An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2451

Chapter 2451

“Young prince! Watch your words!”

Tobias quickly cautioned Austin, glancing anxiously around the room, as if fearing unseen ears beyond the walls.

Discussing the life and death of officials in private was a serious offense, a grave act of disrespect.

If word got out, even by someone with malicious intent, it wouldn’t just tarnish Austin’s reputation—it could lead to dire consequences.

“Uncle Ballard, don’t worry. This is West Lucozia, not Oakvale. Here, we can speak freely without reservation.” Austin’s faint smile radiated confidence, his demeanor utterly unconcerned.

“It’s public knowledge anyway. What’s the harm in saying a few words? Staying silent won’t shield me from death, will it?” He chuckled coldly. “What nonsense.”

“Ahem… perhaps I’ve been overly cautious,” Tobias responded with an awkward laugh.

Though he recognized the truth in Austin’s words, Tobias remained vigilant, unwilling to openly comment on matters of high-ranking officials.

“Uncle Ballard, let me be frank. A lot of people have arrived in West Lucozia lately, and even now, some of them are standing just outside this door. Like you, they’re all here to assess whether the West Lucozia Palace harbors any ambitions and whether it might interfere in Oakvale’s affairs.” Austin sipped his tea deliberately, his words slow and measured.

“Oh? And how did the young prince respond?” Tobias ventured cautiously.

“Pfft! Respond?” Austin scoffed, curling his lips in disdain. “I ignored them. Who are they to test the Rhys family? Are they even qualified?”

Tobias looked visibly uneasy at Austin’s bold dismissal.

“Of course, Uncle Ballard, you’re different. You are an honored guest of the Rhys family—those outsiders can’t hold a candle to you.” Austin smoothly shifted the tone, offering Tobias a hint of reassurance.

Tobias could only laugh awkwardly, unsure of how to respond.

“Let’s get to the heart of the matter, Uncle Ballard. Whoever claims the throne in Oakvale is no concern of the Rhys family. Even if Oakvale descends into chaos and bloodshed, it won’t affect West Lucozia. We have no interest in meddling in others’ business,” Austin declared confidently.

The Rhys family’s roots were firmly planted in West Lucozia, a world apart from Oakvale. For years, the two regions had followed an unspoken agreement not to interfere with each other.

“That’s true,” Tobias agreed cautiously. “But even the tallest tree draws attention. Whether or not the West Lucozia Palace takes action, it will inevitably attract scrutiny. Those people outside are proof of that.”

He sighed, his tone heavy with experience. “Many times, even when you don’t want to act, circumstances and people will push you into the fray.”

“Speaking of that, I’m curious—what’s the Ballard family’s stance on this turmoil?” Austin suddenly countered, his gaze sharp.

“Ah? The Ballard family?” Tobias hesitated, clearly caught off guard.

After a moment of thought, he replied, “To be honest, young prince, the Ballard family is deeply troubled by this situation. We’re stuck, unable to make a decision. As the saying goes, one wrong step could lead to total ruin. We don’t dare gamble.”

He sighed again, the weight of the situation evident. Being trapped in such a political storm, without the power to influence the outcome, left the Ballard family with no choice but to tread carefully.

“That’s understandable,” Austin said, nodding thoughtfully. Then, with a knowing smile, he added, “So, you’ve come to West Lucozia hoping the Rhys family can offer you guidance, correct?”

“You’re wise, young prince!” Tobias stood up abruptly, bowing deeply. “If the young prince could offer some advice to help the Ballard family escape this predicament, we would be eternally grateful!”

“I wouldn’t say I can offer advice, but I’m open to discussion,” Austin said with a faint smile. “Frankly, Uncle Ballard, there’s no need for your family to worry too much. As they say, when the time comes, the path will reveal itself. And if things truly spiral out of control, noble allies will step forward to help.”

“Noble allies?” Tobias asked, startled. “Who might the young prince be referring to?”

In all of Oakvale, few had the influence to sway such a volatile situation. Who could possibly serve as the Ballard family’s benefactor?

“That’s a secret,” Austin said cryptically. “When the time is right, Uncle Ballard, you’ll understand.”

Tobias couldn’t hide his frustration. Austin’s words revealed just enough to intrigue him but left too much unsaid.

He had come seeking clarity, but instead, he left with even more unanswered questions.

“Uncle Ballard, don’t stress yourself. Stay at the palace tonight and relax. Tomorrow morning, I’ll accompany you back to Oakvale,” Austin announced suddenly.

“What? Young prince, you’re heading to Oakvale as well?” Tobias exclaimed in surprise.

“Of course. It’s dull staying home all day. I’ll take this chance to visit Oakvale. Besides, my uncle, the emperor, is nearing the end of his life. As his nephew, it’s only proper for me to pay my respects,” Austin said casually.

His mother had been the eldest princess, making the emperor his uncle. Yet their relationship was distant, and any notion of deep familial affection was far-fetched.

Still, his royal lineage gave him a legitimate reason to visit Oakvale openly.

“I see,” Tobias murmured in understanding. “But, young prince, Oakvale is in turmoil. You must exercise caution while there.”

“Why? Do you think someone would dare harm me?” Austin asked, smirking mischievously. “I almost wish someone would try. It would give my West Lucozia cavalry a chance to showcase their strength.”

Tobias coughed awkwardly, choosing to remain silent.

This young man was utterly fearless, his boldness bordering on arrogance.

Still, his confidence wasn’t entirely misplaced. After all, anyone reckless enough to challenge Austin would face the wrath of hundreds of thousands of West Lucozia’s elite cavalry.