An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2519

Chapter 2519

“Oh? I didn’t expect my eldest and second brothers to be here as well.”

As Nathaniel stepped into the mourning hall, prepared to pay his respects to the deceased, he noticed Tristan and Matthias standing there. He bowed politely. “Big Brother, Second Brother.”

He had anticipated this situation before arriving, so he wasn’t surprised in the slightest.

The eight powerful families and the four royal clans were all targets he sought to win over.

With the Ballard family still undecided on where their loyalties lay, he wouldn’t miss the chance to make an impression.

“Brother, I heard you left Oakvale on official business. What brings you back so soon?” Tristan asked, his tone laced with meaning.

“My matters were of little importance. The moment I heard of General Tobias’s heroic sacrifice, I rushed back immediately to personally see him off,” Nathaniel replied smoothly.

His response not only defused Tristan’s probing question but also gave him an opportunity to express his sincerity to the Ballard family.

“Brother, don’t just stand there. Light a stick of incense for General Tobias,” Matthias said casually.

“Of course.”

Nathaniel gave a slight nod, then stepped forward, lit an incense stick, and gazed at the late general’s portrait. His eyes reddened, his expression filled with sorrow.

“General Tobias, your passing is a profound loss for all of us—and for the nation itself.

Looking back, you led your troops into battle countless times, displaying extraordinary courage and unparalleled military talent. The stability of the capital, the safety of our people—your legacy is written into every moment of it.

Your bravery and unwavering dedication have inspired countless souls to serve this country. Today, as I stand before you, my heart is filled with deep admiration and sorrow. May you rest in peace. Your remarkable achievements will forever be remembered and recorded in history.”

With that, Nathaniel raised the incense stick solemnly above his head and bowed deeply before the coffin.

His words moved many in attendance.

They hadn’t expected the prince to be so heartfelt and devoted, and his grief-stricken demeanor was compelling.

Even though the Ballard family knew these were just well-crafted words, they couldn’t help but be touched.

Regardless of his true intentions, Nathaniel’s sincerity was on full display.

“My brother is quite the actor,” Tristan muttered, frowning. “He’s managed to outshine both of us with that performance.”

In comparison, Tristan felt his own efforts fell short. As the eldest prince, he had attended, paid his respects, and offered condolences—lowering his status as a gesture of respect. He had done his part.

Yet Nathaniel had gone even further. His heavy, sorrowful tone, the near-tears in his eyes—if someone didn’t know better, they might have thought he was mourning a parent.

Even if Nathaniel were to do it again, he likely couldn’t replicate the effect so perfectly.

“Hmph! Just tricks and theatrics,” Matthias sneered. “Everyone can see through his act. The Ballard family isn’t foolish—they know exactly what’s going on.”

“Matthias,” Tristan said thoughtfully, “there’s a saying: ‘Flattery never wears out.’ Even if you know someone is just saying pretty words, if they say them well enough, people still enjoy hearing them. That’s Nathaniel’s brilliance.”

Flattery alone wouldn’t change the political landscape, but at crucial moments, it could certainly leave an impression.

If two people had equal capabilities, but one was eloquent while the other was indifferent, it was obvious who would win favor.

As Tristan and Matthias exchanged quiet words, Simon, dressed in mourning attire, slowly entered the hall, supported by Natasha.

The room instantly fell silent.

“Greetings, Duke of Lachshire!”

Everyone bowed in unison.

Even the eldest prince followed suit, paying his respects as a junior.

In court, they were royalty, but here, they were simply younger generations paying tribute.

“Thank you all for coming to honor my son,” Simon said, bowing slightly, his voice hoarse with grief.

“Duke of Lachshire, you are too kind,” Nathaniel stepped forward first, his expression still heavy with sorrow. “General Tobias devoted his life to the nation, risking everything for our safety. We should be here to honor him. If the Ballard family ever faces difficulties, I will do everything in my power to help.”

Tristan and Matthias exchanged glances before stepping forward to express similar sentiments.

They might maintain their airs in front of others, but before Simon, that wasn’t an option.

As a veteran in the political arena and a high-ranking duke, Simon’s influence far surpassed that of Kairo and the other nobles.

For these princes, whether they could one day claim the throne depended heavily on Simon’s stance.

“I will always remember Your Highness’s presence here today,” Simon said, sighing lightly. “However, the Ballard residence is quite busy now. I fear we may not be able to properly host Your Highness. I ask for your understanding.”

His words were polite, but their meaning was clear—at this moment, the Ballard family wanted no part in political struggles.

For now, discussions of alliances would have to wait.