An Understated Dominance Novel (Dahlia & Dustin) by Marina Vittori updated 2025-26 - An Understated Dominance Chapter 2547

Chapter 2547

“Looking for a scapegoat?”

Nathaniel blinked, confused. “What do you mean, Mother? Please explain.”

“It’s simple,” Jacqueline said with a faint smirk. “Let the King of Gods from the Pantheon deal with your powerful enemies for you.”

“Like my royal brothers… or any other major threats?” Nathaniel’s eyes lit up as realization hit. “Mother, that’s brilliant! You’ve completely opened my eyes!”

He had been so panicked earlier that this angle hadn’t even occurred to him.

The God Kings from the Pantheon coming to stir up trouble—yes, it was dangerous, but also an opportunity. If he played this right, he could use the Pantheon’s hand to wipe out his own rivals.

Not only would it resolve the immediate crisis, it would also avoid offending the West Lucozia Palace. Better yet, it would help him clear the path to power—killing with a borrowed knife. This was a masterstroke!

No wonder Jacqueline was his most trusted advisor.

“Nathaniel,” Jacqueline said calmly, “no matter what happens, you must stay composed first—then you can find your way out. I’ve said all I need to say. Now it’s your turn to make the next move.”

“Don’t worry, Mother. I’ll handle it,” Nathaniel assured her with a nod.

Now that he had a plan, it was time to act. His intelligence network and personal connections would finally come in handy.

“Oh, one more thing.” Jacqueline’s tone shifted slightly as if remembering something important. “Make sure you maintain a good relationship with Dustin. He’s a crucial player. If you can pull him to our side, it’ll be a huge advantage.”

“Dustin might be valuable because of West Lucozia Palace backing him, but honestly, he doesn’t seem interested in political power. No matter how much effort I put in, it probably won’t help much,” Nathaniel replied, shaking his head.

He didn’t have a good impression of Dustin. Every attempt to win him over had failed. Dustin barely acknowledged him, never gave him any respect—and to top it off, he had used the Dracan essences to manipulate him. If it hadn’t been for Jacqueline’s persuasion, Nathaniel would’ve already cut ties.

From his perspective, Dustin looked powerful on the surface, but he wasn’t worth the time or effort.

“Nathaniel,” Jacqueline said seriously, “even if Dustin doesn’t care about power, you can approach him in other ways. He’s a long-term investment worth making. Whatever you do, don’t offend him. Understand?”

“I’ll remember what you said, Mother.” Nathaniel nodded again, though his agreement was more out of respect than genuine belief.

In his mind, Dustin might have value, but if there was no return on that value, then continuing to invest in him seemed like a waste of time.

He had already done his part—tolerating the tricks, taking the blame for the chaos Dustin caused, and offering help again and again. What else was expected of him? He was the Third Prince of Dragonmarsh. His status and position were far above Dustin’s. Was he supposed to keep chasing someone who clearly didn’t care?

That said, even if Dustin couldn’t be recruited, Nathaniel wasn’t about to turn him into an enemy—unless Dustin made the first move.

“It’s getting late. Go now,” Jacqueline said in a soft but firm tone. “And remember: those who achieve great things must take it step by step. Don’t be impatient.”

“I understand. I’ll take my leave,” Nathaniel bowed before turning and walking away.

Jacqueline watched him go, sighing quietly. “That boy… still lacks a bit of maturity.”

With her insight, how could she not see what he was really thinking?

He had taken most of her advice to heart—except for the part about Dustin.

“Young people tend to be proud,” said a voice gently beside her.

It was her most trusted maid, an older woman who had grown up with Jacqueline. More than a servant, she was a close confidante—and, secretly, a martial arts master who doubled as Jacqueline’s personal bodyguard.

Jacqueline’s rise to power in the palace owed much to this woman’s quiet protection over the years.

“Many years ago, someone in the Imperial Guards said Dustin was destined for greatness—an ideal figure to support an emperor,” Jacqueline said softly. “He’s been quiet for years, but the potential is still there. Everyone sees the West Lucozia Palace behind him, but they’re missing the real point. Dustin himself is the key. I just hope Nathaniel realizes that before it’s too late.”

“If Dustin truly wants no part in the court’s power struggles, then forcing him won’t help. At worst, he’ll become a threat,” the maid said reassuringly.

Jacqueline nodded and changed the subject. “For Nathaniel’s safety, go to the Spanner family in person. Ask the two elders to come out of seclusion and protect him in secret. I won’t take any chances.”

“Yes, ma’am.” The maid bowed her head—and vanished without another sound.