An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2520

Chapter 2520

The three princes weren’t fools—they could hear the meaning behind the words.

Their visit today wasn’t just about paying respects. It was a chance to express condolences and win over the Ballard family. If they succeeded, that would be ideal. If not, showing goodwill was still worthwhile.

Most importantly, as long as the Ballard family didn’t take sides or become their enemy, there was still hope. There was no need to rush.

“Duke of Lachshire, you’re too kind. We’ve always admired General Tobias’s loyalty and courage, and we simply came to pay our respects. That’s all,” Tristan said first.

“Yes, Duke of Lachshire, your family must be overwhelmed right now. You’re getting older and should focus on your health. The three of us won’t take up any more of your time,” Matthias added, cupping his fists respectfully as he made a move to leave.

“List—” Nathaniel began to speak, but Tristan cut him off.

“Alright, Nathaniel. The Duke is tired. We shouldn’t cause any more trouble. Let’s go.”

Hmph! Like he ever lets anyone else talk. Once Nathaniel opens his mouth, he goes on and on like he could talk the dead back to life. If they let him stay any longer, who knows what tricks he’d pull to cozy up to the Ballard family?

If he managed to win them over, it’d be game over.

Tristan quickly said, “Nathaniel, Matthias needs to talk to you. Let’s step outside.”

Matthias didn’t wait. He grabbed Nathaniel’s shoulder and dragged him out of the hall.

Nathaniel had prepared a whole speech, but now he had no choice but to swallow it.

“Duke of Lachshire, please accept our condolences. We’ll take our leave now,” Tristan said, nodding politely before following Matthias out of the mourning hall.

At that moment, both Tristan and Matthias shared one goal—shut Nathaniel up and avoid causing a scene.

Matthias kept his arm around Nathaniel as they walked out the front gate of the Ballard residence.

Matthias was smiling; Nathaniel looked furious.

“Second Brother, what was that about?!”

As soon as they were outside, Nathaniel shook off Matthias’s hand. His voice was sharp. “If you wanted to leave, fine—but why drag me out too?”

“Nathaniel, the Ballard family is in mourning. You badgering them will only make them look down on you. I’m trying to help you,” Matthias said with a strained smile.

“Hmph! Who knows what you’re really up to?” Nathaniel scoffed.

“Nathaniel, did you hear what the Duke said? His son just died—he’s in no condition to talk politics. Why force the issue?” Tristan said calmly.

“You’re not wrong, Brother,” Nathaniel shot back, “but how is your reason for coming here any different from mine?”

They were all just foxes paying a New Year’s visit to a chicken—none of them had pure intentions. None of them had the right to criticize anyone else.

“I just don’t want you to go too far,” Tristan said.

“And I won’t bother worrying about whether you have. Goodbye.”

Nathaniel didn’t want to argue anymore. He flicked his sleeves and stormed off.

With their father’s health deteriorating, the crown prince would soon be named. The battle between the three princes was now out in the open.

One step forward could mean power and control. One misstep could lead to ruin.

At this stage, none of them could afford to hold back.

“Matthias, out of the three of us, it seems Father favors Nathaniel the most,” Tristan said, watching Nathaniel walk away.

“True. He’s always been Father’s favorite,” Matthias replied.

“If—just if—Nathaniel becomes emperor, what do you think will happen to us?”

Matthias narrowed his eyes. “Nathaniel is cunning and holds grudges. If he takes the throne, things won’t end well for either of us.”

Tristan sighed. “Yes. He’s not someone who forgives easily.”

As brothers and rivals, they knew Nathaniel’s nature well.

On the surface, he was warm and courteous. But deep down, he was petty and ruthless. Anyone who crossed him ended up miserable.

“Brother, you know I value loyalty. I always repay kindness tenfold,” Matthias said, then shifted the conversation. “Instead of letting Nathaniel take the throne and put us at risk, why not help me ascend instead? If I become emperor, I’ll never forget your support.”

Tristan’s eyes flickered, then he smiled. “Matthias, you already have strong backing from Prince Mosey’s Mansion. Do you really need my help too?”

Matthias might be slightly better than Nathaniel in character—but only slightly.

The truth was, they were all dangerous. All capable of destroying their enemies without mercy.

None of them truly believed each other’s promises.

After all, who didn’t want to sit at the top?

They’d spent their lives lying low, waiting for this moment. And now, to hand it over to someone else? That was something none of them were willing to accept.