An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2456

Chapter 2456

“You gentlemen seem to be in high spirits,” Tobias remarked, picking up his teacup and taking a sip. His tone was calm but firm. “I’m not one for surprises—I don’t handle scares well. Let’s keep the jokes to a minimum moving forward.”

“Of course,” the city guard commander replied with a polite smile, nodding. “This is our first meeting, and the general only wanted to lighten the mood. If we’ve offended you in any way, I apologize on his behalf. Please don’t take it personally.”

Hearing this, Tobias’s expression softened slightly. He wasn’t easily intimidated—if he had the courage to attend a gathering as risky as this, fear wasn’t in his nature.

If everyone could speak sensibly, he wouldn’t mind sharing a bit of information. But the problem was their overbearing demeanor. The constant threats and posturing as if he were insignificant left Tobias irritated. He restrained himself only out of courtesy.

“There’s no need to apologize,” Tobias said, his face unreadable. “If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave.”

As he spoke, Tobias made to rise from his seat. The conversation had reached a dead end, and staying longer seemed pointless.

“Wait a moment.”

Seeing Tobias prepare to leave, the city guard commander quickly stood and moved to stop him. “Since you’re here, why not make the most of it? We’ve only just met, barely exchanged a few words, and haven’t even finished our tea. Leaving now might give others the impression we didn’t host you properly.”

He walked over swiftly, his tone warm as he gestured for Tobias to sit again. Unlike Cardinal Dragon Marshal’s harsh approach, the city guard commander opted for a softer, more conciliatory tone.

If intimidation didn’t work, kindness might. After all, someone had to play the “good cop” to balance the dynamic.

“Do you have any other questions, gentlemen?” Tobias asked coolly, sitting down again but clearly disinterested in further pretense.

“Mr. Ballard, we’re all intelligent men here, so I’ll get straight to the point,” the city guard commander said, dropping any pretense. “We both know Oakvale is in turmoil, with all sorts of factions stirring up trouble. At this critical moment, the West Lucozia Palace holds significant influence. So tell us—did the young prince reveal anything to you? For instance, who he plans to support or any other arrangements he might have made?”

The question was no longer subtle—it was blunt and straightforward. If Tobias continued to feign ignorance, there would be consequences.

“If you had asked me this earlier, I’d have understood your intentions, and we wouldn’t have wasted so much time,” Tobias said, his tone sharp with meaning.

“So, did the young prince tell you something?” The city guard commander leaned forward, his eagerness evident.

The others in the room also turned their attention fully to Tobias, their eyes brimming with anticipation.

“I understand your concern, but unfortunately, the young prince didn’t share any such information with me,” Tobias replied, shaking his head firmly.

“How is that possible?” The Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion frowned deeply. “You spent a long time with him in the palace. Were you only discussing trivial family matters?”

“Exactly, Mr. Ballard. We agreed to be honest with each other, yet you’re holding back. That’s hardly fair,” the city guard commander added, narrowing his eyes in displeasure.

Next to him, Cardinal Dragon Marshal said nothing, but his dark expression and tense posture made his anger clear.

“My lords, I’ve told you nothing but the truth,” Tobias said, his voice steady. “I did ask the young prince questions, but he didn’t give me any answers. There’s nothing more I can offer.”

“Do you think we’re fools? Do you really expect us to believe that nonsense?!” Cardinal Dragon Marshal slammed the table, his anger erupting once more.

“General, let’s not rush to conclusions,” the city guard commander interjected, quickly placing a hand on the marshal’s arm to calm him. Turning back to Tobias, he smiled diplomatically. “Mr. Ballard, we’re not asking for this information without offering something in return. How about this: if you tell us the truth, the three of us will owe you a favor. If you ever face trouble in the future, we’ll step in to help. Surely that’s a deal worth considering?”

To him, Tobias’s reluctance was a clear attempt to negotiate for better terms. The promise of help from three high-ranking officials was a valuable offer, far beyond material wealth.

“The offer is indeed tempting,” Tobias said, shaking his head with a faint smile. “But I truly don’t know anything. The young prince invited me to the palace for tea and conversation. We discussed family matters, walked around, and enjoyed some refreshments. State affairs never came up. If you don’t believe me, you can ask Stephan outside—he was with me the whole time and can confirm my words.”

“He’s your ally; of course he’d vouch for you,” the Grand Secretary of Dragon Pavilion retorted sharply.

“Then why don’t we confront the young prince together?” Tobias countered, his tone unyielding. “Let’s see if I’ve lied about anything.”

“You—!” The Grand Secretary was left speechless, knowing full well that confronting the prince would only backfire. If the prince learned of their coercion, his wrath would be swift and unforgiving.

“My lords, I’ve shared everything I know and cooperated fully. If you still refuse to believe me, there’s nothing more I can do,” Tobias concluded, his calm demeanor unshaken.

Silence fell over the room. They were caught in a dilemma—uncertain whether Tobias was being truthful or playing a deeper game.