly to achieve his position. He knew that one wrong move could ruin everything and send him back to square one.

The city guard commander frowned slightly at first but quickly softened and offered a reassuring smile. “It’s fine. You seem nervous. Did something happen? Why don’t you tell me about it?”

Though Stephan was only a third-ranking official, it wasn’t a minor role. If he were promoted in the future, he might even become a useful ally. Extending kindness now could pay off later.

“I—I have an urgent matter to discuss with the prince,” Stephan stammered, forcing a smile. “I wasn’t expecting to see all of you here. It’s quite overwhelming, honestly.”

“Oh? You want to see the prince too? What a coincidence,” the city guard commander said with a sly smile. “So do we.”

Before Stephan could respond, Cardinal Dragon Marshal barked, “Who do you think you are? How dare you show up here? Get lost!”

Stephan paled, nodding hastily. “Yes, yes, I’ll leave right away! I didn’t mean to intrude!” Bowing deeply, he turned to leave, his face drenched in sweat.

But before he could go, the city guard commander reached out and stopped him. “Relax. You’re already here, so you might as well make the most of it.”

Turning to Cardinal Dragon Marshal, the city guard commander added with a smirk, “General, this man is your subordinate, isn’t he? He hasn’t done anything wrong. Why are you so harsh? At least hear him out. What if he has critical military news? If you send him away and it leads to a disaster, the prince will hold you accountable.”

Cardinal Dragon Marshal scowled but relented. “Fine. Speak up. If you’ve got something to say, say it already!”

Stephan swallowed hard and nodded quickly. “Yes, sir. It’s like this—Tobias Ballard, the third son of the Ballard family, has come to visit West Lucozia. He asked me to deliver a visiting card and express his desire to meet the prince.”

As soon as Stephan finished, the surrounding officials burst into laughter.

“Tobias Ballard? The third son of the Ballard family? Never heard of him. Tell him to get lost!” Cardinal Dragon Marshal declared bluntly.

If it had been Simon Ballard, Cardinal Dragon Marshal might have shown some respect. But a spoiled rich kid living under his father’s shadow? He wasn’t worth any attention.

“What does he think this is—a public park anyone can stroll into?” the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion sneered. “The West Lucozia Palace isn’t a place for nobodies.”

The three first-rank officials, still waiting outside the gate, were already frustrated by their situation. Now, the idea that some random upstart thought he could waltz in and see the prince like them was beyond insulting.

“Get out of here!” Cardinal Dragon Marshal shouted again. “You’re embarrassing yourself just by standing here. It’s annoying to even look at you!”

“Yes, yes! I’ll leave right away!” Stephan stammered, bowing deeply. Sweat poured down his face, but he didn’t dare wipe it. Turning to leave, he tried to slip away as quietly as possible.

Suddenly, the heavy vermilion gates of the palace let out a soft creak and began to open.