An Understated Dominance - Chapter 2440

men flanking Zack, they were his sons. They looked strong and serious, ready to support their family.

“Thank you for welcoming us,” Anders said, his voice confident as he stepped forward.

Simon nodded, keeping his expression neutral. “We appreciate your visit. Please, have a seat.” He gestured to the chairs around the table.

The group settled in, and Simon noticed the tension in the air. Anders seemed eager to discuss the marriage alliance, while Zack maintained a calm, authoritative presence.

Jonathan and his brothers listened closely, intrigued by the Mosey family’s reputation and what they might propose.

“Let’s get straight to the point,” Zack said, looking at Simon. “We believe a union between our families would be beneficial for both sides.”

Simon raised an eyebrow, considering the implications. “That’s a significant proposal,” he replied.

Anders leaned forward, his eyes shining with determination. “It would strengthen our ties and bring our families closer, which is more important than ever.”

The room fell silent as everyone absorbed his words. Jonathan glanced at his brothers, sensing their shared curiosity and concern.

“Let’s discuss it further,” Simon finally said, ready to explore the possibilities.

As the conversation unfolded, the Ballard family knew that their lives could change forever.

the others in the family, he was still well-respected.

The middle-aged men standing behind Zack were grandmasters and consultants for the Moseys. Even though they held important positions, today they were acting as bodyguards.

“Greetings, Duke of Lachshire, and Mr. Jonathan, Mr. Jensen, and Mr. Jovian,” Anders said as he entered the room. He greeted them with a polite nod, his warm smile and natural charm making a great first impression.

“Why didn’t you let us know you were bringing such an important guest? We would have prepared a proper welcome,” Simon remarked with a slight smile.

“I’m sorry for showing up unannounced, Your Lordship. I hope you can forgive me,” Anders replied.

He quickly understood Simon’s subtle hint about being better prepared. Instead of pretending not to notice, he responded calmly and with an apology.

The three Ballard brothers were surprised by Anders’ change in attitude. They knew him to be proud and a bit haughty. At a young age, he held significant power with an army at his command and had a reputation for being tough to deal with.

He wasn’t arrogant, but he was definitely confident. Today, though, he seemed more composed and reserved.

Had he become more thoughtful?

“Mr. Mosey, may I ask what brings you to my home?” Simon asked directly.

“Before I answer that, let me introduce someone,” Anders said as he stepped aside to reveal an elderly man standing next to him. “This is my granduncle, Zack Mosey. He’s a respected member of our family but usually stays out of the spotlight.”

“Ah, Mr. Zack. I’ve heard so much about you,” Simon said, standing up to give Zack a respectful nod.

He had indeed heard of Zack, the third elder of the Mosey family. Even if Zack wasn’t as famous as the others, he was still held in high regard.

Despite having two older brothers, Simon still held a lot of power in the Mosey family.

“It’s been a while, Duke of Lachshire. You’re as sharp as ever—your reputation certainly precedes you,” Zack said, returning a polite gesture. But there was no smile on his face; it looked stiff and forced. Inside, he didn’t take Simon seriously at all.

In Oakvale, the Mosey family was second only to the royal family among the four ancient houses. The Ballard, Fallon, and Spanner families were much weaker, especially the Ballard family, which was the weakest of all.

Even though Simon was in a high position, Zack saw him as an old man with only a few years left. After Simon was gone, he believed the Ballard family would only get weaker. Eventually, they wouldn’t even be worthy of serving the Mosey family.

“You flatter me, Mr. Zack,” Simon replied, smiling, but his eyes didn’t show it. He could sense something was off with Zack’s cold demeanor.

Turning to Anders, Simon added, “Since you brought Mr. Zack along, I assume there’s something important to discuss.”

“Your Lordship, your insight is truly remarkable. I am in awe,” Anders said with a compliment before continuing, “I’m here on behalf of the Mosey family to discuss a marriage alliance with your family.”

“A marriage alliance?” Simon raised an eyebrow but didn’t ask for more details.

“Yes,” Anders replied with a smile. “Throughout history, marriage alliances have been the best way to strengthen ties and maintain power. Both the Mosey and the Ballard families are among the four ancient houses. If we could form a union, it would surely make both families stronger.”

“Is this your idea or Sir Mosey’s?” Simon asked carefully.

A marriage alliance between two ancient houses, which were descendants of royal bloodlines, was never simple. If it were a…

If a side branch of the family came together, it might not raise any eyebrows. But if the main lines united, it could easily spark suspicion in the royal court. A strong ally could outshine their leader. When two powerful houses joined forces, they could pose a real threat to the throne.

The four ancient houses and the royal family had always respected this fragile balance. No one had ever crossed that line—until now. Anders’s unexpected visit suggested he was pushing those limits.

Simon had to find out if Anders was acting on his own or if Seamus was beginning to have his own ambitions.